October 2017 - Russia Special Weapons News

Allegations of Russian meddling in US elections 'fantasies': Lavrov Press TV 31 Oct 2017 -- Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov says allegations of Moscow's meddling in American and European elections are "fantasies."
Who Are The Russia Contacts In The Papadopoulos Plea? RFE/RL 31 Oct 2017 -- According to U.S. court documents unsealed this week, a foreign policy adviser to the campaign of President Donald Trump said he was in contact with Russian officials and had been told during the campaign that Moscow had "dirt" on Democratic candidate Hillary Clinton and "thousands of her e-mails."
Kremlin Says Russia Not Accused In U.S. Indictment RFE/RL 31 Oct 2017 -- Russian President Vladimir Putin's spokesman has emphasized that the Kremlin sees no evidence of accusations of Russian meddling in the indictment handed down to U.S. President Donald Trump's former campaign chairman and an associate.
India, Russia Poised to Ink $1 Bln Deal in 2018 For Kamov-226T Sputnik 31 Oct 2017 -- Sixty helicopters will be received in flight-ready condition from Russia while another 40 will be assembled in India and the remaining 100 will be fully built in India.
Russian Envoy for Syria Discussed Political Settlement With Assad Sputnik 30 Oct 2017 -- According to the Russian special presidential envoy for Syria, Syrian President Bashar Assad wants to stick to commitments undertaken previously concerning the transition to the political settlement after the main military phase of the fight against terrorism is completed.
Russia Mulls Reducing Its Military Presence in Syria - Reports Sputnik 30 Oct 2017 -- Russia is reportedly considering a partial reduction of its military presence in Syria amid successes of the Syrian government forces in the fight against terrorists.
Flotilla of Russian Baltic Fleet Enters Mediterranean Sea Sputnik 29 Oct 2017 -- Two advanced Russian Navy corvettes are taking part in the country's Mediterranean mission.
Russia's Western Military District Receives 2 Advanced Su-30SM Jets Sputnik 29 Oct 2017 -- According to the Ministry of Defense, the first flight of Su-30SM took place in September 2012, and subsequently the fighters showed themselves well during Syrian campaign.
US names 39 Russian entities under new sanctions law Press TV 28 Oct 2017 -- The US has named 39 Russian defense and intelligence-related entities under a new sanctions law over Moscow's alleged interference in the 2016's race for the White House.
Russia's Putin personally oversees massive drills Press TV 27 Oct 2017 -- Russia has carried out major ballistic missile test-launches from "land, air and sea" as part of massive military drills that also involved Russia's strategic forces.
Major Russian Defense, Intelligence Companies Targeted By New U.S. Sanctions List RFE/RL 27 Oct 2017 -- The U.S. State Department has targeted more than three dozen major Russian defense and intelligence companies under a new U.S. sanctions law, restricting business transactions with them and further ratcheting up pressure against Moscow.
U.S. Congress Receives List Of Russians Targeted By New Sanctions RFE/RL 27 Oct 2017 -- The U.S. State Department has provided Congress with a list of Russian companies and intelligence agencies that are likely to be hit with sanctions under a new U.S. law punishing Russia for allegedly meddling in last year's presidential election.
Briefing on Sanctions With Respect to Russia's Defense and Intelligence Sectors Under Section 231 of the Countering America's Adversaries Through Sanctions Act of 2017 US Dept. of State 27 Oct 2017
Briefing by Foreign Ministry Spokesperson Maria Zakharova, Moscow, October 26, 2017 Russia Ministry of Foreign Affairs 26 Oct 2017
Press point by the NATO Secretary General Jens Stoltenberg following the meeting of the NATO-Russia Council NATO 26 Oct 2017
'Fundamental Differences' Remain After NATO-Russia Council Meeting RFE/RL 26 Oct 2017 -- NATO Secretary-General Jens Stoltenberg says the Western military alliance and Russia "continue to have fundamental differences" regarding the conflict in eastern Ukraine.
Russia, Qatar ink military deal amid growing regional arms race Press TV 26 Oct 2017 -- Russia and Qatar have signed an intergovernmental agreement on military and technical cooperation, as Persian Gulf Arab states are turning to Moscow as a new arms supplier amid escalation of regional tensions.
Russia thwarting US efforts on North Korean nuclear issue: Trump Press TV 26 Oct 2017 -- US President Donald Trump has accused Russia of thwarting efforts to solve the North Korean nuclear issue while praised China for being helpful in this regard.
Trump Says Russia Hindering U.S. Efforts To Rid North Korea Of Nuclear Weapons RFE/RL 26 Oct 2017 -- U.S. President Donald Trump has said that Russia is hindering U.S. efforts to rid North Korea of nuclear weapons, while China has been helpful.
Russian Defense Minister Arrives in Qatar for First-Ever Visit Sputnik 25 Oct 2017 -- High-ranking Russian and Qatari officials have stepped up efforts to boost cooperation between the states over the course of the year.
Russia Provides Philippines With Batch of Military Equipment Sputnik 25 Oct 2017 -- Russia has donated a batch of military equipment to the Philippines, including small arms, munition and military trucks, following an intergovernmental agreement signed between Moscow and Manila on defense industry cooperation.
Russian Journalists To Sue Security Service Over Demand For Telegram Encryption Keys RFE/RL 25 Oct 2017 -- Two prominent Russian journalists say they will sue their country's main security agency over its demand that Telegram hand over encryption keys enabling authorities to decipher encoded messages transmitted on the popular app.
Germany's Steinmeier Tells Putin Improving Relations 'Essential' RFE/RL 25 Oct 2017 -- German President Frank-Walter Steinmeier has voiced hope that his current visit to Russia will help improve strained ties between Berlin and Moscow.
State Department Says 'Working On' Russia Sanctions, Contrasts 'Foreign Agent' Laws RFE/RL 25 Oct 2017 -- The U.S. State Department says it is still "working on" steps to implement legislation that Congress passed in July in an effort to strengthen sanctions against Russia.
U.S. Republicans Launch Probe Of Obama-Era Uranium Deal With Russia's Rosatom RFE/RL 25 Oct 2017 -- Republicans in the U.S. Congress have announced a new investigation into an Obama-era deal in which a Russian company bought a Canadian firm that owned some 20 percent of U.S. uranium supplies.
Report: Putin's 'Inner Circle' Worth Nearly $24 Billion RFE/RL 25 Oct 2017 -- Russian President Vladimir Putin's circle of close friends and relatives controls a combined wealth of nearly $24 billion, although Putin has kept himself "officially" clean in terms of financial assets, says a joint report by a global investigative group and an independent Russian newspaper.
Russia to Boost Military Potential If NATO Creates New Units – Senior Lawmaker Sputnik 25 Oct 2017 -- Russian Senior Lawmaker Yuri Shvytkin has commented on a possible Russian response to NATO, which has been building up its military presence on Russia's borders.
Sobchak Launches Campaign For Kremlin With Call To Release 'Political Prisoners' RFE/RL 24 Oct 2017 -- Socialite and opposition-minded journalist Ksenia Sobchak has called on the authorities to release all political prisoners as she gave her first press conference since announcing she will run in the presidential election set for March.
Russian Prosecutor-General Urges U.S. Attorney General To Probe Browder RFE/RL 24 Oct 2017 -- Russian Prosecutor-General Yury Chaika has urged U.S. Attorney General Jeff Sessions to launch a criminal case against British investor William Browder, the man who had initiated the Magnitsky Act, which sanctions Russians for alleged human rights abuses.
Russian Prosecutor General Asks US to Initiate Criminal Case Against Browder Sputnik 24 Oct 2017 -- The Hermitage Capital Management CEO was charged in Russia with tax evasion and sentenced in absentia to nine years in prison.
Russia Considers Philippines Promising Regional Partner - Defense Minister Sputnik 24 Oct 2017 -- Russian Defense Minister Sergei Shoigu has held a meeting with his Philippine counterpart Delfin Lorenzana to discuss military and defense cooperation as the leaders of the two states had previously agreed on Russian arms supplies to help Manila's fight against terrorism.
Russian Senate urges US Congress to sustain Iran nuclear deal Press TV 24 Oct 2017 -- Lawmakers in the upper house of Russia's parliament are set to call on their colleagues in the US Congress and other Western legislatures to do all in their power to help protect the multilateral Iran nuclear deal, which they say is under threat by US President Donald Trump.
Russia to Upgrade India's Frontline Fighter Jet Su-30MKI Into Super Sukhoi Sputnik 24 Oct 2017 -- From new sensors to radars, the fleet will see a major change in the cockpit as well. The two-stage modernization program will cost approximately US $6 billion.
Russia criticizes US, regional allies' missile warning drills over Korean Peninsula Press TV 24 Oct 2017 -- Russia has criticized the United States for conducting joint military drills with its regional allies, Japan and South Korea, over the Korean Peninsula in a declared aim of preparing to counter any potential threat posed by North Korea's ballistic missiles.
Report: Russia Implicates Browder In Magnitsky 'Murder' Probe, Citing Widely Mocked MI6 'Expose' RFE/RL 23 Oct 2017 -- In April 2016, the head of Russia's powerful Investigative Committee instructed his subordinates to examine the potential "complicity" of U.S.-born British businessman William Browder - once Russia's largest portfolio investor - in the "murder" of his former employee, Sergei Magnitsky.
Russian Aerospace Forces to Receive S-500 Air Defense Systems in Several Years Sputnik 23 Oct 2017 -- A Russian Aerospace Forces official has revealed the time of the next-generation S-500 system's debut.
Russia 'committed' to Iraq despite Kurdish oil ties: Lavrov Press TV 23 Oct 2017 -- Russia's Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov says Moscow is committed to Iraq's territorial integrity after the Kurdistan Regional Government (KRG) held a controversial plebiscite on secession.
Moscow Calls On Iraqi Kurds To Act In Cooperation With Baghdad RFE/RL 23 Oct 2017 -- Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov has said that Moscow respects the aspiration of Iraqi Kurds to seek to assert their identity, but added that this must be done in "dialogue" with the federal government in Baghdad.
Russian Opposition Politician Navalny Addresses Astrakhan Rally After Release From Jail RFE/RL 22 Oct 2017 -- Russian opposition leader Aleksei Navalny addressed supporters in the southern city of Astrakhan hours after his release from a Moscow detention center following a 20-day term served for organizing unsanctioned protests against President Vladimir Putin.
Russia Formally Hands Over MiG Warplanes To Serbia To Mark Liberation Day RFE/RL 20 Oct 2017 -- Russia has formally handed over six MiG-29 fighter jets to Serbia, as part of ceremonies marking the World War II liberation of Belgrade.
Russia tells US to remove nuclear weapons from Europe Press TV 20 Oct 2017 -- Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov has called on Washington to remove its nuclear weapons deployed in Europe.
Putin says West has betrayed Russia's trust Press TV 20 Oct 2017 -- Russian President Vladimir Putin has directed scathing criticism at the West – the United States in particular – saying it had repeatedly betrayed Moscow's trust.
Russia's Lavrov Pessimistic About Bilateral Security Talks With U.S. RFE/RL 20 Oct 2017 -- Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov says the world should not expect "considerable results in the foreseeable future" from strategic stability talks between Russia and the United States.
Canada Passes Version Of Magnitsky Act, Raising Moscow's Ire RFE/RL 20 Oct 2017 -- Canada has passed its version of the U.S. Magnitsky Act, which sanctions Russians for alleged human rights abuses, sparking angry comments from Russian officials, including President Vladimir Putin.
Divided EU Declines To Act On Objections To Russian Gas Project RFE/RL 20 Oct 2017 -- Some European Union leaders have raised objections to Russia's plan to build a new gas pipeline to Germany at a summit in Brussels, but the bloc is divided on the matter and took no action, European Commission President Jean-Claude Juncker says.
U.S. Senators Single Out Russia In Push Against Anonymous Online Political Ads RFE/RL 19 Oct 2017 -- A bipartisan trio of U.S. senators has introduced legislation to regulate paid political ads that appear on Facebook, Google, and other social media in an effort to prevent foreign interference in U.S. elections, with special emphasis placed on alleged actions by Russia.
Putin: We will finally beat terrorists in Syria soon Press TV 19 Oct 2017 -- Russian President Vladimir Putin says terrorists will be defeated in Syria soon, stressing that the intra-Syrian peace process was developing in a positive way despite problems.
Russia urges US to destroy chemical weapons Press TV 18 Oct 2017 -- After destroying the remainder of its chemical weapons in September, Russia is now calling on the United States and other countries in possession of such weapons to immediately "follow suit" and do away with their stockpiles.
Russia Testing New Silo-Based Ballistic Missile Sputnik 18 Oct 2017 -- Russian Defense Ministry did not provide details on the missile, saying only that the new silo-based rocket is being tested using Yasny - Kura trajectory.
Russian Elections Chief Says Navalny Cannot Run Until 2028 RFE/RL 17 Oct 2017 -- Russia's top election official says that opposition politician Aleksei Navalny will not be eligible to run for office until about 2028.
Largest Ever Indian Army Contingent Reaches Russia for 1st Tri-Service Exercise Sputnik 17 Oct 2017 -- The exercise will be conducted at the 249th Combined Army Range, Sergeevisky and in the Sea of Japan near Vladivostok from October 19-29, 2017.
Russia, EU impose fresh sanctions on North Korea Press TV 17 Oct 2017 -- Russia and the European Union (EU) have slapped tougher restrictions on North Korea as part of the international efforts to stop Pyongyang's nuclear weapons program.
Joint Russia-N Korea Projects Won't Be Frozen, Yet No New Projects - Minister Sputnik 17 Oct 2017 -- A senior Russian official has commented on the prospects of cooperation between Russia and North Korea after sanctions being imposed on Pyongyang by Moscow.
Russia Starts Kalashnikov Assault Rifle Deliveries to Philippines Sputnik 16 Oct 2017 -- After Philippines President expressed interest in purchasing Russian arms during a meeting with President Vladimir Putin earlier this year, the deliveries of Kalashnikov rifles has already begun. The move came as the Philippines has refused to buy new weapons from Washington.
Russia, Bahrain in Talks on S-400 System's Supplies - Royal Guard Commander Sputnik 16 Oct 2017 -- Just over than a week after Russia and Saudi Arabia agreed on S-400 supplies, another Middle Eastern country has expressed interest in the air defense systems.
Russia's Anti-Terrorist Operation in Syria Close to its End - Defense Minister Sputnik 16 Oct 2017 -- Russian Defense Minister Sergei Shoigu has commented on the results of the Moscow's operation in Syria aimed to support the government's fight against terrorists amid the ongoing operation in the Deir ez-Zor province.
Russia Fines Telegram App Over Encryption-Key Demand RFE/RL 16 Oct 2017 -- A Russian court has imposed an 800,000 ruble ($14,000) fine on Telegram for refusing to provide the Federal Security Service (FSB) with encryption keys to the popular messaging app.
Russia may deploy more troops, missiles in Kaliningrad: Senior MP Press TV 14 Oct 2017 -- Russia may deploy additional military forces and equipment to its Western border regions -- including its Iskander-M tactical missile systems – in response to increasing US military buildup in Poland, a senior legislator says.
Russia's Governors Shake-Up: Fresh Ideas Or 'Illusion Of Renewal'? RFE/RL 14 Oct 2017 -- As President Vladimir Putin this week continued his run of sackings in Russia's regions, state TV told the nation the Kremlin is grooming a new generation of leaders for top posts across the country.
Erdogan Sees No Reason Not to Work With Russia and Install S-400 Missile Systems Sputnik 13 Oct 2017 -- Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan said Friday that he saw no reasons to stop cooperation with Russia on the purchase of S-400 missile defense systems, adding that he expected joint production to take place in the second stage of S-400 purchases.
Iran, Russia to hold joint naval drill in Caspian Sea Press TV 13 Oct 2017 -- The naval forces of the Islamic Republic of Iran and Russia plan to stage a joint exercise in the Caspian Sea to display their military might.
Erdogan Says Turkey Also Interested In Russian S-500 Missile System RFE/RL 13 Oct 2017 -- Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan says that his country, which recently announced plans to buy S-400 surface-to-air missile systems from Russia, is also interested in acquiring a future Russian missile system that is still under development.
Russia's Rokot Carries Sentinel Satellite Into Orbit for Atmosphere Monitoring Sputnik 13 Oct 2017 -- The new Sentinel-5P satellite will be able to monitor the atmosphere of the entire planet.
US Global Missile Defenses Provoke New Spiral of Arms Race - Russian MoD Sputnik 13 Oct 2017 -- The extension of the US ballistic missile defense system causes growing concern since it is likely to impede the balance of power on the global scale and increase the feasibility of nuclear conflict.
'Russia, Saudi Arabia almost finalize S-400 deal' Press TV 13 Oct 2017 -- Russia and Saudi Arabia are in talks to sign an agreement on the purchase by Riyadh of the Russian S-400 surface-to-air missile defense system.
Russia May Send More Iskander Missiles To Kaliningrad RFE/RL 13 Oct 2017 -- Russia may send more of its most advanced missiles to its Kaliningrad region in response to U.S. military deployments on NATO's eastern flank, a prominent Russian lawmaker said.
Navy 'Sniper': What's So Special About Russia's New Ka-52K Katran Attack Chopper Sputnik 13 Oct 2017 -- Russian Helicopters corporation has confirmed that the Ka-52K Katran attack helicopter remains the company's priority project for the Russian Navy, given that it is much better suited to Navy tasks than its Mi-28N and Ka-52 cousins. Military observer Andrei Kotz explains what's so special about the chopper.
Kaspersky Lab Says Steps Up Cooperation With Interpol; Kremlin Calls Spy Reports 'Absurd' RFE/RL 13 Oct 2017 -- Russian cybersecurity firm Kaspersky Lab says that it has expanded its relationship with global law enforcement agency Interpol, agreeing to share "threat intelligence data" in what it called an effort to help fight against global cybercrime.
Briefing by Foreign Ministry Spokesperson Maria Zakharova, Moscow, October 12, 2017 Russia Ministry of Foreign Affairs 12 Oct 2017
Russia Puts Crimea Themes On New Banknote RFE/RL 12 Oct 2017 -- Russia is introducing a new banknote showing images of Ukraine's annexed Crimea region.
Greek Court Agrees To Send Cybercrime Suspect Sought By U.S. To Russia RFE/RL 12 Oct 2017 -- A panel of judges in Greece on October 11 accepted Russia's request for the extradition of a Russian cybercrime suspect also being sought by the United States for allegedly masterminding a $4 billion bitcoin money-laundering scheme.
Kaspersky Lab: 'We've Never Helped Any Government With Cyberespionage Efforts' Sputnik 12 Oct 2017 -- Cyber security provider Kaspersky Lab addressed media claims about Israeli intelligence hacking into the security company's network and relaying obtained intel to US officials.
Kaspersky Lab Asks for Evidence of Firm's Alleged Collusion With Russian Gov't Sputnik 12 Oct 2017 -- The Kremlin and Russia's Kaspersky Lab, a software maker known for its anti-virus programs, have dismissed US media reports that the company stole sensitive data from a National Security Agency (NSA) contractor using its tools on behalf of the Russian government, saying the allegations lack evidence.
US used Zapad drills to illegally build up forces in Poland: Russia Press TV 12 Oct 2017 -- Russia says the United States exploited a "hysteria" created in Europe around Russian military drills with Belarus to illegally build up forces in Poland and deploy an entire armored division in violation of a 1997 pact between Moscow and NATO.
Court Video Purports To Show Russian Ex-Minister Ulyukayev Taking Bribe RFE/RL 12 Oct 2017 -- A video allegedly showing the moment Russia's former Economics Minister Aleksei Ulyukayev accepted a payoff from an oil company executive was played in court during the ex-government official's bribery trial.
Top U.S. Senators Criticize White House For Delay On Russian Sanctions RFE/RL 11 Oct 2017 -- Two leading U.S. senators have accused President Donald Trump's administration of dragging its feet on enforcing a new sanctions law on Russia, saying the White House has failed to provide information related to its defense and intelligence sectors.
Russia to procure Kalashnikov guns to Philippines: Duterte Press TV 11 Oct 2017 -- Philippine President Rodrigo Duterte says Russia is to procure his country with a shipment of Kalashnikov guns, a sign Manila is succeeding in its policy to pivot away from long-time ally Washington.
US allows terrorists to freely move about near Syria base: Russia Press TV 11 Oct 2017 -- Russia says the US is allowing Daesh to operate "under its nose" in Syria, calling on Washington to explain why terrorists enjoy freedom of movement in a border area where the Americans have a military base.
Moscow Wants Washington to Explain Why Militants Operate Near US Forces in Syria Sputnik 11 Oct 2017 -- The Russian Defense Ministry has raised the issue of some 300 Daesh terrorists on pickup trucks infiltrating a US-controlled zone in Syria's al-Tanf region.
US THAAD Missile Defense Systems in S Korea Target Russia, China - Moscow Sputnik 11 Oct 2017 -- According to Russian senior diplomat, Washington uses alleged N Korean missile threat as a pretext for deploying THAAD systems close to the borders of Russia and China.
US Missile Defense Deployment in Romania Threatens Russia - Senior Diplomat Sputnik 11 Oct 2017 -- According to the Russian Foreign Ministry, the US deployment of its missile launchers at a base in Romania violates the Intermediate-Range Nuclear Forces Treaty.
Russia kicks off major missile drills in Siberia Press TV 11 Oct 2017 -- Russia's Strategic Missile Troops have kicked off large-scale military drills in Southern Siberia, nearly a month after test-firing a long-range intercontinental ballistic missile (ICBM) that renewed a missile dispute with the US.
Russia 'may cut number of US diplomats to 300 or fewer' Press TV 11 Oct 2017 -- A Russia Foreign Ministry official says Moscow may order Washington to slash the number of its diplomatic personnel across Russia to 300 people or even fewer in a tit-for-tat measure against the US.
Putin Hosts CIS And Eurasian Economic Union Summits In Sochi RFE/RL 11 Oct 2017 -- Leaders of several former Soviet republics gathered in the Russian city of Sochi on October 11 for summits of the Commonwealth of Independent States (CIS) and the Eurasian Economic Union (EES).
Russia Again Threatens To Demand Further U.S. Diplomatic Staff Cuts RFE/RL 11 Oct 2017 -- Moscow has repeated a threat to demand further cuts in the number of U.S. diplomatic personnel in Russia.
Deep Trouble: The Secret History of Soviet and Russian Nuclear Torpedoes Sputnik 11 Oct 2017 -- This week marks the 60th anniversary of the successful test of the T-5, the USSR's first submarine-launched nuclear torpedo. Sputnik looks back at the history of Soviet and Russian nuclear torpedo designs, and what drove naval planners to develop this deadly underwater weapon.
Russian Airstrikes Destroy Daesh Command Center, Kill 70 Terrorists Near Mayadin Sputnik 10 Oct 2017 -- The Russian Aerospace Forces have destroyed a Daesh command center in Syria's Deir ez-Zor province and killed some 34 terrorists who entered the country from Iraq's western regions, the Russian Defense Ministry said.
Russian Su-24 aircraft crashes in Syria, crew killed Press TV 10 Oct 2017 -- Russia says one of its Sukhoi Su-24 fighter jets has crashed while preparing for take-off from a military base in Syria's northwestern Latakia Province, killing the crew.
Russia Says Warplane Veers Off Runway In Syria, Killing Crew RFE/RL 10 Oct 2017 -- A Russian warplane veered off a runway at the country's air base in Syria and suffered damage, killing its crew, the Defense Ministry in Moscow said.
Russian Su-24 Warplane Crashes in Syria, All Crew Members Dead Sputnik 10 Oct 2017 -- The crash could have been the result of mechanical failure, according to the Russian Defense Ministry.
Kremlin Defends Missile Deal With Saudi Arabia RFE/RL 10 Oct 2017 -- The Kremlin says an agreement to sell Russian missiles to Saudi Arabia does not pose a threat to any other country.
Indo-Russian Joint Venture Anticipating $14Bln Deal for BhraMos Missiles Sputnik 10 Oct 2017 -- BhraMos Aerospace expects to get orders from Asian countries, including Vietnam, for the BrahMos supersonic cruise missiles that can be launched from submarines, ships, and aircraft as well as from the land.
Turkey may find other partners if Russia reluctant to share S-400 technology: Cavusoglu Press TV 09 Oct 2017 -- Turkish Foreign Minister Mevlut Cavusoglu says Ankara may cancel its deal with Russia on acquiring the Russian S-400 missile systems and seek a deal with other partners if Moscow is reluctant to share the technology of its most advanced air defense system with the Anatolian country.
Kremlin Comments on Turkish FM's Remark on Possible Cancelation of S-400 Deal Sputnik 09 Oct 2017 -- The Turkish foreign minister said that Ankara may cancel the deal on the acquisition of the S-400 air defense systems if Russia does not agree to jointly produce the military equipment. The Kremlin has commented on the issue.
Russia, Saudi Arabia Agree on S-400, Other Weapons Deliveries Sputnik 09 Oct 2017 -- Russia and Saudi Arabia have agreed on the supply of S-400 anti-aircraft missile systems, as well as a number of other weapons, including the Kalashnikov AK-103.
Putin Decrees Foreigners In Russian Army Can Fight In Wars Abroad RFE/RL 09 Oct 2017 -- Russian President Vladimir Putin has signed a decree that allows foreign citizens serving in the Russian Army on a contractual basis to take part in Russian military operations abroad.
Omsk Governor Out As Putin Pushes Ahead With Regional Reshuffle RFE/RL 09 Oct 2017 -- Russian President Vladimir Putin has dismissed the governor of the Omsk region, Viktor Nazarov, the newest step in a shake-up of regional leaders ahead of a March 2018 presidential election.
Russia Abolishes State Chemical Disarmament Commission Sputnik 09 Oct 2017 -- Russian President Vladimir Putin has signed a document on the abolition of the state commission on chemical disarmament.
Russia, China repeat calls for restraint over North Korea following Trump's remarks Press TV 09 Oct 2017 -- Russia and China have repeated their calls for restraint over North Korea amid fears that hawkish stances adopted by US President Donald Trump could spark a military conflict on the Korean Peninsula.
Syrian Operation: Russia 'Turns the Tide of War', Expands Its Role in Mideast Sputnik 08 Oct 2017 -- It has been two years since Russia launched its military campaign in Syria, which initially faced skepticism and criticism in the West. Over this period of time, Moscow has not only significantly contributed to fighting terrorism and stabilizing the situation Syria, but also proved its political role in the Middle East, a geopolitical analyst said.
Turkey 'Working With Russia' Amid Idlib Operation - Prime Minister Sputnik 08 Oct 2017 -- The Turkish prime minister has commented on coordinating actions with Moscow in the wake of the Turkish President's announcement of his country's launching a military operation in Syria's Idlib, currently under the control of the al-Nusra Front terrorist group.
Russian Forces Destroy Daesh Command Post in Syria, Killing About 80 Terrorists Sputnik 07 Oct 2017 -- Russia's Defense Ministry has reported the elimination of Daesh command position in the Al Mayadin district, about 80 militants killed.
180 terrorists killed in fresh Russian airstrikes in Syria Press TV 07 Oct 2017 -- Russia says its counter-terrorism airstrikes in Syria have killed a total of 180 militants – among them dozens of foreign mercenaries – over the past 24 hours.
Russia-Saudi Cooperation Limited Despite Big Energy, Military Deals VOA 07 Oct 2017 -- Saudi Arabian King Salman bin Abdulaziz's groundbreaking visit to Russia this week saw billions of dollars signed in investment deals in energy and defense that will deepen ties between Moscow and Riyadh, despite their confrontational past.
U.S. Ambassador To Russia Cites Ukraine As Key To Improving Ties RFE/RL 08 Oct 2017 -- The new U.S. ambassador to Russia says restoring Ukrainian sovereignty over all its territory will be a key issue in his dealings with Moscow as he begins his tenure amid a period of high tensions between the two world powers.
Pentagon Calls Russian MoD Remarks on US Coalition's Aims in Syria 'Ridiculous' Sputnik 06 Oct 2017 -- The Pentagon has again responded to a statement made by the Russian Defense Ministry earlier this week, accusing the US of supporting terrorists in Syria.
Kremlin says Russia-Saudi military cooperation not directed at 3rd party Press TV 06 Oct 2017 -- Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov has briefed reporters about the peaceful content of recent talks between Russian President Vladimir Putin and King Salman bin Abdulaziz of Saudi Arabia.
Putin, Salman hold talks behind closed doors in Moscow Press TV 06 Oct 2017 -- Russian President Vladimir Putin and Saudi King Salman have held talks behind closed doors in the Russian capital of Moscow, reportedly discussing bilateral and regional issues.
Russian Court Leaves Navalny In Jail On Eve Of Protests, Campaign Office Searched RFE/RL 06 Oct 2017 -- MOSCOW -- A Russian court rejected Aleksei Navalny's appeal against a 20-day jail term, and police searched his Moscow presidential campaign office as the Kremlin foe urged supporters to protest nationwide on October 7.
Putin Continues Regional Reshuffle By Replacing Novosibirsk Governor RFE/RL 06 Oct 2017 -- Russian President Vladimir Putin has dismissed the governor of the Novosibirsk Oblast, Vladimir Gorodetsky, pushing ahead with a reshuffle of regional leaders as the Kremlin gears up for the presidential election in March.
Russian Troops Return to Home Bases After Zapad-2017 Drills With Belarus End Sputnik 06 Oct 2017 -- Despite several eastern European states' concerns that Russian military might stay in Belarus after the joint Zapad-2017 war games end, the Russian defense minister has officially announced that troops have returned to their home bases in Russia.
European Parliament Condemns Russia's Prosecution Of Crimeans RFE/RL 05 Oct 2017 -- The European Parliament has adopted a resolution condemning Russian verdicts against dozens of Crimeans who opposed Moscow's seizure of the peninsula and demanding the release of those who are behind bars.
Russian Airstrike in Syria Leaves Al Nusra 'Emir' in Coma, 49 Terrorists Dead Sputnik 05 Oct 2017 -- Russia's Aerospace Forces launched a surgical assault against the rebranded Al Nusra Front terrorist group, killing 49 fighters including seven leaders, according to the Russian Ministry of Defense.
Russian airstrike kills 49 Takfiri terrorists in Syria's Idlib Press TV 05 Oct 2017 -- The Russian military says 49 Takfiri militants, including seven commanders, have been killed during an airstrike on terrorist positions in Syria's Idlib Province.
Russian submarines launch cruise missiles at Daesh positions in Dayr al-Zawr Press TV 05 Oct 2017 -- Two Russian submarines have fired a barrage of Kalibr cruise missiles at positions of Daesh Takfiri terrorist group in Syria's eastern province of Dayr al-Zawr, where the country's forces are making territorial gains against the terrorists.
Declassified CIA Papers Show U.S. Aware In Advance Of Sputnik Possibilities RFE/RL 05 Oct 2017 -- The CIA has released newly declassified documents showing that U.S. intelligence agencies were aware of Russia's impending launch of the Sputnik 1 satellite -- an event that shocked the American public when the news broke exactly 60 years ago.
Saudi Arabia agrees to buy Russian S-400 air defense system Press TV 05 Oct 2017 -- Saudi Arabia has signed preliminary agreements to buy S-400 air defense systems and receive "cutting-edge technologies" from Russia as King Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud is on an official trip to Moscow as the first Saudi monarch to visit the European country.
Russia, Saudi Arabia Pledge To Boost Ties During King's Landmark Visit RFE/RL 05 Oct 2017 -- Russian President Vladimir Putin has hosted Saudi King Salman for talks at the Kremlin, in the first official visit to Russia by a reigning Saudi monarch.
Fresh Start: Saudi Arabia Turns to Russia Seeking to Diversify Foreign Relations Sputnik 05 Oct 2017 -- Riyadh has started diversifying its foreign relations due to the US' further rapprochement with Tel Aviv, Russian political scientist Vyacheslav Smirnov told Radio Sputnik. According to the expert, the first ever visit of King Salman bin Abdulaziz al-Saud to Moscow is likely to strengthen Russo-Saudi ties.
Putin: Saudi King's Visit to Russia a Landmark Event Sputnik 05 Oct 2017 -- Russian President Vladimir Putin has said during his first ever meeting with Saudi King Salman bin Abdulaziz al Saud that the monarch's visit to Russia is a landmark event.
NATO Chief Says Alliance Assessing Whether All Russian Troops Left Belarus RFE/RL 05 Oct 2017 -- NATO Secretary-General Jens Stoltenberg says the Western alliance is assessing whether Russia has pulled out all the troops it sent to Belarus for joint exercises last month that were watched warily by neighbors.
Canadian Parliament Moves Closer To Approving Version Of Magnitsky Act RFE/RL 05 Oct 2017 -- The Canadian Parliament has stepped closer to final approval of its version of the U.S. Magnitsky Act, which sanctions Russians for alleged human rights abuses, a move that has brought threats of retaliation from Moscow.
3 Russian Businessmen File Second Defamation Lawsuit In Connection with 'Steele Dossier' RFE/RL 05 Oct 2017 -- Three powerful Russian businessmen who control the country's largest commercial bank have filed the second of two defamation lawsuits in connection with a salacious intelligence report involving President Donald Trump.
Briefing by Foreign Ministry Spokesperson Maria Zakharova, Moscow, October 4, 2017 Russia Ministry of Foreign Affairs 04 Oct 2017
Saudi King Salman in Russia on historic visit Press TV 04 Oct 2017 -- Saudi Arabia's King Salman has arrived in the Russian capital, Moscow, on a first such visit by a monarch in the kingdom's history.
US Senate intelligence panel confirms Russia's 2016 meddling Press TV 04 Oct 2017 -- The Senate Intelligence Committee throws its support behind allegations that Russia meddled in the US 2016 election, which yielded President Donald Trump.
U.S. Senate Committee Agrees Russia Meddled In Election, Still Probing Collusion RFE/RL 04 Oct 2017 -- A U.S. Senate committee says there is a consensus that Russia interfered in the 2016 presidential election but is still investigating whether there was any collusion between Moscow and the Trump campaign team.
US Senate Panel Provides Update on Russia Probe VOA 04 Oct 2017 -- The Senate Intelligence Committee revealed it is continuing to investigate whether elements of President Donald Trump's campaign colluded with Russia to sway the 2016 U.S. election, while warning that Russian meddling could expand and threaten future elections.
Serbia Received All Six Russian MiG-29 Fighter Jets as Part of Military Aid Sputnik 04 Oct 2017 -- Two MiG-29s arrived on Wednesday from Russia to Belgrade, thereby completing the delivery of six fighters within the framework of the Russian military-technical assistance to Serbia, the Tanjug news agency reported citing its own source in the country's Defense Ministry.
Embattled Venezuelan President Thanks Putin For 'Political, Diplomatic Support' RFE/RL 04 Oct 2017 -- Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro, who is facing international isolation amid unrest in the Latin American country, has thanked his Russian counterpart for backing him.
Putin Supports Maduro Trying to Improve Relations With Opponents Sputnik 04 Oct 2017 -- Russian President Vladimir Putin emphasized on Wednesday the achievements made by Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro in improving relations with the opposition.
US involved in 'bloody provocations' against Russian forces in Syria: Lavrov Press TV 04 Oct 2017 -- The Russian foreign minister has slammed the US for pursing a "double standard" approach towards the fight against terror in Syria, saying Washington encourages "bloody provocations" against Russian and Syrian government forces.
Russia to Support Armed Groups Fighting Nusra Front in Syria's Idlib - Lavrov Sputnik 04 Oct 2017 -- Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov has said that Russia would provide military assistance to groups fighting against the Nusra Front, a terrorist group also known as Jabhat Fatah al-Sham, in the Syrian province of Idlib, as the US-led coalition has failed to act decisively against the group.
Al Nusra Leader in Critical Condition Following Russian Airstrike - MoD Sputnik 04 Oct 2017 -- Russia's Aerospace Forces have critically wounded HTS leader and former Al Nusra Front 'emir' Abu Mohammad al-Julani in Syria.
Russia accuses US of supporting, 'flirting with' Daesh in eastern Syria Press TV 04 Oct 2017 -- Russia has accused the US forces of providing intelligence to the Daesh Takfiri terrorists in eastern Syria, saying Washington is clearly "flirting" with the terrorist group.
Long-Range Aviation Exercises Begin in Russia - Defense Ministry Sputnik 04 Oct 2017 -- According to Russian Defense Ministry, a unit of Russia's Long-Range Aviation has started exercises involving over 20 aircraft.
Russia remains committed to Iran nuclear deal: Putin Press TV 04 Oct 2017 -- Russian President Vladimir Putin says his country will continue to support the 2015 Iran nuclear deal because the Islamic Republic has honored all of its commitments.
Putin Says He's Still Undecided Whether To Seek Reelection RFE/RL 04 Oct 2017 -- Less than six months before Russia's next election, President Vladimir Putin says he has not yet decided whether to seek a new six-year term.
Russia Concerned With N Korean Nuke Tests, Warns Against Escalation - Putin Sputnik 04 Oct 2017 -- Russian President Vladimir Putin has said that Moscow is concerned with North Korea's continuing nuclear tests but noted that "belligerent rhetoric" surrounding the problem may lead to unwanted escalation, calling on the parties to hold direct talks.
U.S. Calls On Russian To Release Crimean Tatar Leader Umerov RFE/RL 03 Oct 2017 -- The United States has called on "Russian occupation" authorities in Crimea to release prominent Tatar leader Ilmi Umerov and vacate his conviction for separatism.
Russia denies Daesh captured soldiers in Syria's Dayr al-Zawr Press TV 03 Oct 2017 -- Russia's Defense Ministry has denied that two Russian soldiers were captured by the Daesh Takfiri terrorists in Syria.
Russian airstrikes kill seven Daesh commanders in Dayr al-Zawr Press TV 03 Oct 2017 -- The Russian Defense Ministry spokesman Major General Igor Konashenkov says Russian military aircraft have taken out seven Daesh terrorist field commanders, including a terror coordinator, in Syria's troubled eastern province of Dayr al-Zawr over the past two days.
Russia Says It Killed Kazakh IS Commander, Hundreds Of Fighters In Syria RFE/RL 03 Oct 2017 -- Russia claims it has killed a Kazakh militant it says was an important commander in the forces of the extremist group Islamic State (IS) in Syria.
Russian Jets Destroy Daesh Training Center, Take Out Seven Commanders in Syria Sputnik 03 Oct 2017 -- Russia's Aerospace Forces have killed 304 Daesh militants and left more than 170 wounded, as the offensive against the terrorists on the eastern bank of the Euphrates river near Deir ez-Zor, Syria continues.
Spanish Court OKs Extradition Of Russian Hacker To U.S. RFE/RL 03 Oct 2017 -- Spain's high court has authorized the extradition of a Russian man wanted by U.S. authorities for running a massive computer bot that sent tens of millions of spam e-mails over many years.
Russia's Putin calls for 'mutually beneficial' relations with US Press TV 03 Oct 2017 -- Russian President Vladimir Putin says Moscow is advocating "predictable, constructive and mutually beneficial" relations with Washington.
Kremlin Says Russia Hopes Huntsman Will Help Improve U.S. Ties RFE/RL 03 Oct 2017 -- Russian President Vladimir Putin has told the new U.S. ambassador to Moscow, Jon Huntsman, that he hopes badly strained ties will improve.
Violence, 'Hypocrisy' In Catalonia: Russia Reacts To Spanish Turmoil RFE/RL 02 Oct 2017 -- Russian media have devoted extensive coverage to police violence that marred a referendum in the Spanish region of Catalonia, painting a picture of double standards in a European Union rattled by referendums and fighting for survival.
King of the Skies: Russia Starts Delivering MiG-29 Warplanes to Serbia Sputnik 02 Oct 2017 -- On Monday, Russia has started the first delivery of six Mikoyan MiG-29 fighter jets to Serbia, a source in the sphere of military-technical cooperation told Sputnik.
Kyiv, Activists Cry Foul As Russian FSB Detains Crimean Tatars RFE/RL 02 Oct 2017 -- Lawyers say the authorities in Russia-controlled Crimea have detained four Crimean Tatars on suspicion of extremism in what activists and the Ukrainian government said was part of a discriminatory campaign targeting members of the Muslim group.
Is Kremlin Struggling To Pick New Daghestan Leader? RFE/RL 02 Oct 2017 -- Five days after Ramazan Abdulatipov announced he would step down prematurely as Republic of Daghestan head, the Kremlin has still not named an acting successor.
Russian-Serbian Joint Aviation Drills Kick Off in Central Russia - MoD Sputnik 02 Oct 2017 -- Joint Russian-Serbian BARS tactical flight drills kicked off in the Russian central city of Lipetsk, Russia's Defense Ministry said on Monday.
All Russian Troops Left Belarus After Zapad-2017 Drills - Russia's Ambassador Sputnik 02 Oct 2017 -- All Russian servicemen, that were taking part in the Zapad-2017 (West) joint drills have left Belarus after the end of the event.
Russia Puts Not Only Military, But Political Efforts in Syria - Commander Sputnik 01 Oct 2017 -- September 30 marks the second anniversary of the Russian counterterrorism campaign in Syria which is defined not only by significant success on the battlefield but also by diplomatic victories.
2350 terrorists killed by Russian airstrikes in Syria over 11 days Press TV 01 Oct 2017 -- Russian airstrikes in Syria have killed around 2,350 terrorists and injured some 2,700 more over 11 days, says Russia's Defense Ministry.
Russia Denies Ukrainian Allegations It Left Troops In Belarus RFE/RL 01 Oct 2017 -- Russia has denied allegations from Ukraine that it left troops behind in Belarus after staging military exercises there, despite Moscow's pledge not to do so.

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Weapons of Mass Destruction (WMD)

October 2017 - Russia Special Weapons News