December 2010 - Russia Special Weapons News

Russia Faces Fresh Int'l Criticism After Khodorkovsky Sentencing RFE/RL 31 Dec 2010 -- Russia is facing a fresh round of international criticism following the sentencing of Kremlin critic and former Yukos oil tycoon Mikhail Khodorkovsky and a former business partner to six additional years in prison.
Khodorkovsky Appeal Filed As Moscow Rejects International Critics RFE/RL 31 Dec 2010 -- Lawyers for the jailed Russian former tycoon Mikhail Khodorkovsky and his business partner Platon Lebedev have filed preliminary appeals following a second court conviction and a new sentence that will leave both men in jail until 2017.
Russia's foreign minister lashes out at criticism over Khodorkovsky verdict RIA Novosti 31 Dec 2010 -- The Russian judiciary system is completely independent from the positions of the Russian Federation and any other foreign government, Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov said on Friday.
EU blasts second Khodorkovsky trial as unfair RIA Novosti 31 Dec 2010 -- The European Union has expressed serious concern over alleged violations during the second trial against Russian ex-oil tycoon Mikhail Khodorkovsky and his business partner Platon Lebedev.
Khodorkovsky, Lebedev lawyers appeal new 14-year sentence RIA Novosti 31 Dec 2010 -- The lawyers of ex-oil tycoon Mikhail Khodorkovsky and his business partner Platon Lebedev, recently sentenced by a Moscow court to 14 years for embezzlement and money laundering, have appealed the sentence.
French Sale of Warships to Russia Sparks Controversy VOA 31 Dec 2010 -- An announcement that France will sell two warships to Russia has sparked concern by some eastern European countries. The agreement is the first major defense sale by a NATO member to Russia.
Khodorkovsky's Attorney Appeals New Sentence VOA 31 Dec 2010 -- An attorney for jailed Russian oil executive Mikhail Khodorkovsky has appealed his sentence of six more years in prison for fraud and embezzlement.
Kremlin Critics Claim Khodorkovsky Sentence Politically Motivated VOA 30 Dec 2010 -- The verdict handed down Thursday that will see Mikhail Khodorkovsky jailed for six more years has been met with a wave of criticism from their defense team and prominent human rights activists in Russia.
Russian Tycoon Khodorkovsky Gets Six More Years RFE/RL 30 Dec 2010 -- A Moscow court has sentenced jailed former oil oligarch Mikhail Khodorkovsky to another six years in prison in a trial seen as a major barometer of Russia's authoritarian government.
Russia to pay over 700 million euros for first Mistral helicopter carrier - source RIA Novosti 30 Dec 2010 -- Russia will pay France approximately 720 million euros for its first Mistral-class helicopter carrier for its Navy, a source close to the negotiations process told RIA Novosti on Thursday.
Khodorkovsky, Lebedev sentenced to 14 years in prison RIA Novosti 30 Dec 2010 -- Russian ex-oil tycoon Mikhail Khodorkovsky and his business partner Platon Lebedev will serve another six years in jail after being sentenced to 14 years detention at the culmination of their trial.
Russia's Former Oil Tycoon Gets More Jail Time VOA 30 Dec 2010 -- A Moscow court has sentenced Mikhail Khodorkovsky, once Russia's richest man, to an additional six years in prison. The former oil tycoon will remain in prison until 2017. A Russian judge granted the prosecutor's sentencing request that Khodorkovsky serve a total of 14 years.
President Medvedev sacks space officials over satellite loss RIA Novosti 29 Dec 2010 -- Russian President Dmitry Medvedev dismissed two senior space industry officials and reprimanded the head of Russia's space agency Roscosmos, Anatoly Perminov on Wednesday over the recent loss of three Glonass satellites.
Flight recorder, body fragments 'found' at Russian crash site RIA Novosti 29 Dec 2010 -- A flight recorder and body fragments have been discovered at the central Russian crash site of an Antonov An-22 Cock heavy transport aircraft, investigators said Wednesday.
Russian missile maker to build two plants, expand exports RIA Novosti 29 Dec 2010 -- Russia's Almaz-Antei conglomerate will receive a government loan to build two new production facilities to expand the export of missile defense systems, Deputy Prime Minister Sergei Ivanov said on Wednesday.
Engine failure suspected as cause of crash as Tu-95 and An-22 fleet grounded RIA Novosti 29 Dec 2010 -- The Russian Air Force command has grounded the entire fleet of its Antonov An-22 transports and Tupolev Tu-95MS bombers after an An-22 was destroyed in a crash on Tuesday killing all twelve crew on board, the Force says.
An-22 military transport aircraft crashes in central Russia RIA Novosti 29 Dec 2010 -- An Antonov An-22 military transport aircraft crashed on late Tuesday on the border of the Tula and Oryol Regions in central Russia, the Defense Ministry said.
Russia Rejects US, European Criticism of Khodorkovsky Conviction VOA 28 Dec 2010 -- The Russian government has lashed out at U.S. and European governments over Western criticism of the conviction of former oil tycoon Mikhail Khodorkovsky on embezzlement and money laundering charges.
Russia Criticizes Western Pressure Over Khodorkovsky RFE/RL 28 Dec 2010 -- Russia's Foreign Ministry has described as "unacceptable" what it says are attempts to influence the trial of Mikhail Khodorkovsky, following Western criticism of the former oil tycoon's conviction for embezzlement and money laundering.
Russian Air Force receives new Su-34 fighter-bombers RIA Novosti 28 Dec 2010 -- Russia's Air Force received four new Su-34 Fullback fighter-bombers on Tuesday as part of its current modernization program, an Air Force spokesman said.
Lithuanian defense minister says Russian-French warship deal 'mistake' RIA Novosti 28 Dec 2010 -- Lithuanian National Defense Minister Rasa Jukneviciene said France's decision to build Mistral-class helicopter carriers jointly with Russia was 'a mistake.'
Russia Rejects Criticism of Khodorkovsky Trial VOA 28 Dec 2010 -- Russia has rejected U.S.and European criticism of the embezzlement and money laundering conviction of Russian oil tycoon Mikhail Khodorkovsky.
As Russia Claims Democracy, Is It Redefining The Word? RFE/RL 27 Dec 2010 -- As a new decade begins, is Russia ready to go beyond being a hyphenated democracy to becoming a real one? One might think so, listening to President Dmitry Medvedev's keynote democracy speech this year. The occasion was the Yaroslavl Global Policy Forum in September, where he argued forcefully that Russia fully subscribed to the universal standards of democracy. He said that if Russia fell short of those standards, it was only because democracy is still new in the country.
British court to review alleged Russian 'spy' case in February RIA Novosti 28 Dec 2010 -- A British court will hold in February hearings on the deportation of alleged Russian spy Katia Zatuliveter, the Russian Foreign Ministry said on Tuesday.
Russia expels two Spanish diplomats in 'spy' tit-for-tat RIA Novosti 28 Dec 2010 -- Russia has expelled two Spanish diplomats in response to the expulsion of two Russian diplomats from Madrid seven weeks ago, the Spanish daily El Pais said on Tuesday.
Khodorkovsky, Lebedev Found Guilty In Second Trial, Await Sentencing RFE/RL 27 Dec 2010 -- A court in Moscow has found jailed oil tycoon Mikhail Khodorkovsky and his business partner, Platon Lebedev, guilty of stealing billions of dollars of oil from their own company in a second trial many said was a test of the country's authoritarian regime.
Khodorkovsky, Lebedev found guilty of embezzlement in second trial RIA Novosti 27 Dec 2010 -- Former oil tycoon Mikhail Khodorkovsky and his business partner Platon Lebedev were declared guilty at the culmination of their second new trial in Moscow's Khamovniki court on Monday.
Russia's upper house may ratify New START treaty on Jan. 26 RIA Novosti 27 Dec 2010 -- Russia's upper house of parliament, the Federation Council, may ratify the new U.S.-Russian arms reduction deal on January 26, a top Russian senator said on Monday.
Khodorkovsky's guilty verdict 'no surprise,' but too early to 'scream bloody murder' - experts RIA Novosti 27 Dec 2010 -- Japan has rejected a proposal by Russian President Dmitry Medvedev to create a joint economic zone on the disputed Kuril Islands, Japan's Deputy Foreign Minister Takeaki Matsumoto said on Monday.
Russian Oil Tycoon Khodorkovsky Found Guilty of Money Laundering VOA 27 Dec 2010 -- Former Russian oil tycoon Mikhail Khodorkovsky has been found guilty of embezzlement at his politically charged second trial in Moscow. The judge ruled that Khodorkovsky and his business partner Platon Lebedev were guilty of stealing from their firm Yukos and laundering the proceeds.
Medvedev signs Afghan transit deal with France into law RIA Novosti 27 Dec 2010 -- President Dmitry Medvedev has signed a law on the ratification of a Russian-French intergovernmental agreement on the transit of military equipment and personnel from Afghanistan via Russia, the Kremlin said on Monday.
Japan rejects Russian proposal for joint Kurils economic zone RIA Novosti 27 Dec 2010 -- Japan has rejected a proposal by Russian President Dmitry Medvedev to create a joint economic zone on the disputed Kuril Islands, Japan's Deputy Foreign Minister Takeaki Matsumoto said on Monday.
Russian Ground Forces' Air Defense Force to become part of united aerospace defense system RIA Novosti 26 Dec 2010 -- The Russian Ground Forces' Air Defense Force will become part of a united aerospace defense system, the Air Defense Force's chief has said.
Russia opts for French Mistral-class warships for its Navy RIA Novosti 25 Dec 2010 -- Russia has opted for France's Mistral-class helicopter carriers for its Navy after announcing that the winner of the Russian Defense Ministry's tender for amphibious assault ships was a consortium comprised of French DCNS and Russia's United Shipbuilding Corporation (USC).
President Dmitry Medvedev sums up 2010 in televised interview RIA Novosti 25 Dec 2010 -- Overcoming the economic crisis, the summer's wildfires, the New START strategic arms agreement, the 65th anniversary of World War II and a new focus on children's problems were the most important issues in 2010 for Russia, President Dmitry Medvedev said on Friday.
Russian ex-intelligence officer Kvachkov accused of attempted armed rebellion RIA Novosti 25 Dec 2010 -- Russia's Federal Security Service (FSB) has accused ex-intelligence officer Vladimir Kvachkov of preparing an armed rebellion for the forceful seizure of power in Russia, business daily Kommersant reported on Saturday.
Medvedev's End-of-Year Assessment RFE/RL 24 Dec 2010 -- In an interview on with three Russian channels, Russian President Dmitry Medvedev hailed emerging from the economic crisis as one of his country's major achievements of 2010.
Russian lawmakers split over New START ratification RIA Novosti 24 Dec 2010 -- Discussions on ratifying the new Russian-U.S. strategic arms reduction treaty (START) have divided Russian deputies into two opposing camps.
Investigators to verify authenticity of video tarnishing Russian Navy RIA Novosti 24 Dec 2010 -- Russia's Investigative Committee on Friday announced it would check to establish the origins of a controversial video showing alleged Russian Navy sailors firing at a group of pirates in a boat.
France wins tender to build warships for Russia RIA Novosti 24 Dec 2010 -- Russian President Dmitry Medvedev told his French counterpart Nicolas Sarkozy over the phone that France has won a tender to build amphibious assault ships for Russia.
Russia's State Duma approves first reading of new joint U.S. START ratification RIA Novosti 24 Dec 2010 -- The lower house of the Russian parliament, the State Duma, has approved the first reading of three for the ratification bill of the new Russian-U.S. arms reduction treaty.
Russian ratification of New START to wait until 2011 RIA Novosti 24 Dec 2010 -- The Russian parliament is likely to delay the ratification of the New START treaty until January, a senior Russian lawmaker said on Friday.
Data exchanges to begin 45 days after New START enters force RIA Novosti 24 Dec 2010 -- Russia and the United States will begin exchanging data on their strategic arsenals within 45 days of a new nuclear arms control treaty coming into force, U.S. Assistant Secretary of State Rose Gottemoeller has said.
Russia able to up nuclear arms potential after new START treaty — senator RIA Novosti 24 Dec 2010 -- Russia will be able to increase its nuclear arms potential after a new arms reduction treaty between the United States and Russia is ratified, a top Russian senator said on Friday.
Russian, U.S. presidents discuss new START treaty ratification on phone RIA Novosti 24 Dec 2010 -- Russian President Dmitry Medvedev and his U.S. counterpart Barack Obama discussed the American Senate's ratification of the new arms reduction treaty between the two countries, the Kremlin said.
Alleged Russian spy to fight deportation from UK IRNA 24 Dec 2010 -- Former parliamentary researcher Katia Zatuliveter says that she will fight being deported from the UK after denying allegations of being a Russian spy, according to a statement issued by her solicitors, Public Interest Lawyers (PIL).
Russian parliamentary 'spy' denies accusations, wants to stay in Britain RIA Novosti 24 Dec 2010 -- Katia Zatuliveter officially denied accusations of using her position as a British lawmaker's aide to spy for Russia and said she was going to stay in Britain to clear her name, her lawyers said on Friday.
Medvedev not afraid of WikiLeaks revelations RIA Novosti 24 Dec 2010 -- Documents released by the WikiLeaks website that exposed U.S. diplomats' dim view of Russia have no bearing on U.S.-Russian relations, President Dmitry Medvedev said on Friday.
US: Tactical Nuclear Weapons Deal with Moscow Next VOA 23 Dec 2010 -- The Obama administration says limiting U.S. and Russian tactical nuclear weapons will be its next arms control goal after Wednesday's Senate ratification of the new strategic arms reduction treaty with Moscow. U.S. officials say they expect mutual strategic arms inspections, which stopped a year ago, to be underway again by April.
Russian observers to monitor referendum on Southern Sudan's independence RIA Novosti 23 Dec 2010 -- Russian observers will take part in monitoring a referendum on the independence of Southern Sudan, Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov said on Thursday.
Serbia ships 2.5 tons of nuclear waste to Russia RIA Novosti 23 Dec 2010 -- Serbia has successfully transferred 2.5 tons of highly radioactive nuclear waste to Russia, a statement by the press service of the Serbian government said on Thursday.
Russia offers India all help to combat terror IRNA 23 Dec 2010 -- Describing warm Indo-Russian ties as 'special' and not merely a 'figure of speech', Russian President Dmitry Medvedev Wednesday assured India all help in its fight against terror.
Russian parliament to consider New START ratification Friday RIA Novosti 23 Dec 2010 -- Russian parliament's lower house, the State Duma, and upper house, the Federation Council, will consider the new arms reduction treaty between Russia and the United States on Friday, top deputies said Thursday.
Russia may rejoin NATO anti-terror patrols in Mediterranean RIA Novosti 23 Dec 2010 -- Moscow may resume participation in NATO's Active Endeavour anti-terrorist operations in the Mediterranean Sea, Russian Deputy Foreign Minister Alexander Grushko said on Thursday.
Russian parliament to decide on START ratification date, procedure RIA Novosti 23 Dec 2010 -- The lower house of the Russian parliament is to meet later in the day to set a date on the ratification procedure for the new arms pact with the United States, the State Duma said on Thursday.
Russia yet to see U.S. Senate ratification resolution RIA Novosti 23 Dec 2010 -- Russia is waiting for the text of the U.S. Senate resolution on the ratification of a new strategic arms pact to proceed with its own ratification procedure, Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov said on Thursday.
Russian lower house may ratify new START treaty on December 24 RIA Novosti 23 Dec 2010 -- Russia's lower house of parliament may ratify a new nuclear arms treaty with the United States on Friday, speaker Boris Gryzlov said on Thursday.
President Medvedev welcomes START treaty ratification by U.S. Senate RIA Novosti 23 Dec 2010 -- Russian President Dmitry Medvedev welcomes the ratification of a new U.S.-Russian arms reduction deal by the U.S. Senate but believes it could take some time for the Russian lawmakers to study the amendments to the treaty.
Russian Parliament Could Ratify US Nuclear Treaty Friday VOA 23 Dec 2010 -- Russia's parliament could ratify a new nuclear arms control treaty with the United States as soon as Friday.
Senate Approves U.S.-Russia Arms Treaty AFPS 22 Dec 2010 -- In an overwhelming 71-26 vote, the U.S. Senate today ratified the new Strategic Arms Reduction Treaty, a pact to level the arms playing field between the United States and Russia.
U.S. Senate Ratifies Nuclear Treaty With Russia RFE/RL 22 Dec 2010 -- After months of heated debate and closed-door negotiation, the U.S. Senate has ratified the new START arms control treaty with Russia, giving President Barack Obama a major foreign policy victory and U.S.-Russian relations a significant boost.
Ban welcomes US ratification of nuclear arms reduction treaty signed with Russia UN News Centre 22 Dec 2010 -- Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon welcomed today’s vote by the United States Senate to support the ratification of the nuclear arms reduction treaty signed earlier this year by the leaders of Russia and the US.
US Senate Ratifies New Arms Treaty With Russia VOA 22 Dec 2010 -- The U.S. Senate has ratified the New START Treaty. The Senate action, represents a major victory for President Barack Obama who has made better relations with Moscow a cornerstone of his foreign policy.
US Senate Ratifies New Arms Treaty VOA 22 Dec 2010 -- U.S. lawmakers have ratified a new nuclear arms control treaty with Russia, giving President Barack Obama a major foreign policy victory.
Stronger Russian-Japanese ties to settle Kuril dispute - Russian FM RIA Novosti 22 Dec 2010 -- Increased cooperation between Russia and Japan will help build a solid base for negotiations on the long-standing dispute over the Kuril Islands, Deputy Russian Foreign Minister Alexei Borodavkin said on Wednesday.
Medvedev optimistic over arms pact ratification in U.S. Senate RIA Novosti 22 Dec 2010 -- Russian President Dmitry Medvedev is optimistic over the Russian-U.S. new strategic arms reduction treaty (START) ratification by the U.S. Senate.
Russia's State Duma may approve new START by yearend RIA Novosti 22 Dec 2010 -- The lower house of the Russian parliament, the State Duma, may ratify the Russian-U.S. new strategic arms reduction treaty (START) by the end of 2010, if it is approved by U.S. Senate soon, a Russian deputy said on Wednesday.
U.K.-Russia Diplomatic Expulsions Not Seen To Harm Ties RFE/RL 22 Dec 2010 -- Britain has announced that a Russian diplomat has been sent home after the Foreign Office requested he be expelled earlier this month.
Russia calls Britain's expulsion of Russian diplomat 'unfriendly' RIA Novosti 22 Dec 2010 -- British Foreign Secretary William Hague's decision to expel a Russian diplomat from the UK was "unfriendly," the Russian Foreign Ministry said on Wednesday, as the latest spat threatens to sabotage the recent improvement in relations.
Russian 'spy' in Poland sentenced to 3 years in prison RIA Novosti 22 Dec 2010 -- A Warsaw court has sentenced a Russian citizen to three years in prison for espionage, Polish media reported on Wednesday.
Launch of new Russian navigation satellite postponed to next year RIA Novosti 21 Dec 2010 -- The launch of Russia's new-generation Glonass-K satellite has been postponed until 2011, the Defense Ministry said on Tuesday.
Russia's strategic nuclear plans: Mission uncertain RIA Novosti 21 Dec 2010 -- Russia, which is in the midst of far-reaching military and defense-sector reforms, will continue to focus on its strategic nuclear forces. They will be overhauled within ten years, with new systems making up 80% of the revamped Strategic Missile Force and Soviet-made systems with extended warranties comprising the remaining 20%.
Russia's Superjet 100 moves closer to final certification RIA Novosti 21 Dec 2010 -- Russia's Superjet 100 medium-haul passenger aircraft has completed two tests vital for its final international certification, the Sukhoi Civil Aircraft company said Tuesday.
India and Russia sign 30 pacts IRNA 21 Dec 2010 -- India and Russia Tuesday signed 30 pacts in several key areas such as civil nuclear cooperation and defence, including development of Fifth Generation Fighter Aircraft (FGFA) to augment country's military capabilities.
Russia, India sign oil, gas, nuclear energy deals RIA Novosti 21 Dec 2010 -- Russia and India have signed intergovernmental agreements on cooperating in the oil and gas and nuclear energy spheres as well as jointly developing information technologies.
Russia, India sign design contract for prototype multirole fighter RIA Novosti 21 Dec 2010 -- Russia and India signed a contract on Tuesday to jointly develop a design for a new fifth-generation multirole fighter.
Russia to develop new heavy ICBM by 2020 RIA Novosti 20 Dec 2010 -- Russia's state arms procurement program through 2020 provides for the development of a new heavy ballistic missile, a leading missile designer said on Monday.
Russia's Constitutional Court rules in favor of Chernobyl veterans RIA Novosti 20 Dec 2010 -- Russia's Constitutional Court ruled on Monday that the state must fully compensate former soldiers who have been suffering after emergency operations at the Chernobyl Nuclear Power Plant in 1986.
Medvedev wants secret services to be more techno-savvy RIA Novosti 20 Dec 2010 -- Russian President Dmitry Medvedev has urged the country's secret services to make more use of modern technology.
Russian-Indian second prototype T-50 fighter to fly in 2011 RIA Novosti 20 Dec 2010 -- The Russian-Indian second prototype T-50 fighter aircraft will take to the skies in early 2011, United Aircraft Corporation (UAC) President Alexei Fyodorov said on Monday.
Crew commander killed, 15 passengers injured in copter crash in Russian Arctic RIA Novosti 19 Dec 2010 -- A Mil Mi-8 helicopter crashed on the Russian Arctic island of Yamal on Sunday, killing the crew commander and injuring 15 passengers, a spokesman for Russian Aviation Committee (Rosaviatsia) said.
Final probe results blame Russia's Glonass satellites loss on manufacturer RIA Novosti 18 Dec 2010 -- Investigators have blamed the recent loss of three Glonass-M satellites in space on a series of mistakes made by the Russian Energia rocket corporation, final results of a probe into the incident have showed.
Russia to begin building first Project 11356 frigate for Black Sea Fleet on Saturday RIA Novosti 18 Dec 2010 -- The construction of the first Project 11356 frigate for Russia's Black Sea Fleet will begin at the Yantar Shipyard in the Baltic exclave of Kaliningrad on Saturday, a spokesman for the Russian Navy said.
Arms race: Less money for real problems RIA Novosti 17 Dec 2010 -- The nature of modern warfare demands that Russia's air and space defense be under unified command.
Russia to keep Satan ballistic missiles in service until 2026 RIA Novosti 17 Dec 2010 -- Russia will continue to deploy SS-18 Satan ICBM as part of the country's nuclear arsenal until at least 2026.
Russia adds 2 Topol-M ballistic missiles to nuclear deterrent RIA Novosti 17 Dec 2010 -- Russia's Strategic Missile Forces (SMF) have deployed two additional Topol-M silo-based missile systems.
Russian Black Sea Fleet to join NATO naval drills in 2011 RIA Novosti 17 Dec 2010 -- The Russian Black Sea Fleet will take part for the first time in NATO's Bold Monarch exercise next year.
Russia lays down new frigate for Black Sea Fleet RIA Novosti 17 Dec 2010 -- The Yantar Shipyard in the Baltic exclave of Kaliningrad will start the construction of the first Krivak IV class frigate for Russia's Black Sea Fleet.
Probe shows manufacturer responsible for Glonass loss RIA Novosti 17 Dec 2010 -- The recent loss of 3 Glonass-M satellites in space was the result of a series of mistakes made by the Energia rocket corporation.
Gates: New START Treaty Accommodates U.S. Plans AFPS 16 Dec 2010 -- Gates: New strategic arms reduction treaty between the United States and Russia “in no way limits” U.S. plans.
US Senate Debates Nuclear Arms Pact with Russia VOA 16 Dec 2010 -- The US Senate's first full day of deliberations on a arms treaty with Russia produced a vigorous debate on the merits and potential pitfalls.
U.S. Senate To Begin Formal Debate On New START Treaty RFE/RL 16 Dec 2010 -- The U.S. Senate is scheduled to begin formal debate today on a new nuclear arms reduction treaty with Russia.
Russian shipbuilders ask for $100 million to complete frigates for India RIA Novosti 16 Dec 2010 -- Yantar has asked Russia's state arms exporter for an additional $100 million to complete construction of three frigates for the Indian Navy.
Russia and India fix T-50 fighter design contract cost at $295 mln RIA Novosti 16 Dec 2010 -- Russia and India have agreed the estimated cost of a design contract for their joint fifth-generation fighter project at $295 million.
India, Russia register JV to produce transport aircraft RIA Novosti 16 Dec 2010 -- India and Russia have registered a joint venture, MTA Limited, to develop and manufacture a new transport aircraft in line with previous agreements.
Thieves, spies, extremists - Putin speaks to the nation RIA Novosti 16 Dec 2010 -- Russian PM Putin tackled issues ranging from state-sponsored assassinations to the fate of jailed tycoon Mikhail Khodorkovsky.
Putin Calls for Suppressing Extremism VOA 16 Dec 2010 -- Russian Prime Minister Vladimir Putin says it is necessary to "suppress" extremism following ethnic clashes in Moscow.
Putin Calls For Tough Action After Ethnic Violence RFE/RL 16 Dec 2010 -- Russian Prime Minister Vladimir Putin has boasted about his government's achievements.
Russian nuclear waste ship launched in Italy RIA Novosti 16 Dec 2010 -- The Rossita, a ship designed to transport nuclear waste including spent fuel from Russian submarines, was launched in the northern Italian port La Spezia.
U.S. Senate votes to begin debate on START treaty RIA Novosti 15 Dec 2010 -- The U.S. Senate voted on Wednesday to begin a debate of the START arms reduction treaty with Russia.
Statement by the Press Secretary on the New START Treaty The White House 15 Dec 2010
White House accuses U.S. senator of attempt to delay START ratification RIA Novosti 15 Dec 2010 -- Press secretary Gibbs has accused Republican senator DeMint of attempting to delay ratification of a new treaty.
U.S. Senate may start debates on new START treaty RIA Novosti 15 Dec 2010 -- The US Senate may begin debates on the ratification of a new strategic arms reduction treaty between the USand Russia on Wednesday.
Pentagon hopes to continue talks on arms cuts with Russia RIA Novosti 15 Dec 2010 -- The United States plans to continue discussions with Russia on further arms cuts, including in conventional weapons.
Nevsky and Novomoskovsk: Two submarines for Putin RIA Novosti 15 Dec 2010 -- On December 13, 2010, Vladimir Putin visited Sevmash, a major shipbuilding company in Russia.
Mistral deal seals Russia-France special relationship RIA Novosti 15 Dec 2010 -- The general purpose Mistral-class amphibious assault ship has been officially declared the winner of a tender held by Russia's Defense Ministry.
Russia celebrates Foreign Intelligence's 90th anniversary RIA Novosti 15 Dec 2010 -- President Dmitry Medvedev has congratulated Russian spies on their professional holiday.
Russia's response to Litvinenko case may disappoint UK RIA Novosti 15 Dec 2010 -- Lugovi: Moscow's response to a European Court of Human Rights request to provide information on former Russian security agent Alexander Litvinenko poisoning is likely to disappoint Britain.
Strasbourg court sets deadline for Russia on Litvinenko case RIA Novosti 15 Dec 2010 -- The European Court of Human Rights has given Russia a deadline before March 16 to provide information on the murder of Alexander Litvinenko.
Russia, Seeking to Modernize, Showers West with Smiles VOA 15 Dec 2010 -- Russia spent much of 2010 trying to mend fences with the West.
Senate working on ratification of arms treaty RIA Novosti 14 Dec 2010 -- The US Senate will begin debates on the ratification of a new arms reduction treaty with Russia as soon as it finalizes debates on various tax issues.
Russia optimistic over U.S. talks on European shield RIA Novosti 14 Dec 2010 -- Russia believes the first meeting of the Russian-NATO working group on the European missile-defense program will be successful.
Russia's armed forces to spend $10 bln to go digital by 2012 - General Staff Chief RIA Novosti 14 Dec 2010 -- The Russian armed forces are to spend $10 billion on new digital communications by 2012.
Russia's 2010 arms sales total $10 bln RIA Novosti 14 Dec 2010 -- Forecasts indicate that Russia has sold $10 billion worth of arms and military equipment this year.
Russia to start building unified air and space defense system in 2011 RIA Novosti 14 Dec 2010 -- Russia is planning to build the basis for a unified air and space defense base in 2011 to protect the country from missiles.
Western military district gets first Iskander tactical missile system RIA Novosti 14 Dec 2010 -- The first Iskander tactical surface-to-surface ballistic missile system has entered service with the Russian Army's Western Military District.
Russian army not interested in Wikileaks revelations RIA Novosti 14 Dec 2010 -- The General Staff of the Russian Armed Forces will not base its policies on a recent batch of Wikileaks cables.
Hundreds Of Russian Soldiers Hospitalized In Siberia RFE/RL 14 Dec 2010 -- The Military-Prosecutor's Office in the south-central Russian region of Kemerovo has launched an investigation after some 250 soldiers were hospitalized.
Russian Defense Ministry denies report of hazing in West Siberian garrison RIA Novosti 14 Dec 2010 -- The Russian Defense Ministry's Airborne Forces have denied reports of a severe beating of a conscript at a military base in Russia's West Siberian city of Omsk.
Russian parliamentary 'spy' released on bail - BBC RIA Novosti 14 Dec 2010 -- Alleged Russian spy Katia Zatuliveter told BBC Russia that she had been released on bail.
Russia to launch new global navigation satellite in late December RIA Novosti 14 Dec 2010 -- A new-generation Russian Glonass-K satellite was delivered to the Plesetsk Space Center.
Civilian nuclear deal enables U.S., Russia to 'develop nuclear reactors' RIA Novosti 14 Dec 2010 -- One practical application of a new civilian nuclear accord between Russia and the United States could be the joint development of nuclear reactors.
Russia, Mongolia agree conditions to set up JV in uranium mining RIA Novosti 14 Dec 2010 -- Russia and Mongolia agreed the conditions on which a joint uranium mining company, Dordon Uran, will be established.
Russia vows 'to share responsibility' over Europe missile shield RIA Novosti 13 Dec 2010 -- Russian Defense Minister Serdyukov: Russia ready to share responsibility in creating a joint missile defense shield in Europe.
Russian military to receive 1,300 types of weaponry by 2020 RIA Novosti 13 Dec 2010 -- The Russian Armed Forces will receive over 1,300 types of weaponry in line with a draft arms procurement program until 2020.
Putin to hold meeting on state armament program RIA Novosti 13 Dec 2010 -- Russian PM Putin will travel to the city of Severodvinsk to hold a meeting on the state armament program for 2011-2020.
Russia tracked dissident spy Litvinenko's killers but UK warned it off - WikiLeaks RIA Novosti 12 Dec 2010 -- Russia was tracking the killers of Russian security service defector Alexander Litvinenko before he was poisoned but was warned off by Britain, which said the situation was under control, The Guardian reported on Sunday referring to WikiLeaks cables.
Russian warships visit Sri Lanka, head to Gulf of Aden RIA Novosti 11 Dec 2010 -- A Pacific Fleet's task force led by the Admiral Vinogradov destroyer will complete on Saturday a three-day visit to Sri Lanka and head to the Gulf of Aden to fight sea piracy in the region.
Russia defense minister denies plans to build aircraft carriers RIA Novosti 10 Dec 2010 -- Russia is not planning to build any new aircraft carriers in the foreseeable future, Defense Minister Anatoly Serdyukov said on Friday.
Three Superjet airliners to be built by year-end RIA Novosti 10 Dec 2010 -- Three Sukhoi Superjet medium-haul passenger jets will be built by end of this year at a plant in Komsomolsk-on-Amur in Russia's Far East, the office of the presidential envoy to the region said on Friday.
Russian foreign minister doubts NATO sincerity after Baltic leak RIA Novosti 09 Dec 2010 -- Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov has expressed concern over NATO's integrity after the revelation of the military alliance's plans on defending the Baltic states against Russia.
Russian envoy demands NATO's reaction to WikiLeaks revelations RIA Novosti 09 Dec 2010 -- Russia's envoy to NATO, Dmitry Rogozin, demanded on Wednesday that NATO confirm or deny WikiLeaks reports showing that the alliance treats Russia as an aggressor.
Russia says Georgia invents 'new provocation' before Geneva talks RIA Novosti 09 Dec 2010 -- Tbilisi's allegations of Russia's engagement in the series of blasts in Georgia are a fresh provocation before talks in Geneva, the Russian Foreign Ministry has said.
British press distorted Russian diplomat's comment on alleged spy - Embassy RIA Novosti 09 Dec 2010 -- The Russian embassy in London said on Thursday that the British press had exaggerated comments made by a senior Russian diplomat about the current Moscow-London spy scandal.
Two Russian ASW planes interrupt U.S.-Japanese drills RIA Novosti 08 Dec 2010 -- A joint U.S.-Japanese military exercise in the Sea of Japan was suspended when two Russian Il-38 May anti-submarine aircraft flew over the area, the NHK channel said on Wednesday citing the Japanese defense ministry.
Russia, Kazakhstan to set up joint air defense network RIA Novosti 08 Dec 2010 -- Russia and Kazakhstan have agreed to create a joint regional air defense network, chief of Kazakh air defenses Lt. Gen. Alexander Sorokin said on Wednesday.
Russia, India may hold joint military drills annually RIA Novosti 08 Dec 2010 -- The Russian-Indian joint Indra military drills will involve three branches of the armed forces and may be held every year in the future, the chief of the Russian General Staff said on Wednesday.
Kremlin 'puzzled' over Roscosmos arrogance to Glonass criticism RIA Novosti 08 Dec 2010 -- The Kremlin is puzzled by Russia's space agency Roscosmos's reaction to President Dmitry Medvedev's criticism of the Glonass project, presidential aide Sergei Prikhodko said on Wednesday.
Bulava missile could be modified for ground launches - designer RIA Novosti 08 Dec 2010 -- Russia's new submarine-launched ballistic missile (SLBM) Bulava could be fired from ground-based launchers after a slight modification, its designer Yury Solomonov said.
Russia ratifies regional security force agreement RIA Novosti 08 Dec 2010 -- The State Duma, the lower house of the Russian parliament, on Wednesday ratified an agreement establishing a rapid reaction force for the regional security group.
British submersible enters service with Russian Navy RIA Novosti 08 Dec 2010 -- The Russian Black Sea Fleet has put into service a British-made remotely operated vehicle (ROV), a fleet spokesman said on Wednesday.
Defense ministry submits $640 billion arms buy plan to government RIA Novosti 08 Dec 2010 -- Russia's Defense Ministry has submitted a 20 trillion ruble ($640.7 billion) arms procurement spending plan for 2011-2020 to the government, Deputy Prime Minister Sergei Ivanov said on Wednesday.
France hopes to complete Mistral deal with Russia soon RIA Novosti 08 Dec 2010 -- The French government hopes to complete a deal to sell two Mistral helicopter carriers to Russia soon, a French government spokesman said.
Russia may help Kazakh military with C4I system RIA Novosti 08 Dec 2010 -- Russia has offered Kazakhstan assistance in creating an automated command and control information management system for the Central Asian state's Armed Forces, the Defense Ministry said on Wednesday.
Kazakh pilots to start flying Russian Yak-130 warplanes in spring RIA Novosti 08 Dec 2010 -- Kazakh Air Force pilots will start using the Russian-made Yak-130 advanced jet trainer/light attack aircraft next spring, a Russian Defense Ministry spokesman said on Wednesday.
Russia to deliver S-300 air defense systems to Kazakhstan RIA Novosti 08 Dec 2010 -- Russia will soon sign a contract on the supply of S-300 air defense systems to Kazakhstan, the Russian Defense Ministry said on Wednesday.
Alleged Russian spy agrees to meet embassy consul in London RIA Novosti 08 Dec 2010 -- Suspected Russian spy Katia Zatuliveter has agreed to meet with a consul at the Russian Embassy in London after the meeting was formally approved by the British side, Charge d'Affaires of the Russian Federation in the United Kingdom Alexander Sternik said.
NATO Tries To Reassure Russia Over Plans To Defend Baltics RFE/RL 07 Dec 2010 -- NATO has reiterated that the alliance and Russia pose no threat to each other. U.S. diplomatic messages recently released by WikiLeaks show that NATO decided to expand its plans to defend the Baltic states and Poland following the 2008 brief war between Russia and Georgia.
US - NATO plan to defend Baltics against Russia - Wikileaks RIA Novosti 07 Dec 2010 -- NATO drew up plans in January to defend the Baltic states against Russia, the latest batch of leaked U.S. cables released by Wikileaks show.
Russia expects NATO to revise Baltic plans - envoy RIA Novosti 07 Dec 2010 -- Russia's envoy to NATO said on Tuesday the alliance should reconsider its plans on the defense of the Baltic states of Estonia, Latvia, and Lithuania.
Roscosmos turned on 2 reserve Glonass-M satellites RIA Novosti 07 Dec 2010 -- Russia has switched on two reserve Glonass-M satellites to replace the ones that were lost when a rocket deviated off course on Sunday, the head of Russia's state run space corporation Anatoly Perminov said on Tuesday.
Russia, U.S. to increase nuclear cooperation - Rosatom chief RIA Novosti 07 Dec 2010 -- Russia may boost nuclear cooperation with the United States, the head of the Rosatom state-controlled nuclear corporation, Sergei Kiriyenko, said on Tuesday after talks with U.S. Deputy Secretary of Energy Daniel Poneman.
Russian missile, air defenses to be integrated by next December RIA Novosti 07 Dec 2010 -- Russian President Dmitry Medvedev has ordered that the country's missile and air defense systems be unified before December 2011, the Kremlin press service said on Tuesday.
Nuclear warheads ready for Bulava missile as test program picks up steam RIA Novosti 07 Dec 2010 -- Nuclear warheads have been completed for Russia's new Bulava submarine-launched ballistic missile, its designer Yury Solomonov said on Tuesday in an interview with Russia's Natsionalnaya Oborona (National Defense) journal to be published later in December.
Russian General Staff chief visits India RIA Novosti 07 Dec 2010 -- The chief of the Russian General Staff, Army Gen. Nikolai Makarov, will visit India on December 7-9 to discuss bilateral military cooperation, the Russian Defense Ministry said on Tuesday.
British MP's aide spy case is media circus - Russian Foreign Ministry RIA Novosti 07 Dec 2010 -- The British media is turning the case of a suspected Russian spy facing deportation from the U.K. into a "vaudeville," the Russian Foreign Ministry said on Tuesday.
Medvedev Pursues 'New Level' In Relations During Poland Visit RFE/RL 06 Dec 2010 -- Russian President Dmitry Medvedev has praised talks with his Polish counterpart as the start of a "new level" in relations.
Russia, Poland reach turning point in relations - Medvedev RIA Novosti 06 Dec 2010 -- Russian and Poland are ready to breach discussion of the most difficult aspects of their shared history, President Dmitry Medvedev said during his visit to Warsaw on Monday.
Italy to buy 'large numbers' of Russia's Superjet airliners - Putin RIA Novosti 06 Dec 2010 -- Italy is ready to buy a significant number of Russian-made Sukhoi Superjet 100 medium-haul airliners, Russian Prime Minister Vladimir Putin said on Monday.
Program error caused Russian Glonass satellite loss - source RIA Novosti 06 Dec 2010 -- A program error caused a Russian Proton-M carrier rocket to deviate from its course and lose a booster carrying three Glonass-M satellites, a source in the Russian space industry said on Monday.
Russia's probes information on alleged Russian spy in UK RIA Novosti 06 Dec 2010 -- The Russian embassy in London has requested information from the British authorities on the arrest of alleged Russian spy Katia Zatuliveter, a spokesman for the embassy said on Monday.
Alleged Russian spy 'had access' to UK nuclear information - paper RIA Novosti 06 Dec 2010 -- An alleged Russian spy working for a British member of parliament has been researching the UK's nuclear capabilities, the Daily Telegraph said.
Proton-M with three Glonass-M deviates from its course RIA Novosti 05 Dec 2010 -- A Russian Proton-M carrier rocket, launched from the Baikonur space center in Kazakhstan with three Glonass-M satellites, deviated from its course to 8 degrees, which resulted later in a loss of three spacecrafts in the Pacific Ocean, a source in the aerospace industry said.
DM-3 booster with 3 Glonass-M satellites falls into Pacific RIA Novosti 05 Dec 2010 -- The DM-3 booster with three Glonass-M satellites fell into the Pacific Ocean in 1500 kilometers northwest of Honolulu, a source in the aerospace industry said.
Topol hits target at firing range in Kazakhstan RIA Novosti 05 Dec 2010 -- The intercontinental ballistic missile RS 12M Topol, launched on Sunday evening from the landfill Kapustin Yar in the Russia's Astrakhan region, successfully hit the target at the test site in Kazakhstan, Russian Defense Ministry press-secretary said on the Russia's Strategic Missile Forces (SMF) Col. Vadim Koval said.
Report: Russian 'Spy' Found In British Parliament RFE/RL 05 Dec 2010 -- A Russian woman working as an aide to a British parliamentarian is facing deportation after security services arrested her on suspicion of espionage.
British MP denies his aide is another Russian spy RIA Novosti 05 Dec 2010 -- British Member of Parliament Mike Hancock denied his Russian assistant, who is facing deportation, is a spy, British media said.
Russia ready to adjust new START treaty - Duma speaker RIA Novosti 04 Dec 2010 -- Russia's lower house of parliament, the State Duma, is ready to make amendments to the text of the new START treaty if the move is initiated by the United States, Speaker Boris Gryzlov said on Saturday.
OSCE 'unfit' to deal with missile defense - Medvedev RIA Novosti 03 Dec 2010 -- The OSCE is ill-equipped to address missile defense issues, Russian President Dmitry Medvedev said.
What's next for the Russian Air Force? RIA Novosti 03 Dec 2010 -- Deputy Commander of the Russian Air Force Igor Sadofiyev: In the next 10 years, Russia will acquire more than 1,500 new aircraft.
CIS chiefs of staff want military integration RIA Novosti 03 Dec 2010 -- The chiefs of the CIS general staffs on Friday spoke in favor of the integration of the national armed forces of the organization's member states.
Russia, Italy to stage Navy, Army drills in 2011 RIA Novosti 03 Dec 2010 -- Russia and Italy will hold joint naval and ground force exercises in 2011, Russian Defense Ministry spokeswoman Irina Kovalchuk said.
Russia to buy 10 Italian armored vehicles RIA Novosti 03 Dec 2010 -- Russia will buy 10 Lynx light multi-role armored vehicles (LMV) from Italy's Iveco, Defense Minister Anatoly Serdyukov said.
WikiLeaks not critical for Russia, U.S. relations - Medvedev RIA Novosti 03 Dec 2010 -- The recently released WikiLeaks files are not critical for Russian-U.S. relations, Russian President Dmitry Medvedev said.
European missile defense system either with Russia or against Russia RIA Novosti 02 Dec 2010 -- The missile defense system in Europe can be created either with Russia's participation or against the country.
Mi-38 helicopter production to begin in 2013 RIA Novosti 02 Dec 2010 -- Russian Helicopters will start production of its new Mi-38 utility transport helicopter in 2013, after resolving engine supply problems.
Putin: Russia Still U.S. Partner Despite Leaked Cables RFE/RL 02 Dec 2010 -- Russian PM Putin defended his country's progress in democracy and affirmed its cooperation with Washington in a wide-ranging interview.
Putin Defends Russia Against WikiLeaks Corruption Allegations VOA 02 Dec 2010 -- Russian PM Putin has spoken out against US criticisms of Russian democracy, which were made public by the website WikiLeaks.
'No surprises' for Russia in WikiLeaks revelations - Foreign Ministry RIA Novosti 02 Dec 2010 -- There is nothing new or unexpected for Russia in the cables leaked by the WikiLeaks website.
Latest WikiLeaks Cables Brand Russia 'Mafia State' RFE/RL 02 Dec 2010 -- Russia is a "mafia state" that works to extort business, persecute rivals, rig elections, and traffic weapons.
Latest WikiLeaks Post Shows Dim US View of Russia VOA 02 Dec 2010 -- The latest U.S. diplomatic cables leaked by the website WikiLeaks indicate the US views Russia as a corrupt, virtual "mafia state."
Russian gays not banned from military service - Putin RIA Novosti 02 Dec 2010 -- Russian PM Putin said during an interview that gays are not banned from serving in the Russian armed forces.
Remarks by the President and General Colin Powell After Meeting The White House 01 Dec 2010
Obama, Colin Powell Urge New START Approval VOA 01 Dec 2010 -- Former US Secretary of State Colin Powell has joined President Barack Obama in urging the Senate to ratify the New START treaty with Russia.
Russia to build up nuclear forces if New START not ratified RIA Novosti 01 Dec 2010 -- Russia will be forced to build up its nuclear forces if the US does not ratify the New Strategic Arms Ratification Treaty.
Russia fears a new arms race, strengthens defenses RIA Novosti 01 Dec 2010 -- President Medvedev said that the failure to reach any agreement on missile defense risked provoking a new spiral of the arms race.
U.S. Pact Could Turn Russia Into World's Nuclear Dump RFE/RL 01 Dec 2010 -- What should countries do with their nuclear waste?
Russian Air Force to procure 1,500 new aircraft by 2020 RIA Novosti 01 Dec 2010 -- The Russian Air Force will procure over 1,500 new aircraft and increase the number of high-precision weapons in its arsenal by 2020.
Army aviation to remain part of Russian Air Force RIA Novosti 01 Dec 2010 -- Army aviation will remain part of Russia's Air Force, and its fleet will be fully upgraded in the future.
Roscosmos, NASA to seal deal on joint projects RIA Novosti 01 Dec 2010 -- Russia's space agency, Roscosmos, and NASA are to sign a protocol on joint projects in manned and unmanned space travel.

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December 2010 - Russia Special Weapons News