May 2018 - Russia Special Weapons News

NATO-Russia Council meets in Brussels NATO 31 May 2018 -- The NATO-Russia Council met at Ambassadorial level in Brussels on Thursday (31 May 2018).
NATO Warns Russia On 'Malign Activities,' Briefs On War Games RFE/RL 31 May 2018 -- NATO ambassadors told Russia to put a halt to its "malign activities" in Europe and elsewhere as the sides met at a time of high geopolitical tensions between East and West.
Telegram CEO Durov: 'Apple Didn't Side With Us' RFE/RL 31 May 2018 -- Telegram CEO and founder Pavel Durov says Apple has prevented the popular messaging service from updating globally since Russian authorities "ordered" the U.S. mobile-phone giant to remove Telegram from its app store.
Cracking Open the Tomahawk: Secrets Learned From US Weapons in Russia's Arsenal Sputnik 31 May 2018 -- Russia's Radio-Electronic Technologies Concern (KRET) has confirmed that its engineers are using unexploded Tomahawk cruise missiles from April's failed US airstrikes on Syria to help develop new electronic warfare systems. Sputnik looks back at some of the other weapons Russia captured and reverse engineered from US overseas wars over the years.s
Major Russian, Indian Energy Firms Reportedly Moving To Pull Out Of Iran RFE/RL 31 May 2018 -- The threat of U.S. sanctions has prompted Russian oil giant Lukoil to put its plans to develop projects in Iran on hold while the Indian company that owns the world's largest oil refining complex plans to stop buying oil from Iran, Reuters reported on May 30.
Talks Held between FMs of DPRK and Russia KCNA 31 May 2018 -- Talks were held between the foreign ministers of the DPRK and Russia at the Mansudae Assembly Hall on Thursday.
S.Korea confirms ongoing preparatory talks for DPRK-U.S. summit People's Daily 31 May 2018 -- South Korea's foreign ministry on Thursday confirmed the ongoing preparatory talks for a summit between the Democratic People's Republic of Korea (DPRK) and the United States, raising a possibility for the first-ever DPRK-U.S. summit to be held as scheduled.
Lavrov meets North Korea's leader Kim, invites him to visit Russia Press TV 31 May 2018 -- Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov, who is on an official trip to Pyongyang, has invited North Korean leader Kim Jong-un to visit Moscow, as Russia becomes more involved in international efforts to ease tensions on the Korean Peninsula.
Russian Foreign Minister Lavrov, On Rare Visit To North Korea, Invites Kim To Russia RFE/RL 31 May 2018 -- Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov has met with North Korean leader Kim Jong Un and the country's foreign minister ahead of a planned summit between U.S. President Donald Trump and Kim next month.
Kremlin Says U.S. Military Presence In Poland Would Undermine European Stability RFE/RL 30 May 2018 -- The Kremlin has expressed concern over reports that Poland has requested a permanent U.S. military presence on its soil, saying NATO's expansion towards Russia's borders undermines stability in Europe.
Ukraine Says It Faked Journalist's Death To Thwart Russian Plot RFE/RL 30 May 2018 -- Ukrainian security officials said they faked the death of a dissident Russian journalist in an effort to catch people it says were involved in a Russian plot to kill him.
'What About The Blood?' Joy, Then Confusion, After Russian Journalist Turns Up Alive RFE/RL 30 May 2018 -- Outside the apartment where Arkady Babchenko wasn't killed, people wept as though he was.
The Photo That Fueled The Hoax: Behind The Gruesome Image Of Babchenko's 'Death' RFE/RL 30 May 2018 -- The killing of Arkady Babchenko did not happen. But you'd certainly be forgiven if, in the hours after the first reports emerged late on May 29, you had glimpsed a photograph of his body lying face down in a pool of blood and concluded that this was proof that another Russian reporter had been murdered.
Russia Under Fire At UN Over Downing Of MH17 RFE/RL 30 May 2018 -- Russia has rejected calls at the United Nations to accept responsibility for the downing of Flight MH17 over Ukraine after an investigation found that a Russian Army missile caused the explosion that killed all 298 people on board.
Russian Journalist Babchenko, Thought Dead, Appears after Sting Operation VOA 30 May 2018 -- Ukraine's security chief now says his organization planned to have a prominent Russian war correspondent and Kremlin critic fake his own death as part of a ruse to save the reporter's life.
Russian Journalist, Kremlin Critic Who Fled To Ukraine Shot Dead In Kyiv RFE/RL 30 May 2018 -- Police in Kyiv say Russian journalist Arkady Babchenko, who fled his country to escape what he called "political harassment," has been shot dead in a killing that Ukraine's prime minister blamed on Moscow.
Lavrov, Pompeo Discuss 'Issues, Concerns' About U.S.-Russian Relations RFE/RL 30 May 2018 -- Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov and U.S. Secretary of State Mike Pompeo have spoken by telephone for the first time since Pompeo was sworn into office on April 26.
Erdogan, Putin stress Syria's territorial integrity, importance of Astana talks Press TV 29 May 2018 -- Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan and his Russian counterpart, Vladimir Putin, have underlined the importance of Syria's sovereignty and achievements gained in the Astana peace negotiations for a political solution in war-torn Syria.
Russia refutes reports of intercepting Israeli jets over Lebanon Press TV 29 May 2018 -- Moscow has rejected an Israeli media report that a Russian jet intercepted the regime's warplanes over Lebanon, saying Russian aircraft conduct no mission in Lebanese skies.
NATO Should Maintain Relationship With Russia to Prevent Accidents - Stoltenberg Sputnik 28 May 2018 -- The North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO) expects eight of its member states to meet the target of spending 2 percent of their Gross Domestic Product (GDP) on defense in 2018, NATO Secretary General Jens Stoltenberg said.
Polish PM Calls Nord Stream 2 'Weapon' Of Hybrid Warfare RFE/RL 28 May 2018 -- Polish Prime Minister Mateusz Morawiecki says Russia's planned natural-gas pipeline, Nord Stream 2, is a weapon of hybrid warfare that Moscow wants to use to undermine European energy security and the solidarity of the European Union and NATO.
Russia Seeks 14-Year Term For Ukrainian Journalist Accused Of Spying RFE/RL 28 May 2018 -- Russian prosecutors are seeking a 14-year prison term for Ukrainian journalist Roman Sushchenko, who is on trial in Moscow on espionage charges in a case viewed by Kyiv and rights activists as politically motivated.
Jordan ditches $10 billion atomic plant deal with Russia Press TV 27 May 2018 -- Jordan has decided to abandon a $10 billion deal with Russia to build a nuclear power plant, saying the two sides worked to construct a small modular reactor (SMR) instead.
Ukraine Charges Moscow Has Brought Up To 1 Million Russians Into Crimea RFE/RL 27 May 2018 -- Russia has relocated up to 1 million people to the annexed Ukrainian region of Crimea, according to Mustafa Dzhemilev, the long-time leader of the Crimean Tatars and Ukrainian President Petro Poroshenko's envoy for Crimean Tatar affairs.
Turkey May Buy Russian Su-57 Jets, If Delivery of F-35 Jets Suspended - Reports Sputnik 28 May 2018 -- Ankara is likely to buy Russian Su-57 fighter jets if Washington decides to suspend the delivery of F-35 jets in response to the purchase of Russian S-400 anti-missile systems, the Yeni Safak newspaper reported Sunday.
Turkey would purchase Russian Su-57 warplanes if US bars sale of F-35 jets: Report Press TV 27 May 2018 -- Turkey would likely opt to purchase Russian Sukhoi Su-57 twin-engine warplanes in place of US F-35 single-engine stealth fighter jets if Washington suspends the delivery of the latter in response to Ankara's sale of S-400 anti-aircraft missile systems from Russia.
Turkey Cannot Confirm Plans to Purchase Su-57 Jets Instead of F-35 - Source Sputnik 28 May 2018 -- Turkish media reports about possible purchase of Russian Su-57 fighters instead of US F-35 jets are based on experts' opinion and do not reflect the official position of Ankara, a source in the secretariat of the Turkish defense industry told Sputnik.
Russian servicemen killed in Syria after shelling carried out by militants IRNA 27 May 2018 -- Shelling, which was carried out by militants in Syria's Deir ez-Zor, has left two Russian military advisers dead and five more servicemen injured, the Russian Ministry of Defense stated on Sunday.
Four Russian servicemen killed in militant shelling in eastern Syria Press TV 27 May 2018 -- The Russian Defense Ministry says four of its servicemen have lost their lives after foreign-sponsored Takfiri militants launched an attack against an artillery battery of the Syrian army in the country's eastern province of Dayr al-Zawr.
Four Russian Soldiers Killed In Syria RFE/RL 27 May 2018 -- Four Russian soldiers have been killed in fighting in eastern Syria, Russia's Defense Ministry said, although a war monitor said the death toll was believed to be twice as high.
Russian Servicemen Killed in Syria After Shelling Carried Out by Militants - MoD Sputnik 27 May 2018 -- Shelling, which was carried out by militants in Syria's Deir ez-Zor, has left two Russian military advisers dead and five more servicemen injured, the Russian Ministry of Defense stated on Sunday.
Russia's Gazprom Says Signs TurkStream Protocol With Ankara RFE/RL 27 May 2018 -- Russian state-owned energy giant Gazprom says it has signed a protocol with the Turkish government on the land-based part of the transit leg of the TurkStream gas pipeline.
Russia's Pacific Fleet Warships Arrive in Thailand With Friendly Visit Sputnik 27 May 2018 -- A Russian Pacific Fleet detachment comprising Admiral Vinogradov and Admiral Tributs anti-submarine ships, and accompanied by Pechenga tanker, arrived on Sunday in Thailand with a friendly visit, a Sputnik correspondent reported.
Russian Navy to Maintain Balanced Presence in Mediterranean - Military Official Sputnik 27 May 2018 -- The Russian Navy will maintain the composition of its grouping, permanently stationed in the Mediterranean Sea, at a balanced and efficient level, Russian Navy Commander Adm. Vladimir Korolev said on Sunday.
Russia's Elected Mayors - a Dying Breed VOA 27 May 2018 -- Russian democracy hit a grim milestone this week when Evgeny Roizman, the independent-minded mayor of Russia's fourth largest city of Yekaterinburg, resigned from his post in protest.
Putin, Abe Vow To Seek WWII Treaty, Solution To Island Dispute RFE/RL 26 May 2018 -- Russian President Vladimir Putin and Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe pledged to accelerate efforts to seek a World War II peace treaty and to reach an agreement over a disputed island chain.
Reports: Russian Tycoon Met With Trump's Lawyer Days Before Inauguration RFE/RL 26 May 2018 -- A Russian billionaire with links to the Kremlin met with U.S. President Donald Trump's lawyer Michael Cohen at the Trump Tower in New York City less than two weeks before Trump's inauguration, media are reporting.
Russia, Saudi Arabia Say Likely To Raise Oil Output To Curb Rising Prices RFE/RL 26 May 2018 -- Saudi Arabia and Russia are likely to agree to raise oil production next month in a bid to ease consumer worries about higher energy prices, their energy ministers have said.
Turkey won’t yield to US pressure over S-400 deal: Russian president Press TV 26 May 2018 -- Russian President Vladimir Putin has lashed out at the United States for pushing NATO member Turkey into abandoning its decision to purchase S-400 surface-to-air missile systems from Russia, saying the US pressure will not produce any results.
Putin Slams US Over Pushing Turkey into Abandoning S-400 Deal With Russia Sputnik 26 May 2018 -- President Vladimir Putin on Friday criticized the United States for pushing back against Turkey’s decision to buy advanced surface-to-air missiles from Russia.
CHP: Turkey to Purchase Russian S-400 Despite US Pressure Sputnik 26 May 2018 -- Turkey is likely to finalize its deal with Russia on purchasing S-400 air defense systems, despite US pressure, while making concessions in the Patriot system talks with Washington in a bid to strike a balance between the two powers, Ozturk Yilmaz, the Turkish opposition Republican People's Party (CHP) deputy chair, told Sputnik on Friday.
Coming to You With the Wash of Waves: New Russian Submarine to Merge With Ocean Sputnik 26 May 2018 -- The concept of the submarine has already been accepted and its construction is set to start in 2018, with the last unit of the first batch slated for completion by 2025.
Russia's Minister of Defense Speaks About Su-57's Combat Debut in Syria Sputnik 26 May 2018 -- Earlier, reports surfaced suggesting that two fifth generation Russian fighter jets had arrived in Syria along with four Su-35S planes. The new jet has still not entered serial production.
Russia's Lavrov says 'no facts' support accusations on MH17 Press TV 25 May 2018 -- Russia's Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov says the Netherlands has provided "no facts" to support its allegation that Moscow was responsible for the downing of Malaysia Airlines Flight MH17 in 2014.
Bellingcat Links High-Ranking Russian GRU Officer To Downing Of MH17 RFE/RL 25 May 2018 -- Researchers from the British-based group Bellingcat have published a report that, for the first time, establishes what they say is the involvement of a high-ranking Russian military intelligence officer in connection with the downing of Malaysia Airlines Flight 17 (MH17) over eastern Ukraine in 2014.
Bellingcat Allegations of Russia's Role in MH17 Crash Based on Fakes - MoD Sputnik 25 May 2018 -- Russian Defense Ministry stated Friday that the country's officers mentioned in the report issued by Bellingcat had long retired from the Russian military.
It Was 'Certainly' Not Russian Missile That Downed MH17 - Putin Sputnik 25 May 2018 -- There are different versions of the MH17 crash, but nobody takes them into account, Russian President Vladimir Putin said at the St. Petersburg International Economic Forum (SPIEF).
Calling Russia To Account for Malaysia Airlines Flight MH-17 US Dept. of State 25 May 2018
UN chief notes 'with concern' report holding Russia liable for downing airliner UN News 25 May 2018 -- Following the conclusion of an investigation that holds Russia responsible for the downing of a Malaysia Airlines passenger plane in 2014, the United Nations chief said on Friday that he "has taken note with concern of the latest report".
Russia Rejects Report Blaming Russia for Downing of Civilian Airliner VOA 25 May 2018 -- Russian President Vladimir Putin has dismissed an international investigation into the downing of Malaysian Airliner MH17 over east Ukraine in 2014 as deeply flawed, after investigators concluded Russia's military provided the missile used in the attack that killed all 298 people aboard.
Macron Tells Putin Europe Committed To U.S. Alliance Despite Rifts RFE/RL 25 May 2018 -- French President Emmanuel Macron has told Russian leader Vladimir Putin that Europe remains committed to its security and defense alliance with the United States despite recent disagreements over trade, the Iran nuclear deal, and other issues.
Putin Says Adheres to Constitution, No More Than Two Presidential Terms in Row Sputnik 25 May 2018 -- Russian President Vladimir Putin said Friday he adheres to the provisions of the Russian Constitution and will not run for a third presidential term in a row.
Russian Tycoon Deripaska Resigns From Rusal Board Over U.S. Sanctions RFE/RL 25 May 2018 -- Russian tycoon Oleg Deripaska has resigned from his position as director of his aluminum firm Rusal, in the latest move that he hopes will persuade the U.S. administration to ease sanctions targeting him and his companies.
Deripaska Steps Down as Director of Russian Aluminum Giant Rusal Sputnik 25 May 2018 -- Russian billionaire businessman Oleg Deripaska has stepped down as director of Russia's aluminum giant Rusal, the company announced.
Russia, Italy Vying for Indian Navy's $5 Billion Minesweeper Contract Sputnik 25 May 2018 -- With the Indian Navy's mine countermeasure vessels (MCMV) scheduled to retire by the end of 2018, the world's fifth-largest navy will be left without minesweepers. The Indian Navy needs at least 24 MCMVs to plug the shortfall. China, on the other hand, has more than 100 MCMVs.
Moscow says no Russian missile involved in MH17 plane crash over Ukraine Press TV 24 May 2018 -- Russia's Defense Ministry has strongly rejected fresh claims by an international investigation team that the ill-fated Malaysia Airlines Flight MH17 was downed by a missile launched from a Russian unit, stressing Moscow has nothing to do with the tragic event in which some 300 people lost their lives after the plane was downed over eastern Ukraine.
Investigators: Buk Missile From Russian Antiaircraft Brigade Downed MH17 RFE/RL 24 May 2018 -- A Dutch-led international criminal investigation has concluded that the Buk missile that shot down Malaysia Airlines Flight 17 over Ukraine in 2014 came from Russia's 53rd Antiaircraft Missile Brigade.
RIA News Agency, Tycoons Added To Ukraine Sanctions List RFE/RL 24 May 2018 -- Ukraine has banned Russia's state news agency RIA Novosti, according to a recently expanded list of prominent Russians and entities subjected to Ukrainian sanctions.
Investigation of MH17 Crash in Ukraine Biased - Russian Foreign Ministry Sputnik 24 May 2018 -- According to the Russian Foreign Ministry, Russia is ready to contribute to the international investigation of the MH17 crash in Eastern Ukraine.
The Shoot Down of Malaysia Airlines Flight MH17 US Dept. of State 24 May 2018 -- "The United States has complete confidence in the findings of the Joint Investigation Team (JIT) as presented today by the Dutch Public Prosecutor: the missile launcher used to shoot down Malaysia Airlines Flight MH17 originated from the 53rd Anti-aircraft Brigade of the Russian Federation, stationed in Kursk."
Gazprom Clinches Deal In Lengthy EU Antitrust Case, Avoids Fine RFE/RL 24 May 2018 -- Russian state-owned energy firm Gazprom has reached an agreement with EU regulators, avoiding fines in an antitrust case that has dragged on for seven years.
Rusal CEO, Top Managers Resign Over U.S. Sanctions RFE/RL 24 May 2018 -- Russian aluminum giant Rusal says its chief executive, Aleksandra Buriko, and half of its managerial board have resigned to make sure the firm avoids U.S. sanctions against its founder, Oleg Deripaska.
Briefing by Foreign Ministry Spokesperson Maria Zakharova, Moscow, May 23, 2018 Russia Ministry of Foreign Affairs 23 May 2018
Putin, Bulgarian President Tout Cultural Ties, Energy Projects RFE/RL 23 May 2018 -- Russian President Vladimir Putin and his Bulgarian counterpart have hailed their common cultural ties and vowed to revive economic links between the two Black Sea nations.
Pompeo: US Won't Tolerate Russian Meddling in 2018 Vote VOA 23 May 2018 -- U.S. Secretary of State Mike Pompeo vowed Wednesday the Trump administration would take "appropriate countermeasures" against any Russian interference in the November congressional elections, but acknowledged officials have yet to figure out what "effective deterrence" might work.
Georgia Accuses Russia Of 'Ethnic Cleansing' At European Court RFE/RL 23 May 2018 -- Georgian representatives have accused Russia of ethnic cleansing in territory it captured during the 2008 war as Europe's top human rights court heard a case on the brief conflict between the two countries.
Russia nuclear sub 'successfully test-fires ICBMs' Press TV 23 May 2018 -- A Russian nuclear submarine in submerged position has successfully test-fired several intercontinental ballistic missiles (ICBM) from the White Sea, Russian military sources say.
Russian Lawmakers Bend On Sanctions Bill But Stand Firm On Punishing 'Abettors' RFE/RL 23 May 2018 -- Following criticism from the country's business community, Russian lawmakers have signaled they could water down draft legislation that originally proposed criminal penalties -- including prison time -- for Russian citizens who comply with international sanctions targeting Moscow.
Aides Jailed For Anti-Putin Protests As Navalny Appeal Rejected RFE/RL 23 May 2018 -- A Moscow court has ordered the press secretary of jailed opposition politician and anticorruption campaigner Aleksei Navalny to be jailed for 25 days over nationwide protests against President Vladimir Putin.
Putin Offers Support For Venezuelan Leader Reelected In 'Sham' Vote RFE/RL 22 May 2018 -- Russian President Vladimir Putin has offered support for Venezuelan counterpart Nicolas Maduro after the United States, the European Union, and Latin American countries rejected his reelection as a "sham."
Russian air defenses intercept projectile targeting Hmeimim base in Syria IRNA 22 May 2018 -- Russian air defenses intercepted and destroyed a projectile targeting Hmeimim airbase in Syria Monday, the Russian military reported Monday evening.
State Duma Adopts Russian Countersanctions Bill RFE/RL 22 May 2018 -- The lower chamber of the Russian parliament, the State Duma, has approved in its third and final reading a bill that provides for countermeasures against the United States and other countries that imposed sanctions against Russia.
Russian Submarine Conducts Salvo-Launch of 4 Ballistic Missiles for 1st Time Sputnik 22 May 2018 -- Russia's Borey-class strategic submarine Yuri Dolgoruky conducted on Tuesday a successful salvo launch of four Bulava ballistic missiles for the first time, the press service of Russia's Northern Fleet said in a statement.
Russia Pushes Bill to Counter US Sanctions VOA 22 May 2018 -- Russia's lower house of parliament, the Duma, has approved a counter-sanctions bill aimed at imposing what lawmakers say are "painful" trade restrictions on the United States and other states they call "unfriendly."
Pompeo Calls For Russian Troop Pullout From Georgia RFE/RL 21 May 2018 -- U.S. Secretary of State Mike Pompeo has called for Russia to withdraw its troops from breakaway regions in Georgia while also pledging deeper security and economic support for Tbilisi.
Russia's FSB Accuses Crimean Tatars Of 'Extremist' Plot RFE/RL 21 May 2018 -- Russia's Federal Security Service (FSB) has accused Crimean Tatar activists of orchestrating and carrying out attacks with Kyiv's support, allegations described as "fantasy" by the Ukrainian Security Service.
Moscow slam's Britain's 'unprecedented anti-Russian mania' after money laundering report Press TV 21 May 2018 -- Russian authorities have harshly criticized a report by British MPs alleging that people close to the Kremlin were hiding and laundering money in the United Kingdom, saying the claims show that anti-Russia rhetoric in Britain has reached unprecedented levels.
Russian 'dirty money' damaging Britain: UK lawmakers Press TV 21 May 2018 -- The Russian "dirty money" invested in British assets and London's financial institutions weakens the government's plans to counter Moscow's foreign policy, UK lawmakers have warned.
British Parliament Report Slams Effects Of 'Dirty' Russian Money RFE/RL 21 May 2018 -- "Dirty" Russian money is undermining Britain's efforts to stand up to the Kremlin and supports President Vladimir Putin's campaign "to subvert the international rules-based system," a parliamentary report says, drawing an angry reaction from the Kremlin.
British MPs Urge More Financial Pressure on Russia VOA 21 May 2018 -- His football team won Britain's prestigious FA Cup Sunday, but Roman Abramovich, the Kremlin-tied Russian oligarch who owns Chelsea football club, is struggling to get his British visa renewed and officials are saying they are still considering his application.
Russia military shoots down 'unknown drone' close to Syria's Khmeimim base Press TV 21 May 2018 -- Russian's military has said that it shot down an "unknown drone" that came close to Khmeimim air base in Syria.
KGB General In Cossack's Clothing: Meet The Man Behind The Whips RFE/RL 21 May 2018 -- Last week, a Moscow district court fined Yevgeny Fyodorchunkov 1,000 rubles ($16) for petty hooliganism for his role in beating protesters at a May 5 demonstration in Moscow against President Vladimir Putin. Fyodorchunkov claimed at the May 14 hearing that he was a Cossack and that he belonged to a "public organization," but the court did not identify the group.
Things to Know About Formidable Russian Satan Missile Converted Into Carrier Sputnik 20 May 2018 -- A Sputnik source in the Russian space industry has confirmed that it is considering the option of reviving a program of peaceful launches of Voevoda missiles to deliver cargo into orbit around the Earth. Sputnik has gathered some facts about the characteristics of the carrier rocket based on the Voevoda missile.
Russia May Renew 'Satan' Missile Launches to Place Satellites In Orbit Sputnik 20 May 2018 -- Russia may renew launches of the Voevoda (NATO reporting name Satan) intercontinental ballistic missiles to place spacecraft into orbit, a source in the Russian space industry told Sputnik.
India's Modi To Fly To Sochi For Talks With Putin RFE/RL 20 May 2018 -- Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi is heading to the Black Sea resort of Sochi to meet with Russian President Vladimir Putin on May 21 to discuss ways to strengthen the two countries' "privileged strategic" relationship.
Russia Unveils World's First Floating Nuclear Plant Before Journey To Siberia RFE/RL 19 May 2018 -- Russia has presented to the media the world's first floating nuclear power station in the port of the far northern city of Murmansk.
Putin announces deployment of more advanced nuclear weapons Press TV 19 May 2018 -- President Vladimir Putin says Russia's new nuclear weapons will be delivered to the country's military within the next two years.
Kremlin Foe Navalny Launches New Political Party RFE/RL 19 May 2018 -- Russian opposition leader Aleksei Navalny has launched a new political party, though he missed its founding due to a jail sentence over nationwide protests he organized against President Vladimir Putin.
Putin Leaves Russian Cabinet Little-Changed, Brings In Close Ally's Son RFE/RL 18 May 2018 -- Russian President Vladimir Putin has approved a new cabinet, leaving several key officials in place and appointing a son of longtime ally Nikolai Patrushev as agriculture minister.
Putin Three-Peat? Russian Duma Gets Proposal To Scrap Presidential Term Limit RFE/RL 18 May 2018 -- A proposal submitted to the Russian parliament would scrap the constitutional limit of two consecutive presidential terms, enabling Vladimir Putin to remain in power past 2024.
Putin, Merkel Hold Talks In Sochi On Iran, Ukraine, Nord Stream 2 RFE/RL 18 May 2018 -- Russian President Vladimir Putin has held wide-ranging talks with German Chancellor Angela Merkel over the Ukraine conflict, Europe's response to the U.S. withdrawal from the Iran nuclear deal, and the construction of a pipeline bringing gas from Russia to Germany.
Poisoned Ex-Spy Skripal Released From U.K. Hospital RFE/RL 18 May 2018 -- Sergei Skripal, a Russian former double agent who was poisoned with a nerve toxin in England in March, has been released from the hospital, British health authorities said on May 18.
Russia Mulls Launching Satellites Atop ICBMs - Source Sputnik 17 May 2018 -- Russia considers restarting satellite launches using adapted intercontinental ballistic missiles, a source in the nation's space industry told Sputnik.
Russia delays bill criminalizing compliance with Western sanctions Press TV 17 May 2018 -- Russia's lower house of parliament, the State Duma, has delayed further debates on a bill that would criminalize compliance with Western sanctions.
Russian Duma Amends One Antisanctions Bill, Postpones Vote On Another RFE/RL 17 May 2018 -- The lower chamber of the Russian parliament, the State Duma, has amended and approved in its second reading a bill that provides for countermeasures against the United States and other countries that imposed sanctions against Russia.
'Doomsday Machine': Russia's New Weapon Reportedly Gets Nuclear Warhead Sputnik 17 May 2018 -- During his state-of-the-nation address to the Russian Federal Assembly in March, President Vladimir Putin touted the country's newest weapons, including the Poseidon (Status-6) unmanned underwater vehicles.
Briefing by Foreign Ministry Spokesperson Maria Zakharova, Kerch, May 16, 2018 Russia Ministry of Foreign Affairs 16 May 2018
Putin drives truck over bridge linking Russia to Crimea Press TV 16 May 2018 -- Russia President Vladimir Putin has inaugurated a road-and-rail bridge connecting southern Russia to the Crimean Peninsula by driving a heavy truck on it himself.
Putin orders S-500 production, nuclear forces boost Press TV 16 May 2018 -- Russian President Vladimir Putin has ordered his military commanders to prepare the S-500 missile system for mass production and boost the country's strategic nuclear forces.
Kremlin Critics Could Face Prosecution For 'Enabling' Western Sanctions RFE/RL 16 May 2018 -- Kremlin opponents could face criminal prosecution under new Russian legislation proposing possible prison sentences for Russians who adhere to or promote international sanctions targeting Moscow, one of the bill's authors said on May 16.
Putin Says New Russian Missiles, Bombers To Be Deployed This Year RFE/RL 16 May 2018 -- Russian President Vladimir Putin has touted new weapons that he says are ready for deployment, stating that they will significantly increase Russia's military capabilities and "ensure a strategic balance for decades."
President Signs Decree To Restructure Russian Government RFE/RL 16 May 2018 -- Russian President Vladimir Putin has signed a decree restructuring the government.
US Envoy for Ukraine Anticipates Russian Return to Talks VOA 16 May 2018 -- Amid rumors among Russian media outlets that Moscow's top envoy to Ukrainian peace negotiations has resigned, the top U.S. interlocutor says he expects Russia to return to the table with a peacekeeping proposal.
Putin Opens Crimean Bridge Condemned By Kyiv, EU RFE/RL 15 May 2018 -- Russian President Vladimir Putin has opened the country's newly built bridge to the annexed Crimean Peninsula, driving a truck across the span and drawing angry condemnation from Kyiv, the European Union, and the United States.
EU Sanctions Five Who Helped Organize Russian Presidential Election In Crimea RFE/RL 15 May 2018 -- The European Union on May 14 sanctioned five people who, according to the bloc, helped organize the Russian presidential election in the annexed Ukrainian region of Crimea in March.
The Opening of the Kerch Bridge in Crimea US Dept. of State 15 May 2018
Navalny Gets 30 Days In Jail For Anti-Putin Protests RFE/RL 15 May 2018 -- A Moscow court has ordered opposition politician Aleksei Navalny to be jailed for 30 days over nationwide protests against President Vladimir Putin.
Russian Duma Approves Anti-Sanctions Bill In First Reading RFE/RL 15 May 2018 -- The Russian parliament's lower chamber, the State Duma, has approved in its first reading a bill which provides for the jailing for up to four years of Russians who adhere to economic sanctions imposed by the United States.
Indicted Russian Firm Accuses U.S. Of Inventing 'Make-Believe Crime' RFE/RL 15 May 2018 -- A Russian company that was among the first to be indicted in the U.S. investigation into alleged election meddling has accused Special Counsel Robert Mueller of inventing a "make-believe crime" while trying to criminalize "free speech" on the Internet.
Russia Moves to Retaliate for US Sanctions VOA 15 May 2018 -- Russian lawmakers Tuesday unanimously approved, in first readings, legislation to retaliate against the United States and other Western countries for last month's imposition by Washington of sanctions on some of Russia's biggest companies and business people.
New Bill Would Jail Russians For Adhering To Western Sanctions RFE/RL 14 May 2018 -- Russians who adhere to economic sanctions imposed by the United States could be imprisoned for four years under legislation due to be considered in parliament.
Russia's Kudrin May Get Top Audit Chamber Position -- But No Kremlin Post RFE/RL 14 May 2018 -- Longtime former Finance Minister Aleksei Kudrin may soon become the head of Russia's Audit Chamber, bringing him closer to President Vladimir Putin's government after years without a state position.
Putin: Russia Develops Nuclear Industry in Line With Nonproliferation Treaty Sputnik 14 May 2018 -- Russian President Vladimir Putin assured Yukiya Amano, the director general of the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA), that Russia if fulfilling its obligations and develops its nuclear power industry in strict accordance with restrictions on nonproliferation of weapons of mass destruction.
Russia, Daesh threaten EU: UK spy chief Press TV 14 May 2018 -- Russia and the terrorist group Daesh are the two main threats that the European Union (EU) faces today, UK spy agency MI5's chief Andrew Parker will warn in rare public speech later on Monday.
MI5 Chief: Russia Has Unleashed A 'Fog Of Lies' And Risks Becoming An 'Isolated Pariah' RFE/RL 14 May 2018 -- Russia is seeking to undermine European democracies and sow doubt in the West through malign activities and a "fog of lies," the head of Britain's domestic spy agency has told European intelligence chiefs.
MI5 Chief Seeks Boosted Intel Sharing With EU Post-Brexit Amid "Russian Threat" Sputnik 14 May 2018 -- On Monday, MI5 Director General Andrew Parker is due to deliver a rare speech outside Britain, in which he will address the Counter Terrorism Group of 30 European security services.
Russian Military Police Starts Patrolling Urban Area of Damascus Sputnik 13 May 2018 -- The Russian military police have started to patrol southern quarters of the Syrian capital, which were liberated from militants, a Sputnik correspondent reported from the scene on Sunday.
English FIFA Fans May Become 'Targets' of Russian Babes - Estonian Intel Chief Sputnik 13 May 2018 -- Last month, a British intelligence expert warned English footballers against exquisite Russian women, who might distract them from the FIFA World Cup, held in Russia.
US jets intercept two Russian bombers off coast of Alaska Press TV 12 May 2018 -- US stealth fighter jets intercepted two Russian long-range bombers in international airspace off the coast of Alaska on Friday, according to North American Aerospace Defense Command.
U.S. Military Jets Intercept Russian Bombers Off Alaskan Coast RFE/RL 12 May 2018 -- Two U.S. fighter jets intercepted two Russian bombers in international airspace off the coast of Alaska on May 11.
Russian MPs consider criminalizing loyalty to US sanctions Press TV 12 May 2018 -- Russian lawmakers have proposed a bill that envisages the detention of any individuals refusing to do business with Russians in the wake of anti-Moscow sanctions imposed by the US and some other foreign countries.
Kremlin Says Proposal For Three Presidential Terms Not On Putin's 'Agenda' RFE/RL 12 May 2018 -- The Kremlin said on May 11 that a suggestion by Chechen lawmakers to change the constitution to allow President Vladimir Putin to serve another presidential term when his current term ends in 2024 is not on Putin's agenda.
Russia 'not in talks' with Syria to supply S-300, says top Kremlin aide Press TV 11 May 2018 -- Russia is not in talks with the Syrian government about supplying advanced S-300 missile defense systems to Syria in an effort to bolster the war-torn Arab nation's defensive capabilities, a top Kremlin aide says.
Israeli Minister Lauds Russia for Not Negotiating S-300 Deliveries to Syria Sputnik 11 May 2018 -- Israeli Intelligence Minister Yisrael Katz has told Sputnik that he considers Russian Presidential Aide Vladimir Kozhin's remark that there were no negotiations on the supply of S-300 surface-to-air missile systems to Syria to be a demonstration of Moscow's respect toward Tel Aviv.
S-300 Deliveries to Syria Not Announced - Kremlin Spokesman Sputnik 11 May 2018 -- There's been much speculation circulating in the media around the possibility of Russia supplying its S-300 surface-to-air missile systems to Syria after the latter was attacked by three Western nations – the United States, France and the United Kingdom – in response to an alleged use of chemical weapons by government forces in the city of Douma.
Putin 4.0: Five Issues Facing Russia's President In The Next Six Years RFE/RL 11 May 2018 -- With President Vladimir Putin's inauguration for a fourth presidential term in the books, Russians are looking ahead to the next six years.
'Not Their Business To Bomb Voronezh': Russian Lawmakers Gut Sanctions Bill Targeting U.S. RFE/RL 11 May 2018 -- The phrase "bomb Voronezh" has become a staple of the Russian political lexicon, a reference to what Kremlin critics call Russia's penchant for responding to Western sanctions with punitive measures that end up harming its own citizens.
Russian Lawmakers Consider Making It A Crime To Observe Foreign Sanctions RFE/RL 11 May 2018 -- Draft legislation in the Russian parliament calls for the jailing of any person or representative of an organization in the country who goes along with sanctions imposed by foreign entities, Russian news agencies report.
Navalny Hearing Over Anti-Putin 'Not Our Tsar' Protests Is Postponed RFE/RL 11 May 2018 -- A Moscow court opened a hearing in a case against Aleksei Navalny over nationwide protests but swiftly rescheduled it for May 15, prompting sardonic criticism from the opposition politician.
FBI Reportedly Questioned Russian Tycoon About Payments To Trump Attorney RFE/RL 09 May 2018 -- A Russian billionaire with ties to the Kremlin has recently been questioned by FBI agents about hundreds of thousands of dollars his company's U.S. affiliate allegedly paid to President Donald Trump's longtime personal attorney, media report.
Columbus Nova: Meet The Russia-Linked Firm That Hired Trump's Lawyer RFE/RL 09 May 2018 -- Political donations, family ties to a Russian billionaire hit by U.S. sanctions, and a foray into the world of video games: These are a few of the reasons the New York-based investment firm Columbus Nova has faced media and public scrutiny in recent months.
Russian Hackers Attacked U.S. Voting Systems in 2016, Senate Panel Says RFE/RL 09 May 2018 -- Hackers affiliated with the Russian government conducted an "unprecedented, coordinated" campaign against the U.S. voting system, including successfully penetrating a few voter-registration databases in 2016, a Senate committee has concluded.
Putin Hits Out At U.S. In Red Square Parade Speech RFE/RL 09 May 2018 -- Russian President Vladimir Putin has issued veiled criticism of the United States in a speech before a Red Square parade marking the anniversary of Germany's defeat in World War II, listing "pretentions to exceptionalism" as a factor that drove Nazi aggression and saying such attitudes remain a threat to global security today.
'Do Not Respond': Did The Soviet Government Abandon Its WWII Prisoners? RFE/RL 09 May 2018 -- As Russia's government pulled out all the stops on May 9 to celebrate the Soviet victory over Nazi Germany and to remember the estimated 25 million Soviets who died during the war, historian Konstantin Bogoslavsky was working to shed light on the fate of Soviet POWs "abandoned" by their own government.
US Dedicated Large Portion of Defense Intelligence to Look at Russia - Dunford Sputnik 09 May 2018 -- The United States has dedicated a large portion of its Defense Intelligence Agency to keep an eye on Russia, US Joint Chiefs of Staff Chairman Joseph Dunford said during a Senate hearing on Wednesday.
Russian Duma Confirms Medvedev For New Term As PM RFE/RL 08 May 2018 -- Russia's State Duma approved PrIme Minister Dmitry Medvedev for another term at the post on May 8, a day after President Vladimir Putin nominated him to continue as prime minister.
The Mayor's Muscle: Moscow Leans On Cossack Brawn To Put Down Dissent RFE/RL 08 May 2018 -- Cossack patrols have done everything from securing courthouses to forcibly dispersing political protests in the Russian capital since President Vladimir Putin declared in 2012 that it is "the state's task to help the Cossacks in every way."
Two Russian Pilots Killed In Helicopter Crash In Syria RFE/RL 08 May 2018 -- A Russian military helicopter crashed on May 7 over eastern Syria, killing both pilots, the Russian Defense Ministry said.
Putin sworn in for fourth term, underlines growth, technology development People's Daily 08 May 2018 -- Vladimir Putin took oath of office on Monday to start his fourth term as Russian president.
Russian Helicopter Crash in Eastern Syria Kills Two - Russian MoD Sputnik 07 May 2018 -- A Russian Ka-52 attack chopper crashed Monday during a flight over eastern Syria as a result of a presumed technical malfunction, according to the Russian Defense Ministry. Both pilots aboard the aircraft died as a result of the incident.
Putin inaugurated for fourth term as president of Russia Press TV 07 May 2018 -- Vladimir Putin has been inaugurated for a fourth term as president of Russia following his decisive victory in the March elections.
Putin Starts New Term After Protests, Amid Tension With West RFE/RL 07 May 2018 -- Vladimir Putin has been sworn in to a new six-year term as Russian president, vowing to "serve the people" and improve their lives while protecting what he called a country of "great victories and feats."
Putin Sworn in: 'Russia as Country of Opportunities for the People is Our Goal' Sputnik 07 May 2018 -- A ceremony to swear Russian President Vladimir Putin in for a new presidential term has been held in the Kremlin. Sputnik looks into the main highlights of Putin's speech during the event.
Putin Submits Medvedev's Candidacy for Russian Prime Minister's Post Sputnik 07 May 2018 -- Russia's cabinet resigned after President Vladimir Putin's inauguration for a new presidential term, the government press service said in a statement Monday.
Russia's Putin Begins Fourth Term VOA 07 May 2018 -- Russian President Vladimir Putin was sworn in to a fourth term on Monday, extending his 18-year rule amid promises of continuity in foreign policy and renewed efforts toward building prosperity at home.
Russia's Putin Sworn In as President VOA 07 May 2018 -- Vladimir Putin, who has been either president or prime minister of Russia since 1999, was sworn in for a fourth term as president Monday at the Grand Kremlin Palace's ornately-decorated Andreyevsky Hall. With his hand on a gold-embossed copy of the constitution, Putin said, "I consider it my duty and my life's aim to do everything possible for Russia, for its present and for its future."
Russian Opposition Leader Navalny Released Amid Thousands Of Detentions Nationwide RFE/RL 06 May 2018 -- Russian opposition leader Aleksei Navalny says he has been released from custody after he and thousands of other protesters were detained as part of nationwide protests ahead of President Vladimir Putin's inauguration for a fourth presidential term.
Anti-Putin Activist Navalny Released After Anti-Govt Protests VOA 06 May 2018 -- Russian's most widely known opposition leader, Alexei Navalny, has been released from police custody, after he and hundreds of his supporters were detained Saturday during demonstrations in Moscow and 90 other cities to protest Vladimir Putin's inauguration for a fourth presidential term.
Joint statement on supporting JCPOA by Russia, China ISNA 06 May 2018 -- Russia and China have issued a joint statement, stressing once again on their supporting for the 2015 nuclear deal.
Russia, China reiterate support for Iran nuclear deal Press TV 06 May 2018 -- Russia and China have released a joint statement reiterating the support for the landmark 2015 nuclear deal Iran made with major world powers.
RAF Typhoons Sent to Intercept Russian Fighter Jet Near NATO Airspace Sputnik 05 May 2018 -- The Royal Air Force said on Friday that RAF Typhoons had been scrambled to intercept a Russian warplane approaching NATO airspace over the Black Sea.
Russia detains five Daesh members, foils planned attacks Press TV 05 May 2018 -- Russia's main intelligence agency says it has detained five members of a terror cell run by the Daesh Takfiri terrorist group while they were planning to carry out attacks in several regions across the country.
Russia Arrests Five Alleged Islamic State Militants Said To Be Planning Attacks RFE/RL 05 May 2018 -- Russia's Federal Security Service (FSB) says it has detained five members of an alleged Islamic State cell planning attacks in several regions, and seized an array of their weapons, Russian news agencies reported.
Russian police arrest opposition leader, supporters during unsanctioned anti-Putin protest Press TV 05 May 2018 -- Russian police forces have arrested opposition leader Alexei Navalny during unsanctioned rallies against President Vladimir Putin's fourth term.
Police Detain Navalny, Hundreds Of Protesters At Anti-Putin Rally RFE/RL 05 May 2018 -- Russian opposition leader Aleksei Navalny and hundreds of other protesters have been detained by police at an unsanctioned demonstration on May 5 in Moscow, part of a nationwide series of protests organized by Navalny ahead of President Vladimir Putin's inauguration for a fourth presidential term.
Qatar To Take Stake In Russia's Rosneft After Deal With China Falls Through RFE/RL 05 May 2018 -- Qatar has agreed to take a 19 percent stake in Rosneft, rescuing the Russian state oil giant after its hopes of selling a major stake to a Chinese company fell through.
MiG-31 With Kinzhal Missiles Unveiled by Putin Ready for Combat Use - MoD Sputnik 05 May 2018 -- Ten MiG-31 interceptors (NATO reporting name: Foxhound) with Kinzhal ("Dagger") hypersonic missiles able to penetrate air defense are on trial combat duty and ready for use, Russian Deputy Defense Minister Yuriy Borisov said.
New Russian Missile Corvette Set to Be Floated Out on Saturday Sputnik 05 May 2018 -- A new Russian missile corvette is set to be launched Saturday at a shipyard in the country's northwestern port city of St. Petersburg, the manufacturer said.
Anti-Putin Activist Among Hundreds Arrested in Russian Protests VOA 05 May 2018 -- Russian's most widely known opposition leader, Alexei Navalny, along with hundreds of his supporters, were detained Saturday as street demonstrations unfolded in Moscow and 90 other Russian cities to protest Vladimir Putin's inauguration for a fourth presidential term.
Briefing by Foreign Ministry Spokesperson Maria Zakharova, Moscow, May 4, 2018 Russia Ministry of Foreign Affairs 04 May 2018
Navalny Backers Detained Ahead of Inauguration Protests VOA 04 May 2018 -- Russian police have detained supporters of opposition politician Alexei Navalny, raiding their homes and detaining them on the streets of various Russian cities ahead of Saturday protests against President Vladimir Putin, whose new term starts Monday.
Russia says any changes to Iran nuclear deal unacceptable Press TV 04 May 2018 -- Russia's Foreign Ministry says Moscow will continue to honor its commitments under the landmark 2015 nuclear deal Iran made with major world powers for as long as other countries abide by their obligations, the Interfax news agency reports.
Rosatom begins work at phase 2 of Bushehr power plant Press TV 04 May 2018 -- Russia has begun "soil stabilization" work on the site of Phase 2 of the Bushehr Nuclear Power Plant in southern Iran, Russian state nuclear agency Rosatom has said.
OPCW Spokesperson's Statement on Amount of Nerve Agent Used in Salisbury OPCW 04 May 2018 -- In response to questions from the media, the OPCW Spokesperson stated that the OPCW would not be able to estimate or determine the amount of the nerve agent that was used in Salisbury on 4 March 2018.
Czech Government Says Nerve Agent Mentioned By Zeman Not Novichok RFE/RL 04 May 2018 -- The Czech-made nerve agent that President Milos Zeman described in a television interview as Novichok is of a different type than the toxin Britain says was used to poison a former spy, the Czech Foreign Ministry said in a statement on May 4.
OPCW Unable to Determine Amount of Nerve Agent in Salisbury - Organization Sputnik 04 May 2018 -- The Organization for the Prohibition of Chemical Weapons stated the nerve agent allegedly used in Salisbury for the Skripal poisoning was of high purity and resistant to weather conditions.
OPCW Chief Says Large Dose of Nerve Agent Used in Salisbury – Reports Sputnik 04 May 2018 -- A large dose of toxin was used to poison a former Russian spy and his daughter in England, the head of the international chemical weapons watchdog told US media.
Russian Su-30SM Crashes in Syria, Both Pilots Dead - Russian MoD Sputnik 03 May 2018 -- A Russian Su-30SM fighter crashed in Syria, with both pilots having perished in the incident, the Russian Defense Ministry said Thursday.
Russian Military Starts Militants Evacuation Near Muhayam al-Yarmouk Sputnik 03 May 2018 -- The Russian center for Syrian reconciliation has begun the withdrawal of militants from localities near Muhayam al-Yarmuk through a temporary humanitarian corridor, the center's chief, Maj. Gen. Yury Yevtushenko, said at a briefing Thursday.
Two Russian Pilots Killed In Fighter Jet Crash In Syria RFE/RL 03 May 2018 -- The Russian Defense Ministry says a military plane has crashed in Syria, killing two pilots aboard.
Russia jet crashes in Syria; 2 pilots killed Press TV 03 May 2018 -- The Russian military says one of its fighter jets has crashed in Syria, killing two pilots on board.
Russian Su-27 intercepts US spy plane over Baltic Press TV 02 May 2018 -- A Russian fighter jet has intercepted a US spy plane over the Baltic Sea, in an operation that American officials say was "unprofessional."
Ukrainian President To Expand Sanctions Against Russians, Paralleling U.S. RFE/RL 02 May 2018 -- Ukraine will expand financial and other sanctions against Russian individuals and companies, paralleling U.S. efforts to punish Moscow for its actions in Ukraine and elsewhere.
Russian Censors Struggling to Block Telegram App VOA 02 May 2018 -- The Russian government is struggling to block messaging app Telegram, and its bid to cut access to the instant messenger platform is causing widespread disruption to an array of websites and online services in Russia that have nothing to do with Telegram.
Russia, Despite Military Ventures, Cut Defense Spending By Most In Decades RFE/RL 02 May 2018 -- Western sanctions and a long recession forced Russia's military to slash spending by 20 percent last year, its first drop in nearly two decades, a closely followed think-tank report said.
U.S. Treasury Provides Way For Three Russian Companies To Avoid Sanctions RFE/RL 02 May 2018 -- The U.S. Treasury Department has extended a deadline for investors to relinquish their interests in three Russian companies, a move that gives the firms time to reduce ties with Russian oligarch Oleg Deripaska and ultimately avoid U.S. sanctions.
British House Of Commons OKs Bill Targeting Russian Rights Abusers RFE/RL 02 May 2018 -- Britain's House of Commons has approved a measure to impose sanctions against people deemed guilty of human rights violations, in memory of the late Russian lawyer Sergei Magnitsky.
Russian Asylum Applications In U.S. Hit 24-Year Record RFE/RL 02 May 2018 -- The number of asylum applications by Russian citizens in the United States hit a 24-year high in 2017, jumping nearly 40 percent from the previous year and continuing an upward march that began after Russian President Vladimir Putin returned to the Kremlin in 2012.
Georgian President Calls For 'Strategic Tolerance' Of Russia RFE/RL 02 May 2018 -- Georgian President Giorgi Margvelashvili has lashed out at the country's government on domestic issues and urged it to stick to what he called a "policy of strategic tolerance" in relations with Russia, which remain strained a decade after the neighbors fought a five-day war.
Russia's S-400, Pantsir-S Air Defense Systems to Get Major AI Boost Sputnik 02 May 2018 -- Russia's Aerospace Forces have tested the country's first automated air defense control system with elements of artificial intelligence, Izvestiya reported, citing Defense Ministry sources in Moscow.
Bundeswehr in Trouble? Russia Plans to Cancel Aircraft Lease for NATO Transport Sputnik 02 May 2018 -- As Germany's defense ministry announced plans to increase military spending in order to modernize outdated Bundeswehr equipment, the German army seems to be facing another serious challenge, this time with its transport capacity.
U.S. Not Aiming To 'Put Russian Aluminum Giant Out Of Business' With Sanctions RFE/RL 01 May 2018 -- The United States isn't seeking to put Russian aluminum giant Rusal out of business by sanctioning the company, Treasury Secretary Steven Mnuchin has said, but majority owner Oleg Deripaska must reduce his stock holdings to less than 50 percent.
Moscow Stresses Need to Authenticate Israel's Iran Nuclear Deal Docs - Envoy Sputnik 01 May 2018 -- Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has said that the Israeli intelligence had obtained thousands of documents proving that Iran violated its commitment to maintaining a peaceful nuclear program and kept secretly developing a nuclear weapons program.
Indian, Russian Scientists Pursue Mach 7 For BrahMos Missile Sputnik 01 May 2018 -- The present version of the BrahMos missile travels at a speed of Mach 2.8. The makers are now aiming to achieve the speed of Mach 3.5 and Mach 5 in three years. They will subsequently increase the speed to a hypersonic level – Mach 7.
Pentagon Chief Pushes to Waive Sanctions for US Allies That Buy Russian S-400s Sputnik 01 May 2018 -- US Defense Secretary James Mattis is seeking to circumvent potential conflicts with US allies that have purchased Russian military equipment with an appeal to US legislators to relax sanctioning requirements against countries that do so.

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Weapons of Mass Destruction (WMD)

May 2018 - Russia Special Weapons News