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What are the possible benefits and risks of the US and Russia restarting military talks?

Geopolitics
Global
Started February 16, 2026

WASHINGTON, Feb 5 (Reuters) - The U.S. military said that Washington and Moscow on Thursday agreed to reestablish high level military-to-military dialogue, following talks in Abu Dhabi, a move which could signal a move towards normalizing some ties between the United States and Russia. The United States halted military-to-military communication with Moscow just before Russia invaded Ukraine. The conflict, which began in 2022, is the deadliest war in Europe since World War Two and the biggest confrontation between Moscow and the West since the depths of the Cold War

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CLAIM Posted by will Feb 16, 2026
There is a risk that military dialogue could be misinterpreted as weakness or indecision by either side. If these talks do not lead to tangible outcomes, they could serve to diminish morale and trust among US allies.
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CLAIM Posted by will Feb 16, 2026
Reestablishing talks could enhance transparency regarding military operations, potentially reducing the chance of miscalculations that could escalate into conflict. This proactive approach could build a foundation for future cooperation.
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CLAIM Posted by will Feb 16, 2026
While military talks could reduce the risk of accidental confrontations, it is crucial to ensure they do not distract from addressing human rights abuses and military aggressions. The effectiveness of such talks depends on the broader geopolitical context.
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CLAIM Posted by will Feb 16, 2026
Open lines of communication between the US and Russia could lead to significant arms control agreements that benefit both nations and the world. A cooperative approach might be the key to managing nuclear arsenals more effectively.
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CLAIM Posted by will Feb 16, 2026
Restarting military talks between the US and Russia can pave the way for de-escalation of tensions and enhance global security. Open communication channels are essential for preventing misunderstandings that could lead to conflict.
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CLAIM Posted by will Feb 16, 2026
Reestablishing military dialogue might be seen as legitimizing Russia's aggressive actions, particularly in Ukraine. Engaging in talks without a clear stance against their behavior risks undermining international norms and could embolden further aggression.
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CLAIM Posted by will Feb 16, 2026
The motivations behind restarting military communications need to be scrutinized carefully. Are both sides genuinely interested in peace, or is this merely a strategic maneuver to gain leverage in other discussions?
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