September 2016 - Russia Special Weapons News

Russia's Syria Campaign Seen Purely as Bid to Prop Up Assad VOA 30 Sep 2016 -- The Russian air force's bombing campaign in Syria marked its first anniversary Friday, with Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov saying there was no "time frame" for the operation.
Analysis: 'Barbarous' Syria Bombings, MH17 Blame: What Consequences Could Russia Face? RFE/RL 30 Sep 2016 -- In terms of its reputation, Russia has had one of its worst weeks ever. Incensed that Moscow is pushing ahead with the "barbarous" bombing of Aleppo and angry over an attack on an aid convoy that is widely blamed on Russian and Syrian forces, the United States is threatening to stop all cooperation with the Kremlin on Syria. And an international investigation concluded that it was a Russian missile system, smuggled into separatist-held territory in Ukraine and then spirited back across the border, that brought down a Malaysia Airlines jet in 2014 and killed all 298 people aboard.
Russia Applauds OPEC Accord But Says It Will Maintain Output RFE/RL 30 Sep 2016 -- Russian Energy Minister Aleksandr Novak has praised the OPEC oil cartel's agreement to curb production but signaled that Russia intends to keep output at its current record levels.
Briefing by Foreign Ministry Spokesperson Maria Zakharova Moscow, September 29, 2016 Russia Ministry of Foreign Affairs 29 Sep 2016
Russian Officials Dig In On MH17, As Critics Decry 'Politics Of Denial' RFE/RL 29 Sep 2016 -- A series of denials by Russian officials and state-media allegations of bias and foul play present a view that is starkly discrepant with international criminal investigators' findings, announced this week, over the downing of a Malaysian airliner over eastern Ukraine in 2014.
US ending talks with Russia on Syrian crisis: Kerry Press TV 29 Sep 2016 -- US Secretary of State John Kerry says Washington is on the verge of putting an end to Syria talks with Russia over the assault on Aleppo.
Russia vows to keep up support for Syria in defiance of US threat Press TV 29 Sep 2016 -- Russia has pledged to continue its air campaign in Syria, defying a recent threat by the United States to halt its diplomacy with Moscow on the violence-hit country in the wake of heavy fighting in Aleppo.
Kerry: US 'On the Verge' of Suspending Talks with Russia Over Syria VOA 29 Sep 2016 -- Secretary of State John Kerry says the U.S. is "on the verge" of suspending talks with Russia over Syria because of Moscow's continued aerial bombardment of the Syrian city of Aleppo.
Russia Backs 2-day Aleppo Cease-fire VOA 29 Sep 2016 -- Russia said Thursday it supports a 48-hour cease-fire in the northern Syrian city of Aleppo, but not a longer truce proposed by the United States.
Kerry Says U.S. On Verge Of Suspending Cooperation With Moscow In Syria RFE/RL 29 Sep 2016 -- U.S. Secretary of State John Kerry said Washington was on the verge of suspending talks with Russia on a cease-fire agreement in Syria, as a devastating bombardment of the city of Aleppo by Russian and Syrian warplanes continued.
Russia says US inviting terrorists to attack its cities Press TV 29 Sep 2016 -- Russia has denounced US projection of possible attacks on Russian cities by terrorists fighting in Syria, saying the statement amounts to an invitation to terrorism.
FBI, Eyeing Russia, Finds More 'Attempted Intrusions' In U.S. Voter Databases RFE/RL 29 Sep 2016 -- FBI Director James Comey told Congress there have been more "attempted intrusions" in U.S. voter registration databases, and the agency is looking "very, very hard" at Russian hackers who may be trying to disrupt the U.S. election.
Russia's Supreme Court Upholds Ban On Crimean Tatars' Mejlis RFE/RL 29 Sep 2016 -- Russia's Supreme Court has upheld a decision by a Moscow-backed Crimean court to ban the Mejlis, the self-governing body of Crimean Tatars in the occupied Ukrainian territory.
Eyes on Target: Russian Troops Get New High-Tech Image-Stabilizing Binoculars Sputnik 29 Sep 2016 -- Russian naval personnel and airborne assault troops have received new state-of-the-art image-stabilizing binoculars that vastly outclass all foreign analogues.
Philippine President Turns to Russia, China Amid Coup Threat and War on Drugs Sputnik 28 Sep 2016 -- Amid a current cool in relations with Washington, Philippine President Rodrigo Duterte now wants to turn to Russia and China using them as a counterbalance to the US and the West.
Joint Investigation Team Report on the Downing of Malaysia Airlines Flight MH17 US Dept. of State 28 Sep 2016 -- The United States welcomes the interim report of the Joint Investigation Team on the shoot down of Malaysia Airlines Flight MH17.
Investigators: Missile that Downed MH17 was Brought in from Russia VOA 28 Sep 2016 -- International investigators say a Malaysian airliner that crashed over eastern Ukraine in July 2014 was shot down by a surface-to-air missile that was transported into the country from Russia.
International Criminal Probe Blames Missile From Russia For MH17 Tragedy RFE/RL 28 Sep 2016 -- An international criminal investigation into the MH17 tragedy in eastern Ukraine in 2014 has determined the Malaysian Airlines passenger jet was shot down by a Buk antiaircraft missile fired from separatist controlled territory in Ukraine.
Russia 'Disappointed' In MH17 Investigation, Dismisses Probe As 'Biased' RFE/RL 28 Sep 2016 -- Russian officials have decried the interim results of an international investigation that found that the Malaysian Airlines passenger jet that crashed in eastern Ukraine in July 2014 was shot down by an antiaircraft missile transported from Russia and fired from rebel-controlled territory in Ukraine.
Statement by the NATO Secretary General on MH-17 investigation NATO 28 Sep 2016 -- The downing of flight MH17 on July 17 2014 was a global tragedy which cost the lives of 298 people. As the UN Security Council has concluded, those responsible should be held accountable.
Missile that downed MH17 came from Russia: joint investigation team People's Daily 28 Sep 2016 -- The Buk missile that downed flight MH17 was brought from Russia and fired from a region in eastern Ukraine controlled by pro-Russian rebels, according to the Joint Investigation Team's (JIT) report released Wednesday by the Netherlands Public Prosecutor's Office.
Russia rejects downing Malaysia plane, refutes probe findings Press TV 28 Sep 2016 -- Russia has strongly dismissed alleged involvement in the 2014 downing of a Malaysia Airlines flight over the skies of Ukraine after a Dutch-led investigation indicated the blame rests with Moscow.
Dutch Investigators Present Report on MH17 Crash, Russia Considers Probe Biased Sputnik 28 Sep 2016 -- The Dutch-led Joint Investigation Team (JIT) on Wednesday presented a report on the details of the Malaysia Airlines flight MH17 plane in 2014, saying that it was downed by a Buk missile system which was allegedly brought from Russia, however Moscow disagreed with the team's conclusions.
US Warns Russia over Aleppo as UN Condemns 'War Crimes' VOA 28 Sep 2016 -- U.N. Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon has condemned the attacks on the two largest hospitals in rebel-held areas of the Syrian city of Aleppo as "war crimes." The comments came as the U.S. threatened to cut off contact with Russia over Syria unless it takes steps to halt the assault on Aleppo.
U.S. Threatens To End Cooperation With Russia Over Aleppo Assault RFE/RL 28 Sep 2016 -- U.S. Secretary of State John Kerry has threatened to cut off all cooperation with Russia over Syria unless Moscow and its Syrian allies end an ongoing air assault on the city of Aleppo.
US should meet obligation to separate Syria militants: Russia Press TV 28 Sep 2016 -- Russia has called on the United States to honor its commitment to make a distinction between terrorists operating in Syria and the so-called moderate opposition that is enjoying unwavering support from Washington.
Bombs Away: Russia to Build Unique Mine-Clearing Robot Based on Armata Sputnik 28 Sep 2016 -- A remote-controlled reconnaissance and demining vehicle capable of finding and defusing mines and destroying enemy fortifications is currently being developed in Russia, Izvestia wrote, adding that it is likely to use the same tracks as the Armata tank.
Putin's Chechnya Strongman Tightens Grip as Future Stability in Question VOA 28 Sep 2016 -- At a polling station in Chechnya's capital, Grozny, children in traditional costume danced to music as voters walked past to cast their ballots.
Childhood Friend Of Putin's Strikes It Rich, Report Says RFE/RL 27 Sep 2016 -- MOSCOW -- The independent Russian station Dozhd (TV Rain) has aired a report alleging that a childhood friend of President Vladimir Putin's is worth an estimated $550 million and owned a substantial stake in the Gunvor oil-trading company between 2005 and 2010.
Russian MoD Refutes Claim of Russian Bombers' Flight Close to Civilian Plane Sputnik 27 Sep 2016 -- The Russian Defense Ministry refuted Iceland's claim that Russian strategic bombers flew dangerously close to civilian aircraft over the Norwegian Sea.
Whenever Swedish Air Space Gets Violated, Russians Get the Blame Sputnik 27 Sep 2016 -- Recently, the Swedish Armed Forces reported that a Norwegian government aircraft had flown into Swedish territory without permission, an event which constitutes an undisputed violation. However, the public's attention was quickly shifted to a far-fetched Russian "encroachment," which is a far more gratifying topic for Swedish media.
Q&A: Amnesty Suspects Russian War Crimes In Syria, But Lacks Definitive Proof RFE/RL 27 Sep 2016 -- British Foreign Minister Boris Johnson says Russia "may have" committed war crimes by deliberately targeting a civilian convoy on September 19 with air strikes in rebel-held parts of Aleppo. Russia denies involvement, claiming rebels fighting against Moscow's ally, Syrian President Bashar al-Assad, or a U.S. drone strike were responsible.
Moscow Makes Public Full Text of Russia-US Deal on Syria Sputnik 27 Sep 2016 -- Moscow made public the full text of the Russia-US deal on Syria, the Russian Foreign Ministry announced on Tuesday.
Resolute Support: Russia to Continue Assisting Syria in Fight Against Terrorism Sputnik 27 Sep 2016 -- Moscow is determined to continue helping Syria in fight against terrorism and facilitating peace process in the war-torn country, the Russian Foreign Ministry said Tuesday.
Russian Troops Repel Simulated Landing Attack During Sakhalin Drills Sputnik 27 Sep 2016 -- Russian motorized rifle, tank and artillery units in conditions close to real fighting demonstrated an ability to make "competent and courageous decisions," having prevented a simulated capture of the sea coast.
Russian Central Military District Holds First S-400 Missile Launch Exercise Sputnik 27 Sep 2016 -- The exercise was the first drill involving the S-400 air defense system held in Russia's Central Military District.
Russian, Indian Troops Use Orlan-10 Drones in Indra-2016 Drills Sputnik 27 Sep 2016 -- Russian and Indian troops deployed Orlan-10 drones to detect simulated illegal armed groups during joint drills.
Russia Supplies Indian Navy With Over 100 Engines for MiG-29 Fighter Jets Sputnik 27 Sep 2016 -- Russia's United Engine Corporation has delivered over 100 turbojet engines for the Mikoyan MiG-29 (NATO reporting name Fulcrum) fighter aircraft used by the Indian Navy, the UEC said in a press release issued on Tuesday.
Expert: Putin's Reported Plan to Restore KGB May Reflect Fear of Overthrow VOA 26 Sep 2016 -- The consolidation of Russia's intelligence agencies into a massive security ministry, in effect recreating the old Soviet KGB, is a worrisome prospect for some Kremlin watchers.
Iceland Says Russian Bombers Taking 'Risks' Near Passenger Jets RFE/RL 26 Sep 2016 -- Russian military aircraft recently flew under an Icelandic passenger jet without being detected by radar, raising alarms about their risky behavior, Icelandic officials said on September 26.
Clinton, Trump Clash In Bitter Debate, Spar Over Russian Hacking RFE/RL 26 Sep 2016 -- U.S. presidential candidates Hillary Clinton and Donald Trump sparred over economic and foreign policy in a tense one-on-one debate on September 26, with the two rivals exchanging insults and interrupting each other in the first of three such match-ups ahead of the November 8 election.
Russia Claims New Images Show Rebels Did Not Down MH17 RFE/RL 26 Sep 2016 -- Russia has released what it claims are radar images showing that the missile that downed Malaysia Airlines Flight 17 was fired from territory that was not controlled by pro-Russia separatists in eastern Ukraine.
Russia Under Fire At UN After Deadly Aleppo Bombings RFE/RL 26 Sep 2016 -- Britain, France, and the United States have lashed out at Russia for its actions in Syria, amid an intensification of the bombing campaign over the northern city of Aleppo.
Russia, Assad Using More Destructive Weaponry in Bid to Subdue Aleppo VOA 26 Sep 2016 -- The size of the bomb craters is becoming larger and the destructive power is growing of the missiles that Russian and Syrian government warplanes are launching at civilians and rebels in Aleppo.
Import Substitution: Glonass Satellites to Switch to Russian Electronics Sputnik 26 Sep 2016 -- By 2020 a Russian GLONASS K-2 global positioning satellite in place, built entirely from Russian-made parts as part of the government's ongoing effort to substitute imports amid sanctions, Izvestia reported.
Russian Gov't Approves Agreement With Armenia to Form Joint Caucasus Air Defense Sputnik 26 Sep 2016 -- The Russian government has approved an agreement with Armenia to establish a joint regional air defense in the Caucasus, a decree published on the official portal for legal information Monday stated.
Russian Armata Vehicles to Sport Smart Fire-Suppression Gear With 'Black Boxes' Sputnik 26 Sep 2016 -- Russia's Armata tanks and Kurganets and Bumerang APCs will be fitted out with an intellectual fire-suppression system with "black boxes" to register everything that happens on board.
Iran Delivers 38 Tonnes of Heavy Water to Russia in September Sputnik 26 Sep 2016 -- Tehran has delivered 38 metric tonnes of heavy water to Russia this month.
UN Security Council Holds Urgent Talks on Aleppo, as Syrian, Russian Jets Pound Rebel-held Sector VOA 25 Sep 2016 -- The U.N. Security Council held urgent talks Sunday about the deadly surge of violence in Aleppo as Syrian and Russian jet fighters bombarded the rebel-controlled eastern sector of the Syrian city.
At Security Council, UN envoy appeals for Russia and US cooperation to 'pull Syria back from the brink' UN News 25 Sep 2016 -- Amid the unprecedented military assault on eastern Aleppo, where fireballs from incendiary bombs "light up the pitch darkness," the United Nations Special Envoy for Syria today strongly appealed to the Security Council – particularly permanent members Russia and the United States – to rescue a recently collapsed cessation of hostilities, end the bloodshed and speed aid into the iconic city where, overall, some two million people remain under a de facto siege.
Russia, Turkey Reach a 'Gentleman's Agreement' on Syrian Airspace Sputnik 25 Sep 2016 -- Turkey and Russia are currently in talks over a protocol to coordinate combat flights in the Syrian airspace to prevent incidents, a Turkish military source told Hurriyet Daily News.
Return of peace to Syria 'almost impossible', Russia says Press TV 25 Sep 2016 -- Russia says the return of peace to war-torn Syria is almost "impossible," more than a week after US warplanes carried out several airstrikes against Syrian government forces, killing dozens.
Hawkeye: Russia's New 5th Gen Radar 'Can See a Soldier's Helmet' During Combat Sputnik 25 Sep 2016 -- Fifth-generation radar technology developed in Russia provides an absolutely unique resolution, which enables it to "see a soldier's helmet" during combat, a representative of the United Instrument Corporation told RIA Novosti.
Russian Frigate Admiral Grigorovich Sets Sail for Mediterranean Sea Sputnik 24 Sep 2016 -- Black Sea Fleet press service said that Russian Frigate Admiral Grigorovich left the port of Sevastopol for Greece via the Mediterranean Sea to commemorate Admiral Fyodor Ushakov as a part of the annual Russian week on the Ionian Islands.
British Typhoon jets intercept Russian Blackjack bombers Press TV 23 Sep 2016 -- The UK has scrambled jet fighters to intercept two Russian bombers that were approaching its borders, the British defense ministry says.
Russia prevented Syria's disintegration, Lavrov says Press TV 23 Sep 2016 -- Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov says it is high time to learn the lessons of the previous crises and prevent the ongoing foreign-sponsored militancy in Syria from sliding down to a "catastrophe".
'Few Indications' Russia, Syria Plan to Ease Crisis VOA 23 Sep 2016 -- U.S. military and intelligence officials are questioning whether Russia has the will or the capability to do anything about the growing crisis in Syria, accusing Moscow of perpetuating a humanitarian catastrophe.
Russia, Pakistan to hold first joint military exercise Press TV 23 Sep 2016 -- Pakistan and Russia are set to hold their first ever joint military exercise, which is dubbed Friendship 2016.
First Russia-Pakistan Military Drills Druzhba-2016 to Bolster Defense Ties Sputnik 23 Sep 2016 -- The first joint Druzhba-2016 ("Friendship-2016") exercises between Pakistan and Russia are aimed at developing cooperation between ground forces and laying foundation for closer ties in the defense area, the Pakistani Embassy in Moscow announced Friday.
Putin Proposes Presidential Office Insider Volodin As New Duma Speaker RFE/RL 23 Sep 2016 -- Russian President Vladimir Putin has proposed his deputy chief of staff, Vyacheslav Volodin, to be chairman of the new State Duma, a move that would further tighten Putin's control over the political arena after a massive election win for the ruling United Russia party.
Russian Corporation Says in Talks With Several Countries on MiG-35 Jets Supplies Sputnik 23 Sep 2016 -- According to a spokeswoman for the company, Russian Aircraft Corporation MiG is currently holding talks with several potential buyers of the MiG-35 jet fighters.
Putin Suggests Candidacy of Aide Volodin as New Duma Speaker Sputnik 23 Sep 2016 -- Russian President Vladimir Putin proposed Friday the candidacy of his aide Vyacheslav Volodin as the next State Duma speaker.
Admiral Kuznetsov Carrier Steps In to Support Russia's Anti-Daesh Ops in Syria Sputnik 23 Sep 2016 -- Russian aircraft carrier Admiral Kuznetsov will be heading to the Mediterranean Sea in order to support the ongoing anti-Daesh military operation in Syria while carrying a full complement of weaponry and military aircraft.
Kremlin Reportedly Planning to Revive KGB-style Security Behemoth VOA 23 Sep 2016 -- The Russian newspaper Kommersant, citing unnamed sources, reported this week that before the next presidential election, scheduled for March 2018, the Kremlin plans to create a gigantic new ministry that will absorb most of Russia's existing security agencies.
Statement by Pentagon Press Secretary Peter Cook on U.S.-Russia Video Conference DoD 22 Sep 2016
U.S. Lawmakers Accuse Russia Of Trying To Influence U.S. Election RFE/RL 22 Sep 2016 -- Leading Democrats on the congressional intelligence committees have accused Russia of trying to influence the November 8 U.S. election via computer hacking and called on Russian President Vladimir Putin to "order a halt to this activity."
Navalny Calls On Russian Elections Chief To Quit Over 'Falsifications' RFE/RL 22 Sep 2016 -- Prominent Russian opposition figure Aleksei Navalny has called on Central Election Commission (CEC) chief Ella Pamfilova to resign over alleged falsifications in the September 18 parliamentary elections, which gave the ruling United Russia party a constitutional majority in the State Duma and kept liberal Kremlin critics out of the lower parliament house.
Putin Taps Duma Speaker As New Foreign Spy Boss In Latest Kremlin Shakeup RFE/RL 22 Sep 2016 -- President Vladimir Putin has appointed parliament speaker Sergei Naryshkin as head of Russia's foreign intelligence agency, the latest in a series of personnel firings, appointments, and shuffles at the Kremlin and top security agencies.
Russia to Supply Angola With Upgraded Mi-24P Attack Helicopters Sputnik 22 Sep 2016 -- Russia to Supply Angola With Upgraded Mi-24P Attack Helicopters
US General: 'Russians Are Responsible' for Attack on Syria Aid Convoy VOA 22 Sep 2016 -- America's top military officer said Russia bears ultimate responsibility for an airstrike on a U.N. humanitarian convoy in Syria, and that he does not favor sharing military intelligence with Moscow in the Syrian conflict.
Tsar Putin? Zhirinovsky Raises Eyebrows With Remarks At Kremlin Ceremony RFE/RL 22 Sep 2016 -- they do the Kremlin's bidding on most issues, particularly when it comes to foreign policy, but are rivals of United Russia and sometimes criticize it vocally.
Russia's TOS-1A 'Sunheat' Heavy Flamethrower Just Nearly Doubled Its Range Sputnik 22 Sep 2016 -- The TOS-1A Solntsepyok ('Sunheat') heavy flamethrower needs little introduction. The system has been successfully deployed by the Syrian and Iraqi armies against Daesh (ISIL/ISIS) terrorists. Now, the system has become even more deadly, with testing of new shells which would nearly double the system's range entering its final stages.
Russian Armata Tank Becomes Impervious to Depleted Uranium Shells Sputnik 22 Sep 2016 -- A new modification of an active protection system designed by Russian scientists has effectively made the Armata tank impervious to depleted uranium armor-piercing discarded sabot (APDS) shells.
Unwise to share intelligence with Russia on Daesh: Top US general Press TV 22 Sep 2016 -- The top US military officer says it would be unwise to share intelligence with Russia if Washington and Moscow were to ever work together against the Daesh (ISIL) terrorist group in Syria.
Putin Names Duma Speaker As New Spy Boss RFE/RL 22 Sep 2016 Russian President Vladimir Putin has decided to appoint former parliament speaker Sergei Naryshkin as the chief of the country's foreign intelligence agency (SVR).
US Growing More Wary of Russia's Syria Strategy VOA 22 Sep 2016 -- Russia's ability to leverage its intervention in Syria into any sort of ongoing advantage on the world stage may be starting to wane with the current cease-fire deal still in shambles.
Russia, U.S. Trade Accusations Over Syria Convoy Strike; Kerry Pushes No-Fly Zone RFE/RL 21 Sep 2016 -- Russia and the United States have traded angry accusations over the attack of a Syrian humanitarian aid convoy, as U.S. Secretary of State John Kerry called for a no-fly zone in some parts of northern Syria.
Russia Moving From Recession To Stagnation, EBRD Economist Says RFE/RL 21 Sep 2016 -- As Russia touts signs of renewed growth after a long recession, the self-exiled former Kremlin adviser who is now chief economist at the European Bank for Reconstruction and Development (EBRD) says his homeland's prospects for recovery in fact remain bleak.
NATO Rejects Russia's Plan to Ensure Air Safety in Baltic Region Sputnik 21 Sep 2016 -- NATO has rejected Russia's proposal aimed at improving air safety over the Baltic Sea. Russian envoy Alexander Grushko noted commenting on the matter that the Alliance is seemingly seeking to justify its decision to halt cooperation with Russia.
John Kerry calls on Russia to ground Syrian fighter jets Press TV 21 Sep 2016 -- US Secretary of State John Kerry has asked Russia to force the Syrian government into halting its airstrikes against terrorist groups, saying no-fly zones in certain areas of the country are the only way to revive hopes for an end to the Syrian conflict.
Russians bear responsibility for UN aid convoy strike: US officials Press TV 21 Sep 2016 -- Two top US officials say Russians bear responsibility for an airstrike that destroyed a UN humanitarian aid convoy near Syria's Aleppo province on Monday.
Eyewitness Accounts Contradict Russian Denials About Syria Aid Convoy Attack VOA 21 Sep 2016 -- Russian and Syrian officials maintained Wednesday their chorus of denials of any involvement in an attack on a humanitarian aid convoy near Aleppo earlier this week that has prompted a suspension of all U.N. aid to Syria. But survivors and emergency responders insist the 31-truck convoy came under a 20-missile barrage and that shelling and missiles launched either from warplanes or helicopters continued for two hours.
Fight Against Islamic State Looks Like A Cover For Russia's Imperial Gamble RFE/RL 21 Sep 2016 -- Karl Rove is relaxed but adamant: "The threat from Russia is definitely growing," he says. "Putin is becoming more bellicose; he feels he can push the edge of the envelope further than ever before.".
Russia to Send Admiral Kuznetsov Cruiser to Mediterranean Sea - Defense Minister Sputnik 21 Sep 2016 -- Russian Defense Minister said that Russia will send an aircraft carrier group with the Admiral Kuznetsov cruiser to the Mediterranean Sea to strengthen its capabilities there.
Russia's Northern, Pacific Fleets Participate in Arctic Region Tactical Drills Sputnik 21 Sep 2016 -- Russia's Northern and Pacific Fleet warship took part in tactical naval drills in the Arctic region, a spokesman for the Russian Navy said Wednesday.
Russian MoD Board to Discuss Aircraft Carrier's Entry to Active Service Sputnik 21 Sep 2016 -- The Russian Ministry od Defense will discuss Wednesday preparations for Russia's only aircraft-carrying cruiser for active service, the ministry said.
Russian Banker Casts Doubt on Reports of Putin's Secret Wealth VOA 21 Sep 2016 -- A Russian banker has reportedly tried to argue that President Vladimir Putin does not have vast secret wealth because he is "very much dedicated to his job."
Prominent Ukrainian Anti-Maidan Activist Killed In Moscow Restaurant RFE/RL 20 Sep 2016 -- Russian investigators say a prominent Ukrainian separatist has been shot dead in an upscale restaurant outside Moscow by a gunman disguised in a fake moustache and a panama hat.
Numbers Don't Lie: Statistics Point To Massive Fraud In Russia's Duma Vote RFE/RL 20 Sep 2016 -- When liberal rights activist Ella Pamfilova was named to head Russia's election commission in March, she promised to clean house and oversee transparent, democratic elections.
Russian Westernmost Strategic Missile Forces' Division to Receive Yars Missiles Sputnik 20 Sep 2016 -- The westernmost division of Russian Strategic Missile Forces (SMF) located in Tver Region will receive Yars intercontinental ballistic missiles (ICBM) in nearest future, Russian Defense Ministry said in a statement Tuesday.
Russian Forces Destroy Four Militant Sites, 1,800 Weapons in North Caucasus Sputnik 20 Sep 2016 -- The Russian forces destroyed militant sites and 1,800 pieces of ammunition in North Caucasus within one week.
China-Russia naval drill ends with island-seizing mission People's Daily 20 Sep 2016 -- China-Russia naval drill ends with island-seizing mission
International Election Observation Mission: Russian Federation – State Duma Elections, 18 September 2016 - Statement of Preliminary Findings and Conclusions OSCE - PA 19 Sep 2016
Crushing Victory, Low Turnout - Six Russian Election Takeaways RFE/RL 19 Sep 2016 -- The ruling United Russia party won the September 18 State Duma elections by a landslide, according to official results. United Russia is on track to win well over 300 seats in the lower house of parliament, far more than the 238 it holds now. The three other largely loyal parties in the current Duma will also remain, while liberal Kremlin opponents were kept out.
Russia's Helicopter Gunships to Boast Unique Electronic 'Eyes' Sputnik 19 Sep 2016 -- After analyzing the results of its aerial campaign in Syria, Russia's Defense Ministry has decided to test a unique 360 degree targeting system for its Mi-35 Super Crocodile helicopter gunships and Mi-8AMTSh Terminator transport helicopters, Izvestia reported.
Russia to Use Syrian Combat Experience in Upgrading Helicopter Optical Systems Sputnik 19 Sep 2016 -- The Russian military will use its experience gained in Syria to upgrade Mi-35M attack helicopters and Mi-8AMTSh multirole helicopters with new 360-degree OPS-24N1 surveillance and targeting opto-electronic systems, a Defense Ministry representative said Monday.
China, Russia conclude joint naval drill People's Daily 19 Sep 2016 -- Chinese and Russian naval forces on Monday concluded their joint military exercise in the waters off the southern province of Guangdong, pledging to enhance practical cooperation.
China, Russia mark end of naval drill in disputed Sea Press TV 19 Sep 2016 -- Chinese and Russian naval forces have staged an island-seizing mission as part of a joint annual drill in the disputed South China Sea.
China-Russia Drills Highlight Converging Interests; Undercurrents Remain VOA 19 Sep 2016 -- China and Russia have just held their first round of joint exercises in the South China Sea, including an island-seizing and island landing drill as well as anti-submarine and air defense maneuvers.
With Half Of Ballots Counted, United Russia Set To Dominate State Duma RFE/RL 19 Sep 2016 -- With just over 50 percent of the ballots from Russia's State Duma elections counted, official results show the governing United Russia party on track to win more than 300 of the 450 legislative seats - enough to secure a two-thirds constitutional majority in the lower chamber of parliament.
Putin's Party Retains Power in Sunday's Parliamentary Elections VOA 18 Sep 2016 -- Early election results show Russia's ruling party has won Sunday's parliamentary election, amid reports of election violations and visible voter apathy in the country's two largest cities.
Elections for State Duma, regional bodies in Russia Press TV 18 Sep 2016 -- Elections have begun in Russia for the State Duma, which is the lower house of the Russian parliament, as well as dozens of municipal and regional bodies.
Scaparrotti: NATO Needs 'Position of Strength' for Russia AFPS 18 Sep 2016 -- NATO needs to approach Russia from a "position of strength," while keeping the channels open for discussions and possible collaboration, the alliance's supreme allied commander for Europe said here yesterday.
Russians Voting to Choose New Parliament VOA 18 Sep 2016 -- Russian lawmakers under President Vladimir Putin have proven themselves nothing if not efficient.
US airstrikes on Syrian army forces undermine ceasefire: Russia Press TV 18 Sep 2016 -- Russia has harshly criticized the United States for airstrikes on a Syrian military air base in the country's eastern province of Dayr al-Zawr, arguing that such attacks threaten the implementation of the ceasefire meant to end hostilities in the conflict-ridden Arab country.
Syria Militant Attacks Intensify Despite US-Russia Truce Deal - Defense Ministry Sputnik 18 Sep 2016 -- Militant attacks against Syrian government troops are on the rise, despite the new Russia-US brokered ceasefire, which only the Syrian government is strictly adhering to, Russian Defense Ministry spokesman Maj. Gen. Igor Konashenkov said Sunday.
Russia's UN Ambassador Argues Bombing of Syrian Army Killing 80 Was Intentional Sputnik 18 Sep 2016 -- The Russian Ambassador to the United Nations found the timing of what the United States called an accidental and unintentional airstrike to be suspicious only minutes after the US representative to the international body effectively blamed Russia and the Assad regime calling the emergency meeting a "stunt."
Russia Deeply Concerned With US-Led Coalition Strike on Syrian Forces Sputnik 18 Sep 2016 -- Moscow is deeply concerned with the US-led coalition's strike against the Syrian army near Deir-ez-Zor, Russian Foreign Ministry spokeswoman Maria Zakharova said.
Russia: Strikes On Syrian Troops Threaten Cease-Fire Plan RFE/RL 18 Sep 2016 -- if they, as we hope, were not taken on an order from Washington -- are on the boundary between criminal negligence and connivance with Islamic State terrorists," the ministry said.
Russian Subs to Don New Generation Noise Absorbing Tiles Sputnik 17 Sep 2016 -- Russia has launched the production of advanced noise absorbing materials for its fourth-generation nuclear submarines, Rossiiskaya Gazeta reported, citing Techmash Concern's press service in Moscow.
US Ambassador Rips Russia for Calling UN Session on Syria VOA 17 Sep 2016 -- The U.S. ambassador to the United Nations blasted Russia for calling the U.N. Security Council into emergency session late Saturday to review an apparently errant U.S. bombing run that may have killed dozens of Syrian government troops.
Russians Vote In Parliamentary Elections RFE/RL 17 Sep 2016 -- where voters are bussed around polling stations, voting at each one, after obtaining absentee ballots -- in the city of Barnaul in the southern Siberian region of Altai.
Russia, U.S. Tensions Spill Over At UN Security Council Meeting RFE/RL 18 Sep 2016 -- Tensions between Russian and U.S. diplomats have spilled over at the United Nations Security Council after Russian officials demanded to know whether the United States intentionally supported Islamic State militants with air strikes that hit Syrian government troops.
US says won't recognize outcome of Russian elections in Crimea Press TV 17 Sep 2016 -- The United States has denounced upcoming Russian parliamentary elections planned for the Crimean peninsula, saying it "does not recognize the legitimacy" of the process.
Putin Says Crimea Not Annexed By Russia, It Was 'Reunified' RFE/RL 17 Sep 2016 -- Russian President Vladimir Putin says Moscow did not annex the Ukrainian peninsula of Crimea in 2014 but claimed it was "reunified" with Russia.
US Condemns Russian Elections in Crimea VOA 17 Sep 2016 -- The U.S. says it will not recognize the outcome of Russian parliamentary elections planned for Crimea Sunday, the first since Russia annexed the Ukrainian peninsula in 2014.
'British military incapable of defending country against Russia' Press TV 17 Sep 2016 -- The United Kingdom would not be able to confront serious military powers, like Russia, in the event of a conventional conflict, a former senior commander has warned.
Only Syrian troops observe truce: Russian Defense Ministry People's Daily 17 Sep 2016 -- The Syrian government troops alone are observing a ceasefire agreement in the war-torn country brokered by Russia and the United States, the Russian Defense Ministry said Friday.
US responsible for any collapse of Syria ceasefire, Russia warns Press TV 17 Sep 2016 -- A senior Russian military official has blasted the United States for failing to meet its obligations under a recently implemented ceasefire in Syria, saying Washington will be to blame if the truce deal falls apart.
Russia Postpones Soyuz MS-02 ISS Mission Launch Over Short Circuit Glitch Sputnik 17 Sep 2016 -- The launch of Russia's new series Soyuz MS-02 manned spacecraft scheduled for September 23 was delayed due to a technical fault involving a short circuit that was revealed during a test, a space industry source told RIA Novosti on Saturday.
Russia postpones space flight to ISS for 'technical reasons' Press TV 17 Sep 2016 -- Russia has reportedly canceled a planned manned space launch expected to take place within a week due to what it described as "technical reasons" without further elaboration or setting a new launch date.
Russian Nuclear Doctrine Unchanged Despite Escalation Claims - Official Sputnik 17 Sep 2016 -- Russia has stressed to its four Non-Proliferation Treaty (NPT) nuclear state partners that claims of it lowering its threshold for nuclear weapon use and increasing its military doctrine's reliance on nuclear weapons are untrue, a senior official from the Russian Foreign Ministry told Sputnik.
Illegitimate Russian Duma Elections in Occupied Crimea US Dept. of State 16 Sep 2016
Mass Deliveries of Russia's Tornado-S Launcher to Begin in 2017 Sputnik 16 Sep 2016 -- Russian Deputy Defense Minister Yuri Borisov said that serial production of Russia's Tornado-S long-range multiple rocket launcher system is scheduled for 2017.
US, Russia Disagree on Who's Thwarting Aid for Aleppo VOA 16 Sep 2016 -- Officials in Washington and Moscow on Friday expressed a desire to extend their week-old cease-fire pact for Syria and confirmed aid deliveries had not yet begun, but agreed on little else concerning the tenuous situation in the war-torn country.
Russia to Supply 12 Mi-35M Helicopters to Nigeria by 2018 Sputnik 16 Sep 2016 -- Russia will deliver 12 multipurpose Mi-35 helicopters to Nigeria by 2018.
Only one side implementing ceasefire in Syria: Russia Press TV 16 Sep 2016 -- The Russian Defense Ministry says only Moscow and Syrian government forces are standing committed to the terms of a ceasefire brokered by the United States and Russia in the conflict-ridden Arab country, criticizing foreign-backed Takfiri militants of violating the truce.
Kerry Says No Deal With Russia Until Aid Flows To Aleppo RFE/RL 16 Sep 2016 -- U.S. Secretary of State John Kerry has told his Russian counterpart Sergei Lavrov that Washington will not agree to begin the joint targeting of Islamic militants in Syria until aid begins to flow to the besieged residents in the war-torn country.
US Warns Russia Cease-fire Depends on Aleppo Aid VOA 16 Sep 2016 -- The Obama administration is warning Russia that their military cooperation in Syria will not go forward unless humanitarian aid begins to reach Aleppo and other besieged areas.
Russia-China drills to strengthen regional stability: Russian foreign ministry People's Daily 16 Sep 2016 -- The on-going Russian-Chinese naval drills in the South China Sea should help strengthen stability in the region rather than destabilize it, the Russian Foreign Ministry said Thursday.
Analysis: Reading Between The Lines Of Russia's Duma Elections RFE/RL 16 Sep 2016 -- In a system of "managed" democracy such as Russia's, the importance of elections is not necessarily in their results but in how they are managed.
Briefing by Foreign Ministry Spokesperson Maria Zakharova, Moscow, September 15, 2016 Russia Ministry of Foreign Affairs 15 Sep 2016
Joint Statement on the Comprehensive Nuclear-Test-Ban Treaty by the Nuclear Nonproliferation Treaty Nuclear-Weapon States US Dept. of State 15 Sep 2016 -- The text of the following statement was issued jointly by the Governments of China, France, the Russian Federation, the United Kingdom, and the United States.
U.S.-Russian Officials Hold Video Conference on Syrian Airspace Safety AFPS 15 Sep 2016 -- The Defense Department yesterday held a video conference co-chaired by Acting Assistant Secretary of Defense for International Security Affairs Elissa Slotkin and Navy Rear Adm. Michael J. Dumont, deputy director, J-5, Strategic Plans and Policy on the Joint Staff, with Russian Ministry of Defense counterparts, Pentagon Press Secretary Peter Cook said in a statement.
Russia Adheres to Syria Ceasefire Accord Unlike US Sputnik 15 Sep 2016 -- Russian Defense Ministry spokesman Maj. Gen. Igor Konashenkov said that Russia, unlike the US, "has fulfilled its obligation to enforce the ceasefire regime on Syrian territory" following the ceasefire announcement made by Russian and US diplomats in Geneva on September 9.
Russian-Chinese Naval Interaction-2016 Drills Enter Active Phase Sputnik 15 Sep 2016 -- Russian and Chinese naval war games Naval Interaction-2016 enter active stage with ships and servicemen, Russia's Pacific Fleet Rear Adm. Vadim Kulit said Thursday.
Indian Delegation to Visit Russia for Leasing Yasen Class Submarine Sputnik 15 Sep 2016 -- India is interested in renting the multi-purpose Project 885 Yasen class submarine from Russia. This is being seen as a sign of another forthcoming India-Russia collaborative venture for the construction of six new SSN for Indian Navy.
Chinese, Russian navies depart for joint drill at sea People's Daily 15 Sep 2016 -- Chinese and Russian fleets sailed out of a port in Zhanjiang in south China's Guangdong Province Thursday to predetermined waters for joint naval drill.
Russia strikes kill 250 Daesh militants in Syria's Palmyra: General Press TV 14 Sep 2016 -- A senior Russian army official says his country's aircraft have conducted air raids in the recently-recaptured Syrian city of Palmyra, leaving 250 Daesh terrorists dead.
Russian Jets Eliminate 250 Daesh Terrorists Preparing Attack on Palmyra Sputnik 14 Sep 2016 -- Russian Aerospace Forces targeted a group of terrorists preparing an offensive on the Syrian city of Palmyra. The airstrikes destroyed 250 militants and 15 vehicles.
US concerned about Russian hacking: NSA chief Press TV 14 Sep 2016 -- The US National Security Agency (NSA) has expressed concerns over reports that some foreign governments may launch cyber attacks to undercut the November presidential election.
Analysis: Grozny Fatwa On 'True Believers' Triggers Major Controversy RFE/RL 14 Sep 2016 -- A fatwa issued by a conference of Islamic scholars convened in Grozny by Ramzan Kadyrov seems to give the Chechen leader license to take any action he likes to punish those whose religious views don't chime with his own.
Russian Black Sea Fleet 'Has Everything' to Destroy Enemy Moving to Crimea Sputnik 14 Sep 2016 -- The Russian Black Sea Fleet is fully capable of defending the country's borders thanks to reconnaissance and modern weapons, the General Staff's head said.
Russian Shipbuilding Company Plans to Set Up Manufacturing Base in India Sputnik 14 Sep 2016 -- The United Shipbuilding Corporation of Russia, the country's largest ship manufacturer, may consider locating a manufacturing hub in Visakhapatnam in the Indian state of Andhra Pradesh.
Russia Wants to Set Up Service Center for Tanks, Small Arms in South Africa Sputnik 14 Sep 2016 -- Russian Federal Service for Military-Technical Cooperation Deputy Director Anatoly Punchuk said that Moscow is interested in setting up service centers for tanks and small arms in South Africa.
Activists Say Crimeans Face Threats, Intimidation Ahead Of Russian Vote RFE/RL 13 Sep 2016 -- Rights groups say the Russian-imposed authorities in Crimea are using threats and intimidation to get out the vote in parliamentary elections that Ukraine has denounced as illegitimate because they are being held on territory seized by Moscow.
US, Russia Look at Creating Joint Integration Center on Syria VOA 13 Sep 2016 -- A widespread calm appears to be holding in Syria as a cease-fire brokered by the U.S. and Russia continued into its second day.
Possible Russian Meddling with US Elections Worries Key Defense Officials VOA 13 Sep 2016 -- Top U.S. defense officials insist they are not turning a blind eye to fears that Russian hackers are trying to hijack upcoming U.S. presidential and local elections.
US Partially Lifts Afghanistan Helicopter Maintenance Sanctions Against Russia Sputnik 13 Sep 2016 -- US has partially lifted sanctions against cooperation on helicopter maintenance in Afghanistan, the Russian presidential envoy to Afghanistan said Tuesday.
Russia, China Join Forces to Ensure Freedom of Navigation in South China Sea Sputnik 13 Sep 2016 -- The "Naval Interaction 2016" naval exercises by Russia and China in the South China Sea are intended to protect the balance of power in the region amid growing activity from the US, experts told Russian business newspaper Vzglyad.
Russia to Equip Lider-Class Destroyers With Visual Optical Interference Stations Sputnik 13 Sep 2016 -- Advanced Grach visual optical interference stations "blind" enemy troops and optoelectronic devices, such as night vision equipment, binocular glasses and laser ranging devices with bright flares of light, according to media reports.
Pakistan To Conduct First War Games With Russia This Year RFE/RL 13 Sep 2016 -- Pakistan and Russia will hold their first-ever joint military exercises later this year, signalling what may be an emerging realignment in South Asia amid cooling relations between Islamabad and Washington.
Germany, Romania to Fly Mission Over Russia, Belarus Sputnik 12 Sep 2016 -- German and Romanian inspectors will conduct an aerial surveillance flight over Russia and Belarus.
Russia to Fly Surveillance Mission Over Denmark Sputnik 12 Sep 2016 -- The head of Russia's Nuclear Risk Reduction Center said that Russian inspectors will conduct an aerial surveillance flight over Denmark in a Tu-154M-LK-1 surveillance aircraft within the scope of the Treaty on Open Skies.
China-Russia navy drill in South China Sea highlights strong ties People's Daily 12 Sep 2016 -- China and Russia will start an eight-day joint naval exercise from Monday, which for the first time will take place in the South China Sea for the first time, according to a Chinese navy spokesman.
US to Remain 'Responsive' to Outcome of Russia-China South China Sea Drills Sputnik 12 Sep 2016 -- The United States will carefully monitor the developments around the latest Russian and Chinese joint naval drills in the South China Sea, US Chief of Naval Operations Adm. John Richardson said at a Center for American Progress forum on Monday.
China, Russia launch South China Sea naval wargames Press TV 12 Sep 2016 -- China and Russia have launched eight-day joint naval wargames in the disputed South China Sea amid tensions with the US which is expanding its military presence in the region.
CIA chief warns of Russia's sophisticated hacking capabilities Press TV 12 Sep 2016 -- CIA Director John Brennan warns that the US must be on guard in the face of Russia's "exceptionally capable and sophisticated'' cyber capabilities.
Politicians, Experts Suspect Russia of Hacking US Political System VOA 12 Sep 2016 -- The controversy still rages over Russia's possible hacking into computer systems used by American political entities. Defense Secretary Ash Carter has warned Russia not to try to interfere with the U.S. general election in November. Yet Republican presidential candidate Donald Trump says he doubts that Russia is involved.
Commentary: Routine China-Russia joint naval drill no reason for fear mongering People's Daily 12 Sep 2016 -- As China and Russia started on Monday an eight-day joint naval drill off the coast of south China's Guangdong Province, speculations are going rife that the military exercises are meant as a "sabre-rattling" event in the South China Sea."
China, Russia to begin joint drills in South China Sea on Monday Press TV 11 Sep 2016 -- China and Russia will commence eight-day naval drills in the disputed South China Sea on Monday, Beijing has announced.
China, Russia to Begin Massive Eight Day Naval War Games in South China Sea Sputnik 11 Sep 2016 -- The military exercise proceeds as tensions continue to mount over the contested waters with the Obama administration demanding that China submit to the ruling of The Hague international tribunal invalidating Beijing's historical claim.
CIA Chief Says Russian Hacking Threatens U.S. RFE/RL 11 Sep 2016 -- The director of the Central Intelligence Agency is again warning about Russia's computer hacking abilities, saying the country has "exceptionally capable and sophisticated cyber-capabilities."
CIA Chief Warns of Russia's 'Sophisticated' Hacking Ability VOA 11 Sep 2016 -- CIA Director John Brennan warned Sunday of Russia's "exceptionally capable and sophisticated'' hacking capabilities, and said the U.S. must be on guard.
Russia to Form New Tank Division in Central Military District by December Sputnik 11 Sep 2016 -- Russia's Central Military District new armored division will be formed by the start of December.
China, Russia navies to hold navy drill in South China Sea People's Daily 11 Sep 2016 -- China and Russia will stage an eight-day Navy drill in the South China Sea off southern China's Guangdong Province starting Monday, a Chinese Navy spokesperson said Sunday.
Russia, US agree coordinated airstrikes in Syria Press TV 10 Sep 2016 -- Russia and the United States have reached an agreement on a ceasefire in Syria as part of a plan to find a political solution to the years-long crisis in the Arab country.
Russia strongly condemns DPRK's nuclear test People's Daily 10 Sep 2016 -- The Russian Foreign Ministry on Friday strongly condemned the latest nuclear warhead explosion test executed by the Democratic People's Republic of Korea (DPRK).
Samara Governor Offers A Stark Choice: United Russia Or The CIA RFE/RL 10 Sep 2016 -- The CIA has Russia's Samara Oblast in its crosshairs. At least that is what the governor, Nikolai Merkushkin, wants voters to think.
Putin Orders to Ensure Long-Term Government Support for Civil Shipbuilding Sputnik 10 Sep 2016 -- Russian President Vladimir Putin has asked the government to ensure a long-lasting state support for civil shipbuilding, the Kremlin press service said Saturday.
Russian Armata Tank Forces 'West to Hastily Upgrade' Their Own Combat Vehicles Sputnik 10 Sep 2016 -- The high technical level of the latest Russian T-14 Armata tanks has forced Western manufacturers to urgently upgrade their own Leopard and Abrams military vehicles, according to the head of the main vehicles and armor department of the Russian Ministry of Defense, Lieutenant-General Alexander Shevchenko.
Russian General Uses Fake Romney Quote About Alleged Plans to 'Destroy Russia' VOA 10 Sep 2016 -- A senior Russian general, Sergei Kuralenko, this week quoted Mitt Romney, the U.S. Republican presidential candidate in 2012, as saying at the time, "We destroyed the Soviet Union, and we will destroy Russia."
Russia successfully test-launches intercontinental ballistic missile Press TV 09 Sep 2016 -- Russia has announced it has successfully test-fired the RS-12M Topol intercontinental ballistic missile capable of carrying a nuclear warhead.
Russia Successfully Test Launches Topol Ballistic Missile Sputnik 09 Sep 2016 -- The Russian Strategic Missile Forces have conducted a successful test launch of a RS-12M Topol intercontinental ballistic missile, the Defense Ministry said Friday.
Intercepted US Spy Planes Were 'Interested' in Russia's Top Submarines Sputnik 09 Sep 2016 -- The US Navy's P-8 Poseidon surveillance planes that were intercepted by the Sukhoi Su-27s were apparently trying to get a closer look at the ongoing Kavkaz (Caucasus) 2016 military drills that are being held in the Black Sea, particularly Russia's newest submarines that are so quiet that NATO nicknamed them the "black hole."
BMD-5: Russia Creating New Airborne Infantry Fighting Vehicle Sputnik 09 Sep 2016 -- Russia' military industry has begun drafting technical specifications for a proposed new airborne infantry fighting vehicle design, the so-called BMD-5, a representative from the Volgograd Tractor Plant said on Friday.
Russian Missile System, Submarine Engage Simulated Targets at Kavkaz-2016 Drills Sputnik 09 Sep 2016 -- Russia's advanced S-400 Triumf missile system destroyed practice targets and the Novorossiysk submarine carried out a cruise missile training launch at the Kavkaz-2016 exercises, a RIA Novosti correspondent reported Friday.
Over 120,000 Russian Troops Take Part in Kavkaz-2016 Drills Sputnik 09 Sep 2016 -- More than 120,000 of servicemen are mastering their skills during the Kavkaz-2016 drills in Russia.
Russia's T-14 Armata Battle Tank Tests to Conclude in 2017 Sputnik 09 Sep 2016 -- State tests of Russia's T-14 Armata main battle tanks will wrap up next year, the Russian Defense Ministry said Friday.
A Turning Point': Russia All Set to Build Iran's Bushehr-2 NPP by 2019 Sputnik 09 Sep 2016 -- It could take Russia just three years to build two more reactor units for the Bushehr nuclear power station in southern Iran, Press TV political observer and nuclear energy expert, Hassan Beheshtipour, said in an interview with Sputnik.
India-Russia to Step Up Talks on Co-Production of Kamov Helicopters Sputnik 09 Sep 2016 -- India and Russia will soon complete the final negotiation process for the co-production of Kamov choppers.
Moldova Rejects Call For Transdniester To Join Russia RFE/RL 09 Sep 2016 -- Moldova has rejected a decree by Transdniester's leadership that says the breakaway region should join Russia, in line with the results of a referendum 10 years ago.
Trump Tells RT 'Unlikely' Russia Interfering In U.S. Election RFE/RL 09 Sep 2016 -- U.S. Republican presidential nominee Donald Trump has told a Russian-funded television network on September 8 that "it's probably unlikely" that Russia is trying to influence the U.S. election.
US, Russia Resume High-level Face-to-Face Diplomacy on Syria War VOA 09 Sep 2016 -- An American official says U.S. Secretary of State John Kerry and Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov "are making progress in Geneva Friday towards advancing proposals that would lead to a nationwide cessation of hostilities in Syria."
Russia launches final stage of massive drills in Crimea Press TV 09 Sep 2016 -- Russia has launched the final stage of its massive military drills in the strategic Black Sea peninsula of Crimea.
Briefing by Foreign Ministry Spokesperson Maria Zakharova, Moscow, September 8, 2016 Russia Ministry of Foreign Affairs 08 Sep 2016
Russia to Start Mass Production of Korsar Surveillance UAVs in 2017 Sputnik 08 Sep 2016 -- Serial production of the Russian Korsar UAVs will start in 2017, a manufacturing UIMC firm spokesperson told Sputnik on Thursday.
Kerry, Lavrov Will Again Confer on Syrian Cease-fire VOA 08 Sep 2016 -- U.S. Secretary of State John Kerry will meet Friday with Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov in Geneva for another try at arranging a cease-fire in Syria.
Pakistan, Russia Negotiating Deal on Russian Su-35, Su-37 Jets Sputnik 08 Sep 2016 -- Islamabad and Moscow are negotiating a deal on Su-35 and Su-37 jets, Shahab Qadir Khan, deputy director of export promotion services in the Pakistani Defense Export Promotion Organization, told Sputnik.
Russia scrambles jets to intercept US spy planes over Black Sea Press TV 07 Sep 2016 -- The Russian Defense Ministry says it has scrambled SU-27 fighter jets to intercept US surveillance planes attempting to approach the Russian border over the Black Sea.
Kiev Intends to Leave Joint Russia-Ukraine-NATO Program on An-124 Use Sputnik 07 Sep 2016 -- Kiev intends to leave the Ukraine-Russia-NATO SALIS program on the use of An-124 transport planes, the CEO of the Ukrainian aircraft maker said Wednesday.
US Spy Chief: Russians Do It 'All the Time,' But Won't Blame Moscow in DNC Hack Sputnik 07 Sep 2016 -- US Director of National Intelligence James Clapper said Wednesday at the annual Intelligence and National Security Summit in Washington that Russian hackers attempt to penetrate American networks "all the time," but he stopped short of attributing recent hacks on the Democratic National Committee (DNC) and other Democratic institutions to Moscow.
Close Intercepts of US Units by Russia Could 'Unnecessarily Escalate Tensions' Sputnik 07 Sep 2016 -- Close-range intercepts of US military aircraft have the potential to unnecessarily escalate tensions between Russia and the United States, and could result in a miscalculation or accident which results in serious injury or death, according to statement of the US Department of Defense.
Russian Intercept of US Spy Plane Performed Safely - Russian Ministry of Defense Sputnik 07 Sep 2016 -- Russian planes performed in strict adherence to international flight safety, according to the official statement of the Russian Defense Ministry.
Russian SU-27 Jet Intercepts US Navy Spy Plane Over Black Sea Sputnik 07 Sep 2016 -- A Russian fighter jet carried out an intercept of US spy plane flying over the Black Sea, according to US Defense officials, cited by the Reuters news agency.
Sarmat ICBM: 8 Megatons at Hypersonic Speeds, Arriving 2 Years Ahead of Schedule Sputnik 07 Sep 2016 -- On Monday, a defense industry official told Russian media that the mass production of the RS-28 Sarmat intercontinental ballistic missile, a new multi-warhead, super-heavy missile designed to defeat anti-missile systems, would begin in 2018, two years ahead of schedule. Defense analyst Vladimir Tuchkov explains what made this possible.
Russia Seeks to Supply Mi-17 Antarctic-Suited Helicopters to Chile Sputnik 07 Sep 2016 -- Russian state arms exporter Rosoboronexport Deputy Director General Sergey Goreslavsky said that the arctic and polar variant of the Mi-17 type helicopter could be popular in Chile, a country which is implementing a policy of exploring the Antarctic.
Russia Catching Up on Rivals in Military Drone Manufacturing Sputnik 07 Sep 2016 -- Russian Deputy Foreign Minister Yuri Borisov said that Russia had reached the level of top world armies in drone manufacturing.
Russian Defense Ministry to Buy at Least 1 PAK FA Fighter Squadron in 2017 Sputnik 07 Sep 2016 -- Russian Deputy Minister Yuri Borisov said that mass production of the PAK FA will start in 2017 and the Russian Defense Ministry plans to buy at least one squadron of these aircraft in the first batch.
Russia's Admiralty to Deliver Six Stealth Subs to Pacific Fleet by 2021 Sputnik 07 Sep 2016 -- Russia's Admiralty Shipyard plans to deliver stealth submarines to the Pacific Fleet by 2021, the shipyard's director said Wednesday.
Russia's UVZ Corporation to Deliver 42 Self-Propelled Artillery by 2019 Sputnik 07 Sep 2016 -- Uralvagonzavod (UVZ) machine industry company signed contract with the Russian Defense ministry on the delivery of 42 self-propelled artillery to the Russian Armed Forces by 2019, according to the research and production corporation's director.
First Prototype Engine for Russia's Advanced Fighters to Be Ready by October Sputnik 07 Sep 2016 -- United Engine Corporation's spokesperson has been manufacturing crutial parts of the aircraft manufacturing.
India Set to Bolster Its Defense Ties With Russia Sputnik 07 Sep 2016 -- India-Russia defense ties are set for boost as the Indian defense ministry is stepping up the negotiations for the impending India-Russia defense deals.
Turkey's actions could complicate situation in Syria: Russia Press TV 07 Sep 2016 -- Russia has voiced deep concerns over the advances made by Turkish troops in Syrian territory, warning that such actions could make the conflict gripping the Arab country more complicated.
Estonia Says Russian Aircraft Violated Airspace Again RFE/RL 06 Sep 2016 -- The Estonian military says Russian aircraft violated Estonian airspace over the Baltic Sea, the fourth such violation by Russia this year.
Russia Prepares to Supply Ka-52K Attack Helicopters to Egypt Sputnik 06 Sep 2016 -- An accord made recently by the defense ministries of Russia and Egypt gives reason to believe that Moscow is prepared to sell a considerable number of carrier-based helicopters to Cairo.
Russia, Qatar Sign Military Cooperation Agreement - Ambassador Sputnik 06 Sep 2016 -- Qatar's Ambassador to Russia Saoud Bin Abdallah Al Mahmoud stated that the Russian and Qatari defense ministers signed a military cooperation agreement, which does not include arms purchases.
Clinton Expresses 'Grave' Concern Russia Interfering In U.S. Election RFE/RL 06 Sep 2016 -- U.S. Democratic presidential candidate Hillary Clinton has expressed "grave" concern that Russia may be interfering in the U.S. election through cyberattacks on the Democratic Party and state voting systems.
Putin Visits Karimov's Grave, Meets Uzbek PM RFE/RL 06 Sep 2016 -- Russian President Vladimir Putin has visited the grave of the former president of Uzbekistan, Islam Karimov, as he paid his respects in Karimov's home city of Samarkand.
Energia Corp Designing New Transport Spaceship With Higher Payload Capacity Sputnik 06 Sep 2016 -- The new vessel, whose preliminary design is expected to be finished by the end of the year, will feature increased payload capacity for the delivery of cargo for up to three crew members aboard the International Space Station.
Analysis: Sidelining Independent Pollster, Kremlin Takes Control Of The Narrative RFE/RL 06 Sep 2016 -- With Russia in the final stretch before the September 18 State Duma elections, the Justice Ministry has tagged the country's only independent sociological-research organization, the Levada Center, as a "foreign agent."
Russian Environmentalists Slam U.S. Green Party Candidate For Putin Comments RFE/RL 06 Sep 2016 -- Two prominent Russian environmental activists have criticized the presidential candidate for the U.S. Green Party, saying her positions on President Vladimir Putin and his policies are "deeply shocking."
Russian Weapons Sales Reach $7Bln in 8 Months - Russian Arms Exporter Sputnik 06 Sep 2016 -- Rostec CEO Sergey Chemezov said that Rosoboronexport was planning to sell more than $13 billion worth of weapons in 2016 and arms exporter has already sold arms at a cost of $7 billion.
Russian Aerospace Forces to Start Receiving Mi-26T2 Helicopters in 2018 Sputnik 06 Sep 2016 -- The Russian Aerospace Forces will start receiving the upgraded Mi-26T2 helicopters from the Russian Helicopters corporation in 2018.
Russian Defense Ministry Signs First Contract to Deliver Over 100 Armata Tanks Sputnik 06 Sep 2016 -- The Russian Defense Ministry and the Uralvagonzavod machine industry company agreed contract to deliver more than 100 T-14 Armata tanks, which were used in trials and combat operations, according to the deputy defense minister.
Pakistan Interested in Russian Air Defense Systems, Tanks Sputnik 06 Sep 2016 -- The Pakistani armed forces show deep interest in Russian air defense systems and tanks.
Russia So Far Delivered Over Half of Agreed Number of S-300s to Iran Sputnik 06 Sep 2016 -- Russia has delivered over half of the agreed number of S-300 air defense systems to Iran, Russian presidential aide Vladimir Kozhin told Sputnik on Tuesday.
Russia Supplied India With $65Bln Worth of Military Vehicles Since 1960 Sputnik 06 Sep 2016 -- Sergey Goreslavsky, the Russian state arms exporter Rosoboronexport's deputy director said that the India army is equipped with a large number of vehicles produced in Russia as well as domestically-manufactured vehicles, constructed using Russian technology.
Russia says US statements on Syria talks have no basis ISNA 05 Sep 2016 -- Moscow said there is no basis for "dramatic statements" after Russia's Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov and US Secretary of State John Kerry failed to strike a deal on ending the years-long conflict in Syria.
Russia says US statements on Syria talks have no basis Press TV 05 Sep 2016 -- Russia says there is no basis for "dramatic statements" after its Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov and US Secretary of State John Kerry failed to strike a deal on ending the conflict in Syria.
US, Russia Yet to Reach Syria Cease-fire Deal VOA 05 Sep 2016 -- Secretary of State John Kerry is returning home empty handed, failing to have reached an accord with his Russian counterpart on a cease-fire in Syria after an intensive period of diplomacy.
Obama makes disguised threat to Russia on cyber warfare Press TV 05 Sep 2016 -- President Barack Obama has warned Russia that the United States has "more capacity than anybody" when it comes to cyber warfare, saying hack attacks can not become "wild, wild, West."
Russian forces stage massive military drills around Crimea Press TV 05 Sep 2016 -- Russian military forces have launched large-scale military drills around the Black Sea peninsula of Crimea, the Russian Defense Ministry says.
Russia Declares Respected Pollster 'Foreign Agent' RFE/RL 05 Sep 2016 -- Russia's Justice Ministry has placed the independent national pollster Levada Center on its official register of organizations "operating as foreign agents," potentially threatening the widely respected research group's existence.
Russian Army Tests Next-Generation Armored Recovery Vehicle Sputnik 05 Sep 2016 -- The Russian military is testing a new armored recovery vehicle based on the successful Kurganets-25, a tracked 25-ton modular platform for infantry fighting vehicles, Russian newspaper Izvestiya reported.
Putin: A lot must be done before ties with Turkey fully normalized ISNA 04 Sep 2016 -- Russian President Vladimir Putin said a lot of ground must be covered until relations between Moscow and Ankara are fully healed.
Obama: US, Russia deeply divided over Syria ISNA 04 Sep 2016 -- US President Barack Obama said the US and Russia remain deeply divided over the Syria crisis, adding it is difficult to "get to the next phase."
US says it has failed to reach deal with Russia over Syria truce Press TV 04 Sep 2016 -- The United States says it had not yet struck an agreement with Russia on ending the years-long conflict in Syria, blaming Moscow for reversing its position on issues it thought were settled.
Russia, U.S. Say Close To Reaching Cease-Fire Deal On Syria RFE/RL 04 Sep 2016 -- Both Moscow and Washington say they are close to reaching a cease-fire deal on Syria but still require more time.
Russian Air Campaign Helped Syria Maintain Statehood - Putin Sputnik 04 Sep 2016 -- Russian President Vladimir Putin said Sunday that the support of the Russian aviation helped Syria maintain statehood, as well as dealt a blow to terrorists in the war-torn country.
US, Russia Have Great Differences Over Peace Process in Syria Sputnik 04 Sep 2016 -- The United States and Russia continue to support different sides in war torn Syria and have differences over the peace process in this country, US President Barack Obama said Sunday.
US-Russia Set to Complete a Major Military Alliance Agreement in Syria Sputnik 04 Sep 2016 -- The deal would call for full-coordination between US and Russian military and intelligence forces in Syria in exchange for Moscow forcing Assad to ground the Syrian Air Force.
Obstacles Remain as US, Russia Work to Finalize Syria Cease-Fire Deal VOA 04 Sep 2016 -- The United States and Russia are working to finalize a cease-fire deal for Syria that would allow more humanitarian aid into the war-ravaged country, as world leaders meet in Hangzhou China for the Group of 20 Nations Leaders Summit.
Russia Interested in Resumption of Previous Military Programs With NATO Sputnik 04 Sep 2016 -- Russia is interested in carrying out a non-politicized review of the previously active NATO-Russia joint military programs and their further resumption, Russian Deputy Defense Minister Anatoly Antonov said.
Russia Proposes NATO to Hold Meeting on European Security in September Sputnik 04 Sep 2016 -- Russia proposed NATO countries to continue their discussion on the political and military situation in Europe in September, the deputy defense minister said Sunday.
Impenetrable Shield: Russia to Test New Generation Helicopter-Mounted Jammer Sputnik 04 Sep 2016 -- Concern 'Radio-Electronic Technologies' (KRET) will soon be testing their latest helicopter-based radio electronic warfare system capable of protecting entire helicopter wings by "blinding" the enemy within a few hundred kilometers' range, Gazeta.ru reported.
Putin Blasts Western 'Democratization' Saying it Causes Terrorism, Failed States Sputnik 04 Sep 2016 -- The Russian President leveled his most fierce blow yet against interventionist foreign policies arguing that productive societal change must begin at the ground level from within rather than being imparted by outside liberators.
Russia Aims To Raise $11 Billion From Selling Stake In Rosneft RFE/RL 03 Sep 2016 -- Russia is pushing ahead with plans to try to raise over $11 billion through the sale of nearly one-fifth of state oil company Rosneft before the end of the year, President Vladimir Putin said.
Putin Says Russia, OPEC Should Agree To Freeze Oil Output RFE/RL 03 Sep 2016 -- Russian President Vladimir Putin said he'd like to see Russia and the OPEC cartel reach a deal to bolster oil prices by freezing production, and he expects a dispute over Iran's involvement can be resolved.
Tokyo Has No Plans to Discuss Handing Over Two Kuril Islands to Japan Sputnik 02 Sep 2016 -- Tokyo has no plans to raise the issue of Russia handing over two of the four South Kuril Islands to Japan, Japan's Chief Cabinet Secretary Yoshihide Suga said Friday, denying recent media reports.
Russia's Vostochny Cosmodrome Facilities to Go Online by End of 2016 Sputnik 02 Sep 2016 -- All of Russia's Vostochny Cosmodrome facilities are planned to be put into operation by the end of the year, Russian Defense Minister Sergei Shoigu said Friday.
Russian-Built Surveillance Plane Superior to Foreign Rivals - Defense Minister Sputnik 02 Sep 2016 -- The Russian-built Beriev A-100 airborne early warning and control (AWACS) aircraft will surpass its foreign rivals, Russian Defense Minister Sergei Shoigu said Friday.
Russian MoD Slams Pentagon's Comments on Russian Strike Killing Daesh Commander Sputnik 02 Sep 2016 -- Pentagon is completely unaware about the circumstances surrounding the killing of a Daesh senier commander in a Russian airstrike in Syria's Aleppo province, the Russian Defense Ministry said Friday.
Russia, Japan to work on draft deal to end islands row Press TV 02 Sep 2016 -- Russia's President Vladimir Putin and Japan's Prime Minister Shinzo Abe have agreed to continue talks on the disputed Kuril islands in preparation for a meeting aimed at striking a deal to end the territorial row by December.
Putin Denies Claims Russian Gov't's Involved in DNC Emails Hack Sputnik 02 Sep 2016 -- Russian President Vladimir Putin denied on Friday the claims that the Russian government was involved in hacks of the US Democratic National Committee's (DNC) e-mail server, in an interview with the Bloomberg agency.
Putin 'Doesn't Know' Who Hacked U.S. Democratic Party Computers RFE/RL 02 Sep 2016 -- Russian President Vladimir Putin said he doesn't know who hacked the e-mails of U.S. Democratic Party-affiliated organizations but added that the Russian government had nothing to do with it.
Putin Denies Hacking DNC VOA 02 Sep 2016 -- Russian President Vladimir Putin maintained in an interview with media outlet Bloomberg that Russia had nothing to doing with the hacking of the U.S. Democratic National Committee.
Putin Vs. Putin RFE/RL 02 Sep 2016 -- The emperor is at war with his inner godfather. The autocrat is battling his inner kleptocrat. The commissar is struggling with his inner crime kingpin.
US Sanctions More Russian Individuals, Firms Over Ukraine VOA 01 Sep 2016 -- The United States on Thursday announced additional sanctions aimed at Russia over its continuing support for Ukraine's rebels and the 2014 annexation of Crimea.
Rights Group: Situation in Chechnya Continues to Deteriorate VOA 01 Sep 2016 -- A leading international human rights group released a report this week detailing what it says is an intensifying crackdown on dissent in Chechnya, the republic in Russia's North Caucasus region ruled with an iron fist by Ramzan Kadyrov, its Kremlin-appointed leader.
US Adds 5 Russian Defense Companies, Gazprom Entities to Sanctions List Sputnik 01 Sep 2016 -- The United States added five Russian defense companies and a score of Gazprom entities, including the Gazprom Media Holding, to the US sectoral sanctions over the Ukraine conflict, the US Department of the Treasury said in a press release on Thursday.
Zvezda Shipyard to Build Icebreakers, Oil Platforms With Singapore, Netherlands Sputnik 01 Sep 2016 -- The Zvezda shipyard in the Russian Far East is to build icebreakers and oil platforms in cooperation with companies from Singapore and the Netherlands, and it will team up with General Electric to manufacture ship equipment, Rosneft CEO Igor Sechin said at an opening ceremony for the first phase of the shipyard.
Russian Navy to Get First Advanced Project 22160 Modular Patrol Ship in 2017 Sputnik 01 Sep 2016 -- Project 22160 is the first of its kind based on the principles of modular construction, allowing the vessels to interchange equipment and armaments based on tasks at hand.
Czech Spy Agency: Russian Agents Waging Information War RFE/RL 01 Sep 2016 -- Russian intelligence services are conducting "an information war" in the Czech Republic, warns the Central European country's counterintelligence agency, the BIS.

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September 2016 - Russia Special Weapons News