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Tensions rising, US and Russian military holding Syria talks

In this photo made from the footage taken from Russian Defense Ministry official web site on Thursday, Oct. 1, 2015 a bomb explosion is seen in Syria. Reacting to criticism that it is targeting opponents of the Syrian government, a spokesman for Russian President Vladimir Putin admitted on Thursday that Russia's airstrikes in Syria are targeting not only Islamic State militants but also other groups. (AP Photo/ Russian Defense Ministry Press Service) In this photo made from the footage taken from Russian Defense Ministry official web site on Thursday, Oct. 1, 2015 a bomb explosion is seen in Syria. Reacting to criticism that it is targeting opponents of the Syrian government, a spokesman for Russian President Vladimir Putin admitted on Thursday that Russia's airstrikes in Syria are targeting not only Islamic State militants but also other groups. (AP Photo/ Russian Defense Ministry Press Service)

By Associated Press October 1, 2015 1 min read

WASHINGTON (AP) – The Pentagon says it’s beginning talks with the Russian military on ways to avoid U.S. and Russian forces firing on each other in Syria.

The Thursday talks – being held by video teleconference – come a day after Russian fighter jets began bombing in western Syria and with U.S.-Russian tensions growing.

Conducting the talks on the U.S. side are Elissa Slotkin, the acting assistant secretary of defense for international security affairs, and Vice Adm. Frank C. Pandolfe, the director of strategic plans and policy for the Joint Chiefs of Staff.

It’s not immediately clear who’ll be speaking for the Russians.