March 2017 - Russia Special Weapons News

Mattis Discusses U.S. Concerns About North Korean, Russian Actions AFPS 31 Mar 2017 -- North Korea is moving in a "very reckless manner" with its nuclear and missile programs, while Russian activities in Afghanistan are also of concern to the United States, Defense Secretary Jim Mattis said here today as he discussed cooperation and security concerns with his British counterpart.
Russia Signs Military Units Inclusion Agreement With South Ossetia Sputnik 31 Mar 2017 -- The Russian and South Ossetian defense ministers, Army Gen. Sergei Shoigu and Lt. Gen. Ibragim Gasseyev on Friday signed an intergovernmental agreement on the inclusion of some of South Ossetian military units into the Russian Armed Forces.
Russian Arctic Military Infrastructure to Be Fully Developed by 2020 Sputnik 31 Mar 2017 -- Russia's military infrastructure in the Arctic will be fully developed by 2020, Defense Minister Sergei Shoigu said at the ministry's conference call Friday.
Russia Floats Out 2nd Yasen-Class Project 885 Submarine Sputnik 31 Mar 2017 -- Russia's second upgraded Yasen-class project 885M submarine, the Kazan, has been floated out at the Sevmash shipbuilder in northwestern Russia, a Sputnik correspondent reported Friday.
Mattis Says U.S. Concerned By Russia's Actions In Afghanistan RFE/RL 31 Mar 2017 -- U.S. Defense Secretary Jim Mattis has expressed concern over Russia's activities in Afghanistan and its interaction with the Taliban militant group.
Briefing by Foreign Ministry Spokesperson Maria Zakharova, Moscow, March 30, 2017 Russia Ministry of Foreign Affairs 30 Mar 2017
Putin Calls Attempts to Break Russian-US Diplomatic Relations a Mistake Sputnik 30 Mar 2017 -- Russian President Vladimir Putin issued a direct denial on Thursday of allegations that his country influenced the 2016 US presidential elections.
NATO-Russia Council Holds First Session This Year As Tension Persists RFE/RL 30 Mar 2017 -- Ambassadors from NATO nations and Russia gathered at the alliance's headquarters in Brussels for the first NATO-Russia Council session of 2017.
Ukraine Conflict Dominates NATO-Russia Council Session RFE/RL 30 Mar 2017 -- NATO representatives have told Russia that the situation in Ukraine is of "deep concern" at the first session of the Russia-NATO Council to be held this year.
NATO-Russia Council in Details Sputnik 30 Mar 2017 -- A meeting of the NATO-Russia Council (NRC) at ambassadorial level will take place at alliance's headquarters in Brussels on Thursday.
US Missile Defense in Alaska 'Part of Nuclear Potential', Poses Threat - Putin Sputnik 30 Mar 2017 -- Russian President Vladimir Putin said that US military activity "poses a certain threat."
Putin Downplays Anticorruption Protests, As Moscow Court Upholds Navalny's Jail Sentence RFE/RL 30 Mar 2017 -- Russian President Vladimir Putin has dismissed criticism over a police crackdown on protesters, saying anyone who breaks the law will be punished.
Chechen Parliament Speaker Back At The Public Shaming Game RFE/RL 30 Mar 2017 -- Maryat Zanzulayeva, who recently spoke out against a spate of police arrests and beatings that took place in Chechnya, has become the latest person in the Russian republic to be browbeaten by its powerful parliament speaker.
NATO Aircraft More Active Over Baltic Sea Than Russia - Putin Sputnik 30 Mar 2017 -- The North Atlantic Treaty Organization's (NATO) activity over the Baltic airspace is higher by several factors than that of Russia, President Vladimir Putin said Thursday.
Russian Armed Forces to Conscript 142,000 People in April-July 2017 Sputnik 30 Mar 2017 -- The Russian Armed Forces plan to conscript 142,000 people this spring, a decree published on an online portal for legal information on Thursday states.
Russian, Tajik Special Forces Destroy Conditional Terrorists During Joint Drills Sputnik 29 Mar 2017 -- Hundreds of servicemen with dozens of units of aviation and armored vehicles participated in Russian-Tajik joint counter-terrorism drills in Tajikistan, destroying targets of conditional extremists, the Russian military announced Wednesday.
Armenia Looks to Buy Russian Arms to Counter Azeri Military Potential Sputnik 29 Mar 2017 -- Armenia is interested in buying weaponry from Russia as deterrence against Azerbaijan's growing military potential, Defense Minister Vigen Sargsyan said Wednesday.
Russian Armed Forces Ordered to Increase Manpower to 1.9 Mln Personnel in July Sputnik 29 Mar 2017 -- The Russian Armed Forces have been ordered to expand its manpower to nearly two million by midyear, over a million of them service members, a decree published on the government online portal of legal information Wednesday states.
Iran May Grant Russia Access to Its Military Facilities on Certain Terms Sputnik 29 Mar 2017 -- Tehran is willing to grant Russia ad hoc access to its military bases should Moscow need them to carry out its counterterrorism operations, with the Iranian leadership making a discrete decision in each particular case.
Multi-Billion Deal for Purchase of T-90 Tanks Between India & Russia Gather Pace Sputnik 29 Mar 2017 -- India has expedited negotiations with Russia to buy 464 advanced T-90 tanks and upgrade 850 existing T-90 tanks. The tank purchase will cost US$ 2.1 billion. The purchase and upgradation deal were discussed at the two-day India-Russia Military Industrial Conference held in New Delhi.
Russian Billionaire Deripaska Ready to Deny Manafort Contacts Rumors in Congress Sputnik 28 Mar 2017 -- Russian billionaire Oleg Deripaska said Tuesday he is ready to participate in hearings in the US Congress in connection with allegations about the purposes of his contacts with US President Donald Trump's former campaign manager Paul Manafort.
Russian Tycoon Accuses AP Of 'Malicious' Lie In Report On Ex-Trump Adviser RFE/RL 28 Mar 2017 -- A Kremlin-connected billionaire has accused the Associated Press of generating a "massive and misleading campaign" against him with its recent report on his ties to U.S. President Donald Trump's former campaign chairman.
Kremlin Says Bank's Meeting With Trump Son-In-Law Was Routine RFE/RL 28 Mar 2017 -- The Kremlin says it was unaware of what it called "routine business" activity between U.S. President Donald Trump's son-in-law, Jared Kushner, and officials from state-owned Russian development bank Vneshekonombank.
Russian Actions Spur Eucom's Shift From Engagement to Deterrence AFPS 28 Mar 2017 -- The European Theater is the site of political volatility and economic uncertainty compounded by threats that are transregional, multidomain and multifunctional, the senior U.S. commander in Europe told a House committee here today.
More Than 100 Nations Launch Talks At UN Over Nuclear Ban -- But U.S., Russia, Others Absent RFE/RL 28 Mar 2017 -- More than 100 nations have launched talks at the United Nations to discuss a global ban on nuclear weapons, but the world's major powers boycotted the meeting.
Russia and Iran Vow Partnership in Syria VOA 28 Mar 2017 -- Iranian President Hassan Rouhani signed bilateral agreements with his Russian counterpart Vladimir Putin Tuesday during his first visit to Moscow.
Russian general criticizes US-led coalition's bombing of Syria dam Press TV 28 Mar 2017 -- A high-ranking Russian military figure has leveled strident criticism against the US-led coalition purportedly fighting the Daesh Takfiri terrorist group over pounding a major dam held by the extremists in Syria's embattled northern province of Raqqah.
Russian Experts Defuse Over 1,800 Explosive Devices in Palmyra, Syria - MoD Sputnik 28 Mar 2017 -- Russia has cleared 940 buildings and a 28-mile stretch of roads of more than 1,800 explosive devices in the liberated Syrian city of Palmyra, the Russian General Staff said Tuesday.
US missile systems can lead to nuclear attack: Top Russian commander Press TV 28 Mar 2017 -- The Russian general staff has warned of the ramifications of the US stationing of anti-ballistic missile (ABM) systems in Europe and on warships patrolling Russia's borders, saying the deployments create the potential for America to launch a nuclear attack on Russia.
US Missile Defense System Provokes New Arms Race - Russian Ministry of Defense Sputnik 28 Mar 2017 -- The Russian General Staff stated Tuesday that the missile defense system deployed by the US provokes new arms race.
Navalny's Group Targeted Over Protests As Kremlin Seen Weighing Crackdown RFE/RL 28 Mar 2017 -- Following large protests led by opposition leader Aleksei Navalny over the weekend, Russian authorities quickly moved to shut down his anticorruption foundation, sealing off its offices, seizing equipment, and jailing the Kremlin opponent and eight key staff members.
Russian Eastern Military District Artillery Units Use Zoopark-1M Radar Sputnik 28 Mar 2017 -- Artillery units of the Russian Eastern Military District have used new Zoopark-1M radar systems for the first time, district's spokesman Alexander Gordeev said Tuesday.
Russia can use Iran bases for anti-terror battle in Syria: Zarif Press TV 28 Mar 2017 -- Foreign Minister Mohammad Javad Zarif says Iran could, if necessary, allow Russia to use its military bases on "a case by case basis" for missions against terrorists in Syria.
Russian Defense Ministry Denies Claims of Arms Deliveries to Taliban Militants Sputnik 27 Mar 2017 -- The Russian Defense Ministry did not have any interaction with the Taliban terrorist group, according to ministry spokesman Maj. Gen. Igor Konashenkov.
The Russian Defense Ministry has denied allegations of arms supplies to the Taliban TASS 27 Mar 2017 -- Russia does not supply arms to organizations recognized by the UN as terrorist, including the Taliban (the organization is banned in the Russian Federation), said the official representative of the Russian Defense Ministry, Major-General Igor Konashenkov.
Russia's Navalny Jailed And Fined Over Protests; U.S., EU Condemn Mass Detentions RFE/RL 27 Mar 2017 -- A Russian court has ordered opposition leader and anticorruption activist Aleksei Navalny to be jailed for 15 days for disobeying police, one day after he was arrested near the site of a demonstration in central Moscow.
Russia to Boost Artillery Firepower in Central Military District Sputnik 27 Mar 2017 -- In order to boost combat capabilities of the Missile Troops and Artillery, battalions of large-caliber artillery are being formed in the Central Military District (CMD), according to Russia's Defense Minister Sergei Shoigu.
Russian Court Jails, Fines Opposition Leader Over Mass Protests VOA 27 Mar 2017 -- A court in Russia sentenced opposition leader and anti-corruption blogger Alexei Navalny on Monday to 15 days in jail for resisting police and fined him 20,000 roubles, about $350, for organizing what authorities said was an illegal, mass protest in Moscow.
Russian Opposition Figure Navalny to Face Court Over Unlicensed Rally Sputnik 27 Mar 2017 -- Russian opposition figure Alexey Navalny will face a court hearing in Moscow on March 27 over organization of an unauthorized rally, his lawyer Olga Mikhailova told Sputnik on Sunday.
Navalny, Hundreds Of Others Detained At Anticorruption Rallies Across Russia RFE/RL 26 Mar 2017 -- Police detained anticorruption activist Aleksei Navalny as hundreds were arrested and thousands rallied in cities across Russia in the largest public demonstrations the country has seen in years.
Russian Police Arrest Opposition Leader Navalny at Moscow Protest VOA 26 Mar 2017 -- Russian protesters have demonstrated by the thousands in cities across the country in support of a call by Russian opposition leader Alexei Navalny for accountability among Russian elite. Over a hundred people were detained around Moscow's Pushkin square, including Navalny, for protesting without permission.
Russian Opposition Figure Navalny Detained in Moscow Amid Unlicensed Protest Sputnik 26 Mar 2017 -- Detention of Russian opposition figure Alexey Navalny took place in the center of Moscow during an unauthorized protest against corruption, according to a lawyer for Navalny's Anti-Corruption Foundation.
Russia Destroys Last Remaining Supplies of Deadly Chemical Weapon Soman Sputnik 26 Mar 2017 -- Russia's last supplies of the deadly chemical weapon soman have been destroyed, Russia's Federal Administration for the Safe Storage and Destruction of Chemical Weapons announced on Saturday.
Syrian, Russian Warplanes Pound Rebel Targets; Scores Killed, Wounded VOA 25 Mar 2017 -- Warplanes of the Syrian government and its Russian allies pounded rebel targets across the country Saturday, killing scores of people, including inmates at a rebel-held women's prison in the northwestern city of Idlib.
Statement by Pentagon Spokesman Captain Jeff Davis on U.S.-Russia Video Conference DoD 24 Mar 2017
Russia Offers to Set Up Helicopter Maintenance Center in Sri Lanka - Official Sputnik 24 Mar 2017 -- A deputy chief of Russia's Federal Service for Military-Technical Cooperation said that Russia has proposed to set up a service center for Russian-made helicopters in Sri Lanka.
Russia Says Not Supplying Taliban, Calls U.S. General's Statement A 'Lying Assertion' RFE/RL 24 Mar 2017 -- A senior Russian diplomat has rejected a statement by the top U.S. general in Europe that Moscow may be helping supply Taliban militants who are fighting the U.S.-backed government and U.S. forces in Afghanistan.
Russia rejects US claim of giving supplies to Taliban in Afghanistan Press TV 24 Mar 2017 -- Russia has dismissed as "false" the recent allegation by a US general that Moscow may be providing supplies to Taliban militants in Afghanistan, saying the charge was an attempt by Washington to cover up its failed policies in the war-torn country.
Six Russian soldiers killed in gun battle with Chechnya militants Press TV 24 Mar 2017 -- Six Russian soldiers have been killed in a gun battle with militants, who attempted to launch an attack on a military facility in the country's southern region of Chechnya.
Kyiv Identifies Suspected Gunman In Ex-Duma Deputy's Assassination RFE/RL 24 Mar 2017 -- The Ukrainian Interior Ministry has confirmed the identity of the suspected gunman in the assassination in Kyiv on March 23 of a former Russian lawmaker who fled last year to Ukraine.
Six Russian Troops, Six Militants Killed In Chechnya Fighting RFE/RL 24 Mar 2017 -- Six Russian National Guard troops and six assailants have been killed in an attack on a military unit in Chechnya, one of the deadliest incidents in the region in months.
Russia's Western Military District Receives Its First Tor-M2 Air Defense System Sputnik 24 Mar 2017 -- Russia's 538 guards Air Defense Missile Regiment of the Western Military District's 4th Guards Tank Division received its first Tor-M2 system, commanding officer Col. Konstantin Demidov said Friday.
Putin Meets Le Pen, Says Not Seeking To Influence French Vote RFE/RL 24 Mar 2017 -- French far-right presidential candidate Marine Le Pen has met with Russian President Vladimir and said that if elected, she will consider how to swiftly remove sanctions against Moscow.
Le Pen: No Evidence of Russia Meddling in French Election Sputnik 24 Mar 2017 -- Presidential candidate Marine Le Pen said there was no evidence of Russia's alleged meddling in the French election.
Briefing by Foreign Ministry Spokesperson Maria Zakharova, Moscow, March 23, 2017 Russia Ministry of Foreign Affairs 23 Mar 2017
Russian, Turkish Tensions Reopen Over Syria VOA 23 Mar 2017 -- The Turkish foreign ministry says it has summoned Russia's top diplomat in Turkey over the killing of one of its soldiers that has been blamed on a Syrian Kurdish group that Moscow is supporting. The dispute is putting increasing strain on rapprochement efforts between the countries.
Kremlin Unaware of Manafort's Program to Promote Russia's Interests Abroad Sputnik 23 Mar 2017 -- US President Donald Trump's former campaign manager Paul Manafort's program to promote Russia's interests in post-Soviet countries has no connection to Russian authorities and had never been brought to the attention of the Kremlin, Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov said Thursday.
Russia 'Perhaps' Supplying Taliban in Afghanistan VOA 23 Mar 2017 -- Russia may be supplying the Taliban as they fight US and NATO forces in Afghanistan, a top U.S. military commander said Thursday.
Putin: Russian weapons proved efficient in Syria war Press TV 23 Mar 2017 -- Russian President Vladimir Putin says his country's defense technology has proved its "exceptional reliability and efficiency" during the ongoing fight against the Daesh Takfiri group.
Russian Army to Receive Hypersonic Weapons, S-500 Missile Systems Soon Sputnik 23 Mar 2017 -- The Russian army will soon receive military equipment based on new physical principles, hypersonic weapons and next-generation S-500 missile defense systems, Russian Presidential Aide for Military-Technical Cooperation Vladimir Kozhin said Thursday.
Russia Plans to Create Advanced Air Defense System Sputnik 23 Mar 2017 -- Russia plans to construct a prospective anti-aircraft short-range missile system (SAM) which will be supplied to troops by 2030-2035, Army Colonel-General and the Commander-in-Chief of the Ground Forces Oleg Salyukov announced.
Brazen Shooting In Kyiv Leaves Exiled Kremlin Critic Dead RFE/RL 23 Mar 2017 -- A former Russian lawmaker who defected to Ukraine and aired damning criticism of Russia's leadership has been gunned down in broad daylight in the heart of Kyiv in what Ukraine's president called "an act of state terrorism by Russia."
Russian Ex-Lawmaker Voronenkov Shot 4 Times - Ukraine Prosecutor General Sputnik 23 Mar 2017 -- The gunman shot former Russian lawmaker Denis Voronenkov four times in Kiev, Prosecutor General of Ukraine Yuriy Lutsenko said Thursday.
Kremlin Says 'Absurd' to Claim Russian Trace in Ex-Lawmaker's Death in Kiev Sputnik 23 Mar 2017 -- The Kremlin believes that claims of a so-called Russian trace in the reported killing of ex-lawmaker Denis Voronenkov are absurd," Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov said Thursday.
Former Russian Lawmaker Killed in Kyiv VOA 23 Mar 2017 -- Former Russian lawmaker Denis Voronenkov was shot dead in Kyiv Thursday in a likely contract killing ordered by Russia, Ukrainian police said.
Russia, India in Talks on Creating New Models of BrahMos Missiles - Putin's Aide Sputnik 23 Mar 2017 -- Russia and India are in talks on creating new models of missiles at the BrahMos Aerospace joint enterprise, Russian Presidential Aide for Military-Technical Cooperation Vladimir Kozhin said Thursday.
Russia Started Su-35 Fighter Jets Supplies to China in 2016 - Putin's Aide Sputnik 23 Mar 2017 -- Russia began Sukhoi Su-35 fighter jets supplies to China in 2016, the two countries are discussing further cooperation, Russian Presidential Aide for Military-Technical Cooperation Vladimir Kozhin said Thursday.
Russia Deals Major Blow to Turkey's Syria Policy VOA 22 Mar 2017 -- Russian and Turkish soldiers are facing off over the Syrian Kurdish canton of Afrin. Ankara says the area that borders its territory is under the control of PYD 'terrorists' affiliated with the Kurdish insurgent group the PKK. But Moscow, like Washington, views the PYD and its YPG militia which controls Afrin as key to fighting Islamic State.
Moscow, Jakarta Looking Into Deal on Deliveries of Russian Be-200 Aircraft Sputnik 22 Mar 2017 -- Moscow and Jakarta are discussing possible deliveries of Russian Be-200 amphibious aircraft, but it is unclear yet how many Indonesia may want to buy, the deputy director of the Russian Federal Service for Military-Technical Cooperation (FSMTC) said Wednesday.
Philippines Interested in Purchasing Russian Military Equipment Sputnik 22 Mar 2017 -- The Philippines has expressed interest in purchasing Russian military equipment, the deputy director of Russia's FSMTC told Sputnik Wednesday.
Russia, Sri Lanka Discuss Delivery Contract of Gepard 3.9 Frigates Sputnik 22 Mar 2017 -- Russia and Sri Lanka are in discussions over a contract on the delivery of Gepard 3.9-class frigates to Colombo, the deputy director of Russia's Federal Service for Military-Technical Cooperation (FSMTC) told Sputnik.
Battling IS, Kurdish Fighters Court Russia And US to Forge New Future VOA 22 Mar 2017 -- Kurdish commanders in northern Syria said this week Russia is building a military base there, and will help train its fighters. Moscow disputed the claims, but analysts say it is a sign of the Kurds' growing role in the region.
Cyber Firm at Center of Russian Hacking Charges Misread Data VOA 21 Mar 2017 -- An influential British think tank and Ukraine's military are disputing a report that the U.S. cybersecurity firm CrowdStrike has used to buttress its claims of Russian hacking in the presidential election.
Black Cash And Black Ops RFE/RL 22 Mar 2017 -- Some of the laundered Russian money was used to buy fancy cars. Some of it to purchase furs. Some of it paid for elite prep-school fees. And some of it was spent on real estate.
Russia's Military Exports Volume in 2016 Exceeded $15 Billion - Putin Sputnik 22 Mar 2017 -- The volume of Russian exports in the sphere of military-technical cooperation in 2016 exceeded $15 billion, the country has retained the world's second place, President Vladimir Putin said Wednesday.
Russian Aerospace Forces to Receive Six T-50 Stealth Jets Sputnik 22 Mar 2017 -- The Russian Aerospace Forces will receive six Sukhoi T-50 (PAK FA) fifth-generation fighter aircraft, spokesman said Wednesday.
Russia, Indonesia Launch Draft Contract Talks on Delivery of Su-35 Fighters Sputnik 21 Mar 2017 -- Russia and Indonesia launched negotiations over a draft contract on the delivery of Russian Su-35 Flanker multirole fighters to Jakarta, the deputy director of Russia's Federal Service for Military-Technical Cooperation (FSMTC) told Sputnik.
Russia, Indonesia Discuss Delivery Contract of 2 Stealth Submarines to Jakarta Sputnik 21 Mar 2017 -- Russia and Indonesia are in discussions over a contract on the delivery of two stealth submarines to Jakarata, the deputy director of Russia's Federal Service for Military-Technical Cooperation (FSMTC) told Sputnik.
Russia Ready to Modernize Malaysian Combat Aircraft MiG-29N to MiG-29SM Level Sputnik 21 Mar 2017 -- Russia is ready to provide full repair and modernize Malaysia's MiG-29N fighter jets to MiG-29SM, a representative of Russia's United Aircraft Corporation (UAC) told Malaysian Prime Minister Najib Razak, during his visit to the international aerospace and maritime exhibition LIMA-2017.
Russia Summons Israeli Envoy Over Concern About Air Strikes In Syria RFE/RL 21 Mar 2017 -- The Russian Foreign Ministry said on March 20 that it had summoned Israel's ambassador to express concern about air strikes that hit close to Russian forces last week around the Syrian city of Palmyra.
Russia denies reports of building military base with Syrian Kurds Press TV 21 Mar 2017 -- Russia has vehemently dismissed a Reuters report which claims it is constructing a military base in the Afrin district of Syria's Aleppo Province in alliance with the Kurdish militia controlling the area.
Repair of Russian Admiral Kuznetsov Aircraft Carrier Will Begin This Year Sputnik 21 Mar 2017 -- Repair works of Russia's Admiral Kuznetsov aircraft carrier, which participated in the anti-terrorist operation in Syria, will start later in 2017, Navy Deputy Commander-in-Chief Vice Adm. Viktor Bursuk said Tuesday.
Russia Unfazed by US Election Hacking Hearings VOA 21 Mar 2017 -- If much of the United States was transfixed by the Congressional testimony of two of America's top intelligence officials on allegations of Russian meddling in the U.S. elections, the Kremlin claimed it had better things to do.
Russia Supplies to Myanmar First Three Yak-130 Combat Trainers Sputnik 21 Mar 2017 -- Russia has completed the delivery of the first batch of Yak-130 combat trainer aircraft to Myanmar, the contract will be fully executed in 2017, Mikhail Petukhov, deputy director of Russia's Federal Service for Military-Technical Cooperation (FSMTC), told Sputnik.
Russia strikes deal to train Syria's Kurdish forces Press TV 20 Mar 2017 -- Russia has signed an agreement with the Kurdish People's Protection Units (YPG) to set up a military base in northwestern Syria and train the forces in the war-ravaged country.
Kurdish YPG Hope to Strengthen Cooperation With Russia in Syria Sputnik 20 Mar 2017 -- The Kurdish People's Protection Units General Command spokesperson Redur Xelil says that YPG hope to strengthen collaboration with Russia to combat terrorism in Syria.
Assad Believes Russia Will Provide Additional Military Assistance Sputnik 20 Mar 2017 -- Syrian President Bashar Assad told Russian journalists that he is confident Damascus will receive additional military assistance from Russia if it is required to fight terrorism, but so far the current level of support is sufficient.
US THAAD missile system poses 'serious risks' to Asia-Pacific region: Russia FM Press TV 20 Mar 2017 -- Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov has taken a swipe at the deployment of a US missile system in South Korea, warning that it poses "serious risks" to the Asia-Pacific region.
Russian Defense Ministry Has No Plans to Create New Bases in Syria Sputnik 20 Mar 2017 -- The Russian Defense Ministry commented on reports claiming Russia is creating a new base in Syria.
Impenetrable: Russia Testing a New Taifun-Airborne APC Sputnik 20 Mar 2017 -- Russian Airborne Troops will soon be bolstered by new mine-resistant, ambush-protected Taifun armed vehicles.
Russian Airborne Forces Launch Drills in Crimea - Commander Sputnik 20 Mar 2017 -- The Russian Airborne Forces launched live-fire combat exercises involving the Black Sea Fleet and the Aerospace Forces, and where three divisions were simultaneously deployed for the first time, the Airborne Forces commander said Monday.
Former Moldovan Deputy Arrested Amid Allegations of Spying For Russia RFE/RL 20 Mar 2017 -- A former member of the Moldovan parliament has been arrested amid allegations he spied for Russia, according to news reports on March 19 that cited unidentified law-enforcement officials.
U.S. Lawmaker: 'No Evidence Of Collusion' Between Trump Campaign, Russia RFE/RL 19 Mar 2017 -- A senior U.S. lawmaker says he has seen "no evidence" of collusion between President Donald Trump's campaign and Russia during last year's presidential campaign.
Moscow Authorities Ban Navalny Anticorruption Event RFE/RL 19 Mar 2017 -- Moscow city authorities have banned an anticorruption rally planned by opposition leader Aleksei Navalny.
Undercover FSB Officer Indicted By U.S. Worked For Moscow Investment Bank RFE/RL 18 Mar 2017 -- One of the two Russian FSB agents indicted by U.S. officials this week worked as an undercover officer at Renaissance Capital, a Moscow investment bank owned by billionaire Mikhail Prokhorov.
Masters of the Arctic: Russia to Permanently Station Submarines in Icy North Sputnik 18 Mar 2017 -- Russian combat submarines have returned to the Arctic region, where they will increase their presence in the near future, Rear Admiral Viktor Kochemazov, the head of the combat training department of the Russian Navy, told the Russian newspaper Krasnaya Zvezda.
Moscow Tells Kabul Ties With Taliban Only to Promote Afghan Peace VOA 17 Mar 2017 -- Afghanistan's national security adviser met Friday with senior officials in Russia to discuss counterterrorism cooperation and efforts to promote peace as Taliban insurgents staged fresh deadly attacks in Afghanistan.
EU Slams Russia Over Crimea Annexation On Third Anniversary RFE/RL 17 Mar 2017 -- The European Union on March 17 condemned Russia's seizure of Ukraine's Crimea territory, calling Moscow's annexation of the Black Sea peninsula a "direct challenge to international security."
Russia set to launch its most powerful nuclear sub this month Press TV 17 Mar 2017 -- Russia will shortly put afloat a second, nuclear-powered Yasen-class submarine – its strongest – in a northern port, a Russian defense source says.
Russian Activists Say Suspicious Military Deaths Often Tied To Extortion Schemes RFE/RL 17 Mar 2017 -- At 10 a.m. on February 17, Russian draftee Arkady B. jumped out of a third-story window of his barracks outside Moscow. Doctors say it was a miracle that he survived, with multiple compression fractures, a concussion, and other injuries. They are optimistic that Arkady, who asked not to be identified for this article, will walk again after a few months of rehabilitation.
Crimean Shipyard to Build 3 Missile Corvettes by 2020 - Deputy Defense Minister Sputnik 17 Mar 2017 -- Russian Deputy Defense Minister said that Three Karakurt-class (Project 22800) corvettes for the Russian Navy will be constructed at the More (Sea) Shipyard in the town of Feodosia in Russia's Crimea in 2018-2020.
Russia to Float Out 1st Upgraded Borei-Class Strategic Sub in 2Q17 Sputnik 17 Mar 2017 -- Russia's Borei II-class Knyaz Vladimir nuclear-powered strategic submarine will be floated out in the second quarter of 2017, the United Shipbuilding Corporation (USC) said Friday.
Russia, India Finalizing Agreement on Fighter Jet Development Work - Minister Sputnik 17 Mar 2017 -- Russian-Indian agreement on separation of research and development work on the Fifth Generation Fighter Aircraft (FGFA) is on its final stage, Russian Minister of Trade and Industry Denis Manturov said Friday, adding that India would have equal rights over aircraft in case it invested money into the project.
India Signs Spares' Supply Pact With Russia for Sukhoi Fleet Sputnik 17 Mar 2017 -- The Indian Air Force has been grappling with the non-availability of its frontline fighter Su-30 MKI due to delays in the import of critical spares from Russia.
India, Russia Sign Agreement on Sukhoi-30MKI Aircraft After-Sales Service Sputnik 17 Mar 2017 -- India's Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) company has signed an agreement with Russia's United Aircraft Corporation (UAC) and United Engine Corporation (UEC) for the long-term maintenance support for Sukhoi-30MKI aircraft of the Indian Air Force on Friday.
Briefing by Foreign Ministry Spokesperson Maria Zakharova, Moscow, March 16, 2017 Russia Ministry of Foreign Affairs 16 Mar 2017
European Parliament Calls On Russia To Free Ukrainians RFE/RL 16 Mar 2017 -- The European Parliament is calling on Moscow to free more than 30 Ukrainian citizens who are in prison or other conditions of restricted freedom in Russia, Crimea, and parts of eastern Ukraine that are controlled by Russia-backed separatists.
Kremlin Denies Any Russian State Involvement In Cyberattacks RFE/RL 16 Mar 2017 -- A day after U.S. authorities indicted two Russian Federal Security Service (FSB) officers over a massive hack targeting Yahoo, the Kremlin reiterated its claim that the Russian state has never been involved in any cyberattacks.
'We Should Never Trust Russia,' Warns U.S. Ambassador To UN RFE/RL 16 Mar 2017 -- The U.S. ambassador to the United Nations says Washington should "never trust Russia," the latest in a series of hawkish statements that have made her a leading Russia critic in President Donald Trump's administration.
U.S. Charges Russian FSB Officers and Their Criminal Conspirators for Hacking Yahoo and Millions of Email Accounts US Dept. of Justice 15 Mar 2017 -- A grand jury in the Northern District of California has indicted four defendants, including two officers of the Russian Federal Security Service (FSB), for computer hacking, economic espionage and other criminal offenses in connection with a conspiracy, beginning in January 2014, to access Yahoo's network and the contents of webmail accounts.
Acting Assistant Attorney General Mary B. McCord Delivers Remarks at Press Conference Announcing Charges Against Russian FSB Officers and Their Criminal Conspirators for Hacking Yahoo US Dept. of Justice 15 Mar 2017
U.S. Indicts Two Russian FSB Officers In Yahoo Hack; One Charged By Moscow With Treason RFE/RL 15 Mar 2017 -- U.S. authorities have indicted two Russian intelligence officers for the massive 2014 hack against Yahoo, one of whom was arrested earlier in Moscow as part a widening scandal involving Russia's top security agency.
US Charges 2 Alleged Russian FSB Officers, 2 Hackers Over 2014 Yahoo Attack Sputnik 15 Mar 2017 -- US Department of Justice announced Wednesday the indictment of two alleged Russian FSB officers and two alleged criminal hackers for 2014 theft of information on some 500 million Yahoo users.
Russian Spies Indicted in Massive 2014 Yahoo Hack VOA 15 Mar 2017 -- The U.S. Department of Justice on Wednesday announced indictments for two Russian spies and two other people suspected of stealing personal information from hundreds of millions of people in the 2014 hack of Yahoo.
Russian Naval Aviation to Overhaul, Boost Helicopter Fleet by 2025 Sputnik 15 Mar 2017 -- The Russian Navy has begun overhauling its fleet of shipborne helicopters as part of a state arms procurement program running into 2025, the Russian Defense Ministry's press office said Wednesday.
Russia Deploys Bastion, Bereg Missile and Artillery Systems in Black Sea Drill Sputnik 15 Mar 2017 -- Russia has deployed Bastion and Bereg coastal defense missile and artillery systems during a military exercise now ongoing at a Back Sea naval base in Novorossiisk, Black Sea Fleets spokesman Vyacheslav Trukhachev told Sputnik.
Reports of Russian Military on Libyan-Egyptian Border 'Untrue' - Libyan Army Sputnik 15 Mar 2017 -- Media reports of Russian military specialists allegedly deployed in Egypt near the border with Libya are not true, Libyan army's spokesman Col. Ahmed Mismari told Sputnik on Wednesday.
Ousted U.S. Prosecutor Bharara A Thorn In Russia's Side For Years RFE/RL 14 Mar 2017 -- Preet Bharara's supporters may be criticizing his firing as a federal prosecutor, which the Trump White House characterizes as a routine renewal of ranks among U.S. attorneys under a new president. But it is unlikely that any tears are being shed in Moscow.
Russian Delegation Comments on Syria Opposition's Decision to Skip Peace Talks Sputnik 14 Mar 2017 -- Russia regrets that the Syrian armed opposition delegation decided to not take part in the ongoing talks in Astana on the situation in the country, head of the Russian delegation Alexander Lavrentyev said Tuesday.
Kremlin Aware of Challenges to Astana Talks on Syria Sputnik 14 Mar 2017 -- Russia had been aware of challenges to the Syrian talks in Astana since their inception, Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov said Tuesday, adding the negotiating process was not made easier by emerging differences between the parties.
Putin Orders to Sign Agreement to Include S Ossetia Divisions in Russian Army Sputnik 14 Mar 2017 -- Russian President Vladimir Putin has approved an agreement with South Ossetia on the inclusion of some of its military units into the Russian Armed Forces, a decree posted Tuesday on the official Russian legal information website says.
Moscow Moves To Incorporate Breakaway Georgian Region's Military RFE/RL 14 Mar 2017 -- Russian President Vladimir Putin has ordered his government to conclude an agreement to effectively incorporate the military of Georgia's breakaway South Ossetia region into the Russian armed forces' command structure.
No Russian Special Forces in Egypt - Russian Defense Ministry Sputnik 14 Mar 2017 -- There are are no Russian special forces units in Egypt contrary to media reports, the Russian Defense Ministry spokesman said Tuesday.
Kremlin Rejects Reports of Russian Military Deployment Near Libyan Border VOA 14 Mar 2017 -- Kremlin officials and Russian lawmakers are denying published reports that Moscow has deployed a team of special forces and drones to a military base in Egypt near the Libyan border.
EU Extends Sanctions Over Russia's Crimea Annexation RFE/RL 13 Mar 2017 -- The European Union has extended sanctions against dozens of individuals and entities over Russia's annexation of Ukraine's Crimean Peninsula.
Serbia Defense Chief Says Putin Soon To Approve Delivery Of Fighter Jets RFE/RL 12 Mar 2017 -- The Serbian defense chief says he expects Russian President Vladimir Putin to soon approve delivery of six MiG-29 fighter jets to Serbia.
US demonizes Russia with claims of tampering election, Kremlin says Press TV 12 Mar 2017 -- The Kremlin says Washington is trying to demonize Russia with claims that it interfered with the 2016 US elections.
Kremlin Spokesman: Russia Impatient With Trump Administration RFE/RL 12 Mar 2017 -- The Kremlin's main spokesman has said Moscow is frustrated with President Donald Trump's administration and a lack of progress in improving relations.
Russian Nuclear Submarines Hold Underwater Torpedo 'Duel' in Arctic Sputnik 12 Mar 2017 -- Two nuclear submarines of the Russian Northern Fleet held an underwater torpedo duel in the Barents Sea, the deputy head of the Northern Fleet's press service, Captain II rank Andrei Luzik, said.
What is Known So Far About New Russian Surface-to-Air Long-Range Guided Missile Sputnik 12 Mar 2017 -- On Tuesday, Defense Minister Sergei Shoigu said that Russia is conducting tests of an advanced long-range surface-to-air guided missile.
Russians First in the World to Reach Island in Arctic on Military Equipment Sputnik 12 Mar 2017 -- A Russian military expedition to the Kotelny Island in Russia's Arctic latitudes has crossed the Laptev Sea and has reached its remote destination, Deputy Defense Minister Dmitry Bulgakov said Sunday.
Iran, Russia consider naval cooperation development IRNA 12 Mar 2017 -- During visit of Iran friendship flotilla to Makhachkala Port in Dagestan Republic of Russian Federation on Caspian Sea, Commander of the flotilla Commodore Mohsen Sheidaei called for naval cooperation development.
E-Mail Hack Gives Glimpse Into Russia's Influence Drive In Eastern Europe RFE/RL 11 Mar 2017 -- Belarusian Alyaksandr Usorsky describes himself as a historian and publicist. His works include titles such as Who Set Hitler Against The U.S.S.R?, Churchill's Cannon Fodder, and God Save Stalin! Tsar Of The U.S.S.R. Josef The Great.
Russia Hints at Involving US in Talks on Afghanistan VOA 11 Mar 2017 -- Russia has hinted at involving the United States in a newly-launched regional dialogue Moscow says is aimed at seeking a negotiated settlement to the conflict in Afghanistan. The move comes as Afghanistan's national security adviser is due to visit Moscow to discuss the prospects for promoting reconciliation with armed opposition in his country.
Russia Starts Preparations to Modernize Naval Base in Syrian Tartus Sputnik 11 Mar 2017 -- Viktor Ozerov, the head of the Russian Federation Council's defense committee, said that the capital modernization work of the naval base in Syria's Tartus will start by the end of 2017.
Iran seeks constructive marine interaction with Russia: Commander Press TV 11 Mar 2017 -- Iran seeks to bolster "good and constructive" marine cooperation with Russia, an Iranian naval commander says.
Briefing by Foreign Ministry Spokesperson Maria Zakharova, Moscow, March 10, 2017 Russia Ministry of Foreign Affairs 10 Mar 2017
Comment Information and Press Department of the Russian Foreign Ministry in connection with the accusations of the Russian Federation to address the support of the Taliban Movement Ministry of Foreign Affairs 10 Mar 2017 -- "We pay attention to put forward recently by representatives of command of foreign military contingents deployed in the Islamic Republic of Afghanistan, as well as some Afghan officials in charge of the Russian Federation, the address of the alleged support of the Taliban Moscow (DT). The Russian side "incriminated" DT supply of weapons, financing the activities of this extremist organization, and even assist in the establishment on Afghan territory militant training camps. Needless to say, this is not supported by any evidence."
Israel Warns Russia That Iran's Presence In Syria Blocks Peace Deal RFE/RL 10 Mar 2017 -- Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has told Russian President Vladimir Putin there can never be peace in Syria as long Iran maintains troops and advisers there.
Putin, Erdogan Pledge Cooperation To Help Bring End To Syrian Conflict RFE/RL 10 Mar 2017 -- Russian President Vladimir Putin and his Turkish counterpart, Recep Tayyip Erdogan, citing improved bilateral ties, pledged to work together to help bring an end to the conflict in Syria.
Putin hails closer Moscow-Ankara ties on Syria crisis Press TV 10 Mar 2017 -- Russian President Vladimir Putin has praised close interactions between Moscow and Ankara as part of efforts to find a promising solution to the nearly six-year-long foreign-sponsored militancy in Syria, which has killed thousands of people and left the Arab country in ruins.
Russian Aerospace Forces to Receive Three An-148 Passenger Aircraft in 2017 Sputnik 10 Mar 2017 -- Three Antonov An-148 passenger aircraft will join the ranks of the Russian Aerospace Forces by 2018.
Russian Aerospace Forces to Get 16 Sophisticated Su-34 Bombers This Year Sputnik 10 Mar 2017 -- Russia's Aerospace Forces will get 16 new Sukhoi Su-34 fighter-bombers this year.
Navalny: Political Change in Russia Is Only Solution to Corruption VOA 10 Mar 2017 -- Russian opposition leader and anti-corruption blogger Alexei Navalny recently caused a stir on the internet with a documentary-style video about the lifestyle of Russian Prime Minister Dmitry Medvedev that has already been viewed millions of times.
Russia deems leaked data on CIA plausible: FM Lavrov Press TV 10 Mar 2017 -- Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov says Moscow considers the information recently leaked about the US Central Intelligence Agency (CIA)'s hacking techniques as "quite plausible."
Erdogan, Putin to Meet in Rapprochement Efforts VOA 09 Mar 2017 -- Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan is heading to Russia in the latest step in rapprochement efforts between the countries. Erdogan is to meet Friday with his Russian counterpart, Vladimir Putin
Putin Fires 10 Generals In Law Enforcement, Says Police Must Do Better RFE/RL 09 Mar 2017 -- Russian President Vladimir Putin has dismissed several senior law enforcement and officers and told the authorities they must do a better job fighting a range of problems from extremism to teen suicides.
In Moscow, German FM Warns Of Danger Of New Arms Race With Russia RFE/RL 09 Mar 2017 -- German Foreign Minister Sigmar Gabriel has warned Russia about the danger of a new arms race triggered by the conflict in eastern Ukraine, and called for reducing the number of conventional weapons.
Lavrov Refutes Claims of Russia's Disproportionate Military Buildup in West Sputnik 09 Mar 2017 -- Allegations of Russia's disproportionate buildup in the western direction are not true, Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov said Thursday.
Russia Fully Complies With INF Treaty Despite Not Meeting Moscow's Interests Sputnik 09 Mar 2017 -- Russia has been, remains and will remain committed to all international obligations, including arising from the INF Treaty, according to Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov.
Putin Aims to Undermine Western Democracies With Election Meddling, Experts Say VOA 09 Mar 2017 -- Russian President Vladimir Putin is single-handedly trying to undermine democracy in the United States and Europe and rupture their decades-old NATO alliance by meddling in their elections, foreign affairs analysts and Estonia's former president told a congressional hearing Thursday in Washington.
U.S. Lawmaker Says EU Imperiled By 'Kremlin-Backed Politicians' In France RFE/RL 09 Mar 2017 -- A senior U.S. lawmaker says that the future of the European Union could be in danger if "Kremlin-backed politicians" come to power in France.
Berlin Concerned Over US Military Spending, Russian Military Potential in Baltic Sputnik 09 Mar 2017 -- Germany's foreign minister voiced Berlin's concern over Washington's plans to increase military spending as well as Moscow's armed forces in the Baltic Region.
Top U.S. General Says Russia Deployed Banned Missiles To Threaten NATO RFE/RL 08 Mar 2017 -- The vice chairman of the U.S. Joint Chiefs of Staff says Russia has deployed a land-based cruise missile that violates the "spirit and intent" of a Cold War-era nuclear arms control treaty -- and that it did so to "pose a threat to NATO."
US Accuses Russia of Deploying Missile in Violation of Arms Control Treaty VOA 08 Mar 2017 -- The United States has publicly accused Russia for the first time of deploying a cruise missile in violation of a 30-year-old arms control agreement.
Russia rejects Ukraine 'terrorism' claims at UN court Press TV 07 Mar 2017 -- Russia has flatly rejected claims made by Ukraine that Moscow is "sponsoring terrorism" through alleged providing of money and arms for pro-Russia forces in the war-scarred country, describing the allegations as "neither factual nor legal."
Russia Tells UN Court It Has No Jurisdiction In Ukraine Case RFE/RL 07 Mar 2017 -- Russia says the International Court of Justice (ICJ) in The Hague has no jurisdiction to issue an order Ukraine seeks to halt Moscow's support for separatists in eastern Ukraine and Crimea.
Kiev Fails to Prove at ICJ Russia Discriminates Against Crimean Tatars Sputnik 07 Mar 2017 -- Ukraine failed to support its allegations that Russia discriminates Crimean Tatars with evidence, a deputy director of the Russian Foreign Ministry's Department for Humanitarian Cooperation and Human Rights, representing Russia at the UN International Court of Justice (ICJ), said Tuesday.
Dunford Discusses Syria With Turkish, Russian Counterparts AFPS 07 Mar 2017 -- The chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff is meeting with his Russian and Turkish counterparts here today to discuss the situation in northern Syria.
'Turkey, Russia, US military chiefs meet in Turkish city' Press TV 07 Mar 2017 -- The Turkish army says its chief of the general staff has met with his Russian and American counterparts in Turkey, discussing the situation in Iraq and Syria among other things.
Armed Forces Chiefs Meet in Turkey Over Syrian Kurdish Tensions VOA 07 Mar 2017 -- The U.S. top general, Joseph Dunford, along with the chief of Russia's general staff, Valery Gerasimov, were hosted by their Turkish counterpart, Hulusi Akar, in the Mediterranean resort of Antalya. According to officials, the meeting sought to find ways to avoid potential confrontations among the forces operating in Syria.
China, Russia slam US missile system deployment in South Korea Press TV 07 Mar 2017 -- China and Russia have slammed the deployment of a US missile system to South Korea, with Beijing vowing to defend its security interests.
Russian Navy's Long Arm: Antey Nuclear Subs to Carry Kalibr Cruise Missiles Sputnik 07 Mar 2017 -- Russia plans to upgrade its fleet of Antei-class nuclear-powered missile submarines with Kalibr long-range cruise missiles, Sputnik reported, citing Deputy Defense Minister Yuri Borisov.
Russian Aviation Company to Deliver 12 Ka-52s Within State Orders in 2017 Sputnik 07 Mar 2017 -- Russia's Progress Arsenyev aviation company will deliver 12 Ka-52 attack helicopters to the Russian Defense Ministry as part of state orders this year, Deputy Defense Minister Yuriy Borisov said Tuesday.
Kremlin Comments on Trump's Wiretapping Claims Sputnik 06 Mar 2017 -- The Kremlin spokesman commented on claims made by US President Donald Trump, who accused his predecessor of ordering Trump Tower's wiretapping prior to the 2016 election.
Kurds Shed Light on Russia-Damascus Deal to Prevent Turkey's Attack on Manbij Sputnik 06 Mar 2017 -- Control over six villages to the west of the Syrian city of Manbij has been turned over to the Syrian Army, sources in the Manbij Military Council (MMC) said.
Cutting-Edge Admiral Grigorovich Frigate Joins Russian Naval Flotilla in Med Sputnik 06 Mar 2017 -- The Russian Black Sea Fleet's frigate the Admiral Grigorovich has replaced the Smetlivy as part of the Russian naval task force in the Mediterranean, according to the Fleet's press service.
Russia says US, France, UK sought to 'poison' Syria talks Press TV 04 Mar 2017 -- Russia has accused Britain, France, and the United States of having attempted to "poison" the atmosphere of the latest round of the intra-Syrian negotiations.
Russian Defense Ministry Arctic Expedition Successfully Covers 373 Miles Sputnik 04 Mar 2017 -- The Arctic expedition of the Russian Defense Ministry, tasked with testing weaponry and equipment in Arctic climate, has successfully negotiated about 600 kilometers, roughly 373 miles, a little over a quarter of the planned distance, Deputy Defense Minister Gen. Dmitry Bulgakov said Saturday.
Lavrov slams US scandal on Russia contacts 'a witch hunt' Press TV 03 Mar 2017 -- Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov has described the scandal over contacts between Russia and members of US President Donald Trump's administration as "a witch hunt."
Senators approach MI6 spy to testify on Trump's Russia ties Press TV 03 Mar 2017 -- A former MI6 spy who compiled the explosive dossier on President Donald Trump's alleged links with Russia has been approached to testify before the US Senate Intelligence Committee, according to a report.
House Democrats Say FBI Not Sharing All It Knows On Russia-Trump Ties RFE/RL 03 Mar 2017 -- U.S. Democrats are charging that FBI Director James Comey declined to divulge all he knew about the agency's investigation into Russian meddling in the U.S. election at a closed-door meeting with the House Intelligence Committee.
White House Discloses Trump's Son-In Law Met With Russian Ambassador RFE/RL 03 Mar 2017 -- Russia's ambassador to the United States met with a number of aides to U.S. President Donald Trump during the election campaign last year besides current Attorney General Jeff Sessions, including Trump's son-in-law Jared Kushner, the White House and U.S. media reports said on March 2.
Russia, NATO military chiefs in first high-level contact since 2014 Press TV 03 Mar 2017 -- In the first high-level contact after NATO unilaterally froze ties with Moscow over the crisis in Ukraine, military chiefs from Russia and the Western alliance have held a phone conversation.
NATO, Russia Hold First Top-Level Military Talks In Three Years RFE/RL 03 Mar 2017 -- Senior military officials from Russia and NATO have held their first direct talks since the Western alliance cut military contacts with Russia three years ago over the Kremlin's interference in Ukraine.
Russian Aviation, Special Forces Play Key Role in Crushing Daesh Near Palmyra Sputnik 03 Mar 2017 -- Russia's Aerospace Forces and Special Operations Forces played the key role in decimating Daesh terrorists in the battle for Palmyra, Lt. Gen. Sergei Rudskoi, the chief of the Russian General Staff Main Operational Directorate, said on Friday.
Moscow Says Unfazed By U.S. Defense Spending As Long As Balance Preserved RFE/RL 03 Mar 2017 -- The Kremlin says that U.S. plans to boost defense spending will not affect Russia unless they change the "strategic balances" between the former Cold War foes.
U.S. Says Russia's Activities In Ukraine Impair Human Rights At Home RFE/RL 03 Mar 2017 -- A new U.S. State Department report says human rights in Russia continue to be "significantly and negatively" affected by Moscow's "purported annexation" of Ukraine's Crimea Peninsula and its support for separatist fighters in eastern Ukraine.
Russian Jets Destroy 2,300 Terrorist Targets in Syria in February Sputnik 03 Mar 2017 -- The Russian General Staff shared the details of Moscow's operation against terrorists in Syria in February.
Russian General Staff Chief, NATO Head Talk Via Phone for 1st Time Since Freeze Sputnik 03 Mar 2017 -- Russian General Staff chief Valery Gerasimov and NATO head Petr Pavel have had their first telephone conversation since relations between Russia and the West soured; the initiative came from the military alliance.
Russia says ready to broker talks for unity in Libya Press TV 03 Mar 2017 -- Russia says it is ready to broker talks between rival authorities in Libya to help unify the divided North African country.
Russian Aerostats Radar to be Backbone of Indian Border Defense Sputnik 03 Mar 2017 -- Russian Aerostats radar will be fitted with Israeli SPYDER missiles to give India an edge on the border with Pakistan
Briefing by Foreign Ministry Spokesperson Maria Zakharova, Moscow, March 2, 2017 Russia Ministry of Foreign Affairs 02 Mar 2017
Kremlin Seeks to Expand Influence in Increasingly Unstable Balkans VOA 02 Mar 2017 -- Serbia's outgoing prime minister, Aleksandar Vucic, reassured European Union officials visiting Belgrade on Wednesday that his country remains committed to joining the European bloc – but he cautioned that Serbs also want to pursue traditional ties with "friends from the East."
Over 10 Baltic Fleet's Ships Participate in Antisubmarine Defense Drills Sputnik 02 Mar 2017 -- According to fleet's press service, more than 10 warships and supply vessels of the Baltic Fleet have left their bases to participate in the military exercises to work out antisubmarine and air defense.
Russian Spokesman Unaware of Meetings Between Sessions and Russian Ambassador VOA 02 Mar 2017 -- A Russian spokesman said Thursday he is not aware of any meetings between U.S. Attorney General Jeff Sessions, then a U.S. senator, and Russia's ambassador during last year's U.S. presidential campaign.
Russia's Navalny Claims Medvedev Tied To 'Secret' Property Empire In New Investigation RFE/RL 02 Mar 2017 -- MOSCOW -- Russian Prime Minister Dmitry Medvedev has long styled himself as a liberal-leaning lawyer who loathes corruption, having launched an initiative to combat rampant graft in 2008 -- one of his first acts as president during his four-year stint in the Kremlin.
British, Russian Military Chiefs Confer On Avoiding Potential Incidents RFE/RL 01 Mar 2017 -- Senior Russian and British military officials have held rare talks in Moscow aimed at avoiding clashes and lowering tensions that have spiked to their highest levels since the Cold War.
U.S. Man Jailed For Illegally Selling High-Tech Goods To Russian Military RFE/RL 01 Mar 2017 -- A former employee of an electronics export company in the U.S. city of Houston has been sentenced to more than 11 years in prison for his role in a scheme to illegally export about $50 million of microelectronics to Russia.
Putin Denies State-Sponsored Doping in Russia, Vows to Boost Anti-Doping Efforts Sputnik 01 Mar 2017 -- Vladimir Putin reaffirmed on Wednesday that there is no state-sponsored system supporting of doping abuse in Russia, vowing instead continued anti-doping efforts.

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March 2017 - Russia Special Weapons News