October 2015 - Russia Special Weapons News

Putin's Mafia Statecraft RFE/RL 27 Oct 2015 -- In the past couple years, Russian hackers have launched attacks on a French television network, a German steelmaker, the Polish stock market, the White House, the U.S. House of Representatives, the U.S. State Department, and The New York Times.
Carter: Russia 'Doomed to Fail' in Syria; ISIL Must be Defeated AFPS 31 Oct 2015 -- While Russia is 'doomed to fail' in Syria, the goal of the U.S. remains defeating the Islamic State of Iraq and the Levant in both Syria and Iraq, Defense Secretary Ash Carter said Friday in Alaska.
NATO Chief: Russia Tested Missile Last Month In Violation of INF Treaty RFE/RL 31 Oct 2015 -- NATO's top military commander says Russia tested a missile last month that appeared to violate a Cold War-era arms control treaty that is in increasing danger of unraveling.
Eyes in the Sky: Advanced Russian Spy Plane Conducts Test Flight Sputnik 31 Oct 2015 -- A sophisticated Russian special-mission plane has conducted a test flight near the Russian city of Kazan, according to the flight tracking website flightradar24.com.
Russian Official Proposes Reviving Civil-Defense Training RFE/RL 30 Oct 2015 -- Russian Deputy Prime Minister Dmitry Rogozin has said the country should revive the old Cold War practice of training civilians on how to respond to a nuclear attack.
Venezuela to Spend $480Mln on Russian Sukhoi Jet Upgrade Sputnik 30 Oct 2015 -- Venezuela will allocate $480 million to upgrade its Russian-made Sukhoi fighter jets, Defense Minister Vladimir Padrino Lopez said.
America's top spy blasts Putin's Syria campaign Press TV 30 Oct 2015 -- America's top spy has blasted Russian President Vladimir Putin's military campaign in Syria as an "impulsive" move that lacks careful strategic planning.
Russian Raids Said To Deliberately Target Rebel Field Hospitals In Syria RFE/RL 30 Oct 2015 -- Russian air strikes in Syria have deliberately targeted field hospitals in strategic opposition-controlled areas of Syria, killing and injuring staffers, disrupting their work and in some cases disabling hospitals altogether, opposition sources in Syria claim.
Russian Strikes Destroy 1,600 Terrorist Targets in Syria Since Sept. 30 Sputnik 30 Oct 2015 -- The Russian air group in Syria has carried out 1,391 sorties over the past month, the General Staff said Friday.
NATO Commander: Russia's Syria Deployment Aimed To Take Eyes Off Ukraine RFE/RL 30 Oct 2015 -- NATO's top commander says Russia's military deployment to Syria was aimed at showcasing Moscow's resurgent armed forces, but also to distract Western attention from the simmering conflict in Ukraine.
Russia to Receive Reconnaissance Ship to Monitor US Missile Defense in 2016 Sputnik 30 Oct 2015 -- The Ivan Khurs communications ship is planned to be launched in the second quarter of 2016, according to a spokesperson of Severnaya Verf shipyard.
Russian Forces Launch Intercontinental Ballistic Missile From Plesetsk Sputnik 30 Oct 2015 -- Russian Defense Ministry said that Strategic Missile Forces have carried out a training launch of a Topol intercontinental ballistic missile from the northern Plesetsk cosmodrome.
Russia Southern Military District Receives Over 10 New Aircraft in October Sputnik 30 Oct 2015 -- The 4th Air Force and Air Defense Forces Command of Russia's Southern Military District has received more than 10 new aircraft and helicopters, the Defense Ministry said in a statement issued on Friday.
Russia, India May Conclude Up to $3Bln-Worth in New Arms Contracts Sputnik 30 Oct 2015 -- The value of a new package of contracts to supply Russian arms and military equipment to India may reach $3 billion, the Center for Analysis of World Arms Trade said Friday.
Indian Military to Procure 149 Russia-Licensed BMP-2 Combat Vehicles Sputnik 30 Oct 2015 -- The Indian Defense Ministry on Thursday approved the acquisition of 149 BMP-2 infantry fighting vehicles to be built in the country under license from Russia, The Times of India reported.
Briefing by Foreign Ministry Spokesperson Maria Zakharova, Moscow, October 29, 2015 Russia Ministry of Foreign Affairs 29 Oct 2015
Russian Anti-Carrier Plane Reportedly Buzzes USS Ronald Reagan Sputnik 29 Oct 2015 -- The USS Ronald Reagan reportedly scrambled fighter jets to escort Russian naval surveillance aircraft flying through the area east of the Korean Peninsula.
Russian aircraft approach US aircraft carrier Press TV 29 Oct 2015 -- Two Russian jets have been intercepted by US warplanes after flying near an American aircraft carrier, the US Navy says.
Kremlin Warns NATO Buildup on Russian Border Threatens Global Security Sputnik 29 Oct 2015 -- Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov said that advance of NATO and its military infrastructure toward Russian borders is both undesirable and dangerous.
Russia, Citing Talks, Opposes Measure To Bar Syrian Barrel Bombs RFE/RL 29 Oct 2015 -- Russia has said it opposes a draft United Nations Security Council resolution aimed at stopping barrel-bomb attacks in Syria, contending it could jeopardize international peace talks.
Defense Ministry Trolls US Over Comments on Russian 'Recklessness' in Syria Sputnik 29 Oct 2015 -- Responding to recent commentary by a US army spokesman that Russia has been 'reckless' and 'indiscriminate' in its campaign of airstrikes in Syria, Defense Ministry spokesman Igor Konashenkov countered by noting that Russia is using its most advanced munitions and targeting systems, and releasing the footage from missions for the public to see.
Russian Deputy FM Confirms Holding Meetings With Free Syrian Army Sputnik 29 Oct 2015 -- Russian Deputy Foreign Minister Mikhail Bogdanov said that Free Syrian Army does not have single commander and headquarters.
Russia Signs Contract With Eutelsat to Launch Satellites Through 2023 Sputnik 29 Oct 2015 -- Russia's space agency Roscosmos said in a statement that a subsidiary of Russia's Khrunichev State Research and Production Space Center signed a contract with Eutelsat, the French-based satellite provider, to put the companies satellites into orbit during the period of 2016-2023.
US sensors detect Russian submarines near communications cables Press TV 29 Oct 2015 -- US intelligence officials warn that Russian submarines, with a significant and unsettling capability, could cut critical undersea communications cables between the US and Europe, in the event of a conflict.
The Long Farewell Of Russia's First Casualty In Syria RFE/RL 29 Oct 2015 -- People began gathering outside the blue and brown house at the end of Sovetskaya Street early in the morning. By the time Vadim Kostenko's open coffin was carried out into the chilly autumn day, there were about 400 people to fall into the procession behind him and follow him down to the cemetery.
Be Prepared! Always Prepared! Putin Decrees New Komsomol-Type Youth Group RFE/RL 29 Oct 2015 -- Russian President Vladimir Putin has ordered the creation of a new national youth organization, the latest in a long line of Kremlin-backed youth movements that stretch back to the Komsomol and Pioneers groups of the Soviet Union.
Russian Admiral Grigorovich Frigate Holds Drills in Baltic Sea Sputnik 29 Oct 2015 -- The crew of Russia's Admiral Grigorovich frigate successfully carried out artillery fire exercises, hitting a cruise missile used as a target, according to the Russian Baltic Fleet's spokesman.
U.S. Court Rejects Bid For New Trial By Russian 'Lord Of War' RFE/RL 27 Oct 2015 -- A U.S. judge said convicted Russian arms trafficker Viktor Bout, who is serving a 25-year prison sentence, does not deserve a new trial on the basis of newly discovered evidence.
Russia Demands That Envoys Document Syrian Civilian Deaths RFE/RL 28 Oct 2015 -- Russia is demanding that foreign embassies in Moscow document what authorities called 'outrageous' Western media reports that Russian air strikes have caused civilian deaths in Syria.
Iran, Russia stress intra-Syrian dialogue ISNA 28 Oct 2015 -- Iran and Russia underlined the need to take all key regional players on board by promoting an intra-Syrian dialog to settle the four-and-a-half-year crisis gripping the Arab country.
Putin urges dollar to be ditched in oil deals Press TV 28 Oct 2015 -- President Vladimir Putin has raised the ante in Russia's bid to cut dependence on the dollar, urging greater use of the national currency, the ruble, in oil deals.
Family Buries Russian Soldier Who Died In Syria, Doubt Suicide RFE/RL 28 Oct 2015 -- Relatives of the first Russian soldier to be confirmed dead in Syria buried the 19-year-old man, as more doubts emerged about the exact cause of his death.
US lacks understanding of Syria terrorists: Russian FM Press TV 27 Oct 2015 -- The so-called US-led coalition has no idea of whom it is backing in Syria, Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov says.
Russia to send humans to Moon in 2029 Press TV 27 Oct 2015 -- Russia intends to launch a manned lunar mission after it successfully landed the first man-made object on the moon in the late 50's.
Russian Defense Chief Shoigu Accused Of Owning $18 Million Mansion RFE/RL 27 Oct 2015 -- Defense Minister Sergei Shoigu has long been one of Russia's most-popular government figures, due in part to years of lavish state television coverage of him as emergency situations minister, a ministry he headed for nearly two decades.
Russia Says Soldier In Syria Killed Self; Family Has Doubts RFE/RL 27 Oct 2015 -- The Russian Defense Ministry said a soldier committed suicide in Syria, in what was the first confirmed death of Russian military personnel since Moscow began large-scale deployment there last month.
Russian Finance Minister Says Reserve Funds Running Out RFE/RL 27 Oct 2015 -- Russian Finance Minister Anton Siluanov says the country's Reserve Fund could be exhausted by the end of 2016 if world energy prices remain at current levels.
U.S. Workers Convicted In Plot To Sell Electronics To Russia RFE/RL 27 Oct 2015 -- A U.S. federal court has convicted three people for their role in a scheme to smuggle sophisticated microelectronics to Moscow for use by Russian military and intelligence agencies.
Russia hits 285 terrorist targets in Syria in 3 days: Defense Ministry Press TV 26 Oct 2015 -- Russian warplanes have hit 285 targets belonging to the Daesh and al-Qaeda-linked al-Nusra Front terrorist groups in Syria over the past three days, the Defense Ministry says.
Kremlin rejects HRW report over killing Syria civilians Press TV 26 Oct 2015 -- The Kremlin has rejected a recent report by the Human Rights Watch (HRW) that airstrikes believed to have been conducted by Russian jets in western Syria killed dozens of civilians.
Russian jets breaking down in harsh Syria conditions: US Press TV 26 Oct 2015 -- Most of Russian aircraft recently sent on a mission in Syria have been grounded due to the dust and desert conditions in the Arab country, says a senior US defense official.
Russian navy holds drills to 'repel strikes' on Crimea Press TV 26 Oct 2015 -- Russian military forces have staged a navy exercise off the coast of the city of Sevastopol in the Black Sea Crimean peninsula to 'thwart any possible aggression by the West.'
Ex-Russian Officials: Stagnation, Declining Living Standards Loom For Russians RFE/RL 26 Oct 2015 -- Russia's economy will stagnate in coming years due to sanctions, low oil prices, and deeper systemic problems, former Russian officials say, but it's unclear whether this torpor will strengthen political opposition to President Vladimir Putin.
Russia Cracks Down On 'IS' Militants In Wave Of Arrests RFE/RL 26 Oct 2015 -- Russia appears to be cracking down on Muslims and labor migrants in response to what it says are domestic terror threats from the Islamic State (IS) extremist group with reports of mass arrests of 'IS-linked suspects' last week.
Russia's 'Asian Pivot' Seen in Kuril Military Expansion VOA 26 Oct 2015 -- Russia's plan to build a military base on the disputed Kuril Islands, that were seized from Japan at the end of World War II, is a small part of Moscow's own "Asia pivot" to increase and protect trade with the vibrant economies in the Pacific region.
Russia strikes Daesh positions across Syria to contain terrorists IRNA 25 Oct 2015 -- The Russian precise airstrikes on Daesh (ISIL) positions in Syria are conducted simultaneously in various regions of Syria in order to contain terrorists, a senior Russian defense ministry official announced.
Lavrov: Iran needed in int'l efforts to resolve Syrian crisis IRNA 25 Oct 2015 -- Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov underlined Iran's role in the resolving the ongoing crisis in Syria, and said that the international efforts to resolve the Syrian crisis without Iran's presence will be futile.
'FSA' militants in Syria turn down Russia's offer of help against Daesh Press TV 24 Oct 2015 -- The foreign-backed so-called Free Syrian Army (FSA) militant group, which is fighting in Syria, says it does not accept Russia's help against the rival terror group Daesh.
Russia 'Ready To Support' Western-Backed Syrian Opposition With Air Strikes RFE/RL 24 Oct 2015 -- Moscow says Russia's air force in Syria is ready to provide cover for the Free Syrian Army, the Western-backed opposition group battling President Bashar al-Assad, in its fight against the Islamic State (IS) extremist group.
Russia Says It's 'Ready to Help' Western-backed Rebels in Syria VOA 24 Oct 2015 -- Russia on Saturday expressed its support for elections in Syria and said it was ready to help Western-backed Free Syrian Army rebels.
Medical Group Issues Video Of Russian Attack On Hospital RFE/RL 23 Oct 2015 -- The medical organization that said its field hospital in northwestern Syria was hit by Russian air strikes has released a video from the aftermath of the attack, which killed two members of its medical staff.
West Sees Threat of Chaos in Russian Adventurism VOA 23 Oct 2015 -- Western officials are increasingly worried that Russian President Vladimir Putin's aggressive actions around the world will spread global instability and perhaps spark a backlash at home.
Briefing by Foreign Ministry spokesperson Maria Zakharova, Moscow, October 22, 2015 Russia Ministry of Foreign Affairs 22 Oct 2015
Russia Announces Military Plans for Disputed Kuril Islands VOA 22 Oct 2015 -- Russia's defense minister says Moscow plans to build a military base on the Kuril Islands, along with four Arctic bases that should be completed by 2018.
Russia FM stresses Iran role in efforts to resolve Syria crisis Press TV 22 Oct 2015 -- Russia has highlighted Iran's role in resolving the ongoing conflict in Syria, saying that the settlement of the crisis gripping the Arab country has "no prospect" without the Islamic Republic's participation.
Russian-Speaking Militants Prepare To Fight Assad In Hama RFE/RL 22 Oct 2015 -- Two Russian-speaking militant groups, including a battalion within Al-Qaeda's Syrian affiliate the Al-Nusra Front, claim they are preparing to fight Syrian government forces in the central province of Hama.
Deadly 'Russian Strike' Hits Syrian Hospital As Moscow Tries To Steer Talks RFE/RL 22 Oct 2015 -- The London-based Syrian Observatory for Human Rights (SOHR) says a Russian air strike struck a field hospital in northwestern Syria this week, killing at least 13 people, although Moscow has denied responsibility for the attack.
Russian Aviation Destroys 72 ISIL Targets in Syria Sputnik 22 Oct 2015 -- Terrorist targets have been destroyed in the Syrian provinces of Hama, Idlib, Latakia, Aleppo, Damascus, and Deir ez-Zor.
Russian Army Preparing for Drills With India - Southern Military District Sputnik 22 Oct 2015 -- According to Russian Southern Military District press service, Russian mechanized infantry in the south of the country is finishing preparations for its Indra-2015 drills with military units from India.
Assad, Putin discuss Syria situation in Moscow Press TV 21 Oct 2015 -- Moscow says Syrian President Bashar Assad and Russian President Vladimir Putin have held talks on the situation in Syria in Russia's capital.
Assad Visits Putin in Moscow to Discuss Syria Campaign VOA 21 Oct 2015 -- Syrian President Bashar al-Assad returned home Wednesday after making a rare trip to Russia to meet with President Vladimir Putin and discuss the three-week old Russian military campaign backing Assad's army.
Lavrov To Meet Kerry On Syria After Assad's Moscow Visit RFE/RL 21 Oct 2015 -- Russia says Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov and U.S. Secretary of State John Kerry have agreed to meet with their Turkish and Saudi counterparts in Vienna on October 23 to discuss the crisis in Syria.
Kremlin Confirms There Will Be No Russian Ground Operations in Syria Sputnik 21 Oct 2015 -- Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov said that Moscow rules out the possibility of a Russian ground operation in Syria.
U.S., Russia sign memorandum on safe flight operations over Syria People's Daily 21 Oct 2015 -- The Pentagon said on Tuesday the United States and Russia signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) on safe flight operations over Syria as they carry out separate airstrikes against militant groups in the country.
Russia Builds Second Military Base To Support Arctic Ambitions RFE/RL 21 Oct 2015 -- Russia's defense ministry said it has built a giant military base in the far northern Arctic, establishing a sprawling presence where Russia hopes to retrieve oil and other mineral riches.
Russia, US sign Syria airspace coordination agreement Press TV 20 Oct 2015 -- Russia and the United States have officially signed a coordination memorandum based on which the two countries' aircraft and drone flights over Syria will be regulated.
Iran, Russia Undeterred by Slow-Go in Syria VOA 20 Oct 2015 -- Forces fighting for Syrian President Bashar al-Assad are struggling against rebels in the country's northwest, despite substantial backing from Russia and Iran, according to U.S. officials. But they caution that both Russia and Tehran seem prepared to dig in and intensify their efforts.
Statement from Pentagon Press Secretary Peter Cook on Memorandum of Understanding with Russia regarding safety over Syrian air space. DoD 20 Oct 2015 -- Today senior officials from the Department of Defense and the Russian Ministry of Defense signed a memorandum of understanding (MOU) regarding measures to minimize the risk of inflight incidents among coalition and Russian aircraft operating in Syrian air space. With today's signatures the MOU is now in effect.
Estonia-NATO airbase plan provocative: Russia Press TV 20 Oct 2015 -- The Russian Foreign Ministry has called plans by Estonia to expand an airbase to provide more space for NATO aircraft as 'provocative.'
Moscow Believes Expansion of Estonia's Amari Airbase to Be Provocative Sputnik 20 Oct 2015 -- Russia sees the expansion of Estonia's Amari Airbase as a provocative move.
Russian air raids destroy over 49 militant positions over 24 hrs across Syria People's Daily 20 Oct 2015 -- The Russian air force carried 33 air strikes over the past 24 hours, destroying over 49 positions of the armed militant groups in several Syrian areas, the Syrian army said in a statement on Monday.
Russia to Continue Coordination of Syrian Operation With Iraq Sputnik 20 Oct 2015 -- Russia will continue consultations and coordination of its counter-terrorism operations in Syria with Iraq, Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov said Tuesday.
Activists: Russian Airstrikes Have Killed Nearly 400 in Syria VOA 20 Oct 2015 -- Russia's airstrikes in Syria have killed nearly 400 people, nearly a third of them civilians, since the campaign began three weeks ago, activist groups said Tuesday.
Hovercraft From Hell: Russia Designs Next Generation Military Landing Ship Sputnik 20 Oct 2015 -- A next generation large air-cushioned landing craft is being developed by Russia's Almaz Central Marine Design Bureau, Russian media reported on Tuesday.
Putin: Russia Will Further Strengthen Armed Forces Sputnik 20 Oct 2015 -- The Russian Army and Navy ensure the country's sovereignty and play a crucial role in global and regional stability, Vladimir Putin said.
Russia's Western Military District Gets 2,500 Modern Communication Systems Sputnik 20 Oct 2015 -- The modern stations and systems ensure a high level of noise immunity and imitation protection and enable rapid data transmission.
Russia to Supply Equipment, Helicopters for Egyptian Mistral Ships Sputnik 19 Oct 2015 -- Russia will supply equipment and helicopters worth over $1 billion for the Egyptian Mistral helicopter carriers, the Kremlin chief of staff said Monday.
Russia Shows 'Impressive New Military Capabilities' in Its Syrian Campaign Sputnik 19 Oct 2015 -- Russia's successes on the Syrian battlefield seem to have come as a surprise for those, who thought Russian Armed Forces were stuck in the 1990s. The ongoing aerial campaign against extremists in Syria has likely dispelled this misconception.
US Military to Fly Over Russia's Far East Sputnik 18 Oct 2015 -- Russian inspectors will conduct observation flights over the territory of the Czech Republic and Slovakia under the Treaty on Open Skies, Sergei Ryzhkov, chief of Russia's National Nuclear Risk Reduction Center said on Sunday.
Russia's Proton Rocket Puts Turkish Telecoms Satellite Into Orbit Sputnik 17 Oct 2015 -- The Turkish satellite will beam television and Internet services across Europe, Africa, the Middle East and Central Asia.
'Drop-and-Forget': Russia Develops Supersonic Smart Bomb Sputnik 18 Oct 2015 -- The latest version of Russia's KAB-250 precision-guided bomb will soon complete trials, Russian media reported on Saturday.
Russia to Hold Talks With Egypt on Sales of Equipment for Mistrals Sputnik 17 Oct 2015 -- Russia to hold talks with Egypt on the possible purchase by Cairo of the Russian equipment for the Mistral helicopter carriers.
Russia destroys major foreign-run terrorist training base in Syria Press TV 17 Oct 2015 -- Russian fighter jets operating in the Syrian skies have successfully targeted a major foreign-run military base in the northwest of the Arab country where elements of the Daesh Takfiri terrorist group were training militants for terror attacks.
'US, Russia reached deal to avoid clashes in Syria airspace' Press TV 17 Oct 2015 -- The United States and Russia have reached an agreement on aerial operations in Syria in an effort to avoid inadvertent midair confrontation in the country's airspace, as significant issues still remain unresolved.
Medvedev: Russia's Military Operation Aimed at Defeating ISIS VOA 17 Oct 2015 -- Russia's prime minister said Saturday that Russia's military aim in Syria is to defend its national interests and defeat the Islamic State and not to keep President Bashar al-Assad in power.
Russian forces kill four militants in Dagestan Press TV 17 Oct 2015 -- Russia's National Anti-terrorism Committee says security forces have killed at least four militants during clashes in the Republic of Dagestan.
FBI Probing Dow Jones Hacking by Russians VOA 17 Oct 2015 -- U.S. authorities are reported to be investigating whether Russian hackers have infiltrated the Dow Jones financial news company to steal market-moving information prior to publication.
Turkey shoots down aircraft 'after three warnings' Press TV 16 Oct 2015 -- The Turkish military says it has shot down aircraft, of an unidentified nationality, in its airspace after warning it three times.
All Russian Aircraft in Syria, Including Drones, Are Safely At Base Sputnik 16 Oct 2015 -- Earlier today, the Turkish General Staff said Turkey shot down an unidentified aircraft in its airspace near the border with Syria.
Turkey Downs Unidentified Aircraft on Border With Syria - General Staff Sputnik 16 Oct 2015 -- According to Turkey's General Staff, an unidentified aircraft has been downed by the country's forces for violating its airspace.
Russia, allies agree to form joint task force to defend borders Press TV 16 Oct 2015 -- Russia and a number of ex-Soviet countries in Central Asia agree to form a joint task force to defend their borders at the times of crisis.
Putin Says CIS States Could Create Border Force For Crises RFE/RL 16 Oct 2015 -- Amid rising insecurity in northern Afghanistan, Russian President Vladimir Putin said that countries in the Commonwealth of Independent States (CIS) could create a joint task force to protect the grouping's external borders.
Maintenance of Bulgarian MiG-29 Jets in Poland Illegitimate Sputnik 16 Oct 2015 -- If Poland and Bulgaria sign a MiG-29 servicing deal, the Russian will cease current maintenance activities on Bulgarian fighters, according to Russian Aircraft Corporation MiG.
Demoralized militants fleeing Daesh ranks en masse: Russia general Press TV 16 Oct 2015 -- A senior Russian general says there has been growing discontent among Daesh militants with their command in Syria, with many of them deserting the terror group's ranks as Moscow presses ahead with its air raids against terrorist positions in the Arab state.
Russian General Outlines Moscow's Plans In Syria RFE/RL 16 Oct 2015 -- Russia plans to build a 'unified military base' in Syria to serve as the base for its operations against Islamic State (IS) militants.
Third Russian Stealth Sub Arrives at Northern Fleet for Weapons Testing Sputnik 16 Oct 2015 -- Russia's diesel-powered stealth submarine has arrived at the Northern Fleet to test equipment and weaponry, the Northern Fleet's press service said Friday.
Russian Navy Can Attack ISIL Positions in Syria at Any Moment Sputnik 16 Oct 2015 -- The Russian warships operating in the Mediterranean can be used in the fight against ISIL in Syria, the Russian General Staff said Friday.
Key Terrorist Leader Reportedly Killed by Russian Airstrike in Syria Sputnik 15 Oct 2015 -- Chechen-born Abu Bakr al-Shishani, leader of the Ahrar ash-Sham terrorist group, was reportedly killed in a Russian airstrike.
Turkey, Saudi issue fresh warnings over Russia's Syria action Press TV 15 Oct 2015 -- Turkish and Saudi foreign ministers have once again warned Russia over its ongoing military action in Syria, with Ankara branding the air campaign a "big mistake."
EU Parliament Lifts Immunity Of Suspected Spy For Russia RFE/RL 15 Oct 2015 -- The European Parliament has lifted the immunity of a Hungarian deputy suspected of spying on European Union institutions for Russia.
Briefing by Foreign Ministry Spokesperson Maria Zakharova, Moscow, October 14, 2015 Russia Ministry of Foreign Affairs 14 Oct 2015
Turkey Warns US, Russia on Arming Syria Kurds VOA 14 Oct 2015 -- Turkey has warned both the United States and Russia against arming Kurdish forces in Syria, saying they are connected to what Ankara calls Kurdish terrorists within Turkey. Analysts say the West sees the Kurds as a vital ally in countering the spread of the Islamic State terror group, also known as ISIS or ISIL.
Moscow Urges Parties to Nagorno-Karabakh Conflict to Renounce Use of Force Sputnik 14 Oct 2015 -- Russian Foreign Ministry spokeswoman Maria Zakharova said that Moscow beleives that further escalation of the Nagorno-Karabakh conflict is simply unacceptable.
The Russian People Saw A Strikingly Different Picture Of MH17 Findings RFE/RL 14 Oct 2015 -- As Western media broadcast somber footage from a darkened room in the Netherlands dominated by an assembly of dented, shrapnel-riddled pieces of a passenger jet shot down over Ukraine's conflict zone last year, the pictures on Russian TV on October 13 were dramatically different.
Russia Requests UN Open New MH17 Probe VOA 14 Oct 2015 -- Russia has asked the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO), a United Nations agency, to open a new investigation into the downing of Malaysia Airlines Flight MH-17 last year over eastern Ukraine.
Russia cuts off Daesh arms supply routes in Syria's Aleppo Press TV 14 Oct 2015 -- Russian fighter jets have cut off the arms supply routes of the Daesh Takfiri group in Syria's northwestern province of Aleppo.
US, Russia Note Progress in Syria Air Safety Talks VOA 14 Oct 2015 -- U.S. and Russian defense officials have concluded a third round of talks on rules for conduct in the air over Syria – and are finalizing a memorandum of understanding that will establish basic safety rules and avoid inadvertent collisions.
Russia to Continue Pursuing Independent Foreign Policy Sputnik 14 Oct 2015 -- Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov said that Russia will continue to pursue an independent, multivector foreign policy corresponding to the national interests.
Russian Military in Arctic to Get Permafrost-Resistant Office Equipment Sputnik 14 Oct 2015 -- The Russian military will receive office equipment that is resistant to Arctic permafrost and other adverse conditions associated with sea and field missions, the equipment manufacturer said Wednesday.
Moscow Court Gives Ex-Head of Ukraine Defense Plant Six Years for Espionage Sputnik 14 Oct 2015 -- A former head of Ukraine's Znamya defense enterprise who holds Ukrainian citizenship was sentenced to six years in prison for espionag e by the Moscow City Court.
US Military Official: Russian Airstrikes Benefiting IS VOA 13 Oct 2015 -- Some Russian airstrikes in Syria are benefiting Islamic State militants, a U.S. military official said Tuesday.
Rocket Attack Hits Russian Embassy in Syrian Capital VOA 13 Oct 2015 -- Militants fired rockets at Russia's Embassy in Damascus in what Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov called an act of terror meant to intimidate those who support the fight against Islamic State militants.
UK Denies Alleged Policy Allowing to Strike Russian Jets in Middle East Sputnik 13 Oct 2015 -- The British defense ministry put an end to speculation that circulated in the media recently over the ability – and preparedness – of the Royal Air Force to start downing Russian jets in the Middle East.
Russian Aircraft in Syria Carry Out 88 Sorties in 24 Hours Sputnik 13 Oct 2015 -- The targets included ISIL command posts, weapon storage facilities, and sites where the group manufactured explosives, a Russian Defense Ministry spokesman said Tuesday.
Russia Western Military District to Receive Advanced NBC Vehicles Sputnik 13 Oct 2015 -- The Russian Western Military District's Separate Nuclear, Biological and Chemical Defense (NBC) Brigade located in the Kursk Region will be re-equipped with the advanced NBC reconnaissance vehicles RKhM-6 in early 2016, Russia's Defense Ministry said in a statement.
Russia, China Agree on Loans for Joint Aircraft, Helicopter Projects Sputnik 12 Oct 2015 -- Russia and China agreed to extend subsidized loans to expedite work on joint long-haul aircraft and heavy helicopter projects, Russian Deputy Prime Minister Dmitry Rogozin said Monday.
Russia strikes out of weakness in Syria: US Press TV 12 Oct 2015 -- Russian President Vladimir Putin's military campaign in Syria is an act of weakness and Moscow is spending resources "it doesn't have" to keep his Syrian ally in power, says US President Barack Obama.
'Growing panic' observed among Daesh militants in Syria amid Russia strikes Press TV 12 Oct 2015 -- The Russian Defense Ministry says intercepted data from Takfiri Daesh terrorists in Syria shows "growing panic" among the militants amid the Russian bombing campaign against their positions in the Arab country.
EU Says Russia Risking Peace Diplomacy In Syria RFE/RL 12 Oct 2015 -- The EU says Russia's military intervention in Syria is putting peace efforts at risk, with the bloc's top diplomat calling Russia's military strikes against Western-backed rebels a worrying 'game changer.'
Russia Could Play 'Crucial' Role in Syrian Settlement - Mogherini Sputnik 12 Oct 2015 -- Russia could play a highly important role in the Syrian peace process, and the European Union is ready to continue direct talks with Moscow on this issue, EU's foreign policy chief Frederica Mogherini said Monday.
Russia Reaffirms Readiness to Cooperate With Free Syrian Army Sputnik 12 Oct 2015 -- Moscow has confirmed its willingness to cooperate with the Free Syrian Army (FSA), considered to be a moderate opposition faction by Western countries, Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov said Monday.
EU Demands Russia 'Immediately' End Some Syria Airstrikes VOA 12 Oct 2015 -- The European Council on Monday called for Russia to 'immediately' end military attacks in Syria that do not target Islamic State or other U.N.-designated terrorist organizations.
Russia Postpones Open Skies Flight Over Turkey at Ankara's Request Sputnik 12 Oct 2015 -- The Russian Defense Ministry has come to an agreement with Ankara to postpone its observation flights over Turkey, Russian Defense Ministry spokesman Gen.-Maj. Igor Konashenkov said Monday.
Russia says Daesh implicated in foiled Moscow terror plot Press TV 12 Oct 2015 -- Intelligence officials in Russia have announced that the Daesh Takfiri terror group had planned a major attack in the country, with confessions by members of a busted cell showing they were trained in the group's camps in Syria.
Russia Says It Foiled Attack by Terrorists, Some IS-trained VOA 12 Oct 2015 -- Russia's main security agency says it foiled a terrorist attack in Moscow by a group of Russian citizens, several of whom it claims were trained in Syria by the Islamic State group.
Russia Calls on US to Abandon Plans to Place Missile Defense in Romania Sputnik 12 Oct 2015 -- Moscow calls for abandoning of plans to place US missile defense systems in Romania, the director of the Russian Foreign Ministry's Department of Non-proliferation, Disarmament, and Arms Control said, as quoted by the ministerial website Monday.
Is Moscow Getting Its Money's Worth From Its Syria Campaign? RFE/RL 12 Oct 2015 -- Rough estimates suggest that Moscow has spent at least $87 million for air and cruise-missile strikes in the first two weeks of its bombing campaign in Syria that began September 30.
Obama: Putin's Syria Strategy Shows Poor Leadership RFE/RL 12 Oct 2015 -- U.S. President Barack Obama says Russian President Vladimir Putin is showing poor leadership by supporting Damascus, despite Moscow's claims it is helping a legitimate government battle insurgents.
Su-30 Flankers Provide Cover for Russian Bombers in Syria Sputnik 12 Oct 2015 -- A number of Su-30 fighter jets have been deployed in Syria as part of Russia's ongoing aerial campaign against the Islamic State terrorist group, Russian media reported on Monday.
Armata Tank to Be Declassified When Adopted by Russian Military Sputnik 12 Oct 2015 -- The degree of classification on the new Armata T-14 Main Battle Tank (MBT) will be removed after the vehicle receives permission for export, said Vyacheslav Khalitov, the deputy director of UralVagonZavod arms manufacturer.
Russian Inspectors to Fly Over Turkey Under Open Skies Treaty Sputnik 12 Oct 2015 -- The head of the Russia's National Nuclear Risk Reduction Center said that Russian military experts will conduct an observation flight over Turkey this week to facilitate transparency of mutual military activity.
Putin: Russian Ground Operation In Syria 'Ruled Out' RFE/RL 11 Oct 2015 -- Russian President Vladimir Putin says Moscow will not deploy ground troops to Syria, where it has conducted air strikes against what it claims are Islamic State (IS) targets.
Putin Rules Out Russian Army's Participation in Ground Operation in Syria Sputnik 11 Oct 2015 -- Russian President Vladimir Putin has ruled out participation of the Russian Armed Forces in a ground operation in Syria.
Russia Launches New Airstrikes Against Syrian Rebels VOA 11 Oct 2015 -- Russia launched a new aerial bombardment on Syrian rebels, helping President Bashar al-Assad's government reclaim territory it had lost.
Russia demands UK explanation on 'authorization to shoot down Russian jets' Press TV 11 Oct 2015 -- Russia has demanded an explanation from the UK about media reports that British pilots have been given the permission to attack Russian jets in Iraq.
UK Military Attache to Clarify Alleged Permission to Down Russian Planes Sputnik 11 Oct 2015 -- UK military attache is expected to clarify media reports of the alleged British leadership decision to enable Royal Air Force pilots participating in anti-ISIL coalition's airstrikes in Iraq to shoot down Russian aircraft, the Russian Defense Ministry press service said in a statement Sunday.
India May Buy 12 Russian Next Generation S-400 Air Defense Systems - Media Sputnik 11 Oct 2015 -- India may purchase the next-generation Russian S-400 Triumf air defense systems, an Indian Defense Ministry source said Sunday.
Statement from Pentagon Press Secretary Peter Cook on Talks with Russia DoD 10 Oct 2015
Russia Contacts Free Syrian Army, Asks Third Countries for Verification Sputnik 10 Oct 2015 -- Moscow has established contacts with the Free Syrian Army (FSA) and called on third countries to verify whether its dialogue partners truly represent the so-called moderate opposition, the head of the Russian upper house of parliament's Foreign Affairs committee said Saturday.
Idlib Governor Says Russia Will Help Liberate Province From Insurgents Sputnik 10 Oct 2015 -- The Russian military operation in Syria will provide the Syrian Army with assistance necessary to free the northwestern province of Idlib from militants, the province's governor, Khaireddin al-Sayyed, said Saturday.
Russian Aerospace Forces Conduct 64 Sorties in Syria, Hit 55 ISIL Targets Sputnik 10 Oct 2015 -- The Russian Aerospace Forces have conducted 64 sorties in Syria hitting 55 ISIL targets, the Russian Defense Ministry said Saturday.
US, Russian Strikes Continue in Syria, Iraq VOA 10 Oct 2015 -- Syrian troops backed by Russian airstrikes seized control of a village in central Syria on Saturday amid fierce clashes with rebels, part of a ground offensive launched earlier this week.
Putin's Syria Strikes Irk Russian Muslims, Raise Risks RFE/RL 10 Oct 2015 -- With its soaring minarets and golden dome, the huge new mosque that President Vladimir Putin opened in Moscow late last month was welcomed by Muslims as a sign of their greater acceptance in mostly Christian Russia.
Russian-Backed Offensive Stalls in Syria VOA 09 Oct 2015 -- Russian intervention in Syria appears to have shored-up President Bashar al-Assad's hold on power, but the latest U.S. assessment indicates slickly produced videos meant to show off Moscow's military actually are covering up what might be difficulties both in the air and on the ground.
Russia dismisses U.S. refusal to share intelligence in campaign in Syria People's Daily 09 Oct 2015 -- The reluctance of the United States to share intelligence on Syria will not hamper Russia's operations in the war-torn country as Moscow has sufficient information from other sources, a Russian official said Thursday.
Russia says attacks in Syria leave 300 militants dead Press TV 09 Oct 2015 -- The Russian Defense Ministry says some 200 Takfiri militants, including two senior members of the Daesh Takfiri terrorist group, have been killed in an attack in Syria as Moscow intensifies its anti-terror operation in the Arab country.
Russian Operations in Syria to Continue During Syrian Army's Offensive Sputnik 09 Oct 2015 -- Russia's airstrikes against terrorist groups in Syria will continue while Syria's government-led army carries out its ground offensive, Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov said Friday.
Syrian Rebels Poised for Anti-Russia Collaboration VOA 09 Oct 2015 -- Russia's military intervention in Syria is pushing disparate rebel groups to work together more on the battlefield to confront ground offensives unleashed this week by President Bashar al-Assad's forces in the center and northwest of the war-wracked country.
Russian Defense Ministry Receives New Early Warning Network Satellites Sputnik 09 Oct 2015 -- The Russian Defense Ministry has received two state of the art satellites as part of the country's new missile early warning network, Deputy Minister Yuri Borisov said Friday.
Iran Accounts Of 'Flying Objects,' Blasts Bolster U.S. Claims Of Errant Russian Missiles RFE/RL 09 Oct 2015 -- While Iran has so far avoided confirming or denying U.S. assertions that Russian missiles aimed at antigovernment forces in Syria instead landed in that country, local reports have emerged of explosions and flying objects in several Iranian towns.
Russian Navy Receives Sub, 7 Ships, 7 Aircraft, Missile Systems Sputnik 09 Oct 2015 -- The Russian Navy received one submarine and seven warships and auxiliary vessels along with seven aircraft and other equipment in the third quarter of 2015, Deputy Defense Minister Yuri Borisov said Friday.
Russian Army to Receive 16 Helicopters, 29 Combat Aircraft by Year End Sputnik 09 Oct 2015 -- The Russian Aerospace Forces will receive 16 Ka-52 Alligator attack helicopters, 18 Su-30SM Flanker multi-role fighter jets and 11 MiG-31 Foxhound supersonic interceptor aircraft before the end of the year, the aircraft manufacturers told Defense Minister Sergei Shoigu Friday.
Briefing by Foreign Ministry Spokesperson Maria Zakharova, Moscow, October 8, 2015 Russia Ministry of Foreign Affairs 08 Oct 2015
Turkey's Erdogan Warns Russia on Energy Deals VOA 08 Oct 2015 -- Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan, angered by Russia's bombing campaign in Syria, warned Moscow on Thursday that Ankara may look elsewhere for partners to supply natural gas and build its first nuclear power plant.
Russian Volunteers For Syria Are Recruited - And Trolled - Online RFE/RL 08 Oct 2015 -- It has been relatively quiet in eastern Ukraine recently. So some pro-Russian online groups organized to dispatch volunteers to fight alongside separatists in Donbas may be trying to use the lull to open a new front in Syria, where Moscow has ramped up military support for President Bashar al-Assad's regime.
War Crimes in 2008 Russia-Georgia Conflict Probed VOA 08 Oct 2015 -- The Hague-based International Criminal Court (ICC) said Thursday that its prosecutor has called for an inquiry into allegations of war crimes committed during the Russia-Georgia conflict in 2008.
US Official: Russian Missiles Aimed at Syria Crash in Iran VOA 08 Oct 2015 -- Four Russian cruise missiles launched from warships in the Caspian Sea crashed in Iran, falling short of their targets in Syria, a U.S official confirmed to VOA.
NATO Concerned Over Russian Cruise Missile Strikes Against Targets in Syria Sputnik 08 Oct 2015 -- Jens Stoltenberg said that NATO is concerned over intensified Russian military operations and cruise missile strikes on October 7 targeting Islamic State militant positions.
Russia Has Fully Explained Turkish Airspace Violation - Deputy FM Sputnik 08 Oct 2015 -- Moscow considers its explanation for the violation of Turkish airspace by a Russian aircraft sufficient and is ready to continue dialogue on the issue with Ankara if necessary, Deputy Foreign Minister Sergei Ryabkov said Thursday.
British Group Presents Evidence Russian Buk Shot Down MH17 RFE/RL 08 Oct 2015 -- A British NGO has published a summary report claiming that a Russian Buk surface-to-air missile system shot down a Malaysian Airlines passenger jet on July 17, 2014, over eastern Ukraine, killing all 298 people aboard.
Moscow Calls for Increase to 1,000 OSCE Monitors in Ukraine Sputnik 08 Oct 2015 -- Russian Foreign Ministry spokeswoman Maria Zakharova said that there are currently less than 600 OSCE monitors in Ukraine and that Moscow is calling "for an increase in the number of the special monitoring mission to its allowable number of 1,000 in accordance with its mandate."
Russia pounding non-ISIL targets in Syria: US Press TV 08 Oct 2015 -- Washington has accused Moscow of not striking the Daesh (ISIL) terrorist group and focusing their attacks on US-backed militants who seek to oust Syrian President Bashar al-Assad.
Russia launched 100+ strikes at Daesh positions in Syria Press TV 08 Oct 2015 -- Russia has conducted over 100 airstrikes against the positions of the Daesh terrorist group across Syria over the past week, striking 110 targets and triggering panic among other terror groups, says the Russian Defense Ministry.
NATO Chief Cites 'Troubling Escalation' Of Russian Activity In Syria RFE/RL 08 Oct 2015 -- NATO's chief has warned of a 'troubling escalation' of Russian military activity in Syria ?s Damascus announced a wide-ranging ground offensive backed by more Russian air strikes.
Claims That Russia Targets Civilians in Syria Are 'Myth' - Foreign Ministry Sputnik 08 Oct 2015 -- Russia isn't refusing to cooperate with other countries in its efforts to resolve the crisis in Syria, the Foreign Ministry reiterated.
Russia Reportedly Uses Infrared-Guided Smart Bombs Against ISIL in Syria Sputnik 08 Oct 2015 -- Russia's operation against ISIL and other terrorist groups in Syria may involve the use of a little-known advanced weapon called the SBPE.
Afghanistan's Dostum Turns To Old Ally Russia For Help RFE/RL 07 Oct 2015 -- With the Taliban threatening to overrun large parts of Afghanistan, First Vice President Abdul Rashid Dostum is seeking help from an old ally - Russia.
Russia Complicates US Pivot to Asia VOA 07 Oct 2015 -- With Monday's signing of the Trans-Pacific Partnership [TPP], the United States reached a milestone in its push for rebalancing toward the Asia Pacific region.
Russia to support Syria ground operations: Putin Press TV 07 Oct 2015 -- Russia's President Vladimir Putin says the country's Air Force, which has been bombing the positions of the militants in Syria, will support Syrian government forces fighting on the ground.
Russia conducts intense raids on Syria militants: Monitor Press TV 07 Oct 2015 -- Russia has conducted "intense" airstrikes against the militants in Syria as Syrian forces "for the first time" carry out coordinated ground attacks on positions being targeted by Russian warplanes, according to a monitoring group.
Russian Defense Ministry Ready to Work With US in Syria - Shoigu Sputnik 07 Oct 2015 -- Russia's military is ready to cooperate with the US in Syria, the Russian Defense minister said.
Russian Warships in Caspian Sea Launch Attack on ISIL in Syria Sputnik 07 Oct 2015 -- Russian warships have launched a total of 26 cruise missiles at Islamic State facilities, destroying all targets.
Russian Firepower, Iranian-trained Forces Move on Syrian Rebels VOA 07 Oct 2015 -- Russia is adding to its barrage on rebel forces in Syria, sending in more firepower in the form of an additional Russian battalion armed with advanced tanks and artillery while punching ahead on the ground in central and western parts of the country with an Iranian-trained force that could number 10,000 or more.
Official: US Not Notified of Russia Firing Missiles Through Iraq, Syria VOA 07 Oct 2015 -- Neither Russia nor Iraq warned the United States that cruise missiles had entered Iraqi airspace en route to Syria, a U.S. official told VOA.
Russia Deploys Mi-24 Helicopter Gunships Near Afghan Border Sputnik 07 Oct 2015 -- Russia's military said it will beef up its force in Tajikistan, which neighbors Afghanistan's Kunduz province, the site of a recent uptick in Taliban violence.
For Russians, Syria Campaign is Symbol of Competence VOA 07 Oct 2015 -- Russians have an old expression: 'You can't argue with the weather.' But some may have found it jarring to hear the daily forecast promising unusually clear skies and warm temperatures throughout October.
Iraq to officially request Russian military action against Daesh Press TV 07 Oct 2015 -- Iraq is planning to officially ask Russia for airstrikes against Daesh in a bid to purge the Takfiri militant group from the territories it controls in the west and north of the Arab country.
Daesh terrorists set oil well alight in northern Iraq Press TV 07 Oct 2015 -- Takfiri Daesh terrorists have attacked an oil field in Iraq's conflict-stricken northern province of Kirkuk and set fire to an oil well there.
Iraq May Ask Russia for Airstrikes Against Islamic State Sputnik 07 Oct 2015 -- According to the head of Iraq's parliament's defence and security committee, Baghdad may soon request Russian air support in battling the Islamic State.
Frustrated by US, Some Iraqis Look to Russia to Defeat IS VOA 07 Oct 2015 -- Russia on Wednesday shot 26 long range cruise missiles from its navy ships in the Caspian Sea across Iraqi airspace to hit both anti-government and Islamic State targets in Syria, further ramping up its fierce bombing campaign there.
US Rules Out Intelligence Sharing With Russia on Fighting ISIL Sputnik 07 Oct 2015 -- State Department spokesman John Kirby said that the United States has ruled out any intelligence sharing with Russia in the fight against ISIL.
Russian Warships Launch Missiles Against IS In Syria RFE/RL 07 Oct 2015 -- Russian Defense Minister Sergei Shoigu says Russian warships in the Caspian Sea have launched cruise missiles at the Islamic State (IS) militant group in Syria.
Russian Navy Fires Missiles into Syria VOA 07 Oct 2015 -- Russia, which has been carrying out airstrikes in Syria, said Wednesday it has used four warships in the Caspian Sea to launch rockets at Islamic State targets in the war-torn country.
Risky Business: Russian Syria Bombing Jeopardizes Ties With Sunni World RFE/RL 07 Oct 2015 -- Moscow could lose significant influence in the Middle East as nations there react angrily to its bombing of Syrian opposition targets.
Russia Announces Helicopter Reinforcements For Tajik Base Amid Afghan Unrest RFE/RL 07 Oct 2015 -- Russia has announced that it will deploy attack and military-transport helicopters to beef up its military presence in Tajikistan amid rising insecurity in northern Afghanistan.
Special briefing by Foreign Ministry Spokesperson Maria Zakharova, Moscow, October 6, 2015 Russia Ministry of Foreign Affairs 06 Oct 2015
US, Turkey Threaten to Shoot Down Russian Jets for Airspace Violations Sputnik 06 Oct 2015 -- The US and Turkey have threatened to shoot down Russian warplanes if they stray into Turkish airspace, following two accidental, momentary violations of the Syria-Turkey border by Russian military aircraft.
Erdogan Says Turkey Cannot Endure Violation Of Its Airspace By Russia RFE/RL 06 Oct 2015 -- Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan has said that his country 'cannot endure' Russian aircraft violating its airspace along the Syrian border, warning that 'an attack on Turkey means an attack on NATO.'
NATO Leader Says Russia Building 'Arc of Steel' in Europe AFPS 06 Oct 2015 -- In the same vein as Winston Churchill's Iron Curtain metaphor, a NATO commander said today that Russia is building an "arc of steel" from the Arctic to the Mediterranean Sea.
US Concerned About Russian Military Deployment in Mediterranean Sputnik 06 Oct 2015 -- Commander of the Allied Joint Force Command Naples Adm. Mark Ferguson said that Russia has introduced air defense cruise missile systems and new platforms in the Mediterranean as it is "building the capability to project power into the maritime domain."
Erdogan: Ankara-Moscow Relations at Risk VOA 06 Oct 2015 -- Turkey's president on Tuesday questioned the future of relations between Ankara and Moscow after multiple reports of airspace violations by Russian military planes along the Turkish border with Syria.
Russia rejects Palmyra strike claims as 'absolute lie' Press TV 06 Oct 2015 -- Russia has dismissed as 'absolute lies' reports that its warplanes have targeted the world-renowned ancient city of Palmyra in Syria.
US says Russia striking CIA-backed militants in Syria Press TV 06 Oct 2015 -- A new US intelligence assessment says Russia has been targeting militant groups backed by the Central Intelligence Agency (CIA) in Syria, deepening US anger at Moscow.
Russia Says No Ground Troops In Syria, Not Recruiting Volunteers RFE/RL 06 Oct 2015 -- Russian officials stressed on October 6 that Moscow will not deploy ground troops in Syria, and said it is not recruiting volunteers to fight on the side of President Bashar al-Assad.
Russia Asks Anti-ISIL Coalition to Share Intelligence Sputnik 06 Oct 2015 -- The Russian Defense Ministry asked military attaches of the anti-ISIL coalition member-countries to share their intelligence on Islamic State militant positions in Syria.
US Prepared to Continue Deconfliction Talks With Russia on Syria Sputnik 06 Oct 2015 -- The United States stands ready to continue the deconfliction discussions on Syria with Russia.
Russian Airstrikes in Syria on Tuesday Wreak Havoc Among ISIL Militants Sputnik 06 Oct 2015 -- Russian precision airstrikes on Islamic State munition depots, armored vehicles and command posts have created panic among the militants, according to the Russian Defense Ministry's spokesman.
Russian Warplanes Destroy ISIL HQ Near Palmyra, Up To 40 Militants Killed Sputnik 06 Oct 2015 -- A Russian military spokesman dismissed earlier reports that Russian warplanes had bombed the ancient city of Palmyra, as was claimed by several international media outlets.
Russia Deploys Mi-24 Helicopter Gunships to Syria Anti-ISIL Operation Sputnik 06 Oct 2015 -- Russia has deployed Mi-24 helicopter gunships to Syria as part of its operation against ISIL targets.
Russia Attacking Syrian Opposition, Not ISIL Militants - Stoltenberg Sputnik 06 Oct 2015 -- NATO Secretary General Jens Stoltenberg said that he urged Russia to play a constructive and cooperative role in the fight against ISIL.
Russia to Start Development of New-Generation Engines for Rockets, Aircraft Sputnik 06 Oct 2015 -- Russia's United Engine Corporation plans to start work on the development of advanced aircraft and rocket engines.
Russia looking into Turkey airspace violation claims Press TV 06 Oct 2015 -- Moscow says it is investigating the allegation by Ankara that Russian jets targeting terrorists in Syria have violated Turkish airspace for a second time, reports say.
US Seeks 'Constructive' Response from Russia VOA 06 Oct 2015 -- A State Department spokesman says the U.S. would not want to see Russia transfer its "formula" in Syria to Iraq.
Lukashenka Says Belarus Doesn't Need Russian Base RFE/RL 06 Oct 2015 -- President Alyaksandr Lukashenka has said he is not aware of plans to establish a Russian military air base in Belarus.
US, UK to Hold Observation Flight Over Russia on October 5-10 Sputnik 05 Oct 2015 -- According to the head of the Russia's National Nuclear Risk Reduction Center, teams of international experts from the United States and the United Kingdom will perform an observation flight over Russia.
Statement by the North Atlantic Council on incursions into Turkey's airspace by Russian aircraft NATO 05 Oct 2015 -- The North Atlantic Council met today to hold consultations on the potential implications of the recent dangerous military actions of the Russian Federation in and around Syria.
In Madrid, Carter Says Russia's Strategy in Syria 'Way Off Track' AFPS 05 Oct 2015 -- Defense Secretary Ash Carter, who is visiting Spain as part of a four-nation European tour, said today Russia's approach to Syria is not well thought through and is doomed to fail.
Assad removal would contravene UN resolution: Russia Press TV 05 Oct 2015 -- Russia's foreign minister says unseating Syrian President Bashar al-Assad to resolve the country's crisis would constitute a blatant violation of a UN Security Council resolution.
NATO calls on Russia to cease Syria military strikes Press TV 05 Oct 2015 -- The North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO) has called on Russia to stop its anti-Daesh air campaign in Syria after Russian fighter jet strayed into Turkey's airspace.
U.S., NATO Condemn Russia's Violations Of Turkish Airspace RFE/RL 05 Oct 2015 -- The United States and its NATO allies have condemned Russia's incursions into Turkey's airspace, saying the violations were both dangerous and irresponsible.
NATO Claims Russian Airstrikes in Syria Did Not Target ISIL Sputnik 05 Oct 2015 -- NATO expressed deep concern with regard to the Russian military build-up in Syria and especially the attacks by the Russian Air Force on Hama, Homs, and Idlib which led to civilian casualties.
Moscow, Ankara Settle Turkish Airspace Violation Incident Sputnik 05 Oct 2015 -- Turkish Prime Minister Ahmet Davutoglu said that Russia contacted Turkey through diplomatic channels and told Ankara that Moscow respects Turkey's borders.
Russian Warplanes Destroy ISIL Base in Syria's Idlib Sputnik 05 Oct 2015 -- Russian Su-24M and Su-34 bombers operating from the Hmeymim airbase have destroyed a number of key ISIL facilities, a Defense Ministry spokesman said.
Kremlin: 'Volunteers' May Join Syrian Forces VOA 05 Oct 2015 -- A top Russian lawmaker says 'a unit of Russian volunteers,' including battle hardened veterans who fought in eastern Ukraine, may join Syrian government troops fighting Islamic State extremists and other terrorists in that country.
Analysts: Russian Airstrikes Mirror Assad's VOA 05 Oct 2015 -- For more than a year, Syrian insurgents and civilians in rebellious areas in the war-torn country have been enduring a reign of terror from the skies with President Bashar al-Assad's aircraft dropping cheaply produced improvised "barrel bombs" on them. Now they're coming under attack from Russian bombers firing so-called "dumb missiles" designed to maximize casualties.
Russian Warships Hold Missile, Artillery Drills in Mediterranean - Ministry Sputnik 05 Oct 2015 -- Black Sea Fleet press attaché Capt. 1st Rank Vyacheslav Trukhachyov said that a group of Russian Black Sea Fleet ships has conducted missile and artillery exercises in the Mediterranean Sea.
Russia to intensify Syria airstrikes against IS People's Daily 04 Oct 2015 -- Russia's air forces will intensify airstrikes against the posts of extremist group Islamic State (IS) in Syria, a senior military official said Saturday.
Russia air strikes in Syria worrying: Turkish president Press TV 04 Oct 2015 -- Turkey's president has expressed concern over Russia's bombing campaign against terrorists in Syria as Moscow says its airstrikes have inflicted severe harm on the Daesh Takfiri group.
Assad: Military Campaign By Russia, Allies Vital To Save Middle East RFE/RL 04 Oct 2015 -- Syrian President Bashar al-Assad said the success of a military campaign by Russia, Syria, and its allies against the Islamic State militant group was crucial to save the Middle East from destruction.
Merkel: Resolution of Syrian Crisis is Impossible Without Putin, Assad Sputnik 04 Oct 2015 -- Russia and the United States, as well as Saudi Arabia, Iran, Germany, France and the UK, can play an important role in the political resolution of the Syrian crisis, Angela Merkel said in an interview with radio station Deutschlandfunk.
Putin May Become France's Partner in Anti-ISIL Fight – Hollande Sputnik 04 Oct 2015 -- Currently, Russian President Vladimir Putin is not an ally of France in Syria, but he may become a partner in search of a political resolution to the Syrian crisis and in fight with the Islamic State militants, French President Francois Hollande said Sunday.
Assad: Russia, Syria, Iran, Iraq Will Save Region or It Will be Destroyed Sputnik 04 Oct 2015 -- The partnership of Syria, Russia, Iran and Iraq will save the region from collapsing. Otherwise 'the region will be destroyed'.
Russian Aviation Hits ISIL Training Center, Munition Depot Near Al-Tabqa Sputnik 04 Oct 2015 -- Russian aviation launched a strike against an Islamic State training center near the city of al-Tabqa in Syria's Raqqa destroying the center's infrastructure, Defense Ministry spokesman Igor Konashenkov said Sunday.
Syria's Assad: Middle East Would Collapse if Russian Airstrikes Fail VOA 04 Oct 2015 -- Syrian President Bashar al-Assad said Sunday that the whole Middle East would be destroyed if Russia's aerial bombardment of militants opposed to his regime does not succeed.
Syrian Activists: Russian Airstrikes Focused on Rebels VOA 04 Oct 2015 -- Russian officials said they have carried out 60 airstrikes on Islamic State extremists since launching their air campaign last week, but Syrian activists and insurgent commanders say moderate rebel factions continue to be the primary targets four days into Moscow's air campaign.
Headed for the High Seas: Russia Restoring Its Maritime Strength Sputnik 04 Oct 2015 -- Russia is restoring its naval power and sustaining its naval presence worldwide.
Moscow says 600 militants have fled Syria amid Russian airstrikes Press TV 03 Oct 2015 -- Russia says its airstrikes on positions of the Daesh Takfiri terrorists in Syria have forced about 600 militants to leave and head to Europe.
Russia reports new 'surgical airstrikes' on Daesh positions in Raqqa Press TV 03 Oct 2015 -- Russia's Defense Ministry has announced a fresh "surgical airstrike" by Russian jet fighters against the positions of the militants of the Daesh terrorist group in Syria , knocking out the battle headquarters of the Takfiri militants near the Northeastern city of Raqqa.
Obama Rejects Kremlin View That All Syrian Rebels Are Terrorists RFE/RL 03 Oct 2015 -- U.S. President Barack Obama has rejected Russia's views on Syria's four-year-old crisis, saying that not everyone who is opposed to Syrian President Bashar al-Assad's regime is a terrorist, as the Kremlin maintains.
Russia Says Syria Air Strikes Will Intensify RFE/RL 03 Oct 2015 -- Russia has said that it will step up its air strikes in Syria after announcing that its air force has flown more than 60 sorties since September 30 and significantly reduced the military potential of 'terrorists.'
Russian Aviation Hits Over 50 ISIL Facilities in Syria With 60 Flights Sputnik 03 Oct 2015 -- Russian aviation has conducted over 60 flights hitting more than 50 infrastructure facilities of the Islamic State in Syria, Andrei Kartapolov, the head of the Main Operations Directorate of the Russian General Staff said Saturday.
Russia Launches New Wave of Airstrikes in Syria VOA 03 Oct 2015 -- Russia said that its warplanes bombed a terrorist stronghold and other terror targets in northern Syria on Saturday and that it would continue its push against Islamic State extremists despite Western claims that the aerial campaign is largely targeting Western-backed rebels.
Tense Paris Meeting Underscores Divide Over Syria VOA 03 Oct 2015 -- They shook hands at the Elysee presidential Palace and sipped coffee in the sun, but the tense faces of French President Francois Hollande and his Russian counterpart Vladimir Putin during their recent meeting underscore a widening chasm between the West and Moscow over Syria.
Russia Begins Construction of Anti-Missile Radar in Arctic Sputnik 03 Oct 2015 -- The construction and renovation of the missile attack warning system is set to be completed by 2020, according to the Russian Aerospace Defense Forces.
Syria Air Campaign Raises Questions About Russian Capabilities VOA 02 Oct 2015 -- Russia's days-old air campaign in Syria is giving U.S. officials and analysts their first in-depth look at Russian capabilities in decades, and it has some wondering whether Russia is able to effectively use its most advanced weapons.
Russia Seeks to Strengthen Lebanese Army to Fight ISIL Sputnik 02 Oct 2015 -- Russia strengthens its alliance with Middle Eastern countries and provides the Lebanese army with military equipment, media reported.
Diplomatic Tension Rises Over Syria Strikes RFE/RL 02 Oct 2015 -- Russia says it has launched a third day of air strikes in Syria and hit 12 Islamic State (IS) targets as diplomatic tension continues to mount over the aims of Moscow's moves in that war-torn country.
Russian Jets Destroy ISIL Command Post, Bunker in Syria Sputnik 02 Oct 2015 -- Russian Su-24M and Su-25 attack aircraft destroyed an ISIL command post in the Idlib province, whereas Su-34 and Su-25 planes eliminated an ISIL fortified bunker in the Hama province.
Reports of Russian Airstrikes Hitting Non-ISIL Targets 'Utter Nonsense' Sputnik 02 Oct 2015 -- According to Russian Defense Ministry spokesman, media reports claiming that Russian airstrikes on Islamic State extremist group positions in Syria hit the wrong targets are complete nonsense.
Russian Air Force Destroys ISIL Command Center, Training Camp in Syria Sputnik 02 Oct 2015 -- The Russian Air Force's Su-34 Fullback strike fighters have destroyed an Islamic State command center and training camp, Russian Defense Ministry spokesman Gen.-Maj. Igor Konashenkov said Friday.
New Syria Strikes, Coalition Urges Russian Halt VOA 02 Oct 2015 -- Russia carried out more airstrikes in Syria Friday, as a U.S.-led coalition urged Moscow to halt any attacks on the Syrian opposition and focus on Islamic State targets.
Analysts: Russia's Syria Strikes Shake Regional Powers VOA 02 Oct 2015 -- "Tell Barack Obama, tell Russia, tell Iran that too many people are dying every day," said Hani, a first grade teacher from Syria, as he awaited entry to a refugee camp in Croatia in late September. "Too many people."
Russia May Sell to India 3 Frigates Idling Without Ukraine-Supplied Engines Sputnik 02 Oct 2015 -- Russia is considering the sale to India of three Project 11356 patrol ships that were expected to join the Russian Navy but lack Ukraine-built gas turbine engines (GTEs), a Russian military-technical cooperation source said Friday.
Russia Will Defend Its Right to Arctic Oil, Gas With Missiles Sputnik 02 Oct 2015 -- Russia is building new military facilities on Arctic Ocean islands where it plans to deploy air defense units in a bid to strengthen its foothold in the Arctic and gain access to the region's vast energy resources, a German newspaper wrote on Friday.
U.S., Russian Officials Hold Talks on Maintaining Safe Air Ops Over Syria AFPS 01 Oct 2015 -- U.S. and Russian defense officials spoke via video teleconference this morning to discuss ways to maintain safe air operations over Syria, Pentagon Press Secretary Peter Cook said.
Over 50 warplanes, helicopters involved in Syria airstrikes: Russia Press TV 01 Oct 2015 -- Russia's Defense Ministry says over 50 Russian warplanes and helicopters are involved in the country's airstrikes against militants in Syria.
US Has No Plans to Share Intelligence With Russia on Syria Sputnik 01 Oct 2015 -- Washington is not going to share intelligence with Moscow, according to the Pentagon spokesperson.
Airstrikes in Syria successful: Russia Press TV 01 Oct 2015 -- Russia's Ministry of Defense has described the country's first airstrikes against the Takfiri Daesh terrorists in Syria as successful.
Russia Carries Out More Syria Strikes, To Consult With U.S. RFE/RL 01 Oct 2015 -- Russian jets launched strikes in Syria for a second day on October 1, saying Islamic State (IS) militants had been targeted, but the areas hit appeared to be held by groups opposing the IS group and the Syrian government.
Putin's Strategy In Syria: Clever Gambit Or Doomed Game Plan? RFE/RL 01 Oct 2015 -- Russian President Vladimir Putin has sent warplanes to Syria ostensibly to bomb positions of the Islamic State (IS) militant group.
US, Russia Hold First Deconfliction Talks on Syria Sputnik 01 Oct 2015 -- Moscow and Washington discussed how they could deconflict the situation in Syria.
Russian Su-34 Strike Fighters Combat ISIL in Syria Sputnik 01 Oct 2015 -- The advanced aircraft are delivering airstrikes against the terrorists' positions in Syria.
Russian Military Fully Coordinating Activity With Syrian Army - Damascus Sputnik 01 Oct 2015 -- Moscow coordinates all its activities in Syria with Damascus, the Syrian ambassador to Russia said.
Marines Guarding Russian Air Force at Syrian Hmaimim Airbase Sputnik 01 Oct 2015 -- A battalion of Russian marines are providing security for the Russian Air Force deployed on the Hmaimim Airbase in Syria.
Russian Airstrikes Destroy ISIL HQ in Syria Sputnik 01 Oct 2015 -- The Russian Air Force overnight destroyed a terrorist headquarters and arms depot in Syria's northwestern Idlib region during airstrikes aimed at Islamic State militants, the press service of the Russian Defense Ministry said Thursday.
US, Russia Military Officials Holding Talks on Syria VOA 01 Oct 2015 -- The United States and Russia called an emergency teleconference Thursday morning in an effort to avoid firing upon each other as each wages air campaigns in Syria.
Russia's Actions Indicate Long-term Commitment in Syria VOA 01 Oct 2015 -- Twenty-eight civilians, including women and children, were killed Wednesday in Russian airstrikes in Syria, an opposition monitoring group claimed.
Lavrov Says Russia Targeting Only Terrorists in Syria VOA 01 Oct 2015 -- Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov sought to soften disagreements with the United States over the air campaign in Syria, saying Moscow sees 'eye to eye' with the U.S.-led coalition against the Islamic State when it comes to identifying terrorists.
Russia's Syrian Strikes May Fuel Global Jihad, Experts Say VOA 01 Oct 2015 -- The start of Russian airstrikes to prop up embattled Syrian President Bashar al-Assad's government could trigger a new wave of foreign fighters, strengthening jihadists across the region, experts say.
'Irreproachable' Air Strikes: Russian Media Spin The Syria Offensive RFE/RL 01 Oct 2015 -- Russia may have taken the world by surprise when it launched air strikes in Syria, but the media back home in Moscow were more than ready
Russian Forces to Get 80,000 Sets of 'Future Soldier' Gear Till Year End Sputnik 01 Oct 2015 -- The Russian military will get about 80,000 sets of the Ratnik 'future soldier' gear before the end of 2015, Russian Land Forces' commander Col. Gen. Oleg Salyukov told journalists on Thursday.
Baghdad says would welcome Russia strikes in Iraq Press TV 01 Oct 2015 -- Shortly after Russia launched airstrikes against militants in Syria, Iraq announces that it would also welcome any such military measures by Moscow on its soil.
Iran voices support for Russian airstrikes in Syria Press TV 01 Oct 2015 -- The Iranian Foreign Ministry has announced the Islamic Republic's support for the Russian military campaign against terrorists in Syria.
Iraq Assures US of Protecting Intelligence From Russians, Iranians Sputnik 01 Oct 2015 -- Iraq has agreed to withhold intelligence information the United States shares with it from the Russians, Syrians and the Iranians, US anti-Islamic State coalition spokesperson Col. Steve Warren said during a press conference on Thursday.

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Weapons of Mass Destruction (WMD)

October 2015 - Russia Special Weapons News