March 2014 - Russia Special Weapons News

Russia withdraws battalion from near Ukraine border Iran Press TV 31 Mar 2014 -- The Russian Defense Ministry has announced that it is withdrawing a battalion from a region on the border with Ukraine.
Russia withdrawing from Ukraine border: Defense Min. Iran Press TV 31 Mar 2014 -- Ukrainian Defense Ministry says Russian forces have begun their gradual withdrawal from Ukraine's border.
Warships of six states start exercise in South China Sea - Pacific Fleet VoR 31 Mar 2014 -- Warships of Russia, Indonesia, Japan, Vietnam, Australia and the Philippines are engaged in the first stage of the Komodo 2014 multilateral exercises in the South China Sea, Russian Pacific Fleet spokesman Capt. 1st Rank Roman Martov said on Monday.
Putin Demands Measures To Lift Transdniester 'Blockade' RFE/RL 31 Mar 2014 -- The Kremlin says Russian President Vladimir Putin told German Chancellor Angela Merkel in a telephone conversation on March 31 that measures were needed to remove the 'blockade' on Moldova's breakaway Transdniester region.
Russia in S-400 talks with China, but early to say about concrete deal VoR 31 Mar 2014 -- Russia and China are negotiating possible delivery of air defense missile systems S-400 Triumf to China, but it is early to say about deadlines for launching delivery and its amount, Director of the Federal Service for Military-Technical Cooperation Alexander Fomin said on Monday.
Russia Announces Partial Troop Withdrawal From Near Ukraine Border RFE/RL 31 Mar 2014 -- Russia has announced it is withdrawing some troops from along Ukraine's eastern border. The German government said Russian President Vladimir Putin told Chancellor Angela Merkel about the partial withdrawal in a telephone call.
Council of Europe Initiative to Exclude Russia 'Provocation' – Duma RIA Novosti 31 Mar 2014 -- A proposal to withdraw Russia's voting rights in the Parliamentary Assembly of the Council of Europe (PACE) is a provocation, a spokesman for the Russian parliament said Monday.
Kyiv Denounces Medvedev's Crimea Visit As 'Crude Violation' RFE/RL 31 Mar 2014 -- Ukraine has denounced a visit by Russian Prime Minister Dmitry Medvedev to Crimea, describing it as a 'crude violation of the rules of international behavior.'
Medvedev Announces Sweeping Crimea Development Plan RIA Novosti 31 Mar 2014 -- Prime Minister Dmitry Medvedev arrived in Crimea on Monday to announce an ambitious plan aimed at meeting the needs of the peninsula's citizens, just 10 days after its reunification with Russia.
Russia Developing Security Plan for Crimea – Defense Minister RIA Novosti 31 Mar 2014 -- The Russian military is drafting a security plan for Crimea through 2020 in an effort to ensure the work of Russian servicemen in the former Ukrainian region, Defense Minister Sergei Shoigu said Monday.
No Plans for Russia-Ukraine Diplomatic Meeting – Moscow RIA Novosti 31 Mar 2014 -- No meetings are currently scheduled between the Russian and Ukrainian foreign ministries, a senior Russian diplomat said Monday.
Russia Ready to Resolve Crimea Property Issues With Ukraine RIA Novosti 31 Mar 2014 -- Moscow is prepared to resolve property disputes with Ukraine surrounding the termination of bilateral agreements on the basing of the Black Sea Fleet, Russian Deputy Foreign Minister Grigory Karasin said on Monday.
Ukraine's recruiting foreigners to restore order may be attempt to suppress civil protest - Moscow VoR 31 Mar 2014 -- Media reports claiming that the Ukrainian leadership wants to recruit personnel from private foreign military companies 'in order to maintain law and order' may suggest that the Kiev regime wants to suppress civil protest and discontent, the Russian Foreign Ministry said. 'Anyway, one can state that in the absence of support from the Ukrainian population, the Maidan government has only one option if it wants to remain in power - to mobilize any support possible from foreign sponsors, including foreign mercenaries,' the Russian Foreign Ministry said in a commentary.
Russia Appears to Pull Some Troops from Ukraine Border VOA 31 Mar 2014 -- Russia is withdrawing a motorized infantry battalion from a region near Ukraine's eastern border, the Russian Defense Ministry was quoted as saying by state news agencies on Monday.
Kerry, Lavrov Hold 'Frank' Talks On Ukraine RFE/RL 31 Mar 2014 -- U.S. Secretary of State John Kerry has held four hours of what he described as frank talks in Paris with Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov on the crisis in Ukraine.
Russia premier promises to pour funds into Crimea Iran Press TV 31 Mar 2014 -- The Russian prime minister has vowed to rapidly pour funds into the newly-joined Crimea region in order to improve the social and economic situation of its people.
Kerry: Russian Troops Near Ukraine Create 'Climate of Fear' VOA 30 Mar 2014 -- U.S. Secretary of State John Kerry is calling on Russia to pull back thousands of troops along the Ukraine border, saying those forces are creating a 'climate of fear' that does not support diplomatic dialogue. Secretary Kerry met late Sunday in Paris with Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov.
West recognized Maidan; more reason to recognize Crimea's reunion with Russia – Lavrov VoR 30 Mar 2014 -- Since the West recognized 'Maidan', it is simply bound to recognize Crimea's reunification with Russia as a reality, Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov told the national 'Channel One' television channel.
Kharkov, Odessa, Donetsk regions demand autonomy for southeastern Ukraine VoR 30 Mar 2014 -- Demonstrators at a pro-Russian rally in central Kharkov on Sunday called for the establishment of an autonomous republic consisting of southeastern Ukrainian provinces. The meetings in Kharkov were followed by big Ukrainian cities such as Dotetsk, Odessa and Lugansk. The demonstrators urged the southeastern Ukrainian provinces to unite against Kiev.
Western media hush up some facts about Right Sector speaking about Ukraine - Russia's Lavrov VoR 29 Mar 2014 -- While covering the events in Ukraine, Western media conceal some facts about the Right Sector, Minister of Foreign Affairs, Sergey Lavrov, has stated. Lavrov noted that he had for more than a month posed a question of the Right Sector and the need to distance from the radicals to the Western partners.
Russian Black Sea Fleet gives up Ukrainian submarine Zaporizhzhya VoR 29 Mar 2014 -- The diesel-electric submarine Zaporizhzhya, project 641, which earlier formed part of Ukraine's Navy, is out of order and will not be used by the Russian Black Sea Fleet, the Russian Navy Main Staff told the Interfax-AVN news agency on Saturday.
Federal agreement is only way to reach Ukraine settlement – Lavrov VoR 29 Mar 2014 -- Russia believes that the only way for Ukraine to reach a settlement is to sign a federal agreement, said Russian Foreign Minister, Sergei Lavrov, in an interview with the anchor of the 'Saturday News with Sergei Brilev' TV programme earlier today. 'Current developments in Ukraine have resulted from a deep statehood crisis, triggered, among other things, by the inability (I'd hate to think of reluctance) of every successive leader coming to power to reconcile the interests of Ukraine's western region and Ukraine's South-East', the Russian Foreign Minister said. 'This cannot continue that way anymore'.
Russia Accuses the West of Escalating Tensions Around Transdnestr RIA Novosti 29 Mar 2014 -- Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov sharply criticized the West of encouraging attempts by Chisinau and Kiev to create unbearable conditions for Moldova's breakaway region of Transdnestr.
Russia Has No Plans to Build Network of Military Bases Abroad – Lavrov RIA Novosti 29 Mar 2014 -- Russia has no intentions to open a network of military bases in other countries resembling a US military network abroad, Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov said on Saturday.
Attempts to Drive a Wedge Between Russia and China Futile, Naïve – Lavrov RIA Novosti 29 Mar 2014 -- Attempts to alienate Moscow and Beijing are futile and naïve as Russia and China share a similar understanding of the roots of the Ukrainian crisis, Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov said Saturday.
Russia Has No Intentions to Invade Ukraine – Lavrov RIA Novosti 29 Mar 2014 -- Russia has no intentions or interests whatsoever to cross the Ukrainian borders, Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov said on Saturday.
Lavrov: 'No Intention' To Cross Ukraine's Border RFE/RL 28 Mar 2014 -- Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov says Russia has "absolutely no intention and no interests" in ordering its armed forces to cross over the Ukrainian border.
Ban warns against escalation of crisis in Ukraine, saying 'small sparks' could 'ignite larger flames' UN News Centre 28 Mar 2014 -- Reiterating his strong call for a diplomatic solution to the crisis over Ukraine, United Nations Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon this evening warned the concerned parties – and the wider international community – that "at this time of heightened tensions, even small sparks can ignite larger flames of unintended consequences."
Readout of the President's Call with President Putin The White House 28 Mar 2014
Moscow Condemns UN Resolution On Ukraine RFE/RL 28 Mar 2014 -- Russia's Foreign Ministry has issued a statement condemning the adoption of a resolution 'On the Territorial Integrity of Ukraine' by the United Nations General Assembly.
Obama: Russia Must Pull Back Troops From Ukrainian Border VOA 28 Mar 2014 -- U.S. President Barack Obama says Russia must pull back its troops from the Ukrainian border and begin negotiating to defuse tensions.
UN 'counterproductive' resolution make it difficult to settle Ukrainian crisis - Moscow VoR 28 Mar 2014 -- The Russian Foreign Ministry has described the UN General Assembly's resolution concerning Ukraine as 'counter-productive' and has said that the large number of UN General Assembly member countries that abstained or were not present during the vote altogether indicates that they refuse to accept this one-sided interpretation of the Ukrainian events.
Professional actions by Russian military saved Crimea from bloodshed - Putin VoR 28 Mar 2014 -- Russian President Vladimir Putin has said that the events in Crimea have demonstrated a high level of readiness of the Russian Armed Forces and he thanked the military service members stationed in the peninsula for their stamina and professionalism. 'The recent events in Crimea were a serious test. They demonstrated both the completely new capabilities of our Armed Forces and the high morale of the personnel,' the president said at a ceremony introducing the top officers on the occasion of new appointments and rank awarding.
Putin: Crimea Showed 'Professionalism' Of Russian Military RFE/RL 28 Mar 2014 -- Russian President Vladimir Putin has said the actions of Russian military forces in the Ukrainian region of Crimea have demonstrated the 'high level of preparedness' in the Russian armed forces.
Complex Ties: Russia's Armed Forces Depend On Ukraine's Military Industry RFE/RL 28 Mar 2014 -- It is an ironic fact that much of the equipment used by the Russian troops in Crimea, and those maneuvering on Ukraine's border, is produced by Kyiv's military industry.
Freeze Settles On U.S.-Russia Commission Amid Ukraine Standoff RFE/RL 28 Mar 2014 -- A bilateral commission that served as a cornerstone for U.S. President Barack Obama's 'reset' policy with Moscow, facilitating cooperation on issues such as arms reductions and counterterrorism, has ground to a standstill following Russia's annexation of Ukraine's Crimea territory.
Next stage of Russian Army development should include Arctic group - Putin VoR 28 Mar 2014 -- Next stage of the Russian Armed Forces training should include developing a combat group in the Arctic region, Russian President Vladimir Putin said.
Russia Reinforcing Units on Border with Ukraine AFPS 27 Mar 2014 -- Russia continues to reinforce units along the eastern and southern Ukraine border, Pentagon Press Secretary Navy Rear Adm. John Kirby said during a news conference today.
Backing Ukraine's territorial integrity, UN Assembly declares Crimea referendum invalid UN News Centre 27 Mar 2014 -- In a vote that reaffirmed Ukraine's unity and territorial integrity, the United Nations General Assembly today adopted a measure underscoring that the mid-March referendum in Crimea that led to the peninsula's annexation by Russia "has no validity" and that the parties should "pursue immediately a peaceful resolution of the situation."
UN General Assembly Rejects Crimea Annexation VOA 27 Mar 2014 -- A majority of U.N. member states told Moscow Thursday that they will not recognize the annexation of Ukraine's Crimea region.
Ukraine-Russia Tension Hampers Chernobyl Cleanup VOA 27 Mar 2014 -- The tensions between Russia and Ukraine have begun complicating the ongoing cleanup at the site of one of the world's worst nuclear disasters.
Moscow opposes confrontational draft resolution on Ukraine VoR 27 Mar 2014 -- Moscow is opposed to Kiev's UN General Assembly draft resolution on Ukraine due to its confrontational character. Russia could not interfere with the realization of Crimean citizens' right to self-determination, Said Russia's ambassador to the United Nations, Vitaly Churkin.
UN General Assembly didn't recognize Crimean referendum's results VoR 27 Mar 2014 -- The 193-nation UN General Assembly passed Thursday a resolution declaring invalid Crimea's referendum that led to the region's reunification with Russia. Moscow is opposed, Russia's ambassador to the United Nations Vitaly Churkin said earlier. 'The draft attempts to cast doubt on the significance of the referendum held in Crimea, which has already played a historical role. It is counter-productive to dispute this,' Churkin said. At the same time, the draft resolution has 'some right provisions,' he said.
Obama Condemns Russia, Hails IMF Loan to Ukraine VOA 27 Mar 2014 -- Hailing the U.S. partnership with Italy all of Europe as "cornerstone of our security, President Barack Obama hailed the transatlantic unity on the issue of Russia'sannexation of Crimea and welcomed the International Monetary Fund's assistance package for Ukraine.
Inspection of Ukrainian Ships Entering Russia's Black Sea Fleet To Be Done by Year's End RIA Novosti 27 Mar 2014 -- Technical inspections of Ukraine's naval vessels entering Russia's Black Sea Fleet could be complete by the end of 2014, a source in the Black Sea Fleet Headquarters said on Thursday.
Over 30 Ukrainian Ships To Enter Russian Navy Service after Inspection – Source RIA Novosti 27 Mar 2014 -- More than 30 warships and support vessels formerly in the Ukrainian navy could enter into Russia's Black Sea Fleet by the end of the year, but only after they pass inspections, a source in the fleet's headquarters said Thursday.
Russia-Ukraine Atomic Energy Cooperation Continues – Rosatom RIA Novosti 27 Mar 2014 -- Russian nuclear fuel deliveries to power plants in Ukraine are continuing without interruption, the head of Russia's state nuclear corporation said Thursday.
US won't use force to return Crimea to Ukraine: Obama Iran Press TV 26 Mar 2014 -- US President Barack Obama says Washington will not use military force against Russia to return the Autonomous Republic of Crimea to Ukraine.
Obama: West Has No Plans to Use Force in Ukraine VOA 26 Mar 2014 -- U.S. President Barack Obama says he believes democracy and the rule of law will triumph in Ukraine.
US Congress to Act Soon on Ukraine Aid, Russian Sanctions VOA 26 Mar 2014 -- Prospects are improving for U.S. congressional approval of an aid package for Ukraine and sanctions against Russia, as House and Senate lawmakers resolve differences between the chambers. A bill could be ready for President Barack Obama's signature by week's end.
Over 15,000 Ukrainian servicemen in Crimea pass to Russian military service VoR 26 Mar 2014 -- More than 15,000 servicemen from Ukrainian military units, formations and organisations previously deployed in the Russian Republic of Crimea said they wanted to continue military service in Russian law enforcement agencies, Crimean government told Itar-Tass on Wednesday.
Russian arms export monopoly Rosoboronexport skeptical about possibility of US sanctions VoR 26 Mar 2014 -- The Russian state arms export monopoly Rosoboronexport hears about the possibility of US sanctions every year but expects the US senators to be reasonable, Rosoboronexport CEO Anatoly Isaikin said at a press conference on the sidelines of the FIDAE 2014 international aerospace show in Chile.
Obama: US, EU 'United in Our Support' of Ukraine VOA 26 Mar 2014 -- Wrapping up meetings with European officials in Brussels, U.S. President Barack Obama said that Europe is America's closest partner and called for the creation of a united front for Russia to "feel the consequences of its actions in Ukraine."
Obama Says 'Russia Stands Alone' RFE/RL 26 Mar 2014 -- U.S. President Barack Obama has said during his visit to European Union headquarters in Brussels that 'Russia stands alone' after Moscow's recent conduct in Ukraine's Crimean Peninsula
Crimean Military Dolphins to Serve in Russian Navy RIA Novosti 26 Mar 2014 -- The combat dolphin program in the Crimean city of Sevastopol will be preserved and redirected towards the interests of the Russian Navy, an employee at the facility where the dolphins are trained told RIA Novosti.
Russian Flags Raised at All Crimean Military Units RIA Novosti 26 Mar 2014 -- Russian flags have been raised at all military units in Crimea, less than a week after the Russian leader signed a decree finalizing the reunification of the former Ukrainian region, Russia's military chief said Wednesday.
Russia Dismisses Rumors of Seeking Military Base in Argentina as 'Provocative Lie' RIA Novosti 26 Mar 2014 -- The Russian Foreign Ministry on Wednesday dismissed as a "provocative lie" rumors of Moscow's plans to build a military base in Argentina.
Obama: Russia Acting 'Out of Weakness' on Ukraine VOA 25 Mar 2014 -- President Barack Obama said Russia was acting 'out of weakness' and not strength in its annexation of Crimea from Ukraine.
Ukraine leaders' stance seriously threatening Non-Proliferation Treaty - Moscow VoR 25 Mar 2014 -- Russia has rejected the claims of a Ukrainian delegate to the Nuclear Security Summit in The Hague that Russia is allegedly threatening the security of nuclear sites in Ukraine. 'This is a pure and simple attempt to shift the blame,' the Russian delegation said in a statement released by the Russian Foreign Ministry on Tuesday. 'The dysfunctional new Kiev authorities may pose a threat to the security of Ukrainian nuclear sites under the current Ukrainian circumstances but this is definitely not Russia,' it stressed.
US to increase the efficiency of electronic surveillance against Russia VoR 25 Mar 2014 -- US intelligence agencies are trying to achieve the expansion of the zone, which could be monitored by means of American satellites on the territory of Russia, Ukraine and the Baltic States, as well as improve the efficiency of interception of phone calls and other conversations in these countries.
Obama: Russia's Illegal Annexation of Crimea Not 'Done Deal' VOA 25 Mar 2014 -- U.S. President Barack Obama said Tuesday that he's worried about further encroachment of Russia into Ukraine after the annexation of Crimea.
Obama Says Allies Won't Back Down Over Crimea RFE/RL 25 Mar 2014 -- U.S. President Barack Obama has indicated that the United States and its allies will not back down in pressuring Russia over the annexation of Crimea.
NATO Concerned About Russian Military Buildup Near Ukraine Border RFE/RL 25 Mar 2014 -- NATO Secretary-General Anders Fogh Rasmussen has expressed concern about a large increase in Russian troops and armaments along Ukraine's eastern frontier following its annexation of Crimea.
Crimea Dispute Tests Serbian Government's Middle Course RFE/RL 25 Mar 2014 -- Serbia's delicate path between the European Union and traditional partner Russia is being tested as relations between Moscow and the West fray over the crisis in Ukraine's Crimea.
Russia Poses No Threat to Ukraine's Nuclear Sites – Russian FM RIA Novosti 25 Mar 2014 -- The Russian Foreign Ministry dismissed allegations Tuesday that Moscow is threatening nuclear sites in Ukraine as an attempt to redirect blame for ongoing instability in the country away from the new Ukrainian government.
Moscow Reaffirms Ukrainian Servicemen Free to Leave Crimea RIA Novosti 25 Mar 2014 -- Ukraine's military personnel may leave the Crimean Peninsula unhindered, but the Russian military has yet to decide if they will be permitted to take their weapons with them, the Kremlin said Tuesday.
New Space Station Crew Readies for Launch on Russian Rocket RIA Novosti 25 Mar 2014 -- The launch of a Russian Soyuz rocket carrying three new crewmembers to the International Space Station has been scheduled for early Wednesday morning, the Russian space agency Roscosmos said Tuesday.
The Hague Declaration The White House 24 Mar 2014
Pro-Russian forces seize another Ukrainian vessel Iran Press TV 24 Mar 2014 -- Pro-Russian forces have stormed and captured a Ukrainian navy ship in western Crimea as Russian forces have been seizing Ukrainian military facilities for several days in the Black Sea peninsula.
Crimea adopts Russian ruble as official currency Iran Press TV 24 Mar 2014 -- Russian currency, the ruble, has become the official currency of Crimea, the Black Sea peninsula's prime minister says.
Russian troops seize Ukraine naval base in Crimea Iran Press TV 24 Mar 2014 -- Russian troops have taken over a Ukrainian marine base in the Crimean port of Feodosia as pro-Russians have been seizing Ukrainian military facilities for several days in the Black Sea peninsula.
Ukraine-EU Pact Signals Step Towards NATO – Russian Ministry Source RIA Novosti 24 Mar 2014 -- The signing of a political pact between Ukraine and the European Union is a hasty step which points to the prospect of closer military ties between Kiev and NATO, a Russian foreign ministry source said Monday.
Russia slaps retaliatory sanctions on Canadian officials Iran Press TV 24 Mar 2014 -- Russia has imposed sanctions against a number of Canadian officials, lawmakers and public figures in response to Ottawa's bans on Russian authorities over Crimea.
Russia defense minister pays visit to Crimea Iran Press TV 24 Mar 2014 -- Russian defense minister has paid a visit to Crimea as all troops loyal to Ukraine leave their bases on the strategic Black Sea peninsula.
Russia slams Germany for halting arms deal Iran Press TV 24 Mar 2014 -- Russia has lashed out at Germany over its decision to halt a major arms deal to provide a fully-equipped training camp to Russian forces, describing the measure as 'unconstructive' and taken under pressure from the United States.
Russia Imposes Sanctions on Canadians in Tit-For-Tat Over Crimea RIA Novosti 24 Mar 2014 -- The Russian Foreign Ministry said Monday it was barring 13 Canadian officials and public figures from entry to the country in response to sanctions earlier imposed by Canada in the wake of Crimea's reunification with Russia.
Russia's 2014 Arms Exports Surpass $2Bln RIA Novosti 24 Mar 2014 -- The volume of Russia's arms exports this year has topped the $2 billion mark, with outstanding weapons orders standing at $47 billion, a senior government official said Monday.
G-7 Suspends Russia Over Ukraine VOA 24 Mar 2014 -- The Group of Seven industrialized nations has suspended Russia's membership, in response to its annexation of Ukraine's Crimea region. The action was called by U.S. President Barack Obama, who began a tour of Europe Monday in an effort to isolate Russia.
US Lawmakers say Obama Will Push for More Russia Sanctions VOA 24 Mar 2014 -- U.S. lawmakers visiting Kyiv have urged President Barack Obama to use bilateral meetings at a nuclear security summit at The Hague to push for a stronger NATO presence in countries neighboring Ukraine and for greater economic sanctions on Russia.
Russia not clinging to G8 format, no problem if G8 doesn't meet - Lavrov VoR 24 Mar 2014 -- Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov said Monday he saw no 'great tragedy' if Moscow was expelled from the Group of Eight (G8) club of leading nations for its annexation of Ukraine's Crimea peninsula.
Russia releases 13-people sanctions list in response to Canada's moves VoR 24 Mar 2014 -- The Russian Foreign Ministry posted on Monday on its website a list of Canadian citizens, who are banned entry to Russia. The list of officials, parliament deputies and public figures of Canada, who are banned entry to Russia on the basis of mutuality due to the Canadian sanctions over Ukraine and Crimea includes 13 names, the Russian Foreign Ministry said.
G7 Leaders Exclude Moscow, Warn Of 'Clear Choice' Over Ukraine RFE/RL 24 Mar 2014 -- Leaders from the Group of Seven (G7) major industrial powers have suspended their participation in the G-8 with Russia and expressed support for the Ukrainian government, warning of "significant consequences" for Moscow's actions and adding that Russia "has a clear choice to make."
Russian Soyuz Rocket Launches Navigation Satellite RIA Novosti 24 Mar 2014 -- A Russian Soyuz rocket launched a Glonass navigation satellite into orbit early Monday morning from northwestern Russia, a spokesperson for the country's aerospace defense forces said.
Obama Says U.S., EU United On Punishing Russia RFE/RL 24 Mar 2014 -- U.S. President Barack Obama has said the United States and Europe are united in holding Russia to account for its actions in Crimea.
Ukraine Gives Russia Ultimatum to Free Officers VOA 24 Mar 2014 -- The government of Ukraine has given Russia an ultimatum to free Ukrainian generals and admirals who are being held in Crimea. The warning came at a press briefing by government officials in Kyiv on Monday.
Obama: Russia to Suffer Ukraine Costs VOA 24 Mar 2014 -- U.S. President Barack Obama says the United States and Europe are united in imposing a cost on Russia for its actions in Ukraine.
US commander claims sizeable Russian forces ready to 'run into' Moldova Iran Press TV 23 Mar 2014 -- US Air Force General Philip Breedlove says that Russia has built up a large military force on its border with Ukraine, warning that Moldova's separatist Trans-Dniester region could be Moscow's next target.
Ukraine Defiant Amid Further Russian Threat to Sovereignty VOA 23 Mar 2014 -- Warnings from various quarters, including Ukraine's interim government, NATO's top military commander and the chairman of the U.S. House Intelligence Committee, that Russian forces are poised to go beyond Crimea, are prompting calls for a more robust response from Washington and other Western capitals.
Annexed by Russia, Crimea Could See Growing Financial, Travel Woes VOA 23 Mar 2014 -- Russia's annexation of Crimea from Ukraine could see the peninsula's economy suffer and the region isolated from the international community.
NATO Commander Warns of Russian Threat to Transdniestria VOA 23 Mar 2014 -- NATO's top military commander said on Sunday that Russia had built up a large force on Ukraine's eastern border and he was worried Moscow may be eyeing Moldova's mainly Russian-speaking separatist Transdniestria region after annexing Crimea.
'Interethnic conflicts in Crimea are myth' - Crimea's Deputy PM VoR 23 Mar 2014 -- In an interview with Krymiform news agency, Crimea's Deputy Prime Minister Olga Kovitidi said that no conflicts between nationalities exist in Crimea. "These conflicts are being artificially provoked by people who have recently seized power in Ukraine," Ms. Kovitidi said, "and who are trying to pursue their own goals by stirring such conflicts."
US should consider dissolving NATO – State Duma deputy Pushkov VoR 23 Mar 2014 -- Head of the State Duma Committee on Foreign Affairs, Alexei Pushkov has offered Washington, that stands for the demilitarization of Crimea, a counter initiative; to eliminate NATO. 'The idea of demilitarization of Crimea is a stillborn one. It is within the competence of neither Ukraine, nor the United States. Why not discuss the dissolution of NATO?' the committee head wrote Friday in his Twitter account.
Thousands of Odessites protest against coup d'etat and political repressions in Ukraine VoR 23 Mar 2014 -- Thousands of Odessites are protesting today against the coup d'etat in Ukraine and the political repression that followed. They brought the flags of Ukraine, Russia and the Crimea, chanting 'Ukraine and Russia stand together', 'Odessa is a Russian city', 'Odessa is against Nazis and oligarchs', 'Odessa, give Banderovites the bum's rush', 'Referendum.'
Crimea's reunification with Russia not violate stability in Europe - Russian FM VoR 23 Mar 2014 -- The Republic of Crimea's reunification with Russia does not violate military and political stability in Europe, Director of the security and disarmament department of the Russian Foreign Ministry Mikhail Ulyanov said on Sunday.
White House: Russian forces may want to move into Ukraine Iran Press TV 23 Mar 2014 -- The administration of US President Barack Obama has expressed "deep concern" about a reported Russian military buildup near the Ukrainian border, saying Moscow may want to invade Ukraine.
Chances of war with Russia growing: Ukraine FM Iran Press TV 23 Mar 2014 -- Ukraine's Foreign Minister Andrii Deshchytsia has claimed that the likelihood of an armed conflict with Russia was "very high and growing".
East Ukrainians rally in support of Crimea-style vote Iran Press TV 23 Mar 2014 -- Thousands of people have staged rallies in at least two major Eastern Ukrainian cities, calling for a referendum like the one held in the Crimean region to secede from the former Soviet state and join Russia.
Kyiv Says Chance Of War With Russia 'Growing' RFE/RL 23 Mar 2014 -- Ukraine's acting Foreign Minister Andriy Deshchytsya has said that the chances of war between his country and Russia are growing.
Ukrainian Navy Flagship Hoists Russian Flag RIA Novosti 23 Mar 2014 -- The Ukrainian Navy flaghsip Slavutich has raised the Russian flag in Sevastopol, local media said Sunday.
Ukraine Closes Border with Crimea RIA Novosti 23 Mar 2014 -- Ukrainian border guards closed the exit from the Republic of Crimea, local authorities said on Saturday.
Carl Bildt: 'Every Carrot To Kyiv Is A Stick To Moscow' RFE/RL 23 Mar 2014 -- Swedish Foreign Minister Carl Bildt has been one of the European Union's most active voices when it comes to the bloc's eastern neighbors over the past eight years. On the sidelines of the German Marshall Fund's annual Brussels Forum on March 23, he sat down with RFE/RL correspondent Rikard Jozwiak to talk about the latest developments in Ukraine, his thoughts on possible Russian involvement in Transdniester, and what role the West can play in countries who find themselves pitted between Russia and the EU.
Belarusian President Says Crimean Annexation 'Bad Precedent' RFE/RL 23 Mar 2014 -- Belarusian President Alyaksandr Lukashenka says Russia's annexation of Crimea is a 'bad precedent,' but acknowledged that the region is now a 'de facto' part of Russia.
With Ukraine Base Seizures, Russia Moves to Consolidate Control of Crimea VOA 22 Mar 2014 -- Russian soldiers and militiamen have stormed a Ukrainian air force base in Crimea, firing shots and smashing through gates and walls with armored vehicles, bringing a days-long standoff with Ukrainian soldiers to an end.
Donetsk: Thousands rally in support of President Yanukovych VoR 22 Mar 2014 -- About 2,000 people rallied in the centre of the eastern Ukrainian city of Donetsk on Saturday, March 22, demanding a referendum on the future of the region.
Russia hopes OSCE mission in Ukraine will help to resolve internal crisis VoR 22 Mar 2014 -- Russia hopes that sending the OSCE mission to Ukraine will contribute to overcoming the crisis in the country, stop the rampant nationalist banditry and contribute to achieving national accord, the Foreign Ministry of the Russian Federation says.
OSCE to send monitors to Ukraine, Moscow hopes it stops extremists' attacks VoR 22 Mar 2014 -- Russia joined the 56 other members of the OSCE on Friday in a consensus decision to send a six-month monitoring mission initially numbering 100 people to Ukraine.
US 'very concerned' about Russia forces near Ukraine border Iran Press TV 22 Mar 2014 -- The administration of US President Barack Obama says Washington is "very concerned" about Russian forces near Ukraine's eastern and southern borders, saying training exercises might not be the only purpose they are there for.
Russian forces take over Ukraine base in Crimea Iran Press TV 22 Mar 2014 -- Russian forces have seized an airbase in Crimea Peninsula using at least two armored vehicles to break into the last Ukrainian military stronghold in the newly-incorporated territory.
Ukraine's Military Bases Targeted In Crimea RFE/RL 22 Mar 2014 -- Two Ukrainian air bases in Crimea have been overrun by pro-Russian forces.
Crimean Tatars, Still Living In Shadow Of 1944, Invoke Fears Of Ethnic Cleansing RFE/RL 22 Mar 2014
Germany's Steinmeier Warns Against New Division Of Europe RFE/RL 22 Mar 2014 -- German Foreign Minister Frank-Walter Steinmeier has denounced Russia's 'attempt to splinter Europe' by backing an independence referendum in Ukraine's Crimea region earlier this month.
2,000 out of 18,000 Ukrainian Troops to Leave Crimea RIA Novosti 22 Mar 2014 -- Less than 2,000 of Ukrainian troops serving in Crimea decided to leave the peninsula for Ukraine, the Russian Defense Ministry said on Saturday.
Russian Navy Flag Raised at Ukraine's Only Sub RIA Novosti 22 Mar 2014 -- The St.Andrew's flag of the Russian Navy was raised on Ukraine's only submarine, the Zaporizhzhia, on Saturday.
Diplomatic solution only way to resolve Russia-Ukraine crisis, Ban stresses in Kyiv UN News Centre 22 Mar 2014 -- Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon on Saturday reiterated his message that only a diplomatic solution, based on the ideals of the United Nations Charter, would solve the current crisis between Russia and Ukraine.
Pentagon orders review of Russian engines on US rockets Iran Press TV 22 Mar 2014 -- The Pentagon has asked Air Force officials to review whether Russian-built engines used on US military rockets pose a national security risk to the United States.
Russia slams new EU sanctions as 'divorced from reality' Iran Press TV 22 Mar 2014 -- Russia has described as "divorced from reality" the new sanctions imposed on the country by the European Union while supporting an EU decision to send a monitoring mission to Ukraine.
Crimea Annexation Threatens Already Weakened Russian Economy RFE/RL 22 Mar 2014 -- Capital flight from Russia reached $35 billion in the first two months of this year, Russian Economic Development Minister Aleksei Ulyukayev said this week.
Explainer: How The International Sanctions Game Is Played RFE/RL 21 Mar 2014 -- The United States and the European Union are imposing targeted economic sanctions -- and threatening even broader measures -- against Russia for its incursion into Ukraine. RFE/RL takes a look at some basics of the art of sanctioning.
U.S. Businesses Fear Russian Sanctions May Hurt Bottom Line RFE/RL 22 Mar 2014 -- U.S. businesses are warning that potential broad economic sanctions levied against Russia over its annexation of Ukraine's Crimea territory could harm U.S. companies operating in the Russian market.
Ceremony signing the laws on admitting Crimea and Sevastopol to the Russian Federation President of Russia 21 Mar 2014 -- A ceremony signing the laws on admitting the Republic of Crimea and the city of Sevastopol to the Russian Federation took place at the Kremlin.
Laws on admitting Crimea and Sevastopol to the Russian Federation President of Russia 21 Mar 2014 -- Vladimir Putin signed Federal Constitutional Law On Admitting to the Russian Federation the Republic of Crimea and Establishing within the Russian Federation the New Constituent Entities of the Republic of Crimea and the City of Federal Importance Sevastopol, and Federal Law On Ratifying the Agreement between the Russian Federation and the Republic of Crimea on Admitting to the Russian Federation the Republic of Crimea and Establishing within the Russian Federation New Constituent Entities.
Russia's Federation Council approves Crimea reunion Iran Press TV 21 Mar 2014 -- Russia's upper house of parliament has voted in favor of a treaty that officially makes Ukraine's strategic Black Sea peninsula of Crimea part of the Russian Federation.
Putin signs Crimea reunification documents Iran Press TV 21 Mar 2014 -- Russian President Vladimir Putin has signed into law the documents officially making Crimea part of Russian territory.
Kyiv Signs EU Agreement As Putin Signs Crimea Annexation RFE/RL 21 Mar 2014 -- Moscow has completed the process of making Ukraine's Crimea part of Russia, as Ukraine's prime minister, in a highly symbolic move, signed a political cooperation agreement with the European Union.
Russia's Federation Council To Endorse Crimea Annexation RFE/RL 21 Mar 2014 -- Russia's Federation Council, the upper house of parliament, was expected to endorse the annexation of Crimea at a meeting on March 21.
Medvedev Warns Ukraine of Possible State Collapse RIA Novosti 21 Mar 2014 -- The ongoing "rule of radicals, militants and bandits" may result in the collapse of the Ukrainian state, Russian Prime Minister Dmitry Medvedev wrote in his Facebook page on Friday.
72 Crimean Military Units Request Joining Russia RIA Novosti 21 Mar 2014 -- A total of 72 military units in Crimea have hoisted Russian flags instead of Ukrainian and applied to join the Russian armed forces, Defense Minister Sergei Shoigu said on Friday.
Putin Signs Final Crimea Reunification Decree RIA Novosti 21 Mar 2014 -- Russian President Vladimir Putin signed a decree Friday on the ratification of the treaty providing for the reunification of the Crimean Peninsula with Russia.
Russia Upper House Approves Reunification of Crimea RIA Novosti 21 Mar 2014 -- Russia's upper house of parliament on Friday ratified the treaty providing for the reunification of the Crimean Peninsula with Russia.
With tensions high, Ban urges 'real' dialogue between Kyiv and Moscow to resolve crisis UN News Centre 21 Mar 2014 -- United Nations Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon today urged "real dialogue" between Kyiv and Moscow to peacefully resolve the current crisis, during a visit to the Ukrainian capital following discussions with Russian officials yesterday.
Putin Signs Law Officially Annexing Crimea VOA 21 Mar 2014 -- Russian President Vladimir Putin on Friday signed into law legislation completing the annexation of Crimea, calling it a 'remarkable event.'
Ukraine Signs EU Accord as Russia Annexes Crimea VOA 21 Mar 2014 -- As Ukraine took a historic step closer to Europe, its strategic, predominately Russian-speaking province of Crimea went firmly into Moscow's grip. President Putin signed bills at the Kremlin completing its annexation.
Power in Ukraine seized by radicals, militants, bandits - Russian PM Medvedev VoR 21 Mar 2014 -- Power in Ukraine was seized by radicals, militants and bandits, this is extremely dangerous and will entail collapse of the state, Russian Prime Minister, Dmitry Medvedev, has written on his page in Facebook. Crimea and Sevastopol have made their choice, and Moscow's goal is friendly relations with Ukraine and other neighbors, Medvedev said.
U.S. Officials Predict Sanctions Will Hit Putin Associates Hard RFE/RL 21 Mar 2014 -- The United States has slapped fresh sanctions on individuals close to President Vladimir Putin over Russia's annexation of Ukraine's Crimea region, penalties that officials and legal experts say could severely restrict the targeted Russians' ability to do business throughout the world.
EU Broadens Sanctions Against Russia, Threatens Economic Measures RIA Novosti 21 Mar 2014 -- The EU has expanded its targeted sanctions against Russian officials blamed for destabilizing Ukraine, but has not yet agreed upon broader economic measures, European officials said Friday.
Russia cannot be punished, proper relations can be built - PM Medvedev VoR 21 Mar 2014 -- Russian Prime Minister Dmitry Medvedev has expressed hope that reason will prevail in relations between the international community and Russia following the events in Ukraine, as was the case after the 'difficult decisions' in August 2008.
Russia Duma ratifies Crimea reunification treaty Iran Press TV 20 Mar 2014 -- Russia's lower house of parliament, the State Duma, has overwhelmingly approved a treaty to annex Ukraine's strategic Black Sea peninsula of Crimea into the Russian Federation.
Hagel Gets Assurances About Russian Troops on Ukraine Border AFPS 20 Mar 2014 -- Russian Defense Minister Sergei Shoygu assured Defense Secretary Chuck Hagel that Russian troops along the Russia-Ukraine border are there solely for exercise purposes and will not cross over into Ukrainian territory, Pentagon Press Secretary Navy Rear Adm. John Kirby said today.
Pro-Russian forces board 3 Ukrainian warships Iran Press TV 20 Mar 2014 -- Pro-Russian forces have seized three Ukrainian warships in the strategic Black Sea peninsula of Crimea as Ukraine says its troops are being threatened in the breakaway region.
EU poised to slap more sanctions on Russia over Crimea Iran Press TV 20 Mar 2014 -- German Chancellor Angela Merkel says the European Union (EU) will impose more sanctions on Russia following its decision to annex Ukraine's strategic Black Sea peninsula of Crimea.
In Russia, Ban calls for 'honest and constructive dialogue between Kyiv and Moscow' UN News Centre 20 Mar 2014 -- Leading diplomatic efforts to encourage all parties involved in the Ukraine crisis to find a peaceful solution, United Nations Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon met today with Russian President Vladimir Putin and emphasized the need for de-escalating tensions between Russia and Ukraine, and restoring the "brotherly relationship" between the two countries.
Time to end condoning of Ukrainian Right Sector militants, Svoboda activists - Lavrov VoR 20 Mar 2014 -- Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov told United States Secretary of State John Kerry by telephone on Thursday that Washington should stop condoning Ukrainian nationalists and extremists.
Lavrov tells Kerry Russia's Crimea move will not be revisited, must be respected VoR 20 Mar 2014 -- The decision of Crimea to reunite with Russia, 'reflecting the will of the absolute majority of its residents, is not subject to revision' and must be respected, Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov told his US counterpart John Kerry on Thursday.
Ukraine is lying while explaining suspension of its chairmanship in CIS – Russia VoR 20 Mar 2014 -- Kiev's reasons for suspending its chairmanship in the CIS did not correspond to reality, the Russian Foreign Ministry said on Thursday. On Thursday the new authorities in Kiev decided to quit the CIS, the organization of former Soviet Republics.
Obama to Reassure Europe as Ukraine Crisis Deepens VOA 20 Mar 2014 -- As Russia consolidates its power over the Crimean region of Ukraine, President Barack Obama is heading to Europe for talks with allies in a bid to pressure Moscow.
Kerry Tells VOA He Hopes for No Russian Tension Spillover VOA 20 Mar 2014 -- In an exclusive interview with VOA, U.S. Secretary of State John Kerry discussed the Iran nuclear issue and also said that said he hopes tensions with Russia over Ukraine do not affect other global issues requiring continuing U.S.-Russia diplomacy.
Moscow puzzled by some of names on US sanctions list - Putin spokesman VoR 20 Mar 2014 -- Moscow is studying Washington's list of individuals against whom sanctions were imposed, and already puzzled by some of the names, Russian President's Press Secretary Dmitry Peskov said.
Russia imposes entry ban on US lawmakers, officials in retaliation for US sanction VoR 20 Mar 2014 -- The Russian Foreign Affairs Ministry has published a list of US politicians against whom sanctions will be introduced, identical to those imposed by the United States against Russian officials.The list includes House Speaker John Boehner, US Senate Majority Leader Harry Reid, Senate Foreign Relations Committee Chairman Robert Menendez and other senior US administration officials who are legally prohibited to visit Russia.
Diplomatic talks between Russia, US should continue – Obama VoR 20 Mar 2014 -- The United States will impose new sanctions against Russia in addition to the ones imposed earlier this week due to Moscow's political course towards Ukraine, US President Barack Obama said on Thursday. At the same time, he stressed that diplomatic talks between Russia and the United States should go on. The American leader specified that the new measures are imposed against Russian high-ranking officials and other people who did not belong to authorities in Moscow, but who, as Washington believes, support actions of the Russian government against Ukraine. Obama added that one Russian bank was also included in the list. However, the president did not disclose the name of the bank.
Russia's lower parliament ratifies Crimea reunification treaty VoR 20 Mar 2014 -- The State Duma, Russia's lower house of parliament, ratified the historic Crimea reunification treaty at its additional session on Thursday. A total of 443 State Duma deputies supported the ratificiation and only one voted against, while 300 yeas were necessary. The agreement will be provisionally applied from the date of its signing and will enter into force since the date of its ratification.
Military infrastructure to adjust for protecting Crimea from possible intrusions - Russian Defense Ministry VoR 20 Mar 2014 -- The Russian Armed Forces will adjust their development plans in the context of the entry of Crimea and Sevastopol into Russia, Russian Deputy Defense Minister Yuri Borisov told reporters on Thursday.
Obama Expands Sanctions Against Russia VOA 20 Mar 2014 -- U.S. President Barack Obama announced on Thursday morning a series of expanded sanctions against Russia over its annexation of the Crimean peninsula.
Statement by the President on Ukraine The White House 20 Mar 2014
Background Briefing on Ukraine by Senior Administration Officials The White House 20 Mar 2014
Russia's Duma Ratifies Crimea Annexation RFE/RL 20 Mar 2014 -- Russia's State Duma has ratified an agreement that makes Crimea part of the Russian Federation. The agreement is expected to be endorsed by the upper house of parliament on March 21.
Federal State Is Only Solution for Ukraine – Lavrov RIA Novosti 20 Mar 2014 -- Making Ukraine a federal state is the only way to stabilize situation in the country, Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov said on Thursday.
Breaking Defense Ties With Russia Would Hurt Ukraine – Official RIA Novosti 20 Mar 2014 -- Ukraine would be inflicting unnecessary damage upon itself if it breaks off ongoing cooperation with Russia's defense industry, a senior Russian official said Thursday.
Russia Uncovers Arms Smuggling Route Through Ukraine RIA Novosti 20 Mar 2014 -- Russian law enforcement raided an arms group that smuggled weapons to the country's North Caucasus from the European Union via Ukraine, the country's Federal Security Service said Thursday.
Russia Announces Sanctions Against US Officials RIA Novosti 20 Mar 2014 -- The Russian Foreign Ministry on Thursday imposed sanctions against nine senior US officials in retaliation to US visa bans and asset freezes.
Obama Announces New Sanctions Against Russia RIA Novosti 20 Mar 2014 -- US President Barack Obama on Thursday announced new sanctions against Russia over its reunification with Crimea.
France Should Return Money if Warship Deal Cancelled – Rogozin RIA Novosti 20 Mar 2014 -- France should either fulfill its contract obligations under a June 2011 contract to deliver two Mistral-class warships to the Russian navy or return the money, a Russian deputy premier said on Wednesday.
Amid Russia-Ukraine Crisis, Moldova's Fault Lines Quaver RFE/RL 20 Mar 2014 -- The similarities are too obvious to ignore. First, last month, Moldova's Russian-speaking Gagauz Autonomous Republic held a controversial referendum that overwhelmingly expressed support for closer relations with a Moscow-led customs union instead of the European Union.
NATO Secretary General: Russia Must Suffer Consequences AFPS 19 Mar 2014 -- There must be consequences for Russia's actions against Ukraine, the NATO secretary general said at the Brookings Institute here today.
Russia Issuing Passports In Crimea; Ukraine Introducing Visas For Russians RFE/RL 19 Mar 2014 -- Russia has begun issuing Russian passports to residents of Crimea, saying they are now Russian citizens.
Ban heads to Russia and Ukraine amid rising tensions; Security Council briefed on latest events UN News Centre 19 Mar 2014 -- With Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon headed to Russia and Ukraine as part of his diplomatic efforts to de-escalate current tensions, the Security Council heard senior United Nations officials in New York urge adherence to fundamental principles of the UN Charter, including respect for Ukraine's sovereignty and territorial integrity, and ensuring respect for the human rights of all.
Remarks by Ambassador Samantha Power, U.S. Permanent Representative to the United Nations, at a Security Council Meeting on Ukraine, March 19, 2014 U.S. Permanent Representative to the United Nations 19 Mar 2014
US, NATO Warn Russia Faces 'High Costs' Over Crimea VOA 19 Mar 2014 -- Russia is refusing to back down in the face of U.S. and European sanctions imposed over Moscow's annexation of Crimea. Russia's latest actions have touched off a new round of worry for Russia's Western-leaning neighbors and more warnings from Washington.
Roundup: Opinions on Ukraine from American and Foreign Media VOA 19 Mar 2014 -- The crisis in Ukraine has captured global attention and is generating a wide spectrum of opinion on its causes and solutions. Newspapers, blogs and other media are publishing a variety of commentaries and editorials on what's to be done and who's to blame.
Cyber Peace Reigns Despite Russia, Ukraine Tensions VOA 19 Mar 2014 -- While tensions on the ground in Ukraine are rising almost daily, one area of potential conflict is eerily quiet.
'Ratnik' gear will make Russian troops fully-fledged soldiers of the future VoR 19 Mar 2014 -- The Russian Army will soon start the mass purchases of the next generation soldier gear 'Ratnik'. The gear comprises more than 40 components, including firearms, body armour, and optical, communication and navigation devices, as well as life support and power supply systems, and even knee and elbow pads. The gear will make Russian troops the fully-fledged soldiers of the future, capable of carrying out the personally given orders. It also boosts the effectiveness of the units operating in local conflict areas, for example, against terrorists.
Pro-Russian Forces Seize Ukraine Navy HQ VOA 19 Mar 2014 -- Pro-Russian forces have taken control of Ukraine's navy headquarters in the Crimean port of Sevastopol, a day after Russia signed a treaty with local authorities to make Crimea part of Russia.
Tensions Rise In Crimea After Russian Annexation RFE/RL 19 Mar 2014 -- Tensions are escalating in Crimea, one day after Russia annexed the Ukrainian region.
UN Chief Heads To Moscow, Kyiv Amid Western Warnings RFE/RL 19 Mar 2014 -- UN Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon is heading to Russia and Ukraine amid the escalating crisis over Crimea.
Putin Submits Crimea Reunification Treaty to Parliament RIA Novosti 19 Mar 2014 -- Russian President Vladimir Putin on Wednesday submitted the Crimea reunification treaty to the parliament for ratification, the legislature's press service said.
Russian Constitutional Court Backs Crimea Reunification RIA Novosti 19 Mar 2014 -- Russia's Constitutional Court unanimously ruled Wednesday that a treaty reunifying the Ukrainian breakaway region of Crimea with Russia is lawful.
Ukraine Sends Protest Note to Russia Over Crimea Crisis RIA Novosti 19 Mar 2014 -- Ukraine's Foreign Ministry has summoned Russian envoy Andrei Vorobyov to hand him a letter of protest against Crimea's reunification treaty with Moscow.
UK Suspends Military Cooperation With Russia RIA Novosti 19 Mar 2014 -- The United Kingdom has put on hold its military cooperation with Russia, Foreign Secretary William Hague said on Tuesday, calling the reunification of Crimea "a land grab."
Russian Navy to Deploy Conventional Deterrence Force RIA Novosti 19 Mar 2014 -- The naval component of Russia's future strategic non-nuclear deterrence force will consist of warships and submarines armed with high-precision weapons, navy commander Adm. Viktor Chirkov said Wednesday.
Russian Navy Unveils New Class of Submarines RIA Novosti 19 Mar 2014 -- A prospective series of Russia's new fifth-generation conventional submarine equipped with an advanced air-independent propulsion system will be designated the Kalina-class, the commander of the country's navy said Wednesday.
Russian, US Officials Silent on Chechen Warlord's Death RIA Novosti 19 Mar 2014 -- Russian and US officials on Wednesday declined to confirm the death of a prominent Chechen warlord who had threatened to attack last month's Sochi Olympics.
Tensions Spike After Russians Fire on Ukrainian Troops, Killing 1 VOA 18 Mar 2014 -- Ukraine's prime minister said today that the conflict in Crimea has entered a military phase and accused Russia of commiting a 'war crime' by firing on Ukrainian servicemen.
President Putin signs treaty of bringing Crimea, Sevastopol into Russia VoR 18 Mar 2014 -- Russia and Crimea have signed treaty of accession of the Republic of Crimea and Sevastopol in the Russian Federation following President Putin's address to the Parliament. Crimea and Sevastopol are joining Russia as two separate regions, President Putin said.
Crimean referendum follows Kosovo precedent - Russia's Putin VoR 18 Mar 2014 -- Russia's President Vladimir Putin appeals to the decisions the UN and the US made on the Kosovo precedent in the situation with the Crimean referendum.
Address by President of the Russian Federation President of Russia 18 Mar 2014 -- Vladimir Putin addressed State Duma deputies, Federation Council members, heads of Russian regions and civil society representatives in the Kremlin.
Agreement on the accession of the Republic of Crimea to the Russian Federation signed President of Russia 18 Mar 2014 -- The Agreement between the Russian Federation and the Republic of Crimea on the Accession of the Republic of Crimea in the Russian Federation and on Forming New Constituent Entities within the Russian Federation was signed in the Kremlin on March 18, 2014.
France May Scrap Russian Warship Deal Over Ukraine Crisis RIA Novosti 18 Mar 2014 -- Paris will consider canceling a 1.2-billion-euro deal to deliver two Mistral-class warships to the Russian navy if Moscow provokes further escalation in Ukraine, the French foreign minister has said.
Moldova breakaway state requests to join Russia Iran Press TV 18 Mar 2014 -- Moldova's breakaway Trans-Dniester region has submitted a plea to the Russian parliament to draft a law that would incorporate the territory into Russia, an official says.
Moscow Opposed to NATO Presence on Historic Russian Territory RIA Novosti 18 Mar 2014 -- Russian President Vladimir Putin said Tuesday that the country was open to further cooperation with NATO, but remained opposed to the organization's presence in historic Russian territories.
Russia's Lavrov tells US's Kerry sanctions 'unacceptable', threatens consequences VoR 18 Mar 2014 -- Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov on Tuesday told his US counterpart John Kerry that Western sanctions against Moscow over Crimea were 'absolutely unacceptable' and said there would be consequences.
US seizing right to determine world destinies - Russia's Putin VoR 18 Mar 2014 -- Russian President Vladimir Putin has accused the United States and their allies of seizing the right to decide the destinies of the world, create coalitions according to the "who is not with us is against us" principle, at the same time ignoring the UN decisions.
US vows more sanctions after Russia unites with Crimea VoR 18 Mar 2014 -- The White House vowed on Tuesday to level more sanctions against Russia for its moves to unify with the Crimea.
Putin signs treaty to incorporate Crimea Iran Press TV 18 Mar 2014 -- Russian President Vladimir Putin signs a treaty making Crimea part of Russia and accuses the United States of basing its policies on the rule of the gun and not international law.
US VP denounces Crimea's reunion with Russia as 'land grab' Iran Press TV 18 Mar 2014 -- US Vice President Joe Biden has called the autonomous Ukrainian region of Crimea's reunion with Russia a "land grab" by Moscow and a "blatant violation of international law."
Dictator's Handbook: Six Regrettable Lessons To Take Away From Crimea Crisis RFE/RL 18 Mar 2014 -- The speed and ease with which Russia reclaimed its hold on the Crimean Peninsula have left much of the world reeling. But the factors that went into it were years in the making. Here are six life lessons for acquisitive future dictators and countries trying to break free of them.
Pro-Russian Forces Attacked in Crimea, One Dead – Report RIA Novosti 18 Mar 2014 -- One pro-Russian militiaman was killed and two other wounded on Tuesday in a sniper attack on the streets of the Crimean capital, Simferopol, local media reported.
Putin Blames Ukrainian Nationalists for Crimea Secession RIA Novosti 18 Mar 2014 -- Russian President Vladimir Putin said on Tuesday that Ukrainian nationalists bore full responsibility for the civil crisis in the country which resulted in the reunification of Crimea with Russia.
Russia, Crimea Sign Historic Reunification Treaty RIA Novosti 18 Mar 2014 -- Russian President Vladimir Putin and the leaders of Crimea signed a treaty Tuesday reunifying the Ukrainian breakaway region with Russia after 60 years as part of Ukraine.
Russia Could Take Command of Half of Ukrainian Fleet – Lawmaker RIA Novosti 18 Mar 2014 -- Up to 20 warships and auxiliary vessels of the Ukrainian navy could become part of Russia's Black Sea Fleet following the reunification of Crimea with Russia, a senior Russian lawmaker said Tuesday.
Canada Joins US in Sanctioning Russian Officials Over Crimea RIA Novosti 18 Mar 2014 -- Canada on Tuesday joined the US and EU in announcing sanctions against 10 top Russian and Ukrainian officials following a referendum Sunday in Ukraine's Crimea that saw voters overwhelmingly support reunification with Russia.
Russia's Putin, Crimean Leaders Sign Annexation Treaty RFE/RL 18 Mar 2014 -- Russian President Vladimir Putin and Crimean leaders have signed treaties making Ukraine's Crimea and the city of Sevastopol part of the Russian Federation.
Putin, Biden Spar As Moscow Pushes Ahead On Crimea RFE/RL 18 Mar 2014 -- It may come to be seen as the high point of Russian President Vladimir Putin's career. In a glittering Kremlin hall and before an audience of rapt and appreciative Russian officials, Putin gave his defining speech on the situation in Crimea.
U.S., NATO Allies Condemn Russian 'Land Grab' In Ukraine RFE/RL 18 Mar 2014 -- The United States and its NATO allies have condemned Russia's annexation of Ukraine's Crimea as a 'land grab' in violation of international law, and warned that Moscow faces the prospect of more Western sanctions.
Obama Calls for G7 Meeting After Putin Signs Treaty to Annex Crimea VOA 18 Mar 2014 -- Russian President Vladimir Putin and Crimean leaders signed a treaty Tuesday to make the Black Sea peninsula part of Russia, while the White House announced the United States and its G7 allies will gather next week to consider further response to the Crimea crisis.
China Splits with Russia Over Ukraine VOA 18 Mar 2014 -- With Russia's most vocal critics imposing economic sanctions over Crimea, some of Moscow's allies are also questioning its actions in Ukraine.
US and Russia Top World Arms Exporters List RIA Novosti 17 Mar 2014 -- The United States and Russia combined supplied over half of all arms exports worldwide in the past five years, according to new data on the industry compiled by a European think tank.
McCain says 'Russia is a gas station masquerading as a country' Iran Press TV 17 Mar 2014 -- US Senator John McCain (R-Arizona) has called for tough economic sanctions against Moscow, saying the Russian economy is only dependent upon oil and gas.
Statement by the President on Ukraine The White House 17 Mar 2014
Letter -- Blocking Property of Additional Persons Contributing to the Situation in Ukraine The White House 17 Mar 2014
FACT SHEET: Ukraine-Related Sanctions The White House 17 Mar 2014
EU, U.S. Agree Sanctions Against Russians, Ukrainians RFE/RL 17 Mar 2014 -- The United States and European Union have announced sanctions aimed at punishing a handful of Russians and Ukrainians for their roles in destabilizing Ukraine, where a weekend referendum in Crimea endorsed a plan by breakaway officials there to join the Russian Federation.
Obama Announces Sanctions Over Crimea Vote VOA 17 Mar 2014 -- Announcing that the U.S. and its allies have mobilized to isolate Russia, President Barack Obama has imposed sanctions on key individuals Washington deems responsible for a Moscow-backed referendum in Ukraine's Crimea aimed at putting the region under Russia's control.
Putin Recognizes Crimea as Sovereign State VOA 17 Mar 2014 -- President Vladimir Putin signed a decree on Monday recognizing Crimea as a sovereign state after the Ukrainian region's pro-Russian leaders declared it independent and applied to join Russia following a controversial referendum on Sunday.
Ukraine's Defense Minister Says 'Detente' with Russia Holding VOA 17 Mar 2014 -- Ukraine's defense ministry says an agreement with Russia's military in Crimea to cease provocations appears to be holding. But the ministry says Russia has built up 60,000 troops in the separatist southern territory and along Ukraine's borders, which it vowed to defend.
Canada slaps sanctions on Crimean - Russian officials VoR 17 Mar 2014 -- Canada slapped sanctions Monday on seven Russian and three Crimean senior officials it said 'bear political responsibility for the crisis' in the former Soviet satellite. Those targeted by sanctions announced by Canadian Prime Minister Stephen Harper include an advisor and an aide to Russian President Vladimir Putin, as well as Russian Deputy Prime Minister Dmitry Rogozin.
Putin signs decree on 'Recognition of Crimea' VoR 17 Mar 2014 -- Russian President Vladimir Putin has signed a decree to recognize Ukraine's breakaway region of Crimea as an independent state, the Kremlin press service said on Monday. Russia also said that it recognizes Sevastopol, a Crimean port that houses the Russian Black Sea fleet base, a city with a 'special autonomous status' within the Republic of Crimea.
Russia ready to cooperate with partners in resolving crisis in Ukraine – Russian Foreign Ministry VoR 17 Mar 2014 -- Moscow urges contact group to ensure Ukraine's non-bloc status fixed in UN Security Council resolution – Russian Foreign Ministry. 'As has been repeatedly explained by the Russian side, the current situation in Ukraine was not created by us but resulted from a deep crisis that gripped the Ukrainian state, polarized the Ukrainian society and aggravated the antagonistic differences between various parts of the country. Efforts by the international community should aim precisely at helping to overcome those differences,' the statement says.
Remarks by EU High Representative Catherine Ashton following the Foreign Affairs Council EU External Action Service 17 Mar 2014
EU adopts restrictive measures against actions threatening Ukraine's territorial integrity Council of the European Union 17 Mar 2014
Council conclusions on Ukraine Council of the European Union 17 Mar 2014
NATO Secretary General discusses Crimea referendum, future cooperation with Ukraine's Acting Foreign Minister NATO 17 Mar 2014 -- NATO Secretary General Anders Fogh Rasmussen discussed the latest developments in Ukraine, including the so-called referendum in Ukraine's Autonomous Republic of Crimea, as well as the Alliance's plan to intensify the NATO-Ukraine partnership with Andriy Deshchytsya, Ukraine's Acting Foreign Minister on Monday (17 March 2014).
Statement by the North Atlantic Council on the so-called referendum in Crimea NATO 17 Mar 2014 -- We consider the so-called referendum held on 16 March in Ukraine's Autonomous Republic of Crimea to be both illegal and illegitimate. The referendum violated the Ukrainian Constitution and international law, and Allies do not recognise its results.
West denies Crimea referendum, China calls for de-escalation of Crimea crisis People's Daily 17 Mar 2014 -- Official results showed on Monday that 96.6 percent of Crimeans voted to join Russia at Sunday's referendum.
Crimea declares independence from Ukraine Iran Press TV 17 Mar 2014 -- Crimea has declared independence from Ukraine and formally applied to join Russia, following a referendum in which Crimeans overwhelmingly voted in favor of joining the Russian Federation.
Crimea referendum, great farce: Ukraine President Iran Press TV 17 Mar 2014 -- Ukraine's interim President Oleksandr Turchynov has described Crimea's referendum as a "great farce" after results showed that an overwhelming majority voted in favor of separation from the country.
Crimea nationalizes Ukrainian state property Iran Press TV 17 Mar 2014 -- Ukraine's autonomous region of Crimea has nationalized all Ukrainian state property after declaring independence from the Eastern European country.
Russia Recognizes Crimean Sovereignty; EU, U.S. Announce Sanctions RFE/RL 17 Mar 2014 -- Russian President Vladimir Putin has signed an order recognizing Ukraine's Crimea region as a sovereign and independent country.
Russia Recognizes Crimea's Independence RIA Novosti 17 Mar 2014 -- Russian President Vladimir Putin has signed a decree to recognize Ukraine's breakaway region of Crimea as an independent state, paving the way for its reunification with Russia, the Kremlin press service said on Monday.
Western Countries Sanction Russian Officials Over Crimea Vote RIA Novosti 17 Mar 2014 -- The US and EU imposed sanctions Monday on senior Russian officials following a referendum in Ukraine's autonomous republic of Crimea on Sunday in which voters overwhelmingly supported secession and reunification with Russia.
Draft Resolution on Crimea Submitted to Russian Parliament RIA Novosti 17 Mar 2014 -- Leaders of all four factions in the State Duma, the lower chamber of the Russian parliament, jointly submitted a draft statement on Ukraine's breakaway region of Crimea on Monday evening.
Moscow Agrees to Ukrainian Aerial Inspection of Russia RIA Novosti 17 Mar 2014 -- Russia will allow Ukrainian military inspectors to carry out an emergency monitoring flight over Russian territory in line with the 2011 Vienna Document on confidence and security-building measures, the Defense Ministry said Monday.
Ukraine to Mobilize Reservists Following Crimea Referendum RIA Novosti 17 Mar 2014 -- Ukraine's Parliament voted Monday to partially mobilize the country's military reserves amid a tense standoff with Russia following a popular vote in Crimea to secede and join Russia on Sunday, the Ukrainian UNIAN news agency reported.
Russia Urges Ukraine to Adopt Federal Constitution RIA Novosti 17 Mar 2014 -- Moscow on Monday called on Ukraine to draft a new federal constitution granting broadened powers to the country's disparate regions in order to protect minority populations.
Crimea Requests to Join Russia Following Referendum RIA Novosti 17 Mar 2014 -- The Crimean parliament declared the region's independence from Ukraine Monday and formally applied to become part of Russia after a referendum Sunday showed overwhelming support for Moscow.
Ukraine Boosts Security of Natural Gas Pipelines RIA Novosti 17 Mar 2014 -- Ukraine's National Guard and Security Service have stepped up measures to protect natural gas pipelines across the country, the country's Interior Ministry said Monday.
Ukraine: Ban 'deeply concerned' Crimea vote will worsen complex, tense situation UN News Centre 17 Mar 2014 -- Leading the United Nations push for parties in Ukraine to resolve the country's ongoing political crisis through peaceful dialogue, Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon today said he is "deeply concerned and disappointed" that this weekend's Crimea secession referendum will only exacerbate an "already complex and tense situation."
EU, U.S. Fire Opening Salvo In Sanctions Conflict With Russia RFE/RL 17 Mar 2014 -- One day after Ukraine's Crimean Peninsula held a disputed referendum on joining the Russian Federation, both the European Union and the United States have moved to apply targeted sanctions against Russian and Crimean officials.
Crimea Applies To Join Russia; EU, U.S. Announce Sanctions RFE/RL 17 Mar 2014 -- Authorities in Crimea have declared the republic's independence from Ukraine and formally applied to join the Russian Federation, as Western states have announced sanctions against Russians and others for their roles in destabilizing Ukraine.
Putin Tells Obama Crimean Vote Complies with International Law RIA Novosti 17 Mar 2014 -- Russian President Vladimir Putin told his US counterpart Barack Obama that the referendum in Crimea complied with the international law and the UN Charter, the Kremlin press service said Monday.
Over 95 Percent of Crimean Voters Back Joining Russia - First Referendum Results RIA Novosti 17 Mar 2014 -- More than 95 percent of Crimean voters backed joining Russia and seceding from Ukraine during Sunday's referendum, the head of the Crimean commission for holding the referendum said after more than a half ballots were counted.
Open Skies Russian inspectors to fly over Spain VoR 16 Mar 2014 -- A group of Russian inspectors will fly an observation mission over Spain within the framework of the Treaty on Open Skies, the head of the National Nuclear Threat Reduction Center, Sergei Ryzhkov, told Tass on Saturday. The flight will be made on an Antonov-30B observation aircraft, he said.
Obama: US, EU Prepared to Penalize Russia for Crimea Ballot VOA 16 Mar 2014 -- U.S. President Barack Obama told his Russian counterpart, Vladimir Putin, Sunday that Washington and its 'European partners are prepared to impose additional costs' on Moscow for backing a secession referendum in Ukraine's Crimean peninsula.
Readout of the President's Call with President Putin The White House 16 Mar 2014
Statement by the Press Secretary on Ukraine The White House 16 Mar 2014
Russian Proton Rocket Launches Carrying Two Telecoms Sats RIA Novosti 16 Mar 2014 -- A Russian Proton-M rocket took off early Sunday morning from Kazakhstan's Baikonur space center carrying two Russian telecommunications satellites, the Russian space agency said.
US senators: We need to stand up to Russia Iran Press TV 16 Mar 2014 -- Top members of the US Senate Foreign Relations Committee said Sunday that the US needed to show strength and long-term resolve in pushing back against Russia's actions in Ukraine.
About 93% of Crimeans in referendum voted to join Russia - exit poll RT 16 Mar 2014 -- About 93 percent of voters in the Crimean referendum have answered 'yes' to the autonomous republic joining Russia and only 7 percent of the vote participants want the region to remain part of Ukraine, according to first exit polls.
Crimea Poised To Call Result For Russia In Vote Denounced By Kyiv, West RFE/RL 16 Mar 2014 -- Crimea's pro-Russian authorities say voters in that region of Ukraine have overwhelmingly backed union with Russia in a referendum denounced by Ukraine's government and the West as illegal.
Crimea: Annexation And Recognition - The Legal Battles Ahead RFE/RL 16 Mar 2014 -- As Crimea was preparing for just-completed voting in its regional referendum on whether to secede from Ukraine and join the Russian Federation, lawmakers in Kyiv scrambled to strengthen legal hurdles bolstering their argument that the referendum was illegal.
Crimeans overwhelmingly vote for joining Russia Iran Press TV 16 Mar 2014 -- Crimean population has overwhelmingly voted to break away from Ukraine and join the Russian Federation with a turnout of more than 80 percent.
More Ukrainian cities call for secession vote Iran Press TV 16 Mar 2014 -- As voting continues in Ukraine's autonomous region of Crimea, thousands hold rallies in the country's eastern cities of Donetsk and Kharkiv, calling for a referendum to secede from the former Soviet state and join Russia.
Kerry calls on Russia to send forces back to their bases in Crimea Iran Press TV 16 Mar 2014 -- US Secretary of State John Kerry has called on Russia to withdraw its forces to their bases in the autonomous Ukrainian region as tensions between Washington and Moscow mount over Crimea.
Russia says referendum in Ukraine's Crimea legal Iran Press TV 16 Mar 2014 -- Russia says the secession referendum in Ukraine's southern Crimea region is legal.
Crimea Referendum Without Major Problems – Observers RIA Novosti 16 Mar 2014 -- Polling stations across Ukraine's Crimean peninsula were swarmed by residents coming to vote on the region's secession Sunday, with most observers failing to note any violations of electoral procedures by Sunday evening.
Ukraine's east on fire: Kharkov demands referendum, Donetsk prosecutor's HQ stormed RT 16 Mar 2014 -- Demonstrators in Kharkov, north-east Ukraine, have appealed to Russia to pass to the UN their demands over a referendum on the federalization, while hundreds of protesters in Donetsk stormed a prosecutor's office demanding to free a local "governor".
Defensive blockade: Activists stop Kiev's military trucks heading to Russian border RT 16 Mar 2014 -- Activists in eastern Ukraine in the Donetsk and Lugansk regions are blocking columns of heavy military equipment heading from Kiev to the border with Russia.
Crimean Voter Turnout Around 64 Percent VOA 16 Mar 2014 -- Voter turnout in Crimea was estimated at about 64 percent Sunday as polls closed after the vote on a referendum for the eastern Ukrainian region to break away and become a part of Russia.
Crimea Secession Likely to Spark Economic Disorder VOA 16 Mar 2014 -- When Crimea's two million people wake up Monday after likely having voted in Sunday's snap referendum to break with Ukraine in favor of joining the Russian Federation they will quickly feel the impact in their pockets from the secession and will endure months of economic disorder, say analysts.
Crimea Holds Controversial Referendum RFE/RL 16 Mar 2014 -- Amid rising tensions, the Ukrainian region of Crimea is holding a controversial referendum on March 16 on whether to join Russia.
U.S., EU Repeat Warnings That Crimea Vote Illegal; Russia To 'Respect' Referendum RFE/RL 16 Mar 2014 -- The United States and the European Union have reiterated they will not recognize the results of Crimea's referendum on seceding from Ukraine, while Moscow has dug in with a vow to 'respect' the choice made by Crimean voters.
Kyiv Says Five-Day Truce Reached With Russian Forces In Crimea RFE/RL 16 Mar 2014 -- Ukraine's acting defense minister, Ihor Tenyukh, says Russia has agreed on a truce in Crimea until March 21.
Establishment of Ukrainian National Guard may be perceived as distrust in law enforcement officers VoR 16 Mar 2014 -- The decision to create the National Guard in Ukraine may be perceived as distrust in the current heads of law enforcement agencies, sources in the Ministry of Internal Affairs of Ukraine and the Ministry of Defense said. The head of the Ministry of Internal Affairs of Ukraine Arsen Avakov held a 'pretty tough' conversation with Acting President Alexander Turchinov and secretary of the National Security Council and Defense Andrei Parubiya, a high-ranking source in the Interior Ministry said.
Ukraine moves troops, armour to border with Russia – media VoR 16 Mar 2014 -- Ukraine's '24' television news channel said Ukraine is moving troops and armoured vehicles to the border with Russia.
Ukraine should curb ultra-nationalists terrorizing Russian-speaking population - Lavrov VoR 16 Mar 2014 -- Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov and US Secretary of State John Kerry have discussed the situation in Ukraine and Crimea, the Russian Foreign Ministry said on Facebook. The report also states that Lavrov has pointed out that 'the current Kiev administration should curb the rampant ultra-nationalist and radical groups that are terrorizing dissidents and Russian-speaking people.
Russia redeploys early warning jet to Belarus VoR 16 Mar 2014 -- Russia on Saturday redeployed a Beriev A-50 early warning aircraft to Belarus as part of a Belarusian-Russian air defense exercise, the Belarusian Defense Ministry said.
Putin has no regrets about possible expulsion of Russia from G8 - spokesman VoR 16 Mar 2014 -- Russian President Vladimir Putin has no regrets about G8 losing one of its members, if that happens, spokesman for the head of state, Dmitry Peskov, told the newspaper Komsomolskaya Pravda. Answering a reporter's question 'Does Putin regret that G8 may be left without Russia,' Peskov said, 'Not at all'.
Russia to consider Ukrainian civilian requests for protection from radicals - Moscow VoR 15 Mar 2014 -- Russia has received numerous requests from Ukrainian civilians to protect them from radicals, including those from the Right Sector group, and has promised consider them, a Russian Foreign Ministry statement says.
United Nations Security Council action on Crimea referendum blocked UN News Centre 15 Mar 2014 -- Owing to the negative vote of one of its permanent members, the United Nations Security Council today failed to adopt a draft resolution which urged countries not to recognize the results of this weekend's referendum in Crimea.
Russia Vetoes Crimea Resolution, China Abstains VOA 15 Mar 2014 -- Russia deployed its veto at the U.N. Security Council Saturday, blocking a resolution condemning the referendum slated for Sunday in the Ukrainian region of Crimea. If passed, it would see the Black Sea peninsual secede from the country and join Russia.
Ukrainian Foreign Ministry Protests Russian 'Invasion' Of Area Near Crimea RFE/RL 15 Mar 2014 -- Ukraine's Foreign Ministry has released a statement expressing its' 'strong and categorical protest against the landing' of Russian troops in an area some 10 kilometers north of Crimea.
Russia Vetoes UN Resolution on Ukraine's Crimea RIA Novosti 15 Mar 2014 -- Russia vetoed the UN Security Council resolution that declared Sunday's referendum in the autonomous republic of Crimea invalid.
Hagel Discusses Ukraine With French Defense Minister AFPS 15 Mar 2014 -- Defense Secretary Chuck Hagel spoke by phone this morning with French Defense Minister Jean-Yves Le Drian to discuss the situation in Ukraine, Pentagon Press Secretary Navy Rear Adm. John Kirby reported.
Tens Of Thousands Rally In Russia, Ukraine Ahead Of Referendum RFE/RL 15 Mar 2014 -- There have been rallies in Russian and Ukrainian cities one day ahead of a scheduled referendum in the Ukrainian region of Crimea - which is occupied by Russian forces - on whether to leave Ukraine and join Russia.
2 Pro-Russian Activists Killed in Eastern Ukraine RIA Novosti 15 Mar 2014 -- Two pro-Russian activists were killed in clashes with pro-Kiev supporters in the eastern Ukrainian city of Kharkiv, police said Saturday blaming the local radical group for the deaths.
Putin Tells UN Chief That Crimea Referendum Legal RIA Novosti 15 Mar 2014 -- Russian President Vladimir Putin told UN Secretary General Ban Ki-moon in a phone conversation on Friday that the upcoming referendum in Crimea was in line with the UN Charter.
Russia to Wait Until After Ukraine Elections for Loan Talks RIA Novosti 15 Mar 2014 -- Russia will wait at least until after Ukraine's presidential election on May 25 to discuss continued payments under a $15 billion loan agreement signed with the country last year, a senior official said Friday.
Russian Deputy PM Plays Down Western Sanctions RIA Novosti 15 Mar 2014 -- Russian Deputy Foreign Minister Dmitry Rogozin on Thursday minimized the importance of sanctions, voiced by Western countries amid the ongoing international standoff over Ukraine's autonomous republic of Crimea.
UN Declares Huge Part of Far Eastern Sea Russian Shelf RIA Novosti 15 Mar 2014 -- A United Nations commission has officially recognized the Sea of Okhotsk enclave, off Russia's southeastern coast, as part of the country's continental shelf, the Russian minister of natural resources said Saturday.
Russia vetoes US-endorsed UN resolution on Crimea Iran Press TV 15 Mar 2014 -- Russia has vetoed a UN Security Council's resolution, endorsed by the US, to declare a planned referendum on the status of Ukraine's Black Sea peninsula of Crimea "illegal."
High percentage of ballots cast in favor of joining Russia expected - Crimean MP VoR 15 Mar 2014 -- As the referendum in Crimea is nearing and preparations for the vote are well underway, Sergei Tsekov, the Deputy Chairman of the Crimean Supreme Council, First Deputy Leader of the Russian Unity party and Crimea's Russian community leader, talked to the Voice of Russia and shared his opinion about the upcoming referendum.
Kerry: Crimean Referendum a 'Backdoor Annexation' VOA 14 Mar 2014 -- U.S. Secretary of State John Kerry says Russian acceptance of a Crimean referendum to break off from Ukraine and possibly join Russia would be an illegal 'backdoor annexation.'
Crimean gov't acts independently from Russia, seeks only legal advice - Crimean PM VoR 14 Mar 2014 -- The Crimean authorities coordinate their actions with Russian colleagues only in terms of their compliance with the legislation of the Russian Federation, Prime Minister of Crimea Sergey Aksyonov says.
Russian troops in Crimea not involved in 'active measures' - PM Aksyonov VoR 14 Mar 2014 -- Crimea's prime minister on Friday confirmed the presence of Russian troops in the Ukrainian region but denied they are 'taking part in any active measures.'
Crimea doesn't need independence, must be part of Russia - Crimean PM VoR 14 Mar 2014 -- The Crimean authorities do not consider the possibility of proclaiming independence of the republic according to 'the Abkhazian version'. They believe that the process of joining the Russian Federation will take about a year, Prime Minister of Crimea, Sergei Aksyonov says.
Russia slams West accusations over Crimea referendum Iran Press TV 14 Mar 2014 -- Russia has slammed Western accusations that the upcoming referendum expected to be held in Ukraine's strategic region of Crimea is illegal.
U.S., Russia Fail To Bridge Differences Over Crimea RFE/RL 14 Mar 2014 -- Russia says Moscow and Washington have divergent views on Ukraine as the United States warned it would not recognize the outcome of a referendum on Crimea joining Russia.
Russia Says Ukraine Must Pay for Military Inspection Flight RIA Novosti 14 Mar 2014 -- Russia will allow Ukrainian military inspectors to carry out an emergency monitoring flight over Russian territory only if Kiev pays a regular fee under existing agreements, the Defense Ministry said Friday.
Russia Has No Plans of Invading Southeast Ukraine - Lavrov RIA Novosti 14 Mar 2014 -- Russia has no plans of a military action in southeastern Ukraine, Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov said on Friday after talks with his US counterpart in London.
Moscow Reaffirms Right to Defend Russians in Ukraine RIA Novosti 14 Mar 2014 -- Russia reserves the right to ensure the safety of all Russians in Ukraine, the country's Foreign Ministry said Friday in a statement following clashes Thursday between demonstrators in Ukraine's Donetsk region.
Background Briefing on Secretary Kerry's Trip to London US Dept. of State 14 Mar 2014
Press Availability in London US Dept. of State 14 Mar 2014
Russian jets stage exercises over Mediterranean Iran Press TV 14 Mar 2014 -- Russian military has launched training flights over the Mediterranean Sea amid a standoff with the West over Ukraine's Crimea region.
In Sanctions Showdown With West, Russia Playing A Weak Hand RFE/RL 14 Mar 2014 -- In a crisis that is turning into the worst East-West confrontation since the Cold War, Europe and the United States are gearing up to confront Moscow over Russia's incursion into Ukraine. But this time, the key weapons will be banks, not tanks.
Russia Paradrops Airborne Battalion in Arctic RIA Novosti 14 Mar 2014 -- The Russian Airborne Troops on Thursday paradropped a 350-strong battalion at a landing site on the New Siberian Islands in the Arctic as part of ongoing military drills.
Russia Sends 4 Strategic Bombers on 24-Hour Arctic Patrol RIA Novosti 14 Mar 2014 -- Russia has dispatched four Tu-95MS strategic bombers on a 24-hour patrol over the Arctic Ocean, Air Force commander Lt. Gen. Viktor Bondarev said Friday.
Russia Floats Out New Frigate for Black Sea Fleet RIA Novosti 14 Mar 2014 -- The Yantar shipyard in Russia's Baltic exclave of Kaliningrad on Friday floated out the first in a series of six Project 11356 frigates being built for the Black Sea Fleet, the company said.
Germany Warns Russia of 'Massive Damage' Over Crimea VOA 14 Mar 2014 -- German Chancellor Angela Merkel has warned Moscow that Europe could inflict 'massive economic and political damage' to Russia if the situation in the Ukrainian region of Crimea escalates.
Kerry Says Russia Will Not Budge on Ukraine Talks VOA 14 Mar 2014 -- U.S. Secretary of State John Kerry called talks Friday with Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov 'constructive and frank' but said that Russia is not prepared to make any decisions on Ukraine until after a referendum in Crimea set for Sunday.
Russia to 'Intensify' Military Exercises Near Ukraine Border VOA 13 Mar 2014 -- The Russian military is conducting exercises in several regions of the country near the border with Ukraine, as a state-run polling agency reports that President Vladimir Putin's approval rating has hit a new high.
Kerry: US, Europe Will Respond if Crimea Referendum Proceeds VOA 13 Mar 2014 -- The United States and the European Union will respond on Monday with a 'serious series of steps' against Russia if a referendum on Ukraine's Crimea region goes ahead on Sunday, U.S. Secretary of State John Kerry said on Thursday.
Russia cannot ignore ongoing developments in Ukraine: Putin Iran Press TV 13 Mar 2014 -- Russian President Vladimir Putin says his country should not be blamed for the crisis in Ukraine, adding that Russia cannot ignore the ongoing developments in its western neighbor.
Kerry: US, EU will respond to Crimea referendum Iran Press TV 13 Mar 2014 -- The US Secretary of State John Kerry once again threatens Russia over the crisis in Ukraine, saying the US and EU would take a 'serious series of steps' if a referendum on Ukraine's Crimea region passes on Sunday.
Merkel uses strong rhetoric to warn Russia over Ukraine Iran Press TV 13 Mar 2014 -- German Chancellor Angela Merkel has once again warned Russia of massive consequences if it continues with its policy of ignoring calls for talks over the crisis in Ukraine.
Explainer: What Do Russian Troop Movements Near Ukraine's Border Signify? RFE/RL 13 Mar 2014 -- Officials in Kyiv have warned that Russian military forces are massing on Ukraine's borders 'in an offensive manner' and suggested they could be preparing for an invasion in the country's east.
New Ukraine can't be built by radicals longing for power - expert VoR 13 Mar 2014 -- Revolutions are designed by romantics, implemented by fanatics, while scums use their results. That statement by Otto von Bismarck has been confirmed by history numerous times. Suffice it to recall that while the most progressive part of society was the driving force behind the Arab spring, Islamists got to power as a result of that uprising.
Kerry, Merkel Warn Russia Of Tough Response Over Crimea RFE/RL 13 Mar 2014 -- U.S. Secretary of State John Kerry and German Chancellor Angela Merkel have both warned Russia it would face a tough response over a breakaway vote in Ukraine's Crimea region.
Russian Media Again Under Attack, This Time With Ukraine As Pretext RFE/RL 13 Mar 2014 -- Many Russia-watchers have grown accustomed to beginning their day with a quick run through 'Dorogaya redaktsiya,' the often-playful Twitter feed of Lenta.ru, one of Russia's most popular sources of independent online news.
Russia Threatens Symmetrical Sanctions Against West RIA Novosti 13 Mar 2014 -- Russia does not rule out reciprocal action if sanctions are imposed by the US and European countries, a senior Russian economic official said Thursday.
Russia Sends 6 Fighter Jets to Belarus RIA Novosti 13 Mar 2014 -- Six Russian Su-27 fighter jets and three military transport planes with ground support personnel arrived Thursday at an airbase in Belarus to boost the airspace defenses of the two countries' Union State, the Russian Defense Ministry said.
Russian Military to Deploy Security Bots at Missile Bases RIA Novosti 13 Mar 2014 -- Russia is planning to deploy mobile security robots in 2014 to protect its strategic missile facilities, the Defense Ministry said Wednesday.
Belarus Seeks to Host More Russian Jets Amid Ukraine Crisis RIA Novosti 12 Mar 2014 -- Belarus will ask Russia to deploy up to 15 additional combat aircraft on its territory in response to increased NATO military activity along the country's borders, President Alexander Lukashenko said Wednesday.
Russia Tries To Win Over Crimean Tatars RFE/RL 12 Mar 2014 -- As pro-Moscow authorities consolidate their hold over Ukraine's Crimean peninsula, the region's Tatars have found themselves on the receiving end of a Kremlin-backed charm offensive to win their support. But it appears to be falling flat.
Washington React: Kerry to Meet Lavrov on Ukraine VOA 12 Mar 2014 -- The United States is sending Secretary of State John Kerry to London for a meeting with Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov, part of the effort to end the crisis in Ukraine.
G-7 Leaders Condemn Russia-backed Crimea Vote VOA 12 Mar 2014 -- Joined by other leaders, the G-7 is calling on Russia to cease all efforts to change the status of Ukraine's peninsula in violation of Ukrainian and international law.
Russia Lost $550M From Failed Satellite Launches in 4 Years RIA Novosti 12 Mar 2014 -- Over the past four years the Russian government has lost nearly $550 million from uninsured failed satellite launches, the Vedomosti newspaper reported Wednesday, citing an aerospace industry audit.
Could U.S. Gas Boom Loosen Europe's Energy Dependence On Russia? RFE/RL 12 Mar 2014 -- With shale gas production in the United States booming, Russia's intervention in Crimea has given a boost to those calling for the United States to expedite natural gas exports to Europe to help it cut its reliance on Russian energy. But how realistic is this idea?
Russian News Site Editor Removed, Prompting Uproar From Staff RIA Novosti 12 Mar 2014 -- The editor-in-chief of the popular Russian news website Lenta.ru was relieved of her post Wednesday, prompting staff there to complain that their editorial independence was being stifled.
Iran, Russia reach initial deal on 2 more N-plants Iran Press TV 12 Mar 2014 -- Iran and Russia have reached a preliminary agreement to build at least two more nuclear power plants in the Iranian port city of Bushehr in south of the country.
Washington React: Obama Aims to Work With Putin to Calm Ukraine VOA 11 Mar 2014 -- The United States says it respects Russia's interests in Ukraine, but that it expects Moscow to pull its troops back to their bases and stop violating Ukraine's sovereignty.
US House Votes on Ukraine Resolution VOA 11 Mar 2014 -- As the crisis in Ukraine continues, the U.S. House of Representatives has overwhelmingly passed a resolution condemning the violation of Ukrainian sovereignty by Russian military forces, and calling for the deployment of international monitors in Crimea and other areas of Ukraine. The vote – a rare show of unity between congressional Republicans and Democrats as they sent their message to Moscow - was 403 in favor and six against.
US Presses Russia to Create Environment for Ukraine Diplomacy VOA 11 Mar 2014 -- The United States said Tuesday that Russia's responses to U.S. proposals to resolve the Ukraine crisis fail to create the proper environment for a diplomatic resolution.
Funding Ukraine's illegitimate regime outside US legal system - Moscow VoR 11 Mar 2014 -- The United States should think about the consequences of 'financially pumping' radical elements in Ukraine, the Russian Foreign Ministry said. 'Apparently, the US administration will continue turning a blind eye to the dominance of ultra-national forces in Kiev, which are hunting those thinking differently throughout the country, enhance pressure on the Russian-speaking population and our fellow citizens, and threaten violence to Crimean residents for their aspiration of self-determination.
Pro-Russia forces suspend flights in or out of Crimea Iran Press TV 11 Mar 2014 -- Pro-Russian forces in Crimea have closed the main airport in the regional capital, Simferopol, preventing all flights in and out, except those connecting to Moscow.
France warns of anti-Russia sanctions over Ukraine issue Iran Press TV 11 Mar 2014 -- France says sanctions against Russia could come as early as this week if Moscow does not respond to Western proposals on finding a solution to the crisis in Ukraine.
Russian Paratroopers Hold Massive Drills as Crimea Vote Nears RIA Novosti 11 Mar 2014 -- An airborne division based in central Russia began large-scale exercises Tuesday against the backdrop of an ongoing political and security crisis in Ukraine.
U.S. Wants Evidence Russia Ready To Ease Ukraine Crisis RFE/RL 10 Mar 2014 -- The U.S. State Department says Washington wants to see proof that Russia is prepared to engage seriously on a diplomatic solution to the crisis in Ukraine.
Ban urges parties to work for durable solution in Ukraine, as Security Council holds talks UN News Centre 10 Mar 2014 -- With tensions and mistrust growing in Ukraine, United Nations Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon today urged the international community to help the key actors calm the situation and work toward a durable and fair political solution, ahead of closed-door Security Council consultations on the crisis.
Neighboring Nations Wary as Crimea Occupied by Pro-Russian Forces VOA 10 Mar 2014 -- As the buildup of pro-Russian forces in the Crimea region of Ukraine continues, officials in Ukrainian capital Kyiv say that as many as 18,000 occupiers are in the region. The increasingly tense standoff in some ways is reminiscent of the 2008 conflict with Georgia, and other neighbors undoubtedly are taking notice.
Russia to Unveil Proposed Solution to Ukraine Crisis VOA 10 Mar 2014 -- Russia plans to unveil its own solution to the Ukraine crisis, a plan that is likely to run counter to US proposals.
Russia's Security Council proposes Ukraine settlement plan - Lavrov VoR 10 Mar 2014 -- Russia's Security Council has prepared its own Ukrainian settlement proposals for the American partners in to return the situation in that country to the framework of international law and to take the interests of all Ukrainian citizens into account, said Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov.
15,000 rally supporting Ukraine's Russian-speaking minority in Chelyabinsk VoR 10 Mar 2014 -- The Russian city of Chelyabinsk in the southern Urals, which made headlines last year when a meteor blazed above it to burst into pieces and plunge into a nearby lake, has staged a peaceful demonstration in support of Ukraine's Russian-speaking minority and the Crimean republic.
Lavrov Says Kerry Declines Invitation To Russia For Further Talks RFE/RL 10 Mar 2014 -- Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov says U.S. Secretary of State John Kerry has declined an invitation to visit Russia for further talks on the Ukraine crisis.
Russian Foreign Ministry Concerned About 'Lawlessness' In East RFE/RL 10 Mar 2014 -- Russia's Foreign Ministry has expressed concern at what it terms the 'lawlessness' affecting Russians and Russian-speakers in eastern Ukraine.
Preparations for Joining Russia Already Underway – Aksyonov RIA Novosti 10 Mar 2014 -- Crimean Prime Minister Sergei Aksyonov said Monday that preparations for the the southern Ukrainian region to become part of Russia are already underway.
US Warns Russia Over Crimea Referendum VOA 09 Mar 2014 -- The White House on Sunday warned Russia that it will come under increased international pressure if it presses ahead with a referendum to annex Crimea.
West's sanctions would cut both ways - Pushkov VoR 09 Mar 2014 -- The West's sanctions against Russia over Ukraine would backfire, said chairman of the State Duma's International Affairs Committee Alexei Pushkov.
Crimea hopes to remain parliamentary republic if it joins Russia - speaker Konstantinov VoR 09 Mar 2014 -- Crimea hopes to receive broader authority if it joins Russia, Speaker of the Supreme Council of Crimea Vladimir Konstantinov said on Sunday.
Putin discusses upcoming Crimean referendum with Merkel and Cameron VoR 09 Mar 2014 -- Russian President Vladimir Putin has held telephone conversations with German Chancellor Angela Merkel and British Prime Minister David Cameron on the situation in Ukraine and the upcoming referendum in Crimea, the Kremlin's press service reports.
West must block Ukrainian nationalist Yarosh way to government posts - Russian Foreign Ministry VoR 09 Mar 2014 -- The Ukrainian authorities and Western politicians must do their utmost to block the leader of the ultra-radical movement 'The Right Sector' Dmitry Yarosh and his supporters the way to government posts, the Russian Foreign Ministry's Human Rights Commissioner Konstantin Dolgov says.
Pro-Russia protesters take over Ukraine's Lugansk city Iran Press TV 09 Mar 2014 -- Pro-Russia protesters have reportedly taken over Ukraine's eastern city of Lugansk as the standoff continues between Moscow and the West over the crisis-hit Eastern European country.
Pro-Russian force seize airport in Crimea: Ukraine Iran Press TV 09 Mar 2014 -- Ukrainian Defense Ministry says that a pro-Russian force has seized a military airport in the Autonomous Republic of Crimea.
Russia defends Crimea's decision to hold referendum Iran Press TV 09 Mar 2014 -- Russia has defended a decision by Ukraine's Crimean authorities to hold a referendum as the standoff between Moscow and the West over the crisis-hit Eastern European country continues.
Turkey Torn Over 'Brothers' In Crimea, Good Ties With Russia RFE/RL 09 Mar 2014 -- Serkan Sava's ancestors left Crimea in a mass exodus some 150 years ago, after the Ottoman Empire staved off Russian pressure in the Crimean War but could not reverse the slow tumble that would lead to its dissolution after World War I.
Putin Tells Merkel, Cameron That Crimea Referendum Legal RIA Novosti 09 Mar 2014 -- Russian President Vladimir Putin said in phone conversations with the German and British leaders on Sunday that Crimea's decision to secede from Ukraine and join Russia was within the framework of the international law.
Russia Mulls Banning US Nuclear Arms Inspections – Source RIA Novosti 09 Mar 2014 -- Russia's Defense Ministry is considering a ban on US inspections of Russian nuclear weapons under the New START deal over the standoff in Ukraine, a ministry source told RIA Novosti on Saturday.
Deputy PM Says Russia Should Re-Arm Amid US, NATO 'Threats' RIA Novosti 09 Mar 2014 -- The Russian deputy prime minister in charge of defense said "overt threats" by the United States and NATO demonstrate the necessity of equipping the Russian army with modern weapons.
Russian Military Vehicles Enter Ukrainian Base Near Simferopol VOA 08 Mar 2014 -- A convoy of military vehicles, apparently Russian, has entered a base near Crimea's capital Simferopol.
West begins to understand sanity of Russia's actions in Ukraine VoR 08 Mar 2014 -- The Russian Federation Council will support the decision on the referendum adopted by the Parliament of Crimea. This came as a statement by head of the Federation Council, Valentina Matviyenko, to Crimean parliamentarians, who visited Moscow on Friday. A day earlier, the Crimean MPs voted for the beginning of the procedure of Crimea's annexation to Russia, and appointed a referendum on the future status of the peninsula for March 16.
Obama, Merkel favour setting up contact group for direct Russia-Ukraine dialogue VoR 08 Mar 2014 -- The US President Barack Obama and German Chancellor Angela Merkel have come out for setting up a contact group that could help launch direct talks between Russia and Ukraine. This came in a statement by the White House on Friday following another telephone conversation between the two leaders on the situation in Ukraine.
Russia says open to dialog on Ukraine Iran Press TV 08 Mar 2014 -- Russia says it is open to having an "honest, equal" dialogue with foreign states on the crisis in Ukraine.
Crimea PM pledges 'union with Russia' vote as planned Iran Press TV 08 Mar 2014 -- The prime minister of Ukraine's autonomous Crimea region says a referendum on whether to join the Russian Federation will go ahead as planned.
US, France warn of possible new measures against Russia Iran Press TV 08 Mar 2014 -- The United States and France have warned of possible new measures against Russia if Moscow fails to make progress on defusing the crisis in Ukraine.
First Ukraine-Russia Talks As EU Floats 'Immediate' Accord RFE/RL 08 Mar 2014 -- Russia and Ukraine have had the first diplomatic contacts since the start of the Crimean crisis, while the European Union has said it will sign a political agreement with Kyiv 'immediately.'
Ukraine's Acting Foreign Minister Urges Russia To Let Monitors Into Crimea RFE/RL 08 Mar 2014 -- Acting Ukrainian Foreign Minister Andriy Deshchytsya says Ukraine will never give up Crimea and that Kyiv is doing everything it can to resolve the crisis there peacefully.
Russia Accuses OSCE of Double Standards in Ukrainian Stance RIA Novosti 08 Mar 2014 -- The Organization for Security and Cooperation in Europe is showing double standards in its approach to the current political crisis in Ukraine, the Russian Foreign Ministry said Friday.
Russian FM: Ukraine Controlled by Ultranationalists RIA Novosti 08 Mar 2014 -- The head of Russian diplomacy on Saturday slammed Ukrainian post-revolutionary authorities and alleged attempts to demonize Russia's involvement in the Ukrainian crisis.
Russia mulls ending foreign oversight of arms, nukes Iran Press TV 08 Mar 2014 -- The Russian Defense Ministry says Moscow is considering halting foreign inspections of its strategic weapons arsenal, including nuclear-capable missiles, in response to "threats" from the US and NATO over Ukraine crisis.
Russia Must Focus on Profits in Space Industry – Official RIA Novosti 08 Mar 2014 -- Russia's space industry must be improved to ensure a return on government investments in the sector, a senior official said Friday.
Armed Men Enter Ukrainian Base in Sevastopol VOA 07 Mar 2014 -- Armed men thought to be Russians drove a truck into a Ukrainian missile-defense post in the Crimea region on Friday and took it over without a shot being fired, according to a Reuters reporter on-the-scene.
Department of Defense Press briefing by Rear Adm. Kirby in the Pentagon Briefing Room DoD 07 Mar 2014 -- Presenter: Press Secretary Rear Admiral John Kirby
Russia slams EU over threat of sanctions Iran Press TV 07 Mar 2014 -- Russia says it will not capitulate to the European Union's threat of sanctions over the crisis in Ukraine and will retaliate if the restrictions are imposed.
Moscow Says It Will 'Respond' If EU Imposes Sanctions RFE/RL 07 Mar 2014 -- Moscow says it will respond if the EU imposes sanctions on Russia over its occupation of Crimea.
Russia Slams EU Sanctions Over Ukraine, Threatens to Retaliate RIA Novosti 07 Mar 2014 -- Russia accused the European Union on Friday of taking an "extremely unconstructive stance" on the Ukrainian political crisis by freezing negotiations with Russia on a visa-free regime and a new cooperation agreement.
Highest-Ranking Russian Corruption Suspect Amnestied RIA Novosti 07 Mar 2014 -- A case against Russia's former defense minister, Anatoly Serdyukov, who was implicated in a corruption scandal, was ended on amnesty earlier this year, his lawyer said late Thursday.
Russia Warns US Sanctions Would Have Boomerang Effect RIA Novosti 07 Mar 2014 -- Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov warned Washington on Friday against 'hasty and reckless" steps over the crisis in Ukraine that could harm Russia-US relations.
Hollande to continue cooperation with Russia, Mistral helicopter carriers to be supplied VoR 07 Mar 2014 -- France continues to comply with the terms of the contract and will supply Moscow with two Mistral-class helicopter carriers, French President Francois Hollande announced. 'We keep to the terms of the signed contracts. Right now we have no plans to cancel them and we hope to avoid this,' Hollande said at a press conference on Friday.
Moscow will retaliate for possible sanctions against Russia – Russian Foreign Ministry VoR 07 Mar 2014 -- Moscow will respond should the European Union decide to impose sanctions against Russians. 'Russia will not accept such language of sanctions and threats, but, in the event of their implementation in practice they will not be left without a response,' the Russian Foreign Ministry said in a commentary posted on its website.
Ukrainians Fight Back in Information War VOA 07 Mar 2014 -- Kremlin-controlled media have launched an information war to justify Russia's seizing of Crimea. In response, Ukrainians are organizing to counter Moscow's version of events.
Upcoming Ukraine Election Tainted by Crisis – Russian Official RIA Novosti 07 Mar 2014 -- The upcoming May 25 presidential election in Ukraine will not be free and fair if violence and intimidation in the country continue, the speaker of Russia's upper house of parliament said Friday.
Russia's Gazprom Warns Ukraine of New Gas War RIA Novosti 07 Mar 2014 -- The head of Russia's state-run energy company Gazprom said Friday that Ukraine has stopped paying for Russian gas supplies, which could trigger a repetition of 2009's so-called "gas war" between the two countries.
Russian Parliament Welcomes Crimea to Leave Ukraine for Russia RIA Novosti 07 Mar 2014 -- Russia's upper house of parliament said Friday it would welcome the addition of Crimea to the country's territory if residents there choose to secede from Ukraine in a referendum scheduled next week.
Ukraine Crisis Deepens as Sevastopol Votes to Join Russia RIA Novosti 07 Mar 2014 -- Ukraine's Crimean city of Sevastopol has voted to become part of Russia, mirroring an earlier vote by the region's parliament and consolidating support for the majority ethnic Russian region to formally secede from Ukraine in an upcoming popular vote.
Obama Phones Putin About Ukraine; Putin Says Differences Remain VOA 06 Mar 2014 -- The White House says President Obama has told his Russian counterpart, Vladimir Putin, that Moscow's actions in Ukraine are a violation of that country's sovereignty and territorial integrity.
Remarks by Ambassador Samantha Power, U.S. Permanent Representative to the United Nations, at a UN Security Council Stakeout on Ukraine, March 6, 2014 U.S. Permanent Representative to the United Nations 06 Mar 2014
Ukraine's Naftogaz settles debt to Gazprom for January supplies VoR 06 Mar 2014 -- Ukraine's national gas and oil company Naftogaz has settled its debt to Gazprom for the natural gas supplied by the Russian company in January. The Ukrainian company reported this on Thursday.
Background Briefing by Senior Administration Officials on Executive Order on Ukraine -- Via Conference Call The White House 06 Mar 2014
Readout of President Obama's call with President Putin of Russia The White House 06 Mar 2014
DOD Supports U.S., Allied Response to Russia-Ukraine Crisis AFPS 06 Mar 2014 -- The Defense Department is working to support the coordinated U.S. response to Russia's recent aggression toward Ukraine, and to help Ukraine and U.S. allies and partners in the region, DOD and administration officials said here today.
Russia accuses NATO of double standards on Ukraine Iran Press TV 06 Mar 2014 -- Russia's envoy to NATO has criticized the Western military alliance after it announced a full review of cooperation with Moscow over the Ukraine crisis.
Crimean MPs vote to join Russia escalates tension Iran Press TV 06 Mar 2014 -- Tension has escalated between Ukraine and its semi-autonomous region of Crimea after Crimean lawmakers voted unanimously to become part of Russia.
President Obama orders property, visa bans over Ukraine crisis Iran Press TV 06 Mar 2014 -- The US president signs an executive order imposing a ban on visas and property of a number of individuals who the United States believes are violating the sovereignty and territorial integrity of Ukraine.
Crimea's Parliament Decides to Secede to Russia RIA Novosti 06 Mar 2014 -- The parliament of Crimea, a majority ethnic Russian region within Ukraine, decided Thursday to secede from the country and become part of Russia, according to a statement on its website.
Russia Slams US Over Inadequate Perception of Ukraine Events RIA Novosti 06 Mar 2014 -- Russia's Foreign Ministry harshly criticized Washington on Thursday over a lack of an "adequate perception" of events in Ukraine.
EU Freezes Talks With Russia on Cooperation Agreement, Visas RIA Novosti 06 Mar 2014 -- EU leaders decided on Thursday to freeze negotiations with Russia on a visa-free regime and a new cooperation agreement, the European Council president said Thursday.
US Authorizes Sanctions Against Officials 'Destabilizing' Ukraine RIA Novosti 06 Mar 2014 -- The White House said Thursday that it was imposing visa bans and authorizing other sanctions against officials "who are most directly involved in destabilizing Ukraine."
Crimean parliament's decision on inclusion of Crimea to Russia takes effect immediately - official VoR 06 Mar 2014 -- The decision made by the Supreme Council of Crimea to join the Autonomous Republic of Crimea to the Russian Federation takes effect the moment it is made, Ruslan Temirgaliyev, first deputy chairman of Council of Ministers, said.
Russia, still no US accord on settling Ukraine crisis - Russian FM Lavrov VoR 06 Mar 2014 -- Russia and the US have yet to reach an accord on the situation in Ukraine, Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov told reporters after meeting with his US counterpart John Kerry.
Referendum on Sevastopol's annexation to Russia to be held on March 16 VoR 06 Mar 2014 -- Sevastopol city council has ordained to hold a referendum on Sevastopol's annexation to Russia on March 16. Forty nine deputies out of 50 presented in the boardroom voted for this decision. Sevastopol city council has also included two questions of the Crimea's referendum that will also be held on March 16.
Statement by the President on Ukraine The White House 06 Mar 2014
Statement by the Press Secretary on Ukraine The White House 06 Mar 2014
RIA Novosti Revamp Under Way as Liquidation Kicks In RIA Novosti 06 Mar 2014 -- Three months after a surprise Kremlin announcement that Russian state news agency RIA Novosti was to be liquidated, changes are under way at the company.
Kremlin TV Channel Anchor Resigns Over Crimean Crisis RIA Novosti 06 Mar 2014 -- A US anchor at the Kremlin-funded TV news channel RT has resigned on air, saying the network "whitewashes" the actions of President Vladimir Putin.
Russia Starts Massive Air Defense Drills Amid Crimea Standoff RIA Novosti 06 Mar 2014 -- Russia's Western Military District has begun large-scale air defense drills at its southern testing range of Kapustin Yar on the backdrop of further escalation of tensions with the West over Ukraine.
Obama: Crimean Referendum Violation of International Law VOA 06 Mar 2014 -- Speaking at the White House on the escalating crisis in Ukraine, President Barack Obama has condemned a secession initiative put forth by Russian-backed lawmakers in Ukraine's Crimea, calling it a violation of International Law. He also reiterates the West's backing of Ukraine's new government.
US Imposes Visa Ban Amid Ukraine Crisis VOA 06 Mar 2014 -- The Obama administration says Russians and Ukrainians who are impeding the democratic process in Ukraine will have their U.S. visas cancelled or denied and also face financial sanctions.
U.S. Imposes Sanctions On Individuals 'Threatening Ukraine's Sovereignty' RFE/RL 06 Mar 2014 -- The United States has imposed visa restrictions on individuals and institutions it says are 'threatening the sovereignty and territorial integrity of Ukraine.'
West Targets Russia With Sanctions, Threats Over Crimea RFE/RL 06 Mar 2014 -- Western leaders have threatened serious consequences against Russia if it fails to deescalate the situation in Ukraine's occupied peninsula of Crimea, where a disputed parliamentary vote to join Russia has heightened fears of conflict.
Crimean Parliament Votes To Join Russia As EU Mulls Action On Ukraine RFE/RL 06 Mar 2014 -- The parliament in Ukraine's Crimea region has voted to join Russia, as EU leaders began discussing a response to the occupation of Crimea by Russian forces.
Crimean Lawmakers Coordinate With Russians To Push Annexation RFE/RL 06 Mar 2014 -- Lawmakers in Crimea's pro-Russia regional parliament have voted 78 to 0 to join the Russian Federation, the latest in a series of coordinated steps by lawmakers in both Russia and Crimea to try to clear legal barriers for the Kremlin to annex the Ukrainian peninsula.
Explainer: How Do Russia's And Ukraine's Armies Compare? RFE/RL 06 Mar 2014 -- The worst-case scenario in the Russia-Ukraine crisis would be a war between the two states. How do their respective forces compare?
President Putin's Fiction: 10 False Claims about Ukraine US Dept. of State 05 Mar 2014
Senior U.S. Diplomat Warns Russia Not To 'Test International Community' RFE/RL 05 Mar 2014 -- an economic grouping that unlike the G8 excludes Russia -- condemned Russia's 'clear violation' of the sovereignty of Ukraine, and said they would not take part in preparatory talks for the G8 summit in the Russian city of Sochi.
Russians seize Ukraine's Crimea missile units: Report Iran Press TV 05 Mar 2014 -- Russian forces have reportedly seized two Ukrainian missile defense units in Ukraine's southern Crimea region.
Russia Insists on Formation of Ukraine Coalition Government RIA Novosti 05 Mar 2014 -- Russia's foreign minister said Wednesday that a February 21 agreement to create a coalition government in Ukraine is immutable and must be the basis for peace in the country.
Lavrov, Kerry Agree That Ukraine Should Uphold Peace Accord RIA Novosti 05 Mar 2014 -- The top diplomats of Russia and the United States agreed at their meeting on Wednesday that they should help Ukraine to implement the EU-brokered reconciliation deal.
US, UK, Ukraine Urge Direct Kyiv-Moscow Talks VOA 05 Mar 2014 -- The United States, Britain, and Ukraine have called for direct talks between Kyiv and Moscow, saying they are crucial to resolving the conflict in Ukraine's Crimean region.
Russia Reinforces Armenian Base With Overhauled MiG-29 Fighter Jets RIA Novosti 05 Mar 2014 -- Russia has strengthened its airbase in Armenia with a batch of overhauled MiG-29 fighter jets, a military official said Tuesday.
Russia Plans 2 More Ballistic Missile Tests in March RIA Novosti 05 Mar 2014 -- Russia is planning to carry out two tests of intercontinental ballistic missiles this month in addition to Tuesday's successful launch, the Kazakh military said.
Russia's Defense Minister Denies Reports of Troops in Ukraine RIA Novosti 05 Mar 2014 -- Despite widespread evidence to the contrary, Russian Defense Minister Sergei Shoigu said Wednesday that reports of Russian soldiers in Ukraine were "complete nonsense."
Russia Wags The Dog With Ukraine Disinformation Campaign RFE/RL 05 Mar 2014 -- Getting the real story of what is going on in Ukraine is hard enough. And the Russian media seems intent on making it even harder.
Situation in Ukraine may have negative effect on Customs Union - Putin VoR 05 Mar 2014 -- President Vladimir Putin said on Wednesday that the crisis in Ukraine could have a negative effect on the Customs Union linking Russia, Belarus and Kazakhstan, and called for measures to protect the three nations' producers and exporters. 'There might be negative effects for the Customs Union as well, so we should all think together on what needs to be done to protect our producers and exporters and work out parameters of cooperation with Ukraine,' Putin said during a meeting of the Higher Eurasian Economic Council attended by the presidents of Belarus and Kazakhstan.
Germany, France to come up with pro-Russian plan on settling Ukraine crisis - French FM VoR 05 Mar 2014 -- French Foreign Minister Laurent Fabius said that Berlin and Paris intended to come up with a road map plan aimed at settling the Ukrainian crisis. 'The plan stipulates the withdrawal of troops, disarming of militants, compliance with the Constitution and early elections,' Fabius said. He stressed that Ukraine should work both with the EU and Russia.
Tense situation in Crimea linked to possible use of Russian troops gone - Putin VoR 04 Mar 2014 -- The tense situation in Crimea, in which the use of the armed forces was possible, is gone, Russian President Vladimir Putin said. "The tense situation in Crimea with the possible use of the armed forces has simply expired. There was no such need," Putin told reporters in Novo-Ogaryovo on Tuesday.
Hague terms Russia excuses to storm Ukraine 'baseless' Iran Press TV 04 Mar 2014 -- British Foreign Secretary William Hague has described as "baseless" the Russian president's justification and excuses to intervene in Ukraine militarily.
Ukrainian President Requested Intervention – Russian UN Envoy RIA Novosti 04 Mar 2014 -- Ousted Ukrainian President Viktor Yanukovych asked Russia to deploy its troops in Ukraine, Russia's ambassador to the UN said Tuesday.
Putin Slams Ukrainian Govt, Says Invasion 'Last Resort' RIA Novosti 04 Mar 2014 -- Russian President Vladimir Putin on Tuesday called the acting authorities in Ukraine illegitimate, but said a military intervention in Russia's western neighbor would be a last resort.
Russia Not Obliged to Accept Agreements with Ukraine - Putin RIA Novosti 04 Mar 2014 -- President Vladimir Putin argued Tuesday that Russia has no legal obligations before Ukraine because it has undergone a revolution.
Putin Denies Sending Russian Troops to Crimea RIA Novosti 04 Mar 2014 -- Russian President Vladimir Putin said Tuesday that his country has not deployed any troops in Crimea recently and has no plans to annex the peninsula.
Ukraine Awaits Russia's Reply on $2 Bln Bailout - PM RIA Novosti 04 Mar 2014 -- Ukraine is waiting for a "clear response" from Russia on a $2 billion loan needed to cover its debt for Russian gas supplies, Prime Minister Arseniy Yatsenyuk said Tuesday.
Kerry Condemns Russian 'Aggression' in Ukraine VOA 04 Mar 2014 -- U.S. Secretary of State John Kerry says the United States would prefer to de-escalate tensions with Russia over Ukraine.
Putin Orders Troops Back to Base After Military Drills RIA Novosti 04 Mar 2014 -- Russian President Vladimir Putin ordered an end Tuesday to combat readiness drills in the west of the country that have been linked to a military incursion into neighboring Ukraine.
Russia to Overhaul Fleet of Amphibious Assault Ships – Minister RIA Novosti 04 Mar 2014 -- Russia's fleet of amphibious assault ships requires extensive modernization because their service life has been largely overextended, Defense Minister Sergei Shoigu said Tuesday.
Russia Test-Fires ICBM to Target in Kazakhstan RIA Novosti 04 Mar 2014 -- Russia test-fired an intercontinental ballistic missile (ICBM) from a test site in southern Russia on Tuesday evening, a Russian defense ministry spokesman said.
Ukrainians Answer Call To Enlist Amid Russian Threats RFE/RL 04 Mar 2014 -- The army recruitment office in Cherkasy, central Ukraine, has never been so busy. More than 500 people have already turned up to enroll since Russian President Vladimir Putin declared on March 1 the right to invade Ukraine.
Putin's Ukraine Strategy: Crazy, Shrewd, A Little Of Both? RFE/RL 04 Mar 2014 -- There has been much speculation about Russian forces deployed in Crimea since February 28. The West says they're Russian combat troops. Russian President Vladimir Putin says they're just local defense folks. So just who are they?
Russian Forces In Crimea: Who Are They And Where Did They Come From? RFE/RL 04 Mar 2014 -- There has been much speculation about Russian forces deployed in Crimea since February 28. The West says they're Russian combat troops. Russian President Vladimir Putin says they're just local defense folks. So just who are they?
Yanukovych requests Russia to use armed forces to restore order in Ukraine - Russian UN envoy VoR 04 Mar 2014 -- The Russian authorities have received from Ukrainian President Viktor Yanukovych an appeal with a request to use the RF armed forces for the restoration of the constitutional order in his country, RF Permanent Representative to the United Nations Vitaly Churkin said at an open meeting of the UN Security Council on Monday.
Russia urges Ukrainian regime to 'return to legitimacy' VoR 04 Mar 2014 -- Russia will only engage in a dialog with the ruling Ukrainian regime if it 'returns to legitimacy,' Putin's senior advisor Sergei Glazyev has said.
Russia to continue to explain its position on Ukraine to NATO - diplomat VoR 04 Mar 2014 -- Russia has informed its partners at the Russia-NATO Council about dangerous trends in the development of the situation in Ukraine and will continue to explain its position on the matter, Russian Permanent Representative at NATO Alexander Grushko said in Brussels on Friday.
US condemns Russian politics in Ukraine - Kerry VoR 04 Mar 2014 -- US Secretary of State John Kerry on Tuesday called Russia's politics in Ukraine an 'act of aggression' and reaffirmed Washington's commitment to the former Soviet state's territorial integrity.
Europeans Pull Punches On Russia RFE/RL 04 Mar 2014 -- The Ukrainian crisis has sent European leaders scurrying to find responses to Russia's aggression. But so far, they seem more confused over what to do than they are united.
Kerry Condemns Russia's 'Act Of Aggression' RFE/RL 04 Mar 2014 -- U.S. Secretary of State John Kerry has condemned what he called Russia's 'act of aggression in Ukraine.'
Russia will have to respond to possible US sanctions - Russian Foreign Ministry VoR 04 Mar 2014 -- Russia will respond in the event of sanctions over the Ukraine situation being imposed against it by the United States, said Russian Foreign Ministry spokesman, Alexander Lukashevich.
Russia Defense Ministry 'pays attention' to Pentagon's decision to suspend military ties VoR 04 Mar 2014 -- Russia's Deputy Defense Minister Anatoly Antonov commented to Russian reporters on the Pentagon Press Secretary John Kirby's statement on the decision to suspend cooperation with the Russian military over the current situation in Ukraine.
U.S. suspends military cooperation with Russia People's Daily 04 Mar 2014 -- The U.S. Defense Department on Monday evening said that it is suspending all military-to-military engagements with Russia because of Moscow's military movement in Ukraine.
Remarks by President Obama and Prime Minister Netanyahu before Bilateral Meeting The White House 03 Mar 2014
DOD Puts Military-to-military Activities With Russia on Hold AFPS 03 Mar 2014 -- The Defense Department has "put on hold" military-to-military activities with Russia, Pentagon Press Secretary Navy Rear Adm. John Kirby said this evening.
US UN Ambassador: Russian Intervention 'Act of Aggression' VOA 03 Mar 2014 -- The U.S. ambassador to the United Nations has strongly condemned Russia, saying there is nothing to justify its military presence in neighboring Ukraine.
Remarks by Ambassador Samantha Power, U.S. Permanent Representative to the United Nations, at a UN Security Council Meeting on Ukraine, March 3, 2014 U.S. Permanent Representative to the United Nations 03 Mar 2014
Obama: US Examining Steps to 'Isolate Russia' VOA 03 Mar 2014 -- President Obama has condemned Russia saying it is on 'the wrong side of history' for mobilizing forces around Ukraine's Crimean peninsula. His comments came as Russia moved troops into Ukraine's Crimean Peninsula by ferry.
Yanukovych asked Putin for troops in Ukraine - Russian UN envoy VoR 03 Mar 2014 -- Ukraine's deposed president Viktor Yanukovych has formally asked Moscow to deploy Russian troops to re-establish law and order in his country, Russia told the UN Security Council on Monday.
Yanukovych asked Putin for troops in Ukraine - Russian UN envoy VoR 03 Mar 2014 -- Ukraine's deposed president Viktor Yanukovych has formally asked Moscow to deploy Russian troops to re-establish law and order in his country, Russia told the UN Security Council on Monday.
Russia Says Yanukovych Asked For Troops RFE/RL 03 Mar 2014 -- Russian Ambassador to the UN Vitaly Churkin has said that Ukraine's ousted President Viktor Yanukovych sent a letter to Russian President Vladimir Putin requesting that he use the Russian military to restore law and order in his country.
Ban and Russian Foreign Minister discuss need to de-escalate situation in Ukraine UN News Centre 03 Mar 2014 -- Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon and Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov discussed the ongoing crisis in Ukraine during a meeting in Geneva today, while deputy United Nations chief Jan Eliasson arrived in Kiev to meet with authorities there.
EU Condemns Russia 'Aggression' in Crimea RIA Novosti 03 Mar 2014 -- The European Union accused Russia of "acts of aggression" and a "clear violation of Ukrainian sovereignty" in a strongly-worded statement Monday that condemned the movement of troops into Crimea.
Russia Slams Kerry's 'Threats' over Ukraine RIA Novosti 03 Mar 2014 -- The Russian Foreign Ministry on Monday condemned as "unacceptable threats" comments made by the US Secretary of State John Kerry over possible Russian military action in Ukraine.
Russian Parliament Speaker Plays Down Talk of War in Ukraine RIA Novosti 03 Mar 2014 -- The speaker of Russia's lower house of parliament suggested Monday that there was no need for his country to use military force in neighboring Ukraine, in an apparent effort to temper anxieties as evidence emerges of substantial Russian troop deployments across Crimea.
US: Russian threat to Ukraine's navy 'dangerous escalation of situation' Iran Press TV 03 Mar 2014 -- The United States has warned Russia that it would hold the Kremlin "directly responsible" if it has threatened use of force against Ukrainian military.
EU calls on Russia to withdraw from Ukraine Iran Press TV 03 Mar 2014 -- The European Union (EU) has called on Russia to pull its military forces back from Ukraine or risk consequences in its relations with the 28-nation bloc.
Russia gives ultimatum to Ukraine's Crimea forces Iran Press TV 03 Mar 2014 -- Russia's Black Sea Fleet in the autonomous region of Crimea has reportedly given an ultimatum to Ukrainian forces in the peninsula.
Interview: In Crimea, Putin Has 'Lost His Mind' RFE/RL 03 Mar 2014 -- Russian President Vladimir Putin's decision to deploy troops across the strategic Ukrainian region of Crimea has sparked an international outcry. Many Russians, too, are indignant.
Russia Conducts Live Fire Exercises in Baltic RIA Novosti 03 Mar 2014 -- Russian naval warships and coastal troops conducted live fire exercises Monday in the country's western Kaliningrad and Leningrad Regions, a Ministry of Defense spokesperson said.
G7 condemns Russia's intrusion into Ukraine, halts G8 preparations - White House VoR 03 Mar 2014 -- The Group of Seven major industrialized nations on Sunday condemned Russia's intrusion into Ukraine and canceled for now preparations for the G8 summit that includes Russia and had been scheduled to take place in Sochi in June, the White House said.
Hagel Discusses Ukraine, Budget on 'Face the Nation' AFPS 02 Mar 2014 -- Appearing on CBS' "Face the Nation", Defense Secretary Chuck Hagel urged a diplomatic approach to resolve what he described as a "dangerous situation" in Ukraine.
Obama, Hagel Contact Top Russian Officials on Ukraine AFPS 02 Mar 2014 -- President Barack Obama and Defense Secretary Chuck Hagel called their Russian counterparts to express their concerns over recent events in Ukraine, according to White House and Defense Department news releases issued.
North Atlantic Council statement on the situation in Ukraine NATO 02 Mar 2014 -- The North Atlantic Council condemns the Russian Federation's military escalation in Crimea and expresses its grave concern regarding the authorisation by the Russian Parliament to use the armed forces of the Russian Federation on the territory of Ukraine.
NATO Official Urges Russia to De-escalate Tensions in Ukraine AFPS 02 Mar 2014 -- NATO Secretary General Anders Fogh Rasmussen urged Russia to de-escalate tensions in Ukraine, according his statements contained in a NATO news release.
Opening remarks by NATO Secretary General Anders Fogh Rasmussen at the Press Conference held at NATO HQ, Brussels NATO 02 Mar 2014
Doorstep statement by NATO Secretary General Anders Fogh Rasmussen NATO 02 Mar 2014
NATO urges Russia to withdraw troops from Crimea Iran Press TV 02 Mar 2014 -- The chief of the North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO) has called on Russia to withdraw its forces from Ukraine's Crimea region.
Russia declared war on Ukraine: Yatsenyuk Iran Press TV 02 Mar 2014 -- New Ukrainian Prime Minister Arseniy Yatsenyuk has accused Russia of declaring war on the country.
G-7 Countries Suspend Planning For Russia Summit RFE/RL 02 Mar 2014 -- The Group of Seven leading industrialized countries say they are suspending participation in the planning for an international summit in Russia.'
Putin's stance on Crimea is message for West to stop hidden aggression against Ukraine VoR 02 Mar 2014 -- In a recent phone talk with UN Secretary General Ban Ki-moon, Vladimir Putin said that Russia would not stand still if violation against ethnic Russians continues in Ukraine. However, of course, Russia would act within the framework of international law.
Ukraine Urges Putin to Abandon Military Intervention Plans RIA Novosti 02 Mar 2014 -- Ukrainian lawmakers appealed Sunday to Russian President Vladimir Putin to reconsider deploying additional troops in Crimea in order to avoid the military escalation of the current political crisis in the country.
Russia Hosts Rallies in Support of Compatriots in Ukraine RIA Novosti 02 Mar 2014 -- Thousands of people in Russia's two largest cities on Sunday took part in rallies in support of the Russian-speaking population in Ukraine amid the deepening political crisis in the former Soviet state.
Ukrainian Troops in Crimea Side with Pro-Russia Forces RIA Novosti 02 Mar 2014 -- Ukrainian servicemen stationed in Crimea are leaving en masse their military units and handing over weaponry and arsenals to local pro-Russia authorities and militia, a RIA Novosti correspondent reported Sunday.
Some 675,000 Ukrainians Fled to Russia Amid Crisis – Report RIA Novosti 02 Mar 2014 -- Russia's border guard service said Sunday that some 675,000 Ukrainian citizens have migrated to Russia since the beginning of 2014 amid fears of uncertain future in crisis-hit Ukraine.
Putin Tells Obama Russia Will Act In Case of Ukraine Violence RIA Novosti 02 Mar 2014 -- Russian leader Vladimir Putin told US President Barack Obama in a telephone conversation Sunday that Moscow reserved the right to protect its own interests and those of Russian speakers in the event of violence breaking out in eastern Ukraine and Crimea.
Kerry Heading to Ukraine as Russia Tightens Grip on Crimea VOA 02 Mar 2014 -- Secretary of State John Kerry will be heading to Kyiv Monday for discussions there Tuesday, the U.S. top diplomat tweeted as Russia continued to assert increasing control over Ukraine's Crimean peninsula.
US: All Options on Table in Ukraine VOA 02 Mar 2014 -- The crisis in Ukraine is consuming Washington's attention, with the Obama administration issuing stark warnings to Russia over its seizure of Crimea, while Ukraine mobilizes military reservists and accuses Moscow of declaring war.
Kiev-controlled Rada cautions Putin against sending troops to Ukraine VoR 02 Mar 2014 -- Verkhovna Rada lawmakers have cautioned Russian President Vladimir Putin against sending troops to Ukraine.
Readout of the President's Calls with Prime Minister Cameron, President Komorowski, and Chancellor Merkel The White House 02 Mar 2014
G-7 Leaders Statement The White House 02 Mar 2014
Russian troops heading to Ukraine's Crimea Iran Press TV 02 Mar 2014 -- Hundreds of Russian troops are reportedly heading towards the autonomous region of Crimea in southern Ukraine as the political crisis continues in the former Soviet state.
Russians Ambivalent As Putin Threatens Ukraine Invasion RFE/RL 02 Mar 2014 -- Competing rallies in Russia's two biggest cities have laid bare divisions among Russians over a possible military intervention in Ukraine.
Readout of Secretary of Defense Chuck Hagel's Phone Call With Russia's Minister of Defense Sergey Shoygu DoD 02 Mar 2014
Remarks by Ambassador Samantha Power, U.S. Permanent Representative to the United Nations, at a Security Council Stakeout on Ukraine U.S. Permanent Representative to the United Nations 01 Mar 2014
Russian peace and stabilization intervention in Ukraine: Prospective scenario VoR 02 Mar 2014 -- The escalating tension brought about by the Ukrainian insurgent "government" has resulted in reciprocal protective measures by the Russian Federation, namely to authorize the use of military units to protect Russian citizens and military (possibly even energy) infrastructure from attack.
As Security Council holds urgent talks, Ban urges dialogue to resolve Ukraine crisis UN News Centre 01 Mar 2014 -- Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon on Saturday called for direct dialogue between all concerned amid the growing tensions in the Crimea region of Ukraine, as the United Nations Security Council holds urgent talks for the second day in a row on the crisis.
McCain to Obama: Take steps against Putin over Ukraine crisis Iran Press TV 01 Mar 2014 -- US Republican Senator John McCain has called on the Obama administration to take action against Russian President Vladimir Putin over the crisis in Ukraine.
Russian senators approve use of military forces on Ukrainian territory VoR 01 Mar 2014 -- Russia's Federation Council has unanimously approved President Vladimir Putin's request to use Russian military forces in Ukraine. The move is aimed to settle the turmoil in the split country.
Amid Escalation Fears, Russia Says Kiev Sent Fighters to Crimea RIA Novosti 01 Mar 2014 -- Armed men dispatched from Kiev to the southern Ukrainian region of Crimea attempted an overnight storm of the local Interior Ministry, the Russian Foreign Ministry said Saturday.
Consent to use Russian military force in Crimea doesn't mean immediate action - official VoR 01 Mar 2014 -- The Federation Council's decision to grant the Russian president the right to use Russian troops in the Crimea does not mean that it will be done in the nearest future, the Russian Foreign Ministry said.
Russian parliament authorizes Putin to send troops to Crimea Iran Press TV 01 Mar 2014 -- The Russian parliament has sanctioned President Vladimir Putin to deploy troops to ensure security in Ukraine's semi-autonomous region of Crimea.
Parliament OKs Putin Request To Use Russian Forces In Ukraine RFE/RL 01 Mar 2014 -- Russia's upper house of parliament has voted unanimously to approve President Vladimir Putin's request for authorization to use Russian armed forces in Ukraine.
Russian Parliament Approves Military Action in Ukraine RIA Novosti 01 Mar 2014 -- Russia's upper house of parliament unanimously approved a request from President Vladimir Putin on Saturday to deploy military forces in Ukraine in a move that could escalate a confrontation in the Crimean peninsula.
Russia expects West reaction to Ukranian nationalists' call for help from terrorists VoR 01 Mar 2014 -- Moscow expects the West's reaction to the call of the head of the ultranationalist Ukrainian organization ' The Right sector' and one of the Maidan leaders Dmitry Yarosh, to the leader of Chechen terrorists Doku Umarov, reported the Russian Foreign Ministry commissioner on human rights Konstantin Dolgov .
Russia Moves to Send Troops into Crimea VOA 01 Mar 2014 -- With the new government in Kyiv weak and in disarray, Russia has made an aggressive move into Crimea. In a unanimous vote, Russia's upper house of parliament Saturday gave President Vladimir Putin the green light to send troops to Ukraine, without specifying where. In a separate measure, the Russian legislators asked the president to withdraw Russia's ambassador to Washington.
Russian Parliamentarians Call on Putin to Act in Crimea RIA Novosti 01 Mar 2014 -- The leaders of Russia's upper and lower houses of parliament called Saturday on President Vladimir Putin to stabilize the situation in Crimea and protect Russian citizens.
Putin Asks Parliament to Approve Military Action in Ukraine RIA Novosti 01 Mar 2014 -- Russian President Vladimir Putin has requested approval from the country's upper house of parliament to move armed forces into Ukraine, according to the Kremlin's press service.
Russia Outlines Structure of Future Aerospace Defenses RIA Novosti 01 Mar 2014 -- Russia's aerospace defense network will consist of four subdivisions after 2015, a spokesman for the Aerospace Defense Forces (VKO) said Friday.
Russian passports could be given not only to Berkut - Russian Consulate in Ukraine VoR 01 Mar 2014 -- The Consulate General of the Russian Federation in Simferopol did not exclude that Russian passports can be issued not only to officers of the special police division Berkut, but also to other citizens of Ukraine, Consul General, Vyacheslav Svetlichny said.
Unidentified armed people try to seize Crimean Interior Ministry - Russian Foreign Ministry VoR 01 Mar 2014 -- Overnight into March 1, a group of unidentified armed people, sent from Kiev, attempted to seize the building of the Crimean Interior Ministry, a few people were injured, the Russian Foreign Ministry says in a statement.
NATO, EU Warn Russia Against Force As Ukraine On Alert RFE/RL 01 Mar 2014 -- Acting President Oleksandr Turchynov says he has ordered Ukraine's armed forces to be put on combat alert, as the European Union and NATO called on Russia not to deploy armed forces in Ukraine.
Crimean Leader Appeals to Putin, Confirms Russian Troop Presence RIA Novosti 01 Mar 2014 -- The Crimean Prime Minister said Saturday that Russian troops are operating on the Ukrainian peninsula and made a personal appeal to Russian President Vladimir Putin for more assistance.

NEWSLETTER

Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list

Weapons of Mass Destruction (WMD)

March 2014 - Russia Special Weapons News