April 2017 - Russia Special Weapons News

Medvedev's Popularity Sinks Amid May Day Politics in Russia VOA 28 Apr 2017 -- The independent Russian television channel Dozhd (Rain) reported Friday that the central executive committee of the country's ruling party, United Russia, had distributed to its regional branches a list of 36 slogans that party activists should use during party activities next week marking the annual May Day holiday.
Briefing by Foreign Ministry Spokesperson Maria Zakharova, Moscow, April 27, 2017 Russia Ministry of Foreign Affairs 27 Apr 2017
Estonia Defense Chief Says Russia May Move Troops To Belarus To Challenge NATO RFE/RL 27 Apr 2017 -- Estonia's defense minister says Russia may use large-scale military exercises to move thousands of troops permanently into Belarus later this year in a warning to NATO.
Russian ship sinks in Black Sea after crashing into freighter Press TV 27 Apr 2017 -- A Russian naval intelligence ship has sunk off Turkey's Black Sea coast after colliding with a merchant vessel carrying a cargo of livestock.
Russian Spy Ship Sinks After Collision In Black Sea; Crews Safe RFE/RL 27 Apr 2017 -- A Russian naval intelligence ship has sunk after a collision with a freighter tore a hole in its hull in the Black Sea off Istanbul, Turkish and Russian authorities say.
Putin, Abe Vow To Work Together To Ease Korea Tensions RFE/RL 27 Apr 2017 -- Russian President Vladimir Putin and Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe say they will closely cooperate in an attempt to ease tensions between North Korea and rival nations over Pyongyang's ballistic-missile program.
Russia-West Tensions Exposed at Moscow Security Conference VOA 27 Apr 2017 -- Tensions between Russia and the West over security in Europe, the Middle East and Asia have surfaced at an annual defense conference in Moscow. Major flashpoints include the situation in Syria and NATO expansion.
Dropping Poll Numbers Signal Deepening Problems For Russian Prime Minister RFE/RL 26 Apr 2017 -- A new opinion poll shows growing dissatisfaction among Russians for Prime Minister Dmitry Medvedev, with as many as 45 percent saying he should step down.
Russian Bombers Flew Near Alaska, Canada, Prompting NORAD Response RFE/RL 25 Apr 2017 -- Russian warplanes last week flew near Alaska and Canada several times, prompting North American air-defense forces to scramble jets for the first time in more than two years, the Pentagon said on April 24.
Russia-Linked Hackers Targeted Macron Campaign, Cyber-Researchers Say RFE/RL 25 Apr 2017 -- French presidential front-runner Emmanuel Macron's campaign has been targeted in cyberattacks bearing the hallmarks of an aggressive hacking outfit that intelligence officials say is a branch of Russia's espionage apparatus, an Internet security firm says.
After French Vote, Kremlin Media Chorus Longs For Age Of De Gaulle, Mitterrand, Chirac RFE/RL 25 Apr 2017 -- Russian state media and Kremlin-connected political pundits are hammering home a nearly identical talking point about France's presidential election -- French candidates and the Fifth Republic ain't what they used to be.
Denmark Says Russia Hacked Defense Ministry E-Mails RFE/RL 24 Apr 2017 -- Denmark's defense minister has criticized Moscow's "aggressive" behavior after a report accused Russian hackers of infiltrating e-mail accounts of the country's Defense Ministry.
U.S. Concerned Russia Supplying Arms To Afghan Taliban RFE/RL 24 Apr 2017 -- A top U.S. Army general has suggested during a visit to Afghanistan by U.S. Defense Secretary Jim Mattis that Russia is arming Taliban militants.
Top US Military Officials 'Not Refuting' Russia Arming Afghan Taliban VOA 24 Apr 2017 -- Days after the brazen Taliban attack on an Afghan military base, top U.S. military officials are "not refuting" reports Russia has been arming the insurgent group.
Erdogan set to discuss S-400 missile systems with Putin: Turkish minister Press TV 24 Apr 2017 -- Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan is expected to discuss a contract for buying the advanced S-400 long-range air missile defense system during an upcoming meeting with his Russian counterpart, Vladimir Putin, Turkey's defense minister says.
Russia's support for E Ukraine 'obstacle' in Washington-Moscow ties Press TV 24 Apr 2017 -- US Secretary of State Rex Tillerson says Russia's "actions" in eastern Ukraine serve as an "obstacle" in ties between the administration of US President Donald Trump and the Kremlin.
U.S. 'Shocked' By OSCE Member Death In Ukraine, Urges Russia To Aid Probe RFE/RL 23 Apr 2017 -- The U.S. State Department has said it was "shocked" over the death of an American citizen serving as an international monitor in separatist-controlled Ukraine and called on Russia to use its influence to allow a full investigation.
Moscow Hails ICJ Ruling On Ukraine RFE/RL 20 Apr 2017 -- Russia's Foreign Ministry has hailed a ruling of the International Court of Justice (ICJ) in The Hague rejecting Ukraine's request to order Moscow to stop supporting separatists in eastern Ukraine.
Russia Bans Jehovah's Witnesses as 'Extremist' VOA 20 Apr 2017 -- The Russian Supreme Court ruled Thursday that the Jehovah's Witnesses, a Christian sect, are an "extremist" group and ordered their Russian property turned over to the government.
Briefing by Foreign Ministry Spokesperson Maria Zakharova, Moscow, April 19, 2017 Russia Ministry of Foreign Affairs 19 Apr 2017
US stealth fighters intercept Russian bombers near Alaska Press TV 19 Apr 2017 -- The US military has intercepted a pair of Russian bombers flying off the coast of Alaska, a Pentagon official says amid escalating tension between Moscow and Washington over a recent US strike on Syria.
Russian Navy to Receive 40 Vessels in 2017 Sputnik 19 Apr 2017 -- The Russian Navy is going to receive 40 ships and vessels this year.
Russian Defense Ministry Confirms US Interception of Russian Bombers Near Alaska Sputnik 19 Apr 2017 -- The Russian Defense Ministry confirmed that two Russian Tu-95MS bombers were escorted by US fighters near Alaska.
Alleged Mastermind Of Plot To Kill Kadyrov Charged In Absentia RFE/RL 18 Apr 2017 -- Isa Yamadayev, who seven years ago accused Chechen Republic head Ramzan Kadyrov of ordering the murders of his brothers Ruslan and Sulim, has been charged in absentia with plotting the revenge killing of Kadyrov, according to the news portal Rosbalt.
U.S. 'Disturbed' By Reports Of Gay Abuse In Chechnya, Calls For Probe RFE/RL 18 Apr 2017 -- The United States has voiced concern over the reported persecution of gay men in Chechnya and urged officials in the Russian region to investigate, while a senior lawmaker called on President Vladimir Putin to make clear that violence based on sexual orientation is unacceptable.
Get Your Stealth On: Serbia Looks to Russia, Belarus to Buy S-300 AA System Sputnik 17 Apr 2017 -- Serbia is looking to purchase two divisions of Russian S-300 anti-air systems, according to Serbian President Aleksandar Vucic. Belgrade may make the buy from either Russia or from Belarus.
Russia May Assist Afghanistan in Training Police, Army Staff Sputnik 16 Apr 2017 -- Russia may train Afghani army and police, deputy speaker of the Russian's Federation Council said on Sunday.
Serbia in talks with Russia, Belarus over S-300 purchase Press TV 16 Apr 2017 -- Serbian President Aleksandar Vucic says Belgrade has entered talks with Russia and Belarus over the purchase of S-300 surface-to-air missile systems.
US Urges Russia, Pakistan To End Support For Afghan Taliban VOA 16 Apr 2017 -- The United States is calling on regional countries, including Russia and Pakistan, not to support the Taliban in their bid to "perpetuate the very long war" in Afghanistan.
Russian Lawmakers, Saudi King Disagree On Future Of Syria's President RFE/RL 16 Apr 2017 -- A delegation from Russia's upper house of parliament, the Federal Council, have met in Riyadh with Saudi Arabia's King Salman bin Abdulaziz al-Saud for talks about the war in Syria.
U.K. Foreign Secretary Calls Assad 'Arch-Terrorist,' Urges Russia To End Support RFE/RL 16 Apr 2017 -- U.K. Foreign Secretary Boris Johnson has called Syrian President Bashar al-Assad an "arch-terrorist" and said Russia still has "time to be on the right side of the argument."
Boris Johnson Urges Russia to Stop Supporting Bashar Assad Sputnik 16 Apr 2017 -- Moscow should "make a sensible compromise," withdraw its support for Syrian President Bashar Assad and join international coalition fighting the Daesh terror group (banned in numerous countries), UK Foreign Secretary Boris Johnson said in a article for Sunday Telegraph newspaper.
HMS Sutherland escorts two Russian warships past UK coastline UK MOD 15 Apr 2017 -- Royal Navy frigate HMS Sutherland is today escorting two Russian warships which are expected to sail through the English Channel overnight tonight.
Russia, West Moving Towards New Cold War, Gorbachev Warns RFE/RL 15 Apr 2017 -- Mikhail Gorbachev, the last leader of the Soviet Union, called on the West to "restore trust" with Russia and warned that the two old adversaries are moving toward a renewed state of Cold War.
Biden Says White House Should Prod Kremlin Over Abuse Of Chechen Gays RFE/RL 15 Apr 2017 -- Former U.S. Vice President Joe Biden on April 14 called on the White House to raise concerns about the persecution of gay men in Chechnya "directly with Russia's leaders."
Russia Hosts Afghanistan Meeting Boycotted By Washington RFE/RL 14 Apr 2017 -- Russia opened meetings with top diplomats from Afghanistan, China, and several Central Asian countries in talks that are aimed at bringing peace to Afghanistan but are being boycotted by the United States.
Lavrov: Iran, Russia, Syria urge careful investigation into Khan Shayhkun chemical incident IRNA 14 Apr 2017 -- Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov said on Friday that the three countries of Russia, Iran, and Syria are keen on launching a deep probe into chemical incident in Khan Shaykhun but it is not clear why the US and the West are opposing the idea.
Russia, Iran, Syria Issue Warning Against Another Syria Strike VOA 14 Apr 2017 -- Russia, Syria and Iran have warned the United States against launching new strikes on Syria and called for an international investigation into the chemical weapons attack in Syria.
Kremlin Sets Condition for Russia's Restoration of Memo With US on Syria Flights Sputnik 14 Apr 2017 -- Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov said that Moscow is ready to restore the memorandum on the safety of flights over Syria if Washington's "unpredictable actions" don't repeat.
Russia 'skeptical' of OPCW probe in Syria Press TV 14 Apr 2017 -- A Russian deputy foreign minister has said Moscow is "skeptical" of the work being carried out by an international organization to probe an alleged chemical attack in Syria, saying Iran, Brazil, and India should be included in any investigation of the purported attack.
Russia's Policy in Syria, Afghanistan Clashing with US VOA 14 Apr 2017 -- Multi-nation talks on the prospects for Afghan security and national reconciliation, the third such round since December, began Friday in Moscow.
Kremlin Warns Against Escalation on Korean Peninsula, 'Provocative Steps' Sputnik 14 Apr 2017 -- The Kremlin is watching with concern the escalation of the situation on the Korean Peninsula, Moscow warns other countries against provocative steps in the region, Russian presidential spokesman Dmitry Peskov said Friday.
Russia, China Seek to Avoid Chaos in North Korea With New Sanctions - Envoy Sputnik 14 Apr 2017 -- Russia and China do not task themselves with causing social and economic chaos in North Korea with new sanctions mulled by the United States, Russian Ambassador to North Korea Alexander Matsegora told Sputnik.
Russia calls for restraint amid North Korea-US crisis Press TV 14 Apr 2017 -- Russia has urged all sides involved in the crisis in the Korean Peninsula to show "restraint", warning of any "provocative steps" amid reports of potential military confrontation between North Korea and the United States.
US Wary of Russian Role in Afghanistan as Moscow Holds Talks VOA 13 Apr 2017 -- As the United States and Russia clash on Syria, another war-torn nation could play out as a renewed theater for the U.S.-Russia rivalry: Afghanistan.
Russia censures US over approving Montenegro's NATO membership Press TV 13 Apr 2017 -- Russia has censured a decision by the United States to approve the inclusion of Montenegro in the North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO), saying the move would seriously endanger security and stability in the Balkans and entire Europe.
Moscow Sheds Light on Condition for Renewing Russia-US Memo on Flights in Syria Sputnik 13 Apr 2017 -- Russian Deputy Foreign Minister Gennady Gatilov expressed confidence in an interview with Sputnik that Russian and US military experts could swiftly resume the memorandum on air safety in Syria and address the issues of possible adjustments.
US agreed not to repeat Syria strike: Lavrov Press TV 13 Apr 2017 -- Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov has slammed the recent US missile attack against a Syrian airbase as an act of "provocation" and said that Washington has agreed not to repeat such strikes in the future.
European Court Says Russia Failed To Protect Beslan Victims RFE/RL 13 Apr 2017 -- The European Court of Human Rights (ECHR) has ruled that Russia must pay nearly 3 million euros to relatives of victims of a school siege that left 334 people dead in the southern town of Beslan.
UN Experts, OSCE Demand End To Persecution Of Gays In Chechnya RFE/RL 13 Apr 2017 -- United Nations human rights experts and the Organization for Security and Cooperation in Europe (OSCE) are demanding urgent action from Russian authorities to end the persecution of men perceived to be gay in the Russian region of Chechnya and to "thoroughly" investigate reports of abuse.
Russia Urged to End Torture, Killing of Gays in Chechnya VOA 13 Apr 2017 -- International organizations are demanding Russia investigate the abduction, detention and killing of gay and bisexual men in the country's southern republic of Chechnya.
Briefing by Foreign Ministry Spokesperson Maria Zakharova, Moscow, April 12, 2017 Russia Ministry of Foreign Affairs 12 Apr 2017
Remarks With Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov Before Their Meeting US Dept. of State 12 Apr 2017
Remarks With Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov at a Press Availability US Dept. of State 12 Apr 2017
Moscow to Seek Return of Jailed Russian National Bout From US - Foreign Ministry Sputnik 12 Apr 2017 -- Russian authorities will continue their efforts to secure the return of Russian citizen Viktor Bout, who is currently serving a 25-year prison sentence in the United States, to Russia, notwithstanding the US Supreme Court's refusal to review his case, Russian Foreign Ministry spokeswoman Maria Zakharova said Wednesday.
Russia Vetoes Resolution Condemning Gas Attack in Syria VOA 12 Apr 2017 -- Russia deployed yet another U.N. Security Council veto Wednesday to protect Syrian dictator Bashar al-Assad from international condemnation for last week's deadly chemical weapons attack.
Tensions High as US, Russia Call for Syrian Chemical Weapons Probe VOA 12 Apr 2017 -- The United States and Russia agreed Wednesday to call for an international investigation of the deadly chemical weapons attack in Syria last week that prompted U.S. President Donald Trump to launch a retaliatory missile strike against the regime of Syrian President Bashar al-Assad.
Concerns Over Syria Threaten Resurgence of Russian-Turkish Tensions VOA 12 Apr 2017 -- The recent gas attack in Syria has resurrected Russian-Turkish tensions. Turkey is again calling for the removal of Russian backed Syrian President Bashar al-Assad and the creation of safe areas and no-fly zones, but renewed tensions between Russia and Turkey could cost Ankara economically.
Russia vetoes Security Council resolution on Syria chemical attack Press TV 12 Apr 2017 -- Russia has vetoed a UN Security Council resolution sponsored by the UK, France, and the US condemning the Syrian government for a suspected chemical weapons attack in the Arab country.
Russia warns US not to repeat Syria strike Press TV 12 Apr 2017 -- Russia has cautioned the United States against staging a repeat of its recent unauthorized missile strike against Syria, which risked sparking a direct confrontation between Moscow and Washington.
US accuses Russia of covering up Syrian govt.'s role in gas attack Press TV 12 Apr 2017 -- The United States has accused Russia of trying to cover up the role of the Syrian government in the recent suspected chemical weapons attack in northwestern Syria, as US Secretary of State Rex Tillerson visits Moscow.
Russia ready to grant access to Syria airbase for 'gas attack' probe: Defense official Press TV 12 Apr 2017 -- Russia has said it is ready to provide inspectors with access to a Syrian airbase that the opponents of the Syrian government say was used to carry out a "chemical attack."
At UN, U.S. Says Russia Isolating Itself By Supporting Assad RFE/RL 12 Apr 2017 -- The U.S. ambassador to the United Nations tells Russia it is "long past time" to stop covering for Syrian President Bashar al-Assad.
Russian Mission to UN Presented New Draft Resolution on Syria Chemical Attack Sputnik 12 Apr 2017 -- The Russian Mission to the United Nations presented a new draft resolution on chemical attack in Syrian Idlib, a representative of the Mission told reporters.
Russia Vetoes UN Security Council Resolution Condemning Syrian Government Sputnik 12 Apr 2017 -- A UN Security Council resolution condemning the Syrian government for the alleged gas attack in the country's Idlib province has been vetoed by Russia as a permanent member of the Security Council.
Putin Confirmed Russia Ready to Return to Air Safety Memorandum in Syria With US Sputnik 12 Apr 2017 -- Russian President Vladimir Putin said Wednesday that Moscow is ready to return to the memorandum on preventing aerial incidents in Syria with Washington, Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov said on Wednesday.
Putin: Nearly Half of 20,000 Foreign Fighters in Syria Hail From CIS Sputnik 12 Apr 2017 -- Almost 10,000 out of 20,000 foreign fighters in Syria hail from CIS countries, the Russian president said.
Moscow Reiterates Syrian Air Force Struck Terrorist Chemical Warehouse April 4 Sputnik 12 Apr 2017 -- Russia's deputy foreign minister reiterated Moscow's position that a Syrian warplane hit a militant chemical weapons production facility on April 4, from which the US missile attack ensued.
Putin Calls for Idlib Incident Investigation, Warns of Possible New Provocations Sputnik 12 Apr 2017 -- Speaking at a briefing after talks with his Italian counterpart Sergio Mattarella on Tuesday, Russian President Vladimir Putin compared the US military actions in Syria with the events in Iraq in 2003 and stated that Russia would seek thorough investigation into the alleged use of chemical weapons in Syria's Idlib.
Russia blocks Security Council action on reported use of chemical weapons in Syria's Khan Shaykhun UN News 12 Apr 2017 -- With a 'no' vote from permanent member Russia, the United Nations Security Council today failed to adopt a resolution that would have condemned the reported use of chemical weapons in Syria and called on the Government to cooperate with an investigation into the incident.
Russia to Operate 164 Space Satellites by 2025, Over 200 by 2030 Sputnik 12 Apr 2017 -- Russia intends to operate 164 space satellites by 2025 and over 200 by 2030. Currently Russia has 141 satellites.
Trump: US 'Not Getting Along With Russia At All' Sputnik 12 Apr 2017 -- During a joint news conference with NATO Secretary General Jens Stoltenberg, US President Donald Trump said Washington's relations with Moscow are at an "all time low," adding, "We're not getting along with Russia at all."
Russia's Nuclear Triad Capacity Grows With 60% of Advanced Weapons Sputnik 12 Apr 2017 -- Russia's nuclear triad power has grown as its is now equipped with advanced weapons at 60 percent.
Afghan Official: Russian Advisers Help Taliban in Contested Province VOA 11 Apr 2017 -- Russia's role in Afghanistan was questioned again Tuesday when the provincial police chief in Uruzgan told Afghan media that intelligence reports showed visiting Russian generals were providing Taliban militants with weapons and training.
FBI Reportedly Monitored Trump Campaign Adviser For Russia Contacts RFE/RL 11 Apr 2017 -- The FBI obtained a secret court order last summer to monitor the communications of an adviser to Donald Trump during his campaign for president, the Washington Post reported on April 11.
Putin's National Guard Cracks Down On Opposition Activists In Irkutsk RFE/RL 11 Apr 2017 -- An anticorruption protest in the Siberian city of Irkutsk on March 26 passed peacefully. The authorities had given permission for the event, and about 1,000 people listened to a few young organizers give impassioned speeches calling for an investigation into allegations of corruption leveled against Prime Minister Dmitry Medvedev before heading home. There were no reports of arrests or violence.
Tillerson To Press Russia On Syria As Trump's Detente Hopes Stall RFE/RL 11 Apr 2017 -- U.S. Secretary of State Rex Tillerson is set to challenge Russian officials in Moscow over the Kremlin's backing of Syrian President Bashar al-Assad after a deadly suspected chemical weapons attack last week.
No Sanctions in Hand, Tillerson Arrives in Moscow VOA 11 Apr 2017 -- U.S. Secretary State Rex Tillerson arrived in Moscow Tuesday with less ammunition than Washington and London had hoped he would have in his bid to convince Russia to abandon Syrian President Bashar al Assad.
US Blasts Russian Claim Denying Syrian Government's Use of Chemical Weapons VOA 11 Apr 2017 -- The U.S. on Tuesday sharply rejected Russian claims that the chemical gas sarin, which killed dozens of people in Syria last week, came from an airstrike on a rebel-held munitions depot rather than a deliberate attack by Syrian fighters on civilians.
US chemical attack claims against Syria like 2003 Iraq war plot: Putin Press TV 11 Apr 2017 -- Russian President Vladimir Putin says the recent US missile strike on a Syrian air base over an alleged chemical attack was reminiscent of a plot hatched in the run-up to the 2003 invasion of Iraq.
Russian General Staff Warns Against New US Missile Strikes on Syria Sputnik 11 Apr 2017 -- Moscow warns against new US missile strikes on Syria, chief of the Russian General Staff's Main Operational Directorate Col. Gen. Sergei Rudskoi said at a news briefing on Tuesday.
Russia seeks 'productive talks' with US amid Tillerson visit Press TV 11 Apr 2017 -- Russia's Foreign Ministry has hoped for "productive talks" with US Secretary of State Rex Tillerson as he arrives in Moscow on his first visit.
Russia to Unveil Improved Iskander-M Missile System After 2020 Sputnik 11 Apr 2017 -- Russia will present an improved version of the Iskander-M mobile missile system after 2020.
White Swans: Russia to Churn Out 30-50 Tu-160M2 Strategic Bombers Annually Sputnik 11 Apr 2017 -- Russia intends to produce 30-50 upgraded Tu-160M2 strategic missile carriers annually.
Supermaneuverable Beasts: Russia to Supply 10 Su-35 Jets to China in 2017 Sputnik 11 Apr 2017 -- China will receive 10 supermaneuverable Su-35 fighters from Russia in 2017.
Tillerson Heads to Russia as Relations Dip Over Syria Attacks VOA 10 Apr 2017 -- U.S. Secretary of State Rex Tillerson is heading to Moscow for talks Wednesday with Russian leaders amid a spike in tensions over attacks in Syria.
NATO condemns illegitimate elections and referendum in Georgia's occupied territories - Statement by the NATO Spokesperson Oana Lungescu NATO 10 Apr 2017 -- NATO does not recognize the so-called presidential elections nor the so-called referendum held in the South Ossetia region of Georgia this Sunday.
Bibilov Wins South Ossetia Vote Denounced by Georgia, U.S., And EU RFE/RL 10 Apr 2017 -- Officials in Georgia's breakaway South Ossetia region say the speaker of the de facto parliament, Anatoly Bibilov, has won a presidential election condemned by Tbilisi and the West as illegitimate.
Putin Congratulates Bibilov on Election as S Ossetia President Sputnik 10 Apr 2017 -- Vladimir Putin congratulated Anatoly Bibilov on winning South Ossetia presidential elections.
Status Unclear of US-Russia Hotline for Syrian Airspace VOA 10 Apr 2017 -- The United States military says it is still able to deconflict operations with Russia over Syria, but it is unclear whether the two militaries are still using the two countries' established hotline, aimed at preventing midair collisions of their warplanes in Syrian airspace.
US national security adviser urges Russia to re-evaluate Syria support Press TV 10 Apr 2017 -- US National Security Adviser H.R. McMaster has urged Russia to re-evaluate its support for Syrian President Bashar al-Assad, suggesting that additional American military action against Syria is possible.
US threatens Russia, Iran with more sanctions for Syria's support Press TV 10 Apr 2017 -- The United States has threatened Russia and Iran with tougher sanctions over their support for Syria, saying nothing "is off the table" in this regard.
U.S. To Dismantle Cyber Network; Alleged Russian Mastermind Detained RFE/RL 10 Apr 2017 -- A civil complaint filed in U.S. court seeks to stop Pyotr Levashov, a Russian citizen, from continuing the scheme, the department said in an April 10 statement.
Kremlin Critic Navalny's Jail Switcheroo Leaves Press, Supporters Hanging RFE/RL 10 Apr 2017 -- Any hopes that Kremlin opponent Aleksei Navalny may have had for a dramatic photo-op following his release from jail were effectively quashed by his longtime nemesis: the Russian authorities.
Russian Opposition Leader Navalny Released From Jail RFE/RL 10 Apr 2017 -- Russian opposition leader Aleksei Navalny has been released from jail after serving a 15-day sentence in connection with anticorruption demonstrations he organized that jolted the country's political life.
Russia's Admiral Grigorovich Frigate to Serve in Mediterranean Until Summer Sputnik 10 Apr 2017 -- Russia's Admiral Grigorovich-class frigate will continue serving within the Russian Navy's permanent group in the Mediterranean Sea until the summer of 2017, a military-diplomatic source told Sputnik on Monday.
Iranian, Russian presidents describe US missile attack on Syria violation of UN charter IRNA 09 Apr 2017 -- President Hassan Rouhani and his Russian counterpart Vladimir Putin in a telephone conversation on Sunday condemned the recent US cruise missile attacks on Syria's Shayrat airbase by calling it against the international law and the United Nations charter.
Stop insisting on Assad leadership: Turkey to Russia Press TV 09 Apr 2017 -- Turkey has called on Russia to stop supporting President Bashar al-Assad following a US missile strike which drew praise from Turkish leaders and other supporters of militant groups in Syria.
Top Russian, Iranian Generals Condemn U.S. Missile Strike RFE/RL 09 Apr 2017 -- The top Russian and Iranian generals have condemned the U.S. missile strike against a Syrian military base and vowed to continue their fight against "terrorists," which they generally call opponents of Syrian President Bashar al-Assad.
Tillerson Heads to Moscow Days After US Missile Strikes in Syria Anger Russia VOA 08 Apr 2017 -- U.S. Secretary of State Rex Tillerson heads to Moscow on April 12, just days after the United States launched missile strikes on a Syrian airbase in response to a Syrian chemical weapons attack that killed civilians.
US Fails to Prove Existence of Chemical Weapons at Syrian Airfield - Russian MoD Sputnik 08 Apr 2017 -- The Pentagon and the US State Department have failed to prove the existence of chemical weapons at the Syrian airfield struck by US cruise missiles, the Russian Defense Ministry said Saturday.
Lavrov to Tillerson: US Attack in Syria Plays Into Terrorists' Hands Sputnik 08 Apr 2017 -- Russian Foreign Minister told his US counterpart Rex Tillerson in a phone conversation that the US attack on Syrian army's airfield plays into the hands of terrorists, the Russian Foreign Ministry said.
Tillerson 'Disappointed' By Angry Russian Reaction To Syria Strike RFE/RL 08 Apr 2017 -- On April 9, an estimated 33,000-40,000 voters will go to the polls to elect the next de facto president of Georgia's breakaway Republic of South Ossetia, which is recognized as an independent state only by Russia and three other countries.
Russia deploys missile-armed ship to Syria after US attack: Source Press TV 08 Apr 2017 -- Russia has reportedly sent a missile-armed frigate to its naval base in Syria's Mediterranean coastal city of Tartus following a recent US missile strike against an airbase in the Arab country.
Russian Military Facilities in Syria Protected by Modern Air Defense Systems Sputnik 08 Apr 2017 -- According to Deputy Commander of Russia's Aerospace Forces Lt. Gen. Viktor Gumenny, Russian military facilities in Syria are protected by modern air defense systems.
Admiral Grigorovich Missile Frigate Rejoins Russia's Task Force in the Med Sputnik 08 Apr 2017 -- The Russian Black Sea Fleet's frigate, the Admiral Grigorovich, returned to the Mediterranean after participating in drills in the Black Sea.
Terms Of 'Union' With Russia Dominate South Ossetian Presidential Election RFE/RL 08 Apr 2017 -- On April 9, an estimated 33,000-40,000 voters will go to the polls to elect the next de facto president of Georgia's breakaway Republic of South Ossetia, which is recognized as an independent state only by Russia and three other countries.
South Ossetia to Ignore US Position Amid Republic's Presidential Elections Sputnik 08 Apr 2017 -- South Ossetia will not pay attention to the reaction of the US Department of State on the upcoming presidential elections in the republic, President Leonid Tibilov said on Saturday.
Lithuania Concerned Over Russian-Belarusian Drills, Cites Alleged Threat Sputnik 07 Apr 2017 -- Lithuanian Prime Minister Saulius Skvernelis on Friday reiterated his concerns over the joint Russian-Belarusian Zapad-2017 military exercises, specifically those regarding security, during his meeting with Ukrainian President Petro Poroshenko.
US Looks at Russia's Role in Syria's Nerve-Gas Attack VOA 07 Apr 2017 -- The United States appears to be raising the stakes in Syria, suggesting Russia may have helped the Assad regime carry out a deadly chemical weapons attack that killed more than 80 people in Idlib province.
Russia suspends Syria flight safety deal with US after missile attack Press TV 07 Apr 2017 -- Moscow says it is halting an agreement with Washington aimed at avoiding mid-air collisions during their military missions in the Syrian airspace after US launched a missile attack against a Syrian army airbase.
US attack on Syria significantly damaged US-Russia ties: Putin Press TV 07 Apr 2017 -- President Vladimir Putin believes a US missile attack on a Syrian airbase near Homs has violated international law and seriously hurt Russia-US relations, the Kremlin says.
Tillerson: Russian Response to Attack On Syria 'Sadly Not That Surprising' Sputnik 07 Apr 2017 -- US Secretary of State Rex Tillerson said that Russia's response to the United States' cruise missile attack on Syrian Air Force targets was disappointing but unsurprising.
Moscow, Damascus Accuse Washington of 'Blatant Act of Aggression' in Syria Sputnik 07 Apr 2017 -- Russian Deputy Foreign Minister Mikhail Bogdanov and Syrian Ambassador to Russia agreed during a meeting on Friday that the recent US missiles strikes in Syria should be viewed as an act of aggression, the Russian Foreign Ministry said.
Russia Convenes ISSG Ceasefire Taskforce Meeting Over US Attack in Syria Sputnik 07 Apr 2017 -- Russia is convening in Geneva an extraordinary session of the ISSG group amid the US missile attack on an airfield in Syria, a diplomatic source told Sputnik.
UN Security Council Should Condemn US Aggression in Syria - Kremlin Sputnik 07 Apr 2017 -- The UN Security Council must condemn US aggression in Syria, Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov said Friday hours after a deadly cruise missile attack on a Syrian airfield.
Russian MoD Suspends Cooperation With US on Syria Incident Prevention Document Sputnik 07 Apr 2017 -- According to the Russian Defense Ministry spokesman, Russia suspends cooperation with the US on the memorandum on indent prevention in Syria.
Russia Regrets US Ignoring Russian Initiative to Launch Major Idlib Attack Probe Sputnik 07 Apr 2017 -- Russia regrets the fact that the United States ignored its initiative to launch a large-scale investigation into this week's deadly chemical attack in Idlib, Syria, the Kremlin said Friday.
Russian MoD Announces Measures to Bolster Syria Air Defense System Sputnik 07 Apr 2017 -- The Russian Defense Ministry announced on Friday that it is going to increase the effectiveness of the air defense system in Syria amid recent attacks against a Syrian armed forces airfield.
S-400, Pantsir Air Defense Systems Protect Russian Air Group in Syria 24/7 Sputnik 07 Apr 2017 -- The Russian air defense combat units in Syria are on duty round-the-clock, the Defense Ministry said.
More Armata Tanks, Less Warships: Russia Unveils 2018-2025 State Arms Program Sputnik 07 Apr 2017 -- Russia's 2018-2025 state armaments program will focus on nuclear deterrence, aerospace defense and "smart weapons systems." Deputy Defense Minister Yuri Borisov said that defense contractors had been tasked with making sure that the Armed Forces are 70 percent equipped with modern weapons.
Russian Defense Ministry Decides on Expansion in Syria Follows Putin's Orders Sputnik 07 Apr 2017 -- The decision to expand Russia's military presence in Syria is made by the Defense Ministry in accordance with President Vladimir Putin's instructions, Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov said Friday.
After U.S. Strikes Syrian Air Base, Russians Ask: 'Where Were Our Vaunted Air Defense Systems?' RFE/RL 07 Apr 2017 -- In confirming the deployment of its S-300 and state-of-the art S-400 missile-defense systems in Syria, the Kremlin boasted six months ago that it had secured the country's air bases from American cruise missiles.
Moscow Statement Endorses West Jerusalem As Israeli Capital RFE/RL 06 Apr 2017 -- In what is being hailed by Israeli media as an "unexpected, unprecedented, and curious move," Russia has said it envisions West Jerusalem as the future capital of Israel and East Jerusalem to be the capital of a future Palestinian state.
Russia's Provision of Battle Tanks to Nicaragua 'Disquieting' - US Commander Sputnik 06 Apr 2017 -- The Russians are engaging in some disquieting behavior in Central America in one instance providing battle tanks to Nicaragua, US Southern Command chief Admiral Kurt Tidd stated in testimony before the Senate Armed Services Committee on Thursday.
Russia pledges to stand by Syria in anti-terror battles Press TV 06 Apr 2017 -- Russia has vowed to keep up support for the Syrian military in its fight against terrorism, calling for the establishment of a fact-finding mission to probe a reported chemical attack in the Arab country's northwestern Idlib Province.
Tillerson calls on Russia to rethink support for Syrian government Press TV 06 Apr 2017 -- US Secretary of State Rex Tillerson has called on Russia to rethink its alliance with the government of Bashar al-Assad following an alleged chemical attack in northwestern Syria.
Putin slams 'unacceptable' accusations over alleged chemical attack in Idlib Press TV 06 Apr 2017 -- Russian President Vladimir Putin has condemned as unacceptable the "unfounded accusations" about a purported chemical attack in Syria's northwestern province of Idlib earlier this week, calling for an international probe.
European Parliament Blasts Russia Over Navalny, Protest Clampdown RFE/RL 06 Apr 2017 -- The European Parliament has overwhelmingly approved a resolution calling for the "immediate release and dropping of all charges" against Russian opposition leader Aleksei Navalny "and all the peaceful protesters and journalists detained after the recent demonstrations in Russia."
Project 949A Nuclear Submarine Handed to Russian Navy - Ship Repair Center Sputnik 06 Apr 2017 -- Russia's Zvyozdochka ship repair center said Thursday it had finished work on the Oscar II-class nuclear-powered attack submarine Orel and sent it to the Russian Navy.
Russia Can Be Helpful to Pressure North Korea on Nuclear Program - State Dept. Sputnik 06 Apr 2017 -- According to a senior US Department of State, Russia can help pressure North Korea on its nuclear program with sanctions.
Brazil Interested in Extra Batch of Russian Mi-35 Helicopters - FSMTC Sputnik 06 Apr 2017 -- Brazil is interested in buying a Russian Mi-35 helicopters batch, Deputy Director of Russia's FSMTC Anatoliy Punchuk said on Thursday.
Briefing by Foreign Ministry Spokesperson Maria Zakharova, Moscow, April 5, 2017 Russia Ministry of Foreign Affairs 05 Apr 2017
Kremlin on Idlib Attack: Russia to Continue Supporting Assad in War on Terror Sputnik 05 Apr 2017 -- The Kremlin spokesman commented on the chemical attack in Idlib blamed by Western states on Damascus.
Moscow Believes Ankara Serious About Commitment to Syrian Truce Sputnik 05 Apr 2017 -- Moscow believes that Ankara is serious in its commitment to the ceasefire in Syria and the two sides continue bilateral discussions of any existing disagreements, Maria Zakharova, the spokeswoman for the Russian Foreign Ministry, said Wednesday.
Russia Rejects Draft UN Resolution On Apparent Syria Chemical Attack RFE/RL 05 Apr 2017 -- Russia's Foreign Ministry has rejected a draft UN Security Council resolution condemning an apparent chemical-weapons attack in Syria's Idlib Province that left dozens killed and injured.
Russia, West trade barbs over Syria attack in UNSC meeting Press TV 05 Apr 2017 -- Representatives from Russia and Western countries have been engaged in a war of words during an emergency meeting of the United Nations Security Council (UNSC) concerning a recent suspected chemical attack in Syria.
Russian, Turkish Navies Hold Joint Drills in Black Sea Sputnik 05 Apr 2017 -- Russia's Black Sea Fleet and Turkey's navy held joint exercises in the Black Sea, the fleet's spokesman Vyacheslav Trukhachev said Wednesday.
Oscar II-Class Nuclear Submarine Orel to Rejoin Russian Navy in April Sputnik 05 Apr 2017 -- The Oscar II-class nuclear-powered attack submarine Orel will be back in service with the Russian navy by the end of April.
U.S. Deports Russian In 2015 Spy Case That Continues To Reverberate RFE/RL 05 Apr 2017 -- U.S. authorities have deported a man convicted of working as an unregistered Russian government agent, in a case that has shed light on Russian intelligence operations in the United States.
Russia to Continue Deploying Iskander Missiles in Kaliningrad and Other Areas Sputnik 04 Apr 2017 -- Russia will continue deploying and re-deploying its missile unites on its territory, including the Kaliningrad Region, Moscow said.
Russian Investigators Name Subway Bomb Suspect RFE/RL 04 Apr 2017 -- Russian investigators say they have determined who set off a deadly bomb on a St. Petersburg subway train, identifying the suspected attacker as Akbarjon Jalilov, 22.
Russia Blames Suicide Bomber for Deadly Subway Attack VOA 04 Apr 2017 -- Russian investigators have identified Kyrgyz-born Akbarzhon Dzhalilov as the suicide bomber who carried out Monday's deadly attack on a crowded subway train in St. Petersburg.
Moscow Considers Irresponsible to Create Kosovo Armed Forces Sputnik 03 Apr 2017 -- Russian Foreign Ministry's spokeswoman Maria Zakharova said that the Kosovar authorities were trying to create a "fake juridical" ground for creation of Kosovo armed forces.
Russia, Belarus to Carry Out Observation Flight Over Poland by April 7 Sputnik 03 Apr 2017 -- Russian and Belorusian experts will carry out an observation flight on April 3 – 7 over the territory of Poland, Sergei Ryzhkov, head of the Russian Defense Ministry's Nuclear Risk Reduction Center, said.
US Ambassador to UN: 'Trump Never Stopped Me From Beating Up on Russia' Sputnik 02 Apr 2017 -- Despite all the accusations of cozy – perhaps too cozy – relations between US President Donald Trump and Russian President Vladimir Putin, and Russia in general, the US ambassador to the United Nations says the president has never told her what to say about it.
US Envoy to UN: Trump Has Not Blocked Her From Attacking Russia VOA 02 Apr 2017 -- Nikki Haley, the United States ambassador to the United Nations, said Sunday that President Donald Trump has not blocked her from attacking Russia, even as he continues to assail U.S. news media for its reporting on congressional and legal investigations into whether his aides colluded with Russian officials to help him win the election.
Iran has concrete agreement with Russia for purchase of 12 planes: Russian minister IRNA 02 Apr 2017 -- Russian Energy Minister Alexander Novak said there is already a concrete agreement between Russia and Iran for purchase of 12 planes.
Russia bashes Tillerson for anti-Moscow stance during NATO meeting Press TV 01 Apr 2017 -- The Russian Foreign Ministry has criticized US Secretary of State Rex Tillerson for pursing the policy of his predecessors to demonize Russia as a "threat" during a NATO meeting, expressing disappointment that the military alliance has decided to perform the traditional anti-Moscow "ritual dance."
Russia Accuses NATO Of 'Slander' As U.S. Denounces 'Russian Aggression' RFE/RL 01 Apr 2017 -- Russia has accused the United States and its allies of "slander" as the U.S. top diplomat and Pentagon chief denounced Russia's actions in Ukraine and elsewhere.
Russian Navy's Universal Soldier: New Floated Sub to Fire Kalibr, Onyx Missiles Sputnik 01 Apr 2017 -- Russia's second upgraded nuclear-powered Yasen-class project 885M submarine will add significantly to the country's navy, boosting its clout in strategically important regions at sea, according to the Russian news network Zvezda.
US Escalates Criticism of Russia Over Ukraine, Vows Sanctions to Stay VOA 01 Apr 2017 -- The Trump administration escalated its criticism of Moscow Friday, with two of its most senior officials denouncing Russia's treatment of Ukraine and reiterating a vow to maintain U.S. sanctions.

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Weapons of Mass Destruction (WMD)

April 2017 - Russia Special Weapons News