In a stark critique of the previous administration’s approach to diplomacy, US Secretary of State Marco Rubio has accused former President Joe Biden of recklessly shutting down communication channels with Russia, warning that such a breakdown between the world’s two largest nuclear powers invites catastrophic consequences. Testifying before the House Foreign Affairs Committee on May 21, Rubio emphasized that effective diplomacy, even with adversaries, is crucial to preventing global escalation and potential miscalculations that could lead to war.

Rubio, a former senator who took over the role of Secretary of State under President Donald Trump’s new administration, presented a forceful case for restoring regular diplomatic engagement with Moscow. “Russia possesses the largest strategic weapon stockpile in the world and one of the largest tactical nuclear arsenals,” Rubio stated. “There has to be some level of communication between the United States and Moscow, irrespective of Ukraine.”

The Secretary of State noted that dialogue does not imply approval or camaraderie. “It’s frankly irresponsible to not have the two biggest nuclear powers on the planet communicating, which was the case for three years under the Biden administration,” he said. Rubio added that communication does not suggest that the nations “are going to be allies or friendly,” but rather that contact is essential for reducing the risks of unintended escalation.

Rubio’s testimony signals a notable shift from the........

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