August 2018 - Russia Special Weapons News

Russia says Syrian army has every right to chase militants out of Idlib Press TV 31 Aug 2018 -- As the Syrian armed forces are preparing to launch a full-scale offensive to retake the northern province of Idlib, Russia says the Syrian troops have the full right to go after and hunt the terrorists out of the last stronghold of militants.
Turkey says working with Iran, Russia to avoid Idlib 'disaster' Press TV 31 Aug 2018 -- President Recep Tayyip Erdogan says Turkey is working with Iran and Russia as the Syrian army is preparing for a decisive battle to drive terrorists out of the northern Idlib province.
Russia Says Contract To Ferry U.S. Astronauts To ISS Ends In April RFE/RL 31 Aug 2018 -- Russia's contract with the United States to ferry astronauts to the International Space Station (ISS) is due to expire in April, Russia's deputy prime minister for defense and space agency said on August 31.
Russia Drills Area in Mediterranean Dangerous for Navigation, Air Traffic - Navy Sputnik 31 Aug 2018 -- Russian military drills in the Mediterranean will involve 26 warships and submarines, as well as 34 combat aircraft, Russian Navy Commander-in-Chief Adm. Vladimir Korolev said. The country's Navy and Aerospace Forces will hold joint large-scale naval exercises in the Mediterranean Sea from September 1 to 8.
Sino-Russian drill set to guard regional peace People's Daily 31 Aug 2018 -- The upcoming joint military exercise between China and Russia, dubbed Vostok-2018 or East-2018, will strengthen their abilities to jointly deal with different types of security threats and safeguard regional peace and security, China's Ministry of National Defense said on Thursday.
Russian envoy blocks publication of UN report critical of North Korea Press TV 31 Aug 2018 -- Russia has delayed the publication of a report on North Korea by a United Nations Security Council panel, disputing some elements in the official paper.
Russia Blocking UN Report Finding North Korea Is Violating Sanctions RFE/RL 31 Aug 2018 -- Russia is blocking publication of a United Nations report finding North Korea in violation of UN sanctions limiting its imports of fuel, including through some illegal transfers of oil at sea involving Russian ships, UN diplomats said.
U.S. Blasts Russian 'Harassment' Of Shipping In Sea Of Azov RFE/RL 30 Aug 2018 -- The United States has condemned what it calls Russia's "harassment" of international shipping in the Sea of Azov and the Kerch Strait, saying it is a further example of Moscow's attempts to "destabilize" Ukraine.
Russia's Harassment of International Shipping Transiting the Kerch Strait and Sea of Azov US Dept. of State 30 Aug 2018-- "The United States condemns Russia's harassment of international shipping in the Sea of Azov and the Kerch Strait. Russia has delayed hundreds of commercial vessels since April and in recent weeks has stopped at least 16 commercial ships attempting to reach Ukrainian ports."
Russian navy to hold military drills in Mediterranean Sea Press TV 30 Aug 2018 -- The Russian Defense Ministry says the country's naval forces will hold eight days of military exercises in the Mediterranean Sea starting from September 1, amid escalating tensions with Washington.
Khodorkovsky Ends Funding For News Site After Russian Journalists Killed In Africa RFE/RL 30 Aug 2018 -- Former Russian oil tycoon and Kremlin foe Mikhail Khodorkovsky is halting funding for an investigative news site whose journalists were killed last month in the Central African Republic (CAR) while reporting on Russian private military contractors there.
Russian Military to Receive 2 Upgraded AWACS Aircraft by Year End Sputnik 30 Aug 2018 -- The Russian Defense Ministry will receive two upgraded Beriev A-50U (NATO reporting name: Mainstay) airborne early warning and control (AWACS) aircraft in 2018, Deputy Defense Minister Alexei Krivoruchko said Thursday.
Russia, South Korea Agree Air Force Hotline After Trespass Claims Sputnik 30 Aug 2018 -- The communication channel was discussed Tuesday after South Korea accused Russian aircraft of flying in July through its air defense identification zone.
Russian Military Successfully Test-Fires New Interceptor Missile Sputnik 30 Aug 2018 -- According to the Russian Defense Ministry's statement, the new missile interceptor has reliably confirmed its performance specifications and successfully accomplished the set task by destroying a simulated target with a required accuracy.
Putin Offers Concessions On Controversial Pension Reform Plan RFE/RL 29 Aug 2018 -- Russian President Vladimir Putin has proposed softening planned pension changes that have triggered angry protests across the country.
Ladies' Man: Putin Cites 'Caring Attitude' In Pension-Reform Concession RFE/RL 29 Aug 2018 -- Russian President Vladimir Putin reserved the weightiest of his cautious concessions on a controversial pension-reform plan for Russian women, who outnumber their male counterparts by 10 million and live -- and vote -- considerably longer.
Russia Builds Up Mediterranean Fleet Amid Rising Tensions Over Syria RFE/RL 29 Aug 2018 -- Russia has deployed several more warships to the Mediterranean Sea, in what Russian media are calling the largest naval buildup since Russia entered the Syrian civil war in 2015.
NATO Sees Russia's Vostok 2018 Drills as Preparation For Conflict - Spokesman Sputnik 28 Aug 2018 -- NATO will closely monitor Russia's Vostok 2018 exercises, expects them to be transparent and predictable, acting NATO Deputy Spokesman Dylan White told Sputnik on Tuesday.
Turkey Pursues Warmer Ties With Russia, Europe Amid Dispute With U.S. RFE/RL 28 Aug 2018 -- As relations between the United States and Turkey have soured in recent months, Ankara has stepped up its pursuit of better relations and increased trade with Europe and Russia.
Russia attacks U.S. sanctions, mulls responses amid heightening tensions People's Daily 28 Aug 2018 -- Russia on Monday blasted the U.S. sanctions over an alleged poison attack on a former Russian spy, saying Moscow will "withstand" and respond to Washington's "brute pressure."
Russia reinforces naval presence in Mediterranean ahead of Syria's Idlib offensive: Reports Press TV 28 Aug 2018 -- Russia is reportedly boosting its military presence in the Mediterranean Sea by dispatching a number of warships off the Syrian coast, the Russian media say, as the Syrian army prepares to launch a full-scale offensive against terrorists in the northwestern province of Idlib.
Russia 'to retaliate US sanctions, open to normalization of ties' Press TV 28 Aug 2018 -- Russia has once again warned that it will take retaliatory action against the United States' latest anti-Moscow sanctions.
Russia 'to hold biggest military drill since 1981' Press TV 28 Aug 2018 -- Russian Defense Minister Sergei Shoigu says his country will next month hold its biggest military exercise in almost four decades.
300,000 Troops, 1,000 Aircraft: Russia Schedules Biggest War Games In Almost 40 Years RFE/RL 28 Aug 2018 -- Russia's defense minister said the country will hold its biggest military exercises since almost 40 years.
Russia starts renovating Bushehr power plant's simulators IRNA 28 Aug 2018 -- Russia's state nuclear enterprise Rosatom has started refurbishing simulators used to train the operational and managerial staff at the Iranian nuclear power plants, including the one in Bushehr.
Telegram CEO Defends New Privacy Policy, Says User Data Still Safe RFE/RL 28 Aug 2018 -- The founder of Telegram defended the company's new privacy policy, insisting it would not result in turning over users' data to Russian intelligence agencies but would also discourage extremists from using the secure-messaging app.
Russia to Speed Up Delivery of S-400 to Turkey Amid US Sanctions Threat Sputnik 27 Aug 2018 -- The developments come as the US State Department made it clear that Washington would sanction any country that decides to purchase Russian S-400 air defense systems.
US struggling to push bans on Russian companies: Report Press TV 27 Aug 2018 -- The United States is facing a real problem in imposing tough sanctions on large Russian companies because of their extended dealings with American and European firms, a new report suggests.
U.S. Sanctions On Russia Over Poisoning In Britain Go Into Force RFE/RL 27 Aug 2018 -- U.S. sanctions against Russia over the March poisoning in Britain of a former Russian agent and his daughter have gone into effect, targeting foreign aid, the sale of defense and security goods, and U.S. government loans for exports to Russia.
Russian Court Sentences Navalny To Jail Ahead Of Pension Protest RFE/RL 27 Aug 2018 -- Russian news agencies say a Moscow court has sentenced opposition activist Aleksei Navalny to 30 days in jail after convicting him of violating protest laws.
New US Sanctions Won't Keep Russia From Defending Its National Interests Sputnik 27 Aug 2018 -- Russia will take a decision on the response to a new round of US sanctions based on its own interests, Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov said on Monday.
New Washington's Anti-Russian Sanctions Come Into Force Sputnik 27 Aug 2018 -- The new Washington's sanctions against Russia related to alleged Moscow's involvement in former Russian intelligence officer Sergei Skripal's poisoning came into force on Monday August 27.
New US Sanctions on Russia Come Into Effect VOA 27 Aug 2018 -- New U.S. sanctions against Russia over a nerve agent attack in Britain come into effect Monday.
Moscow says UK's interception of Russian aircraft over Black Sea 'dangerous' Press TV 26 Aug 2018 -- Moscow has lashed out at the UK's Royal Air Force (RAF) for intercepting Russian patrol aircraft near Russia's own shores over the Black Sea, warning that such provocative actions are 'simply dangerous'.
Russia Mocks British Military After Jets Scramble From Romania RFE/RL 26 Aug 2018 -- The Russian Embassy in London mocked the British military and says its armed forces "pose no threat to Britain" two days after U.K. Typhoon jets based in Romania scrambled to investigate Russian aircraft heading toward NATO airspace.
Russia Sends Warships to Syrian Shores as US Suspected of Preparing Strike Sputnik 26 Aug 2018 -- The Russian Defense Ministry warned that militants in Idlib may be preparing to stage a chemical weapons attack against the local civilian population and thus create a pretext for a US strike.
Two frigates join Russian fleet opposite Syrian coast IRNA 25 Aug 2018 -- The Russian Black Sea Fleet announced that the frigates Admiral Grigorovich and Admiral Essen are joining the Russian ships stationed opposite the Syrian coast in the Mediterranean.
Russia warns US against 'reckless steps' in Syria amid reports of false flag plan Press TV 25 Aug 2018 -- Moscow has warned Washington against making any "reckless" moves in Syria after the Russian Defense Ministry said the US, Britain and France are preparing to conduct a fresh aerial assault against Syria under the pretext of the alleged use of chemical weapons by the Damascus government.
Report: U.S. Warns Russia It Will Take Strong Action Over Any Syrian Chemical Attack RFE/RL 25 Aug 2018 -- The United States has told Russia it is ready to take strong military action against Syria if President Bashar al-Assad uses chemical weapons to try to recapture one of his country's last rebel-held provinces, Bloomberg News is reporting.
Russia Restores Defunct Soviet Network to Monitor Near-Earth Objects Sputnik 25 Aug 2018 -- Russia has restored a global network of mothballed Soviet observatories to monitor near-Earth objects, according to a report by a state research institute.
Iran, Russia resume talks to build new nuclear power plant Press TV 25 Aug 2018 -- Iran's Energy Minister Reza Ardakanian says the country has restarted negotiations with Russia to build a new nuclear power plant capable of generating up to 3,000 megawatts of electricity.
British Jets Again Scramble From Romania To Investigate Russian Aircraft RFE/RL 24 Aug 2018 -- British Typhoon jets based in Romania have scrambled for the second time in three days to investigate "provocative" Russian aircraft flying on a path toward NATO airspace, the British Defense Ministry says.
RAF typhoons investigate Russians over Black Sea UK MOD 24 Aug 2018 -- Royal Air Force Typhoon fighter jets have interrupted a Russian maritime patrol aircraft's path towards NATO airspace.
Russia vows all options on table in response to new US sanctions Press TV 24 Aug 2018 -- Russian Deputy Foreign Minister Sergei Ryabkov says Moscow will have all options on the table to respond to new US sanctions against his country.
U.S. Sanctions On Russia Tied To Poisoning In Britain Begin On August 27 RFE/RL 24 Aug 2018 -- Sanctions against Russia announced after the United States determined that Moscow used a nerve agent in an attempt to "assassinate" a former Russian spy and his daughter in Britain will take effect on August 27, the government says.
Bolton Says U.S. Sanctions To Stay Until Russia Changes Behavior RFE/RL 24 Aug 2018 -- White House national-security adviser John Bolton says U.S. sanctions against Russia will remain in place until Moscow changes its behavior.
Lavrov says efforts underway to eradicate terrorism in Syria IRNA 24 Aug 2018 -- Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov stressed that efforts must be carried through to achieve a political settlement to the crisis in Syria and a complete elimination of terrorism in it.
Putin: Cooperation with Iran, Turkey helped solve Syrian crisis IRNA 24 Aug 2018 -- Russian President Vladimir Putin said on Friday that Cooperation between Russia, Iran and Turkey greatly contributed to the Settlement of Syrian crisis.
Russia respects Iran's steps to provide its security in Syria IRNA 24 Aug 2018 -- Russian Deputy Foreign Minister Sergei Ryabkov has said that Iran's presence in Syria is at the invitation of this country's lawful government and that Moscow respects Tehran's steps to provide its security in Syria.
Turkey Interested in Eliminating Militants in Syria's Idlib - Foreign Minister Sputnik 24 Aug 2018 -- Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov and his Turkish counterpart Mevlut Cavusoglu held a joint press conference after negotiations in Moscow on August 24.
Ankara, Moscow Intensify Diplomatic Efforts as Battle Brews in Syria VOA 24 Aug 2018 -- Turkish Foreign Minister Mevlut Cavusoglu has warned against a possible Syrian government offensive in Syria's last rebel-held province of Idlib, saying a military solution "would be a disaster," not just for the area, but for all of Syria. Cavusoglu made his comments in Moscow as Syrian forces backed by Russia massed ahead of an expected offensive against Idlib.
Russian, Turkish defense ministers discuss Syria IRNA 24 Aug 2018 -- Russian Defense Minister Sergei Shoigu discussed on Friday with his Turkish counterpart Hulusi Akar the situation in Syria.
Russia, India Solving Problems Over Payments for Current Defense Contracts Sputnik 24 Aug 2018 -- There have been no payments for current defense contracts from India since April 2018, the newspaper Vedomosti reported earlier. According to the media outlet, the problems had been caused by US restrictions.
Briefing by Foreign Ministry Spokesperson Maria Zakharova on the sidelines of the Second Eurasian Women’s Forum, St Petersburg, September 20, 2018 Russia Ministry of Foreign Affairs 23 Aug 2018
State Dept Warns of Possible Sanctions on Any Country Purchasing Russia's S-400 Sputnik 23 Aug 2018 -- US State Department doesn't rule out that a purchase of Russian S-400 air defense systems may cause sanctions on any country around the world.
Pompeo, Lavrov Discuss US Concerns About Possible Military Activity in Idlib Sputnik 23 Aug 2018 -- US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo and Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov addressed over the telephone on Thursday Washington's serous concerns about a possible military activity in the Syrian city of Idlib, Department of State spokesperson Heather Nauert told reporters.
Moscow calls on Washington to withdraw forces from Syria IRNA 23 Aug 2018 -- Russian Foreign Ministry Spokeswoman Maria Zakharova called on Washington to fulfill its international legal obligations and withdraw its forces from Syria, reaffirming that their presence is illegal.
Bolton Says He Warned Russia Against Meddling in November Elections VOA 23 Aug 2018 -- U.S. National Security Advisor John Bolton says he warned his Russian counterpart not to interfere in the U.S. mid-term elections in November.
'U.S. Won't Tolerate Election Meddling,' Bolton Tells Russia's Patrushev RFE/RL 23 Aug 2018 -- White House national security adviser John Bolton said he warned Moscow in talks in Geneva on August 23 that the United States "wouldn't tolerate meddling" in the upcoming midterm elections.
Russia to Take Into Account US Sanctions When Deciding on Next 'Practical Steps' Sputnik 23 Aug 2018 -- Russia will take into consideration the new round of US sanctions when planning its next practical steps, a high-ranking source told Sputnik.
Russia Signs Military Cooperation Deal With Central African Republic RFE/RL 22 Aug 2018 -- Russia signed a military cooperation agreement with the Central African Republic (C.A.R.) on August 21, less than a month after three prominent Russian journalists were killed in the war-ridden country while investigating Russian mercenaries.
Afghanistan Peace Process Shows Promise, Resolute Support Commander Says AFPS 22 Aug 2018 -- The peace process in Afghanistan has shown progress since the first cease-fire in 17 years took place in June, the commander of NATO's Resolute Support mission and U.S. forces in Afghanistan told Pentagon reporters today.
Russia invites Iran to attend Afghanistan conference IRNA 22 Aug 2018 -- Russian Foreign Ministry invited 11 countries including the Islamic Republic of Iran to participate in Afghanistan conference.
U.S., Afghanistan Reject Multinational Peace Talks In Moscow RFE/RL 22 Aug 2018 -- The United States and Afghanistan both say they will not attend Russia-hosted peace talks scheduled for next month, with Kabul asserting it prefers instead to hold direct talks with the Taliban.
Russia Criticizes Reported U.S. Refusal To Join Moscow Talks On Afghanistan RFE/RL 22 Aug 2018 -- Russia's Foreign Ministry has criticized Washington's reported refusal to send delegates to Moscow-hosted peace talks on Afghanistan after Interfax quoted a U.S. State Department spokesperson as saying the United States would not take part in the September 4 meeting.
Kabul Rejects Moscow-Hosted Afghan Peace Talks; Taliban to Attend VOA 22 Aug 2018 -- The U.S.-backed Afghan government announced Wednesday it does not plan to attend next month's multi-nation conference in Russia on the future of Afghanistan, while the Taliban insurgency confirmed to VOA it has accepted the invitation and will send a delegation to event.
Crimean Tatar Leader Says Turkey's Erdogan Promised 'To Talk To Putin' Regarding Ukrainians Jailed In Russia RFE/RL 22 Aug 2018 -- Ukrainian lawmaker Mustafa Dzhemilev, a veteran leader of the Crimean Tatars, says Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan has promised "to talk" to Russian President Vladimir Putin regarding the situation for Ukrainian nationals jailed in Russia.
British Jets Scramble From Romania To Investigate Russian Fighter Jets RFE/RL 22 Aug 2018 -- Two British Typhoon jets based in Romania have scrambled to investigate suspected Russian fighter aircraft operating near NATO airspace over the Black Sea.
UK jets scrambled to investigate Russia planes flying over Black Sea Press TV 22 Aug 2018 -- Britain's Royal Air Force (RAF) scrambled two Typhoon jets from a base in Romania to shadow Russian fighter jets allegedly flying near NATO air space in the skies over the Black Sea.
British Royal Navy vessel monitors Russian warship in English Channel Press TV 22 Aug 2018 -- A British Royal Navy vessel, HMS Hurworth, is monitoring a Russian warship as it is passing through the English Channel in an exercise that usually lasts about 48 hours, the Navy says.
Russia's Strikes in Syria Have Killed Over 86,000 Terrorists - MoD Sputnik 22 Aug 2018 -- Russia's strikes on terrorists in Syria have killed more than 86,000 militants and 830 gang leaders, the Russian Defense Ministry said Wednesday, also publishing detailed information about the operations in Syria.
Russia says its strikes have killed 86,000 militants in Syria Press TV 22 Aug 2018 -- Russia's Defense Ministry says its air force has killed more than 86,000 militants in Syria since Moscow began its operations in the war-torn country in September 2015.
Russia slams Bolton's Syria claim: We're not stuck Press TV 22 Aug 2018 -- Russia has blasted claims by US National Security Adviser John Bolton that it's "stuck" in Syria, warning American officials against making such remarks while their own troops are also on the ground in the conflict-ridden Arab country.
Bolton: Russia stuck in Syria, US can now push for Iran exit Press TV 22 Aug 2018 -- During a visit to the Israeli-occupied territories, US National Security Adviser John Bolton has claimed that Russia is currently "stuck" in Syria, and that Washington could use this situation as leverage to push for an end to Iran's mission there in future contacts with Moscow.
Bolton Claims Russia 'Stuck' in Syria, Says US Has Leverage in Negotiations Sputnik 22 Aug 2018 -- US National Security Advisor John Bolton claimed that Washington has an opportunity in terms of negotiations as Russia is "stuck" in Syria.
Russia will respond to groundless US sanctions: Ryabkov Press TV 22 Aug 2018 -- Russia has said that the latest round of US sanctions imposed against Moscow is "groundless" and will evoke a response.
Kremlin Dismisses U.S. Report About Missing Nuclear-Powered Missile RFE/RL 22 Aug 2018 -- Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov has dismissed a report by a U.S. television network that Russia lost a nuclear-powered missile in the Barents Sea during 2017 and is launching an operation to get it back.
Putin Says Trump Meeting 'Useful,' Deplores 'Senseless' U.S. Sanctions RFE/RL 22 Aug 2018 -- Russian President Vladimir Putin has said that his summit with his U.S. counterpart last month was "useful," adding that the sides were not hoping to remove all differences in the two-hour talks.
Russia Braces for Impact from US Sanctions VOA 22 Aug 2018 -- New U.S. sanctions on Russia expected to be announced Wednesday, imposed under a chemical and biological warfare law following the poisoning of a former Russian agent and his daughter in Britain earlier this year, have taken effect – the latest chapter in what some are describing as a protracted war of attrition.
U.S. Treasury sanctions individuals, entities over Russia, DPRK-related accusations People's Daily 22 Aug 2018 -- U.S. Department of the Treasury on Tuesday announced sanctions on several individuals and entities over their involvement in actions against the U.S. sanction measures on Russia and the Democratic People's Republic of Korea (DPRK).
Moscow military cooperation with Tehran will improve IRNA 22 Aug 2018 -- Russian Deputy Defense Minister Alexander Fomin said on Tuesday that his country will promote military and technical cooperation with Iran to meet their international commitments.
UK will press US for tougher sanctions against Russia Press TV 21 Aug 2018 -- Britain's new foreign secretary, Jeremy Hunt, is set to push the United States into slapping tougher sanctions on Russia, in response to Moscow's "malign" behavior around the world.
Britain Calls For More EU Sanctions On Russia RFE/RL 21 Aug 2018 -- Britain's new foreign minister in his first major address has urged the European Union to increase sanctions against Russia, saying the bloc should stand "shoulder to shoulder" with the United States, which hit Moscow with new economic sanctions this month.
Trump 'Would Consider' Lifting Russia Sanctions For Concession On Ukraine, Syria RFE/RL 21 Aug 2018 -- U.S. President Donald Trump has said in an interview with Reuters that he isn't considering lifting sanctions on Russia, but he would consider doing so if Russia gave him something he wants in Ukraine or Syria.
U.S. Cracks Down On Russian Nationals, Company, Threatens 'More Economic Pain' RFE/RL 21 Aug 2018 -- The U.S. Treasury has imposed sanctions on several Russian nationals and companies as Washington warned it was ready to tighten the economic screws further on Moscow if it did not change its ways.
Statement of Assistant Secretary Marshall Billingslea Before the U.S. Senate Committee on Foreign Relations US Treasury 21 Aug 2018
Treasury Targets Attempted Circumvention of Sanctions US Treasury 21 Aug 2018 -- Today, the U.S. Department of the Treasury's Office of Foreign Assets Control (OFAC) is targeting Russian actors' efforts to circumvent U.S. sanctions. This action was taken pursuant to authority provided under Executive Order (E.O.) 13694, "Blocking Property of Certain Persons Engaging in Significant Malicious Cyber-Enabled Activities," as amended, and as codified by the Countering America's Adversaries Through Sanctions Act (CAATSA), to designate two entities and two Russian individuals in order to counter attempts to evade U.S. sanctions.
Britain Confident Trump Will Stand Up to Putin VOA 21 Aug 2018 -- Britain's foreign secretary is calling for traditional Western allies to join in a united front against Russia's "aggressive and malign behavior," expressing confidence that the United States under President Donald Trump will lead the way.
Russia's arms producer says Turkey will receive S-400 missile system in 2019 Press TV 21 Aug 2018 -- Russia will commence delivering its advanced S-400 anti-aircraft missile defense system to Turkey next year, a report says, much to the ire of Ankara's NATO allies, particularly the United States.
Russia Says It Will Start Delivering S-400 Defense System To Turkey In 2019 RFE/RL 21 Aug 2018 -- Russia's state arms exporter, Rosoboronexport, says it will begin delivering its advanced S-400 antiaircraft missile systems to Turkey in 2019.
Russia to Start Deliveries of S-400 Systems to Turkey in 2019 - Rosoboronexport Sputnik 21 Aug 2018 -- Russia and Turkey signed a loan agreement on the sale of the S-400s to Ankara back in 2017, causing a backlash from the US that threatened to impose sanctions against Turkey if the latter proceeded with the agreement.
Moscow Confirms Taliban's Participation in Meeting on Afghanistan Sputnik 21 Aug 2018 -- Representatives of the Taliban movement will attend the Moscow format of Afghan reconciliation talks scheduled for September 4, Russian Foreign Ministry's Second Asian Department Director Zamir Kabulov said Monday.
Taliban To Attend Afghanistan Peace Talks In Moscow, Russia Says RFE/RL 21 Aug 2018 -- Representatives of the Afghan Taliban plan to take part in peace talks in Moscow next month, Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov has said.
Treasury Targets Russian Shipping Companies for Violations of North Korea-related United Nations Security Council Resolutions US Treasury 21 Aug 2018 -- The U.S. Department of the Treasury's Office of Foreign Assets Control (OFAC) today announced North Korea-related designations, continuing the implementation of existing United Nations (UN) and U.S. sanctions. Today's action against two entities and six vessels was taken pursuant to Executive Order 13810 of September 20, 2017, and targets persons involved in the ship-to-ship transfer of refined petroleum products with North Korea-flagged vessels, an activity expressly prohibited by the UN Security Council (UNSC).
Russia: No talks with US over Iran's exit from Syria IRNA 21 Aug 2018 -- Russian Presidential Spokesman Dmitry Peskov said on Tuesday that his country has had no talks with the US over Ira's withdrawal from Syria.
Syrian Refugees Concerned Over Russia's Repatriation Plan VOA 21 Aug 2018 -- Syrian refugees and aid groups, including the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees, are concerned about a plan proposed by Russia to repatriate Syrians from Lebanon and Jordan to Syria, calling the move premature and risky, as the country is still not prepared and safe enough for the return of refugees.
Multiple Daesh-claimed attacks injure policemen in Chechnya Press TV 20 Aug 2018 -- Several officers have sustained injuries in multiple terrorist attacks in various locations in Russia's Chechnya Republic, the region's leader says.
Several Police Wounded In Chechnya Attacks Claimed By IS RFE/RL 20 Aug 2018 -- Russian investigators say they have launched investigations into three separate attacks that wounded several police officers in the North Caucasus region of Chechnya.
Russia to Conduct Tests of Upgraded Pantsir-SM System by End of 2019 – Rostec Sputnik 20 Aug 2018 -- Russia plans to carry out acceptance tests of a modernized Pantsir-SM surface-to-air missile and anti-aircraft artillery weapon system with an extended range before the end of 2019, while flight tests for an upgraded missile may take place this year, Russian state corporation Rostec CEO, Sergey Chemezov told Sputnik.
Russia Hopes to Sign S-400 Missile Contract With India in October - Official Sputnik 20 Aug 2018 -- All technical and economic aspects of the contracts with India on the delivery of S-400 air defense systems and Project 11356 frigates have been coordinated, Russia is hoping to sign both contracts in October, Director of the Russian Federal Service for Military-Technical Cooperation (FSMTC) Dmitry Shugaev told Sputnik.
Merkel, Putin Exchange Views On Ukraine, Syria, Iran, Pipeline RFE/RL 19 Aug 2018 -- The Kremlin says German Chancellor Angela Merkel and Russian President Vladimir Putin held a ""very serious and detailed" three-hour discussion during their meeting outside of Berlin, including an exchange of views on Ukraine, Syria, Iran, and a crucial pipeline project.
Merkel, Putin Complete 'Serious and Detailed' Talks After Three Hours, Kremlin Says RFE/RL 19 Aug 2018 -- A Kremlin spokesman says talks between German Chancellor Angela Merkel and Russian President Vladimir Putin ended after three hours, calling the conversation "very serious and detailed."
Russia, India Engaged in Talks on 5th Generation Fighter Jet - UAC Sputnik 19 Aug 2018 -- Moscow and New Delhi are going ahead with discussions on the fifth generation fighter aircraft (FGFA) project despite media reports on India's withdrawal, Yury Slyusar, the president of the Russian United Aircraft Corporation (UAC), said on Sunday.
Accused Russian Agent Seeks To Raise Funds Online For Legal Defense RFE/RL 18 Aug 2018 -- A Russian woman who has been charged in Washington with acting as an unregistered agent for the Russian government has launched an online fundraising campaign to pay for her legal defense.
White House, Kremlin Advisers To Discuss Arms Control, Iran's Role In Syria RFE/RL 17 Aug 2018 -- U.S. President Donald Trump's national security adviser, John Bolton, is expected to discuss arms control treaties and Iran's role in Syria when he meets his Russian counterpart Nikolai Patrushev in Geneva next week.
OSCE Expresses Concerns Over Russian Forces Actions In Transdniester RFE/RL 16 Aug 2018 -- The Organization for Cooperation and Security in Europe (OSCE) has expressed concerns about Russian forces' "river-crossing military exercise" in Moldova's breakaway region of Transdniester and said its team was blocked from monitoring the maneuvers.
Ex-CIA Director Brennan Calls Trump's Denial of Collision With Russia 'Hogwash' Sputnik 16 Aug 2018 -- US President Donald Trump's claims that he did not collude with Russia are false, John Brennan said on Thursday, just one day after Trump revoked the ex-spy chief's security clearance.
Putin Hosts Turkmen Leader In Sochi After Caspian Summit RFE/RL 16 Aug 2018 -- Russian President Vladimir Putin has hosted the leader of Turkmenistan for talks following the long-awaited signing of a new convention on the legal status of the resource-rich Caspian Sea.
US targets Russian, Chinese firms for violating North Korea sanctions Press TV 16 Aug 2018 -- The US Treasury is imposing new sanctions on companies in Russia, China and Singapore for violating North Korea sanctions.
Briefing by Foreign Ministry Spokesperson Maria Zakharova, Svetlogorsk, August 15, 2018 Russia Ministry of Foreign Affairs 15 Aug 2018
Turkish, Russian, Iranian Leaders Play The Autocratic Blame Game RFE/RL 15 Aug 2018 -- Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan has a near monopoly on power in his country, wielding robust control over the economy, the media, and the army.
Britain's RAF scrambles jets intercept Russian bombers over Black Sea Press TV 15 Aug 2018 -- British air force fighter jets stationed as part of a NATO mission in Romania have been scrambled to intercept Russian bombers flying over the Black Sea in Eastern Europe.
U.S. Imposes Sanctions On Russian, Chinese Firms Over North Korea Trade RFE/RL 15 Aug 2018 -- The United States has imposed sanctions on three foreign companies it says are helping North Korea with illicit shipments of goods to fund its nuclear program.
Treasury Targets Shipping Industry and Other Facilitators of North Korea United Nations Security Council Violations US Treasury 15 Aug 2018 -- The U.S. Department of the Treasury's Office of Foreign Assets Control (OFAC) today announced North Korea-related designations, continuing the implementation of existing UN and U.S. sanctions. Today's action against one individual and three entities was taken pursuant to Executive Order 13810 of September 20, 2017, and targets persons involved in facilitating illicit shipments on behalf of North Korea. This action reinforces the United States' ongoing commitment to prevent financial flows to the DPRK's unlawful WMD programs and activities, in accordance with the decisions of the UN Security Council (UNSC).
US Sanctions Chinese, Russian, Singaporean Firms for North Korea Trading VOA 15 Aug 2018 -- The U.S. on Wednesday sanctioned companies in China, Russia and Singapore it says were violating the trade embargo with North Korea, Washington's latest effort to keep pressure on Pyongyang to end its nuclear weapons development.
Russia regrets US suspension of cooperation within Open Skies Treaty Press TV 15 Aug 2018 -- Russia has expressed its deep regrets that the United States has ceased to financially support the Open Skies Treaty, a 16-year-old agreement designed to build up confidence through opening the skies of both countries to mutual military survey flights, Russian state news agency RIA reports.
Russian Officials Denounce U.S. Move To Suspend Funding For Treaty RFE/RL 15 Aug 2018 -- The U.S. Congress and President Donald Trump have moved to block funding for an international military surveillance treaty, prompting a sharp reaction from Russian officials.
Russian Military Denies Interception of Russian Su-24 Bombers Near NATO Airspace Sputnik 15 Aug 2018 -- The Russian Defense Ministry refuted on Wednesday claims of the alleged interception by NATO fighter jets of Russian Su-24 attack aircraft over the Black Sea.
Russian Aerospace Forces Could Receive MiG-35 Fighters Ahead of Schedule - UAC Sputnik 15 Aug 2018 -- Russian Aerospace Forces may be able to receive deliveries of MiG-35 jets ahead of schedule in a bid for the manufacturer to keep up the rhythm and save money, the president of the United Aircraft Corporation (UAC) told Vedomosti newspaper.
5 drones downed near Hmeimim airbase in Syria IRNA 14 Aug 2018 -- Five drones launched towards the Russian military base in Hmeimim Airport in Lattakia Province in Syria were downed on Monday evening, Syrian media 'SANA' reported.
Russian Air Defenses at Hmeimim Base Destroy 16 Militant Drones in August Sputnik 14 Aug 2018 -- Since the beginning of August, Russian air defenses at the Hmeimim airbase in Syria have downed a total of 16 unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) launched by militants operating in the Idlib de-escalation zone, Maj. Gen. Alexei Tsygankov, head of the Russian Center for Syrian Reconciliation, said Tuesday.
Remarks on Recent Russian Space Activities of Concern US Dept. of State 14 Aug 2018 -- Remarks by Yleem D.S. Poblete, Assistant Secretary, Bureau of Arms Control, Verification and Compliance
Russia Says U.S. Demand For Chemical Inspectors 'Hypocritical' RFE/RL 14 Aug 2018 -- Russia has reiterated that the country finished eliminating its chemical arsenal last year, in response to a new U.S. demand that Moscow allow chemical weapons inspectors into the country after the poisoning of a Russian ex-spy.
Russian Armaments Completely Adhere to International Law - Kremlin Sputnik 14 Aug 2018 -- All new Russian armaments are consistent with the letter and spirit of international agreements, Russia has never violated them, Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov said on Tuesday.
Moscow Regrets US Suspension of Cooperation Within Open Skies Treaty Sputnik 14 Aug 2018 -- Moscow deeply regrets Washington's decision to suspend cooperation with Russia under the Open Skies Teaty in accordance with the new US defense budget. Russian Deputy Foreign Minister Sergey Ryabkov has told Sputnik that such a move can be deemed an "intoxication" of international relations.
Russian Multi-Rotor Helicopter's Design Will Be Ready by End of 2018 - Source Sputnik 14 Aug 2018 -- The design of a multi-rotor helicopter with a hybrid engine is expected to be developed in Russia by the end of 2018, an aircraft manufacturing industry source told Sputnik.
Washington Freezes Open Sky Treaty With Moscow in New Defense Bill Sputnik 14 Aug 2018 -- US President Donald Trump signed the $716 billion National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) for the fiscal year 2019 at Fort Drum, New York on Monday.
Russia To Continue Slashing U.S. Bond Holdings, May Stop Payments In Dollars RFE/RL 13 Aug 2018 -- Russia's finance minister says his country will continue to reduce investments in U.S. government bonds and may stop making global payments in dollars in response to new sanctions being imposed by Washington against Moscow.
Five States Sign Convention On Caspian Legal Status RFE/RL 12 Aug 2018 -- Meeting in the Kazakh port city of Aqtau, the leaders of Azerbaijan, Iran, Kazakhstan, Russia, and Turkmenistan have signed a new convention on the legal status of the resource-rich Caspian Sea -- a matter disputed between the five neighbors for more than 20 years.
'Milestone event': Five states sign historic deal on status of Caspian Sea RT 12 Aug 2018-- Vladimir Putin attended the Caspian Sea summit in Kazakhstan which he said has "milestone" significance. There five littoral powers finally made a breakthrough on trade, security and environment following 20 years of talks.
Caspian Summit ends IRNA 12 Aug 2018 -- The 5th Caspian Summit ended in Aktau, Kazakhstan, on Sunday.
Some 90% of Caspian Sea legal regime convention finalized IRNA 12 Aug 2018 -- Some 90% of the Caspian Sea legal regime convention has been finalized which will be signed in Aktau, Iranian Foreign Ministry's Center for Public Diplomacy and Media Affairs said in a statement on Sunday.
Caspian Sea, sea of peace, solidarity IRNA 12 Aug 2018 -- Presidents of five Caspian littoral states in a joint statement announced that the Caspian Sea is the sea of peace, good neighborliness and effective international cooperation.
President Rouhani: Caspian Sea is Sea of peace, friendship IRNA 12 Aug 2018 -- President Hassan Rouhani said on Sunday that all should endeavor to turn Caspian Sea to Sea of peace and friendship to broaden relations and cooperation amongst Caspian Sea littoral states.
Caspian Littoral States agree to continue dialog on delimitation, shares of sea, resources ISNA 12 Aug 2018 -- During his visit to Kazakhstan to attend Caspian Sea Littoral States summit, Iranian Minister of Foreign Affairs Mohammad Javad Zarif on Sunday praised the approval of Caspian Sea Convention on Legal Status in Twitter.
Caspian Sea Legal Regime Convention inked by 5 states ISNA 12 Aug 2018 -- The Caspian Sea Legal Regime Convention was signed by the five littoral countries in Kazakhstan.
President addressing Caspian Sea Littoral States Summit: Talks for final agreement, esp. on defining limits must continue ISNA 12 Aug 2018 -- The Caspian Sea Legal Regime Convention was signed by the five littoral countries in Kazakhstan.
Convention on Caspian Sea's Legal Status declares against presence of non-littoral, foreign military forces ISNA 12 Aug 2018 -- Iranian Foreign Minister Mohammad Javad Zarif stressed that signing of the Convention on Caspian Sea's Legal Status is a significant step to finalize the 21-year talks in this regard.
Caspian Sea, model for peace, stability, friendship: Iran's Rouhani Press TV 12 Aug 2018 -- Iranian President Hassan Rouhani says the Caspian Sea is now a model for guaranteeing peace, stability and friendship.
Caspian Sea states sign landmark convention on sea's legal status Press TV 12 Aug 2018 -- The presidents of the five states bordering the resource-rich Caspian Sea have signed a historic convention on the sea's legal status after more than two decades of discussions.
Caspian Summit Delivers Less Than Expected RFE/RL 12 Aug 2018 -- The leaders of Azerbaijan, Iran, Kazakhstan, Russia, and Turkmenistan met in Aqtau, Kazakhstan, on August 12 for what was supposed to be the long-awaited signing of a convention on the legal status of the Caspian Sea.
Caspian Sea Countries Sign Landmark Deal VOA 12 Aug 2018 -- The leaders of the five countries bordering the Caspian Sea have signed a landmark agreement on its legal status.
2 drones launched by terrorists destroyed over Hmeimim air base IRNA 11 Aug 2018 -- The Russian Ministry of Defense announced Friday that it foiled a new attack on its air base in Hmeimim in Lattakia province which the terrorist groups tried to launch from the areas where they are positioned in Lattakia northern countryside through two drones, Syrian media 'SANA' reported.
Syrian, Russian air defense units confront 'hostile' targets Press TV 11 Aug 2018 -- Syria and Russia say their air defense units have in two separate incidents targeted objects breaching Syrian air space as pro-Damascus forces continue to maintain the upper hand over Takfiri terrorists on the battlefield.
Yes Or No: Is A Referendum In The Cards Over Russian Pension Reform? RFE/RL 10 Aug 2018 -- It has been a quarter century since the Russian government asked its citizens their opinion on anything in a formal national referendum.
Caspian states to sign 'legal status' deal Sunday: Russia Press TV 10 Aug 2018 -- Russia says the five countries, which border the Caspian Sea, are to adopt a convention on its "legal status" at a summit of their presidents in Kazakhstan Sunday.
Convention On Caspian Sea's Legal Status To Be Signed On August 12, Kremlin Says RFE/RL 10 Aug 2018 -- The Kremlin says that, after more than two decades of negotiations, leaders of the five Caspian Sea countries will sign a convention on the resource-rich sea's legal status at a summit in the Kazakh port city of Aqtau on August 12.
A Landmark Caspian Agreement -- And What It Resolves RFE/RL 10 Aug 2018 -- It has taken more than 20 years. But on August 12, the leaders of Azerbaijan, Iran, Kazakhstan, Russia, and Turkmenistan will meet in the Kazakh port city of Aqtau, reportedly to sign a new convention on the legal status of the Caspian Sea.
PM: Russia to view any new US sanctions 'declaration of war' Press TV 10 Aug 2018 -- Russian Prime Minister Dmitry Medvedev says Moscow will consider any new sanctions by the United States as a "declaration of economic war" and will retaliate in kind.
Putin, Russia Security Council Say Sanctions 'Absolutely Illegal' RFE/RL 10 Aug 2018 -- President Vladimir Putin and Russia's Security Council have described possible new U.S. sanctions against Moscow as "absolutely illegal," Russian news agencies quoted Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov as saying.
Russia, China Block U.S. Bid To Blacklist Moscow Bank At UN RFE/RL 10 Aug 2018 -- Russia and China have blocked a U.S. proposal to add a Russian bank and Moscow-based North Korean banker to a UN blacklist, UN diplomats have said.
Pakistani Soldiers To Receive Russian Military Training Under New Deal RFE/RL 10 Aug 2018 -- Pakistan and Russia have reached a military cooperation deal that includes sending Pakistani soldiers to Russia for training, the countries' defense ministries have announced.
Briefing by Foreign Ministry Spokesperson Maria Zakharova, Moscow, August 9, 2018 Russia Ministry of Foreign Affairs 09 Aug 2018
Russia downs militant drone near Syria's Hmeimim airbase Press TV 09 Aug 2018 -- The Russian military has announced that its forces in Syria downed a drone flying near the airbase in the Syrian city of Hmeimim.
Iran, Russia and Turkey keen to avoid battle in Syria's Idlib: UN Press TV 09 Aug 2018 -- A UN official says Iran, Russia and Turkey have assured that they would do their utmost to avoid a battle for the recapture of Idlib in northwestern Syria, which is being held by foreign-backed Takfiri terrorists.
Russian Air Defenses Destroy UAV Launched by Syrian Militants at Hmeymim Base Sputnik 09 Aug 2018 -- Russian air defenses at the Hmeymim airbase shot down on Thursday an aerial drone launched by militants operating in Syria's province of Latakia, the Russian Center for Syrian Reconciliation said.
New US sanctions not based on evidence Press TV 09 Aug 2018 -- Russia says a round of new sanctions imposed on Moscow by the United States over the alleged poisoning of a former Russian spy in the UK are not based on evidence and are "draconian."
Russia Considers Retaliation For 'Categorically Unacceptable' New U.S. Sanctions RFE/RL 09 Aug 2018 -- Russia says it is preparing "countermeasures" to what it calls "categorically unacceptable" new sanctions being imposed by the United States over the poisoning of an ex-Russian spy in England.
Russian Markets Plummet On U.S. Moves To Impose More Sanctions RFE/RL 09 Aug 2018 -- The U.S. announcement of new sanctions against Moscow over its alleged use of a chemical weapon against a Russian ex-spy has roiled global markets and helped send the Russian ruble, bonds, and stocks plummeting.
Kremlin Rejects US Claims of Skripal Case Links, Calls Sanctions 'Unacceptable' Sputnik 09 Aug 2018 -- Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov has addressed the most recent round of sanctions introduced by the US against Moscow.
Russia Denounces US 'Novichok' Sanctions VOA 09 Aug 2018 -- Faced with a new round of U.S.-sanctions over alleged chemical weapons use, Russia denounced the move as an "illegal" gesture that defied attempts by President Donald Trump and Russian leader Vladimir Putin aimed at improving relations during a recent summit.
U.S. To Impose New Sanctions On Russia Over Skripal Attack RFE/RL 09 Aug 2018 -- The United States has said it will hit Russia with new sanctions aimed at punishing Moscow for the March nerve-agent poisoning in Britain of a former Russian spy and his daughter.
Previewing the Imposition of Chemical and Biological Weapons Control and Warfare Elimination Sanctions on Russia US Dept. of State 08 Aug 2018 -- Special Briefing by Senior State Department Officials
Royal Navy Monitoring Russian Warships' Passage Through UK Waters Sputnik 08 Aug 2018 -- The UK Royal Navy said in a statement on Wednesday that its destroyer HMS Diamond was monitoring the overnight passage of Russian destroyer Severomorsk and cruiser Marshal Ustinov through the English Channel.
Pakistan, Russia Sign Rare Military Cooperation Pact VOA 08 Aug 2018 -- Pakistan has wrapped up a groundbreaking contract with Russia that would, for the first time, open doors for Russian military training of Pakistani army officers.
US imposes sanctions on Russia over nerve agent attack in UK Press TV 08 Aug 2018 -- The United States has imposed new sanctions on Russia over Moscow's alleged role in poisoning of former Russian spy Sergei Skripal.
U.S. To Impose New Sanctions On Russia Over Skripal Attack RFE/RL 08 Aug 2018 -- The United States has said it will hit Russia with new sanctions aimed at punishing Moscow for the March nerve-agent poisoning in Britain of a former Russian spy and his daughter.
US Imposing Sanctions on Russia Over Skripal Poisoning - State Department Sputnik 08 Aug 2018 -- The US State Department announced Wednesday that it would be imposing sanctions against Russia regarding the poisoning of Yulia and Sergei Skripal in the UK earlier this year.
UK Def Sec Accuses Russia of 'Malign Behavior,' Hints at Skripal Poisoning Link Sputnik 08 Aug 2018 -- Gavin Williamson has been accusing Russian of many things, including the poisoning incidents in Salisbury and Amesbury despite any tangible proof of Moscow involvement in either one.
US Slaps New Sanctions on Russia Over Ex-Russian Spy Poisoning in Britain VOA 08 Aug 2018 -- The United States is imposing tough new sanctions on Russia after determining Moscow was responsible for poisoning a former Russian spy and his daughter in Britain in March.
U.S. Senator Delivers Letter From Trump To Putin During Moscow Trip RFE/RL 08 Aug 2018 -- U.S. Republican Senator Rand Paul says he delivered a letter from President Donald Trump intended for Russian leader Vladimir Putin to the Kremlin during the Kentucky politician's trip to Moscow.
Imposition of Chemical and Biological Weapons Control and Warfare Elimination Act Sanctions on Russia US Dept. of State 08 Aug 2018
US Senator Delivers Trump Letter to Putin VOA 08 Aug 2018 -- A U.S. senator says he has delivered a letter from President Donald Trump to Russian President Vladimir Putin calling for more talks and exchanges between the two countries.
10 Years After War, Russia Warns Of 'Horrible' Conflict If Georgia Joins NATO RFE/RL 07 Aug 2018 -- Ten years after Russia and Georgia went to war, the West on August 7 condemned Moscow's continued military presence in the Caucasus country's territory and reiterated support for Georgia's sovereignty and territorial integrity.
Russian Prime Minister Warns NATO Against Accepting Georgia Sputnik 07 Aug 2018 -- NATO should not accept Georgia as its member because it might lead to a military conflict since Moscow recognizes the independence of Abkhazia and South Ossetia, which Tbilisi considers its territory, Russian Prime Minister Dmitry Medvedev said.
Star Witness In Manafort Trial Details Ukrainian, Russian Money Ties RFE/RL 07 Aug 2018 -- A longtime business partner of President Donald Trump's former campaign chairman has detailed how he helped Paul Manafort hide millions of dollars that he earned from Ukrainian clients.
Sea Of Troubles: Azov Emerging As 'Tinderbox' In Russia-Ukraine Conflict RFE/RL 07 Aug 2018 -- One recent summer morning, four Ukrainian Sea Guards peered out from a speeding patrol boat nicknamed Little Boy. Bubbly pop hits from the 1990s blared over the hum of the engine propelling them through the choppy swells of the Sea of Azov.
Russia's Rusal Says Sanctions Forcing Shutdown Of Plant Catering To U.S. Customers RFE/RL 07 Aug 2018 -- Russian aluminum giant Rusal says U.S. sanctions are forcing it to shut down one of its smaller plants that catered to U.S. customers and find new jobs for hundreds of the plant's workers.
Britain 'Ready To Ask' Russia To Extradite Suspects In Skripal Poisonings RFE/RL 07 Aug 2018 -- Britain is preparing to ask Russia to extradite two men it suspects carried out a nerve-agent attack on a former Russian spy in the city of Salisbury, The Guardian newspaper has reported.
OPCW Accepts UK Request to Confirm Identity of Nerve Agent in Amesbury Incident Sputnik 07 Aug 2018 -- UK authorities on Tuesday invited Organisation for the Prohibition of Chemical Weapons (OPCW) experts to come back to the country in order to independently confirm the identity of the nerve agent used in the Amesbury poisoning. The OPCW later accepted the request.
Russia's Chances, Rivals in Tender on Supply of 111 Light Helicopters to India Sputnik 07 Aug 2018 -- Russia will participate in India's tender on the supply of 111 light multipurpose Naval Utility Helicopters (NUH) and expects to win the bid, the Russian Federal Service for Military-Technical Cooperation (FSMTC) told Sputnik.
Trump admits son met Russian lawyer for information on Clinton Press TV 06 Aug 2018 -- US President Donald Trump has admitted his oldest son met a Kremlin-linked Russian lawyer in June 2016 to collect information about his then political opponent Hillary Clinton, but argues it was legal.
U.S. Calls In Russian Embassy Official Over Moscow's 'Aggressive Interference' RFE/RL 06 Aug 2018 -- The U.S. State Department has called in Russia's chargé d'affaires in Washington over what it says are Moscow's efforts to use social media to "promote violence" and divide U.S. society. Russia criticized the summons, calling it "megaphone diplomacy."
Russian Prime Minister Warns NATO Against Accepting Georgia Sputnik 07 Aug 2018 -- NATO should not accept Georgia as its member because it might lead to a military conflict since Moscow recognizes the independence of Abkhazia and South Ossetia, which Tbilisi considers its territory, Russian Prime Minister Dmitry Medvedev said.
Moscow Takes 'Reciprocal' Action After Greece's Expulsion Of Russian Diplomats RFE/RL 06 Aug 2018 -- Russia says it has summoned Greece's ambassador to Moscow to inform him of "reciprocal measures" after Athens's expulsion of two Russian diplomats last month over allegations of meddling with its relations with Macedonia.
Report: Russia Set Up Clandestine Network For N. Korea Oil Shipments VOA 06 Aug 2018 -- Russia engaged in more extensive oil exports to North Korea than had been previously reported, by setting up an illicit trade network that is likely still being used today to evade United Nations sanctions, according a South Korean research organization.
Not So United: Russia's Ruling Party Rattled By Pension-Reform Crisis RFE/RL 05 Aug 2018 -- Speaking to a riled-up crowd at a July 28 protest against the Russian government's deeply unpopular proposal to raise retirement ages in Vologda, angry pensioner Nikolai Zharavin didn't mince words as to who was to blame.
Russia Grants Kazakhstan Access to Military Satellite Signal – Space Agency Sputnik 04 Aug 2018 -- Kazakhstan now has access to a frequency of Russia's Glonass global navigation system used by the military to guide high-precision weaponry, a Kazakh space agency official told Sputnik.
Russia confirms it sent Syria rebuilding proposal to US Press TV 04 Aug 2018 -- Russia's Defense Ministry has confirmed it sent a letter to Chairman of the US Joint Chiefs of Staff Joseph Dunford last month with a proposal to cooperate on reconstructing Syria and repatriating refugees to the war-torn country.
Russia Slams Latest U.S. Sanctions Efforts, Says They 'Do Not Work' RFE/RL 04 Aug 2018 -- Russian Deputy Foreign Minister Sergei Ryabkov has blasted the latest sanctions efforts coming out of Washington, contending that experience has shown such sanctions "do not work."
U.S. Calls On Russia To Comply With UN Sanctions On North Korea RFE/RL 04 Aug 2018 -- The United States has called on Russia to comply with UN sanctions on North Korea, citing "deeply troubling" reports that Moscow has granted new work permits to North Korean laborers that are barred under the sanctions.
Briefing by Foreign Ministry Spokesperson Maria Zakharova, Moscow, August 3, 2018 Russia Ministry of Foreign Affairs 03 Aug 2018
Russia allows entry of thousands of North Korean workers: WSJ Press TV 03 Aug 2018 -- A US report says Russia has violated UN sanctions against North Korea by allowing thousands of North Korean laborers to work in the country.
U.S. Sanctions Russian Bank For 'Facilitating' Illicit North Korea Transactions RFE/RL 03 Aug 2018 -- The U.S. Treasury has targeted a Russian bank for "facilitating a significant transaction" on behalf of a person with ties to North Korea's banned weapons program.
Treasury Targets Russian Bank and Other Facilitators of North Korean United Nations Security Council Violations US Treasury 03 Aug 2018 -- The U.S. Department of the Treasury's Office of Foreign Assets Control (OFAC) today announced additional sanctions related to North Korea, continuing the enforcement of existing UN and U.S. sanctions. Today's action targets a Russian bank for knowingly facilitating a significant transaction on behalf of an individual designated for weapons of mass destruction-related activities in connection with North Korea. OFAC also targeted one individual and two entities for facilitating North Korean illicit financial activity.
U.S. Senate Sends Trump Bill Enabling Him To Waive Russian Military Sanctions RFE/RL 02 Aug 2018 -- The U.S. Senate has approved legislation allowing the president to waive penalties against countries that purchase weapons from sanctioned Russian defense companies if they are seeking closer ties with Washington.
National Security Agency, Cybercom Defend Against Election Meddling AFPS 02 Aug 2018 -- Russia and other malign actors continue to try to subvert American elections, and the Department of Homeland Security, law enforcement agencies and the intelligence community are working together to prevent foreign interference in the mid-term elections, officials said at the White House this afternoon.
Intelligence, Security Officials Warn Of Russia's 'Pervasive Methods' To Weaken, Divide U.S. RFE/RL 02 Aug 2018 -- Leaders of the U.S. intelligence and security community told a briefing at the White House that Russia is continuing to use "pervasive methods" to exploit and intensify differences in U.S. society and that they remain concerned about U.S. election security.
US Security Chiefs Express Alarm About Election Meddling VOA 02 Aug 2018 -- Top U.S. national security leaders made a rare joint appearance in the White House briefing room Thursday to express concern about efforts by Russia – and potentially others – to meddle in upcoming elections here, and to reassure the public that strong countermeasures are being taken.
Congress calls for ending US military dependence on Russian energy Press TV 02 Aug 2018 -- Worried by Europe's growing reliance on Russian natural oil and gas, US lawmakers have called upon the administration of President Donald Trump to find alternative sources of power for American military bases across European countries.
UN Mission Joins Probe Of Russian Journalists' Deaths RFE/RL 02 Aug 2018 -- A United Nations peacekeeping mission in the Central African Republic (CAR) is helping national authorities investigate the killing of three Russian journalists who were there to film a documentary on a Russian paramilitary group, a UN spokesman has said.
President Donald J. Trump is Strengthening the Security of Our Elections The White House 02 Aug 2018
U.S. Senators Blast Russia, Prepare 'Crushing' Measures Against 'Kremlin Aggression' RFE/RL 02 Aug 2018 -- An influential bipartisan group of U.S. senators has introduced a package of measures designed to protect "American security from Kremlin aggression," including new financial sanctions and a "strong statement of support" for NATO.
Favorable Attitudes Toward U.S., EU On The Rise In Russia, Levada Poll Finds RFE/RL 02 Aug 2018 -- A new poll shows the number of Russians who view the United States and European Union favorably has dramatically increased since May.
Ukrainian Leader Poroshenko Looks To Sue Russia Over Donbas, Crimea RFE/RL 01 Aug 2018 -- Ukrainian President Petro Poroshenko has ordered the creation of a body to prepare a lawsuit against Russia for damages caused by separatists whom Moscow supports in the Donbas region and for its illegal annexation of the Crimea Peninsula.
More Than One--Quarter Of Russians Ready To Protest: Levada Poll RFE/RL 01 Aug 2018 -- A new poll shows that more than one-quarter of Russians are ready to protest against the economic policies of President Vladimir Putin's government - the highest number since Putin came to power in 2000.
What Are Russian Military Contractors Doing In The Central African Republic? RFE/RL 01 Aug 2018 -- The three Russian journalists who were killed in the Central African Republic (CAR) this week had arrived in the war-torn country to investigate the reported presence there of a shadowy Russian paramilitary force whose units are said to have fought in Ukraine and Syria.
OSCE Envoy 'Saddened And Shocked' By Killing Of Russian Journalists RFE/RL 01 Aug 2018 -- The Organization for Security and Cooperation in Europe's (OSCE) media-freedom representative says he is "deeply saddened and shocked" by the killing of three Russian journalists who were investigating the activities of a Russian paramilitary organization in the Central African Republic (CAR).
Russian Journalists Investigating Paramilitary Group Killed In Africa RFE/RL 01 Aug 2018 -- Three Russian journalists investigating the activities of a Russian paramilitary organization in the Central African Republic were ambushed and killed, their news outlet and local authorities say.

NEWSLETTER

Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list

Weapons of Mass Destruction (WMD)

August 2018 - Russia Special Weapons News