Pentagon General Breaks Ice, Holds Talks with Chinese Counterpart

The U.S. military's top general, Gen. Charles Q. Brown Jr., spoke with his Chinese counterpart, Gen. Liu Zhenli, marking the first meeting between the two since 2022. The call focused on the importance of managing competition, avoiding miscalculations, and maintaining open lines of communication. The Chinese Defense Ministry confirmed the call, but also emphasized its opposition to foreign interference in Taiwan. Top-level military discussions between the U.S. and China have been rare due to rising tensions, and Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin is not expected to converse with his Chinese counterpart until at least spring 2023. The lack of communication has been concerning as the two nations navigate various disputes.