Tensions not to ease with Moscow's concerns ignored: Russian defense chief

MOSCOW - Russian Defense Minister Sergei Shoigu said on Friday that if the West fails to resolve Moscow's fundamental security concerns, it will be impossible to reduce tensions and build Europe's security architecture.

"The military-political situation in Europe is becoming more and more tense. It is not our fault," Shoigu told visiting British Secretary of Defense Ben Wallace in Moscow.

Shoigu noted that Friday's meeting marked the first in recent years between Russian and British defense chiefs, but "unfortunately, the level of our cooperation is close to zero and is about to go negative."

He urged Western countries to help reduce tensions in Europe and stop supplying weapons to Ukraine.

At a press conference following the talks, Wallace called the negotiations with his Russian counterpart "frank" and "constructive."

"Each state has an equal right to security. The North Atlantic Treaty Organization intends to comply with all signed agreements, including with the Russian government," he said.

Shoigu voiced readiness to consider proposals aimed at restoring military cooperation with Britain.

Both sides agreed on the importance of staying in contact to reduce the risk of unintentional conflicts during military activities.