U.S., Russia Discuss Safety in Skies

Pentagon officials met via teleconference with their Russian counterparts Jan. 28, to discuss ways to ensure that operations in the skies over Syria are conducted as safely as possible. “The two sides discussed measures to enhance operational safety for counter-ISIL coalition and Russian military forces operating in Syria, including the means to avoid accidents and unintended confrontation,” Pentagon Press Secretary Peter Cook said in a statement. Acting Assistant Defense Secretary for International Security Affairs Elissa Slotkin and Marine Corps Lt. Gen. Kenneth F. McKenzie Jr., the joint staff director for strategic plans and policy, represented the U.S. during the call.