September 2018 - Russia Special Weapons News

Protesters Accuse Russian Officials Of 'Stealing' Pensions As They Rally Against Retirement-Age Hike RFE/RL 30 Sep 2018 -- Russians have staged small rallies in several cities to protest against an unpopular plan to raise the eligibility age for retirement pensions by five years.
Modern 'Nabrosok' Artillery System Being Developed in Russia - Land Forces Chief Sputnik 30 Sep 2018 -- Russia's modern Nabrosok artillery system is being under development, and will be used in the country's missile troops and artillery, Russian Commander-in-Chief of the Land Forces Col. Gen. Oleg Salyukov said in an interview published on Sunday.
China Launches Reactor of Tianwan NPP Built With Russia's Help – Rosatom Sputnik 30 Sep 2018 -- China successfully launched on Sunday the reactor of the new power unit of the Tianwan nuclear power plant (NPP), built with the Russian participation, Russia's nuclear corporation said.
Russia says already started delivering S-300 missile system to Syria Press TV 29 Sep 2018 -- Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov says his country has already started delivering the S-300 surface-to-air missile defense system to Syria as part of its efforts to ensure the safety of Russian forces in the Arab country.
Russia Delivering Advanced Air Defense To Syria, Despite U.S. Objections RFE/RL 29 Sep 2018 -- Russia has started delivering an S-300 missile defense system to Syria, despite objections raised by the United States and Israel, Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov has said.
Russian Investigative Reporter Leaves Country Fearing Prosecution For Work RFE/RL 29 Sep 2018 -- A Russian investigative journalist says he has left the country fearing possible prosecution for his work.
India approves purchase of S-400 missile system from Russia Press TV 29 Sep 2018 -- India has approved a plan to purchase five Russian-built S-400 Triumph defense systems, despite earlier warnings from the US against any military transaction with Russia.
Russia's Lavrov Warns UN Against Unilateralism in Treating World's Old Wounds Sputnik 29 Sep 2018 -- In his address to the annual UN General Assembly on Friday, Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov took a swipe at those hoping to end the decades-old Israeli-Palestinian crisis unilaterally and called for global unity on UN-backed peace processes elsewhere.
Russian Orthodox Church Threatens Break With Istanbul-Based Patriarchate RFE/RL 28 Sep 2018 -- The Russian Orthodox Church is threatening to sever ties with the leader of the worldwide Orthodox community if he grants autonomy to Ukraine's Orthodox Church.
Lavrov at UNGA: Russia Warns Against New Chemical Weapon Provocations in Syria Sputnik 28 Sep 2018 -- Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov has addressed the 73rd session of the UN General Assembly in New York City. Addressing the UN on Friday, the Russian foreign minister criticized what he called "unilateral approaches" by some countries to a variety of complex global problems, ranging from the Middle East peace process to the Iran nuclear deal, commitments to the World Trade Organization, agreements on climate change, and more.
Russian Il-20 Aircraft Could Be Equipped With New EW Devices - Tech Concern Sputnik 28 Sep 2018 -- Russia's Concern Radio-Electronic Technologies (KRET) said Friday it was ready to re-equip the fleet of Russian Il-20 reconnaissance planes with advanced electronic warfare devices following the recent Il-20 tragedy in Syria.
Third Russian Possibly Involved in Salisbury Poisoning VOA 28 Sep 2018 -- British investigators now say a third Russian military intelligence officer was involved in the poisoning in March this year of former spy Sergei Skripal and his daughter Yulia in the southern English cathedral town of Salisbury.
Report: Third Alleged Russian Agent Involved In Skripal Mission Identified RFE/RL 28 Sep 2018 -- A third suspected Russian military intelligence officer who carried out a reconnaissance mission before the poisoning of former Russian spy Sergei Skripal and his daughter has been identified by British counterterrorism police and the security services, The Telegraph newspaper reported on September 27.
Kremlin: No Information of Anyone Named Chepiga Ever Awarded by Putin Sputnik 28 Sep 2018 -- Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov said on Friday that he had verified media reports about a state award handed out to Anatoly Chepiga – alleged by UK investigative bloggers from Bellingcat to be the real name of Ruslan Boshirov, a suspect in the Skripal poisoning case.
UK-Based Bellingcat, The Insider to Issue 'Information About Petrov' - Reports Sputnik 28 Sep 2018 -- The UK-based investigative blogger group Bellingcat and The Insider Russia media outlet are going to issue information about the real identity of Alexander Petrov, who is suspected by London of being involved in the Salisbury incident, within 7-10 days, The Guardian newspaper reported on Friday.
Russia, China dispute US call for tougher sanctions against North Korea Press TV 28 Sep 2018 -- Russia and China have called for an easing of UN sanctions on North Korea at a UN Security Council meeting, disputing US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo's appeal for a stricter enforcement despite warming bilateral relations.
U.S. Clashes With China, Russia Over Easing UN Sanctions On North Korea RFE/RL 28 Sep 2018 -- The United States has clashed with China and Russia at the United Nations over their call for an easing of sanctions against North Korea.
Russia's Brief Taste Of Political Liberalization Drowns In Pig's Blood RFE/RL 27 Sep 2018 -- On the morning of September 25, 34-year-old Nadezhda Zagordan, a member of the municipal council of Moscow's Izmailovo district, opened her apartment door to find a bloody, severed pig's head on her doorstep with a knife sticking out of its skull.
Israel's 'Unprofessional' Actions Reason for Russia's Il-20 Plane Crash - Moscow Sputnik 27 Sep 2018 -- Israel's "erroneous, unprofessional and cowardly" actions led to the crash of a Russian Il-20 plane near Syria, Russian Foreign Ministry spokeswoman Maria Zakharova said on Thursday.
Russia to look into new claims on UK poisoning suspects Press TV 27 Sep 2018 -- Russian authorities say they will investigate claims in the British media that one of the two men accused of a poisoning attack on a double spy in southern England in March was a Russian colonel.
'Complete Nonsense': How Russia Is Countering A New Report On The Salisbury Poisoning Suspect RFE/RL 27 Sep 2018 -- The Russian government and media are casting doubt on a new report claiming to reveal the true identity of a Russian man Britain accuses of the nerve-agent attack on former Russian spy Sergei Skripal in southern England.
Russia Derides New Claims in Skripal Poisoning VOA 27 Sep 2018 -- Moscow has responded derisively to a report by a Britiain-based investigative group claiming one of the two men suspected of poisoning ex-spy Sergei Skripal is a highly decorated colonel in Russian military intelligence.
US Has No Right to Meddle in Russian-Chinese Defense Cooperation - Beijing Sputnik 27 Sep 2018 -- Russian-Chinese defense cooperation is a bilateral issue of two sovereign countries in which the United States is not allowed to meddle, Chinese Defense Ministry Spokesman said on Thursday.
Russia, China Urge Easing of North Korea Sanctions VOA 27 Sep 2018 -- Russia and China called Thursday for international sanctions to be eased on North Korea as an incentive for it to denuclearize. The call is seen by the West as jeopardizing the international consensus on pressuring Pyongyang.
Sanctions Trumped: Indian Cabinet Gives Final Nod for S-400 Deal with Russia Sputnik 27 Sep 2018 -- On September 20, the US imposed CAATSA sanctions on the Equipment Development Department (EDD) of China's Central Military Commission (CMC) and on its director in response to China's purchase of Su-35 aircraft and the S-400 system. This had fueled speculations that India may postpone the signing of the contract with Russia.
Russian Duma Approves Unpopular Bill On Retirement-Age Increase In Final Reading RFE/RL 27 Sep 2018 -- The lower chamber of Russia's parliament has approved in its third and final reading an unpopular bill to raise the retirement age.
Activist Verzilov 'Convinced' He Was Poisoned By Russian Secret Services RFE/RL 27 Sep 2018 -- Russian dissident activist Pyotr Verzilov, who was discharged from a German hospital this week after making significant progress in his recovery, says he is "convinced" he was poisoned by Russia's intelligence services.
Iran, Russia, China, India, Afghanistan hold security talks in Tehran Press TV 26 Sep 2018 -- Senior security officials from Iran, Russia, China, India and Afghanistan have attended a meeting in Tehran to explore ways of promoting peace and the fight against terrorism in the region.
Russia test-fires supersonic missiles from coastal defense system Press TV 26 Sep 2018 -- Russia has for the first time test-fired a P-800 Onyx supersonic anti-ship cruise missile during a military exercise amid escalating tensions with Israel following the downing of a Russian warplane in Syria.
U.S., Ukrainian Officials Discuss Efforts To Counter Russia's 'Malign Influence' RFE/RL 26 Sep 2018 -- A top U.S. official has met with the Ukrainian foreign minister in New York to discuss "cooperative efforts against Russia's malign influence," among other things, the State Department says.
Russian Retirement-Age Hike Advances As Putin's Adjustment Approved RFE/RL 26 Sep 2018 -- An unpopular plan to raise the retirement age has advanced in the Russian legislature after lawmakers overwhelmingly approved President Vladimir Putin's proposal to limit the increase for women to five years - to age 60 - instead of eight.
Work on Russia's New S-500 Air Defense System Almost Complete - Deputy PM Sputnik 26 Sep 2018 -- Work on the latest Russian S-500 air defense system is almost complete, and their serial production will begin soon, Russian Deputy Prime Minister Yury Borisov said on Wednesday.
Salisbury Poisoning Suspect Named As Russian Colonel RFE/RL 26 Sep 2018 -- The real identity of one of the two Russians blamed by Britain for the Salisbury nerve-agent attack on former Russian spy Sergei Skripal is Anatoly Chepiga, the investigative website Bellingcat says, adding that he was a decorated Russian colonel.
U.S. Case Involved Alleged Russian Intelligence Theft Through Kaspersky RFE/RL 26 Sep 2018 -- A U.S. intelligence worker has been sentenced to prison for transferring top-secret material to a home computer that was allegedly accessed by Russian intelligence through Kaspersky software.
Russian Officer Named in Britain Nerve Agent Poisoning VOA 26 Sep 2018 -- A group of British investigative journalists have identified a highly decorated member of the Russian military intelligence agency (GRU) as one of two men accused of trying to assassinate an ex-Russian spy and his daughter in Britain earlier this year.
Raids On Russia-Linked Island Properties Set Finland Abuzz RFE/RL 25 Sep 2018 -- In Finland, as in many countries, investigations of financial crimes tend to be heavy on forensic accounting, bookkeeping evidence, and paper trails, and light on heavy paramilitary weaponry.
NATO Chief, Russian FM Lavrov Agree To 'Continue Contacts' RFE/RL 25 Sep 2018 -- NATO Secretary-General Jens Stoltenberg says he wants a more constructive relationship with Russia, even as the alliance is taking steps to respond to Moscow's increasing assertiveness.
Russian, Kyrgyz Troops To Hold Counterterror Drills In Eastern Kyrgyzstan RFE/RL 25 Sep 2018 -- Some 2,000 Russia and Kyrgyz troops are getting ready to launch joint counterterrorism exercises in eastern Kyrgyzstan.
Pundits Say Russian Vote Results Signal Protest, Not Real Change RFE/RL 25 Sep 2018 -- As exit polls from the Khaborovsk region's gubernatorial runoff pointed to a landslide victory for Sergei Furgal, the Liberal Democratic Party of Russia (LDPR) candidate was asked what swayed the September 23 vote.
S-300 Deliveries to Syria to Make Russia Reliable Arms Supplier - Arab League Sputnik 25 Sep 2018 -- Jaber Habib Jaber, the ambassador of the LAS to Russia, told Sputnik constant position of the LAS on S-300 deliveries to Syria, further dialogue with Russia and Russian-Turkish agreement on Syria's Idlib.
Moscow vows to cooperate with Tehran to keep Iran Deal IRNA 25 Sep 2018 -- Following the meeting of foreign ministers of Iran and G4+1 in New York on Monday, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Russia issued a statement and announced that Moscow will keep cooperating with Iran and guarding the Iran Deal.
Release And Catch: Russia's Navalny Freed, Then Immediately Detained Again RFE/RL 24 Sep 2018 -- Russian opposition leader Aleksei Navalny was detained immediately after his release following a 30-day jail term, and faces up to 20 additional days behind bars for allegedly violating legislation restricting public gatherings.
Challengers Defeat Pro-Kremlin Candidates In Regional Races RFE/RL 24 Sep 2018 -- Two challengers have defeated pro-Kremlin candidates in gubernatorial runoffs, amid widespread anger over pension reforms backed by the ruling United Russia party and President Vladimir Putin.
US Certifies Russian Tu-214 Aircraft for Open Skies Treaty Flights - Pentagon Sputnik 24 Sep 2018 -- The United States has certified Russia's Tu-324 aircraft to operate under the Open Skies Treaty, Pentagon Spokesman Eric Pahon told Sputnik on Monday.
Russia May Help India to Launch Country's First Manned Space Mission - Reports Sputnik 24 Sep 2018 -- Russia and India can conclude an agreement on the exchange of experience and interaction in preparation for the launch of the first Indian manned space mission, Indian media reported on Sunday.
Russia Summons Norway's Ambassador After Arrest Of Man On Espionage Charges RFE/RL 24 Sep 2018 -- The Russian Foreign Ministry has summoned Norway's ambassador to protest the arrest of a Russian citizen outside Oslo on suspicion of spying.
Russia holds Israel responsible for downing IL-20 in Syria IRNA 23 Sep 2018 -- Russian Ministry of Defense reiterated that "Israel" is fully responsible for downing the Russian IL-20 aircraft off Syrian coast last Monday.
Russia says Israel fully responsible for downing of plane in Syria Press TV 23 Sep 2018 -- The Russian Defense Ministry says "misleading" information from the Israeli Air Force Command has in fact downed a Russian Ilyushin Il-20 reconnaissance aircraft off a Syrian coast, holding the Israeli regime fully responsible for the tragic event, which killed more than a dozen servicemen.
Russia to release details on downing of military plane in Syria Press TV 23 Sep 2018 -- Russia is set to publish a report detailing the circumstances that led to the recent accidental downing of an Il-20 reconnaissance aircraft by Syrian air defenses while they were responding to a wave of Israeli airstrikes.
Moscow: Israel 'Misled' Russian Military In Syria Plane Downing RFE/RL 23 Sep 2018 -- Russia's Defense Ministry has doubled down on its allegation that Israel is to blame for the downing of a Russian military plane over the eastern Mediterranean Sea nearly a week ago, saying it was caused by "misleading information" provided by the Israeli military.
Russian MoD Has Compelling Evidence to Back Up Account of Il-20's Last Moments Sputnik 23 Sep 2018 -- Earlier in the day, the Russian Defense Ministry reiterated, during a briefing on circumstance of the Il-20 incident, that blame for the Russian aircraft's crash fully rested with Israel, which put the Il-20 under fire of the Syrian air defense.
Israel to Continue Military Op in Syria Despite Il-20 Downing – Lieberman Sputnik 23 Sep 2018 -- Russia blames Israel for the destruction of the Il-20, which cost the lives of 15 servicemen, after it emerged that around the time if its demise, Israeli fighter jets were in immediate proximity to the Russian plane.
Russian MoD: Israel Violated Agreement With Russia to Prevent Incidents in Syria Sputnik 23 Sep 2018 -- The Israeli Air Force misled Russia by providing wrong information about the area of the planned air strikes in Syria on September 17, thus preventing the Russian Il-20 from moving to a safe zone, Russian Defense Ministry spokesman Maj. Gen. Igor Konashenkov said on Sunday.
Norway Detains Russian Man On Espionage Charges RFE/RL 23 Sep 2018 -- Norwegian authorities say they have detained a Russian citizen on suspicion of illegal intelligence activities.
Russians Vote In Gubernatorial Runoffs As Pro-Kremlin Candidates Face Pushback RFE/RL 22 Sep 2018 -- Russian voters in two regions head to the polls on September 23 in gubernatorial runoffs that have left the ruling United Russia party scrambling to avoid defeat for its pro-Kremlin candidates.
Russians Rally Across The Country Against Plan To Raise Retirement Age RFE/RL 22 Sep 2018 -- Russians staged demonstrations across the country on September 22 to protest government plans to raise the eligibility age for retirement pensions by five years.
U.S. Extends Deadline For Investors To Divest Rusal Holdings RFE/RL 22 Sep 2018 -- The U.S. Treasury Department has extended until November 12 a deadline for investors to divest holdings of debt, equity, and other assets in sanctioned Russian aluminum giant Rusal and its parent holding company, EN+.
Russia Beefs Up Crimea Defense With Another Battalion of S-400s Sputnik 21 Sep 2018 -- There are now three battalions of the advanced Russian air defense system stationed in the Crimean peninsula, which is a major strategic strongpoint for the military and the home of Russia's Black Sea Fleet.
Lavrov Denies Interference In Bosnia During Republika Srpska Visit RFE/RL 21 Sep 2018 -- Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov has traveled to Bosnia-Herzegovina for talks with Bosnian officials in Sarajevo and with the leaders of the Republika Srpska entity in Banja Luka.
Russia asks Israel to give more explanation on plane downing in Syria Press TV 21 Sep 2018 -- Russia's Foreign Ministry has urged Israel to provide further explanations on the deadly crash of a Russian military plane in the Syrian province of Latakia, which was shot down as a result of the Israeli pilots' unprofessional actions.
Israeli Air Force Chief Holds 'Open' Talks In Moscow On Syrian Downing Of Russian Plane RFE/RL 21 Sep 2018 -- Israel's air force chief held "professional, open" talks with officials in Moscow in the aftermath of the shoot-down of a Russian warplane by Syria earlier in the week that Russian officials said was caused by Israeli actions.
Netanyahu Orders Commander to Continue Contacts With Russia on Il-20 Incident Sputnik 21 Sep 2018 -- Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu on Friday received a report from Air Force Commander Maj. Gen. Amikam Norkin on the results of his talks in Moscow on the crash of the Russian Il-20 in Syria and instructed him to continue contacts with Russia on this matter, Netanyahu's office said.
IDF Source Claims Israel Warned Russia Much Earlier Than Minute Before Airstrike Sputnik 21 Sep 2018 -- A high-ranking IDF source said that Israel was ready to provide Russia with any additional details that may be required to identify the reasons why the IL-20 crashed.
Lavrov: Idleb agreement aims to eradicate terrorism in Syria IRNA 21 Sep 2018 -- Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov said the agreement on Idleb recently made public in Sochi is aimed primarily at eradicating terrorism in Syria.
Kremlin Scrambles As Regions Prepare For Runoff Votes RFE/RL 21 Sep 2018 -- There is an unspoken agreement in the Russian political scene: the heads of the country's 85 regions enjoy the Kremlin's backing, and in exchange they deliver high local support and election turnout for the ruling United Russia party.
Moscow, China Lash Out Over Latest U.S. Sanctions RFE/RL 21 Sep 2018 -- Russia and China have criticized new sanctions the United States has imposed over what Washington describes as Moscow's "malign activities."
Lavrov: Russia-Turkey Deal on Idlib Just Interim Step Sputnik 21 Sep 2018 -- The decision by Russia and Turkey on Idlib is an intermediate step; the demilitarized zone will prevent the shelling of Syrian troops at Hmeymim base, Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov said.
China, Russia Agree to Speed Up Talks on Joint Helicopter Project – Minister Sputnik 21 Sep 2018 -- China and Russia have agreed to accelerate negotiations on the project for the joint development of a heavy-lift helicopter, Chinese Minister of Industry and Information Technology Miao Wei said on Friday.
Russian Bombers Carry Out Scheduled Arctic Ocean Flights, Shadowed by UK Jets Sputnik 21 Sep 2018 -- Two Russian Tu-160 strategic bombers have conducted scheduled flights over neutral waters of the Arctic Ocean, the Russian Defense Ministry said late on Thursday.
UK, France dispatch jets to intercept Russian bombers over North Sea Press TV 21 Sep 2018 -- Britain and France have separately scrambled fighter jets to intercept two Russian long-range bombers that they said were approaching UK airspace over the North Sea.
Bellingcat Claims Petrov, Boshirov Were Busted in Netherlands Earlier Sputnik 21 Sep 2018 -- While the investigators appeared eager to publish their latest findings about the travels of the two men allegedly involved in the Skripal affair, the Dutch authorities are yet to comment on this development.
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 20 Sep 2018
Bellingcat Says Data 'Confirms' Skripal Suspects Had Links To Russian Military Intelligence RFE/RL 20 Sep 2018 -- The independent Bellingcat research organization claims to have more information that the two men suspected in the poisoning of former Russian spy Sergei Skripal have links to Russian military intelligence, known as the GRU.
Russia, Turkey 'optimistic' about Syria's Idlib deal, working out details: UN official Press TV 20 Sep 2018 -- Russia and Turkey say they are optimistic about but still working on a demilitarized buffer zone to separate Syrian government troops from Takfiri militant groups in the northwestern province of Idlib, says the UN humanitarian adviser, as Ankara seeks to forestall a full-scale military operation by Damascus against terrorists in the militant-held region.
Russian embassy: Israel's irresponsible acts let to plane downing in Syria Press TV 20 Sep 2018 -- Moscow's embassy in Tel Aviv lashes out at Israel for its "irresponsible and unfriendly actions," which led to the deaths of 15 Russian servicemen aboard an ill-fated aircraft in Syria, as Israel's air force commander visits Russia to give explanations on the tragic incident.
Israel is to blame for crash of Russian plane: Syrian president Press TV 20 Sep 2018 -- Syrian President Bashar al-Assad says the Tel Aviv regime is to blame for the tragic deaths of over a dozen Russian servicemen aboard an Il-20 surveillance aircraft, which was accidentally shot down by Syrian air defenses while they were responding to a wave of Israeli air raids.
Israeli Air Force Chief Travels To Moscow Amid Shoot-Down Anger RFE/RL 20 Sep 2018 -- The chief of the Israeli Air Force is traveling to Moscow on September 20 for discussions after a Russian military surveillance plane was shot down over Syria's coast, killing 15 Russian service-members.
Israel Reiterates Its Stance on Russian IL-20 Downing in Syria Sputnik 20 Sep 2018 -- Israeli Defense Minister Avigdor Lieberman said he understands Moscow's accusations of involvement in the Russian Il-20 crash, but reiterated that the responsibility for the incident lies on the Syrian militaries.
Russian Troops Patrol Golan Heights After Incident Involving Downing of IL-20 Sputnik 20 Sep 2018 -- Russian military police have been deployed to de-escalation zones across Syria since late 2016 to help maintain security in the war-torn country amid the ongoing operations by the Syrian military and its allies to clear Syria of a collection of mostly jihadist militants.
Russian MoD Refutes Claim Il-20 Hit Due to Failure in Friend/Foe Identification Sputnik 20 Sep 2018 -- Each state has its own Identification Friend or Foe (IFF) system and Russia does not install its identification systems on armaments exported abroad, the Russian Defense Ministry spokesman Maj. Gen. Igor Konashenkov said.
UK fighter jets intercept Russian bombers approaching UK airspace UK MOD 20 Sep 2018 -- Russian Blackjack bombers were not talking to air traffic control, making them a hazard to all other aviation
Ukraine's Poroshenko Sees 'Risk' Of Russia Sanctions Easing RFE/RL 20 Sep 2018 -- Ukrainian President Petro Poroshenko has warned that there is a risk of international sanctions imposed on Russia for its actions in Ukraine being eased.
Sanctions Under Section 231 of the Countering America's Adversaries Through Sanctions Act of 2017 (CAATSA) US Dept. of State 20 Sep 2018 -- "Today, President Donald J. Trump issued a new Executive Order, "Authorizing the Implementation of Certain Sanctions Set Forth in the Countering America's Adversaries Through Sanctions Act." This action furthers the implementation of certain sanctions in Countering America's Adversaries Through Sanctions Act (CAATSA) with respect to the Russian Federation."
US Sanctions Chinese Entity Over Purchase of Russian Fighters, S-400s – Treasury Sputnik 20 Sep 2018 -- The Trump administration says it has yet to make a decision on whether to sanction other potential buyers of the Russian air defense system.
US Put 33 Russian Officials to Sanction List After Treasury Receives New Powers Sputnik 20 Sep 2018 -- In early August, the United States announced a new round of sanctions against Russia over its alleged involvement in the poisoning of former Russian spy Sergei Skripal and his daughter Yulia in UK's Salisbury in March.
U.S. Blacklists 33 Russians, Companies Linked To Military, Intelligence Agencies RFE/RL 20 Sep 2018 -- The U.S. State Department said it was blacklisting nearly three dozen Russian people and companies with ties to military and intelligence agencies, in its latest effort to punish Moscow for "malign activities."
Russian Election Authorities Annul Results Of Fraud-Marred Regional Vote RFE/RL 20 Sep 2018 -- Electoral authorities in Russia's Far Eastern Primorye region annulled the result of a disputed gubernatorial runoff vote, after the country's top election official said it was marred by "serious violations."
World Anti-Doping Agency Lifts Ban On Russia, Under 'Strict Conditions RFE/RL 20 Sep 2018 -- The World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA) has lifted the suspension of Russia's anti-doping agency (RUSADA), despite opposition from dozens of athletes and the anti-doping establishment.
MiG-31 Fighter Jet Crashes in Nizhny Novgorod Region Sputnik 20 Sep 2018 -- The Russian Defense Ministry has reported that a MiG-31 interceptor jet crashed on September 19 during a scheduled training flight in the Nizhny Novgorod region. Both pilots were able to eject and land safely.
US sanctions Chinese military agency for buying Russian equipment Press TV 20 Sep 2018 -- The United States on has slapped sanctions on a Chinese military agency for buying defense equipment from Russia.
Tehran has right to develop missile program: Moscow IRNA 20 Sep 2018 -- Moscow believes that the development of the Iranian missile program is Tehran's sovereign right, and all the issues arising in this regard should be resolved without pressure, especially military, at the negotiating table, A Russian official said.
'Shocked' Russian Elections Chief Urges Annulment Of Fraud-Marred Vote RFE/RL 19 Sep 2018 -- Russia's top election official has recommended that regional authorities annul the result of a disputed gubernatorial runoff vote in the Primorye region, where the Communist Party cried foul after the Kremlin-backed incumbent surged ahead at the end of the ballot count.
Potential Readmission Of Russia's Anti-Doping Agency Sparks Outcry RFE/RL 19 Sep 2018 -- Dozens of athletes, a key Russian whistle-blower, and the World Anti-Doping Agency's (WADA) deputy head have expressed opposition to the lifting of the suspension of Russia's anti-doping agency (RUSADA) this week following a major doping scandal.
UK Foreign Office: Russia's Vostok Drills Show Moscow's Aggressive Nature Sputnik 19 Sep 2018 -- Russia's latest large-scale Vostok-2018 military drills showed that Moscow has become "more assertive" in its military presence, UK Minister of State for the Commonwealth and United Nations Tariq Ahmad said on Wednesday in a letter obtained by Sputnik.
MiG-31 Interceptor Jet Crashes in Central Russia - Russian Defense Ministry Sputnik 19 Sep 2018 -- According to the Russian Defense Ministry, a MiG-31 aircraft crashed in the Nizhny Novgorod region.
Widow of Poisoned Spy: UK Has Upped Response to Would-Be Assassins VOA 19 Sep 2018 -- The widow of an ex-KGB agent who was poisoned by a radioactive isotope in 2006 says Britain's swift medical and diplomatic response to the recent nerve agent attack on former Russian spy Sergei Skripal and his daughter shows some improvement by British officials.
Russia rejects US claim of supplying fuel to North Korea Press TV 19 Sep 2018 -- Moscow has dismissed allegations by Washington that Russia helped North Korea acquire fuel through transfers at sea in violation of sanctions against Pyongyang.
Moscow Regrets US Attempt to Control UNSC Regarding N Korea Sanctions Issue Sputnik 19 Sep 2018 -- Earlier in the day, Russia's ambassador to North Korea, Alexander Matsegora, said that the US claims that Russia was "cheating" on the UN Security Council (UNSC) resolution on North Korea were totally groundless and that the state strictly complied with its obligations.
U.S. Downplays Russian Plane Shoot-Down, Vows To Continue Fight Against IS RFE/RL 19 Sep 2018 -- U.S. officials expressed sorrow over the shoot-down of a Russian military surveillance plane off the Syrian coast and said it would not affect the U.S. campaign against Islamic State (IS) fighters.
Syrian President Assad Says Il-20 Crash 'Result of Israeli Arrogance' - Reports Sputnik 19 Sep 2018 -- Syrian president Bashar Al-Assad has sent a letter to Russian president Vladimir Putin, expressing his condolences over the recent Russian Il-20 plane crash in Syria, local media reported.
President Putin says Russia will start building 2 nuclear reactors in Hungary soon Press TV 18 Sep 2018 -- President Vladimir Putin has said that Russia will start construction of two new reactors in Hungary soon.
Hungary's Orban Warms to Putin Over Nuclear Deal VOA 18 Sep 2018 -- Russia has reiterated its commitment to investing tens of billions of dollars in Hungary's energy sector, despite the ongoing European sanctions against Moscow. Russian President Vladimir Putin backed the deal Tuesday after hosting Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orban at the Kremlin.
Russia: Idleb Agreement stresses fighting terrorism in Syria IRNA 18 Sep 2018 -- Russia's Representative at the UN Vasily Nebenzya said that the agreement on Idleb in Sochi emphasizes the fight against terrorism in Syria and that Syrians have the right to decide the future of their country according to UNSC resolution no. 2254.
Defense Minister: Russia not to engage in Idlib IRNA 18 Sep 2018 -- Russian Defense Minister Sergei Shoigu announced that his country will not conduct military operations in Syria.
Downed Russian Aircraft US Dept. of State 18 Sep 2018
Russia holds Israel accountable for Russian aircraft downing IRNA 18 Sep 2018 -- The Russian Defense Ministry held the Israeli entity accountable for the destruction of the Russian aircraft in Syria.
Putin: Syrian Downing of Russian Jet Was 'Tragic, Accidental' VOA 18 Sep 2018 -- Russian President Vladimir Putin on Tuesday called the downing of a Russian military plane by Syria "a chain of tragic, accidental circumstances," tamping down what could have turned into a tense situation with Israel.
U.S. sees missing Russian aircraft accidentally downed by Syrian forces: report People's Daily 18 Sep 2018 -- The United States believed that the Russian aircraft that went missing on Monday over the Mediterranean had been mistakenly shot down by Syrian forces, U.S. media reported on Monday citing a U.S. official with knowledge of the incident.
Russian aircraft with 14 aboard goes off radar near Hmeymim airbase in Syria People's Daily 18 Sep 2018 -- A Russian aircraft with 14 servicemen on board went off radar near Hmeymim airbase in Syria Monday evening, the Russian defense ministry said in a statement.
Israeli aerial operations in violation of Syria's sovereignty, Putin says Press TV 18 Sep 2018 -- Russian President Vladimir Putin says the Israeli military's aerial operations in the Syrian airspace are in flagrant violation of the incumbent Damascus government's sovereignty as tensions are simmering between Moscow and Tel Aviv over the downing of the Russian Ilyushin Il-20 reconnaissance aircraft in the western Syrian province of Latakia.
Russia: Deliberate Israeli provocation led to plane downing Press TV 18 Sep 2018 -- Russia blames Israeli warplanes for "creating a dangerous situation" that led to the shooting down of a Russian military plane by Syrian air defense systems, saying it reserves the right to give a due response to the hostile action.
Russian plane with 14 on board goes off radars amid Israeli air raids on Syria Press TV 18 Sep 2018 -- A Russian military Il-20 plane carrying 14 service members disappeared from radars on Monday night as four Israeli jet fighters were attacking state institutions in Syria's Latakia.
Israel Rejects Russian Blame For Deadly Downing Of Surveillance Plane By Syria RFE/RL 18 Sep 2018 -- Syrian air defenses inadvertently shot down a Russian surveillance plane over the eastern Mediterranean Sea, Moscow has said, blaming what it called reckless actions by Israel that led to the deaths of 15 Russian servicemen.
Il-20 Accidentally Downed by Syria: Putin Calls Incident Tragic Chain of Events Sputnik 18 Sep 2018 -- A Russian military aircraft went off radar near Hmeymim Airbase on Monday, which coincided with Israeli strikes on Syrian targets in Latakia. On Tuesday, the Russian MoD stated that the plane was downed by Syrian air defenses after Israeli jets used it as cover. In light of the revelations, Sputnik has rounded up the key details about the incident.
F-16s Were Already in Israeli Airspace When Syria Hit Russian Aircraft - IDF Sputnik 18 Sep 2018 -- The IDF stated earlier in the day that Israel would share all information on the incident with Moscow, also expressing regret over the deaths of the Russian troops and put the blame on Damascus and Tehran.
Downed Il-20 Was on Recon Mission Over Idlib De-Escalation Zone – Russian MoD Sputnik 18 Sep 2018 -- The Russian Hmeymim airbase had lost contact with the crew of the Russian Il-20 military aircraft late on Monday during the attack of four Israeli F-16 aircraft on Syrian targets in the province of Latakia.
Putin: Israel Didn't Down Il-20, Chain of Tragic Circumstances Led to Incident Sputnik 18 Sep 2018 -- Vladimir Putin has addressed the downing of a Russian IL-20 by a Syrian surface-to-air missile on Monday evening. Earlier Moscow blamed Israeli jets for having provoked the tragic accident.
Berlin Hospital Says 'Highly Plausible' Russian Activist Was Poisoned RFE/RL 18 Sep 2018 -- German doctors treating Pyotr Verzilov have said that the anti-Kremlin activist was probably poisoned, and a Moscow newspaper reports a possible connection with the killing of three Russian journalists in the Central African Republic (C.A.R.) in July.
Tension Builds In Russian Far East Region After Disputed Vote Count RFE/RL 18 Sep 2018 -- Rival contenders for the governorship in a Russian Pacific region girded for court battles, and more protests, after an unusual last-minute vote count in a runoff election gave victory to the ruling party incumbent.
Name Your Poison: Exotic Toxins Fell Kremlin Foes RFE/RL 18 Sep 2018 -- The suspected poisoning of anti-Kremlin activist Pyotr Verzilov in Moscow -- just a few months after nerve-agent poisonings in Britain that led to one death and left three others severely ill -- conjures up memories of other Kremlin foes who have fallen victim to toxic attacks in the Vladimir Putin era and previously.
U.K. Judge Rules Spy Evidence On Dead Russian Businessman Should Stay Secret RFE/RL 18 Sep 2018 -- Material about possible links between British spy agencies and a Russian businessman who died in mysterious circumstances in Britain nearly six years ago will remain secret, a judge has ruled.
Russia's fresh 'proof' shows Kiev missile downed MH17 flight Press TV 17 Sep 2018 -- Russia's Defense Ministry has released fresh information showing that the missile which shot down a Malaysia Airlines flight over the conflict-ridden eastern Ukraine in 2014 was fired by Kiev forces, refuting evidence by an investigation group that pointed the finger of blame at the Kremlin.
In New Claim, Moscow Says MH17 Missile Came From Ukraine; Kyiv Cries 'Fake' RFE/RL 17 Sep 2018 -- The Russian military has made a new claim about the downing of a passenger jet over the war zone in eastern Ukraine in 2014, asserting that the missile that brought Malaysia Airlines Flight 17 down was sent to Soviet Ukraine after it was made in 1986 and never returned to Russia.
Russian Military Reveals Evidence Proving Ukraine's Involvement in MH17 Crash Sputnik 17 Sep 2018 -- New details have emerged about the tragic fate of the Malaysian Airlines Boeing 777 that crashed in eastern Ukraine in July 2014.
Moscow Regrets Ukraine's Termination Treaty of Friendship With Russia Sputnik 17 Sep 2018 -- Ukrainian President Petro Poroshenko has executed a decision endorsed by his National Security and Defense Council to scrap the Russian–Ukrainian friendship treaty, his administration's press service said in a statement.
Erdogan, Putin Strike Deal on Idlib Demilitarized Zone VOA 17 Sep 2018 -- Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan and his Russian counterpart Vladimir Putin say they have reached an agreement that averts a looming military offensive on the Syrian rebel-held Idlib enclave.
Russia, Turkey agree to create buffer zone in Syria's Idlib Press TV 17 Sep 2018 -- The leaders of Turkey and Russia say they have agreed to create a demilitarized buffer zone to separate Syrian government troops from Takfiri militant groups in the northwestern province of Idlib, as Ankara seeks to prevent a full-scale operation by the Damascus government against thousands of terrorists in the militant-held region.
Russia, Turkey Agree To Create Buffer Zone In Syria's Idlib RFE/RL 17 Sep 2018 -- The presidents of Russia and Turkey have agreed to create a demilitarized buffer zone in Syria's Idlib region to separate government and rebel forces.
Turkey to Cooperate With Russia on Eliminating Terrorists in Idlib - Erdogan Sputnik 17 Sep 2018 -- Turkey is ready to cooperate with Russia on the fight against terrorist groups in the Syrian northwestern province of Idlib, Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan said ahead of his upcoming talks with Russian President Vladimir Putin.
'Unprecedented Audacity': A 'Magic' Comeback For Kremlin's Candidate In Disputed Gubernatorial Ballot RFE/RL 17 Sep 2018 -- Less than a week before the gubernatorial runoff in Russia's Far East Primorsky Krai, President Vladimir Putin met with the Kremlin-backed candidate, who had failed to secure the required majority to defeat his Communist Party runner-up outright in the first round.
Communists Cry Foul Over Opponent's Sudden Surge In Russian Runoff Vote RFE/RL 17 Sep 2018 -- Supporters of Russia's Communist Party are protesting after the ruling United Russia party's candidate suddenly surged ahead in the final stages of the vote count in a runoff election for governor of the Primorye region.
Russian Activist Verzilov Doing 'Better' After Possible Poisoning RFE/RL 17 Sep 2018 -- Russian activist Pyotr Verzilov, a member of the anti-Kremlin punk band Pussy Riot and the dissident art troupe Voina, is doing better since he arrived in Berlin for treatment following a suspected poisoning, friends say.
Switzerland Demands Russia 'End Illegal Activities' After Two Suspected Spy Cases RFE/RL 17 Sep 2018 -- A diplomatic war of words between Switzerland and Russia has intensified, with the Swiss demanding that Moscow cease spying activities on its territory after two suspected espionage cases came to light in recent days.
Russia Calls Swiss Accusations Regarding Security Service Activity Absurd Sputnik 17 Sep 2018 -- Swiss Foreign Minister Ignazio Cassis said on Monday that he wanted to discuss the matter regarding two Russian nationals suspected of spying on the Spiez laboratory near Bern at his meeting with Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov next week, the Swiss newspaper Tages-Anzeiger reported on Monday.
Bern Curtails Russian Diplomats, Alleges Wrongdoing - Swiss Foreign Ministry Sputnik 17 Sep 2018 -- Switzerland has tightened the procedure for accrediting Russian diplomats, due to suspicions of illegal activity, the Swiss Foreign Ministry told Sputnik.
WikiLeaks Denies Reports About Assange's Attempts to Get Russian Visa Sputnik 17 Sep 2018 -- The WikiLeaks founder was accused of rape and molestation days ahead of the bombshell revelation of US diplomatic cables. He claims that the charges are false and invented only to arrest him so he can be deported to the US, which seeks his capture over the major leak.
Russia says Iran sanctions 'unproductive', warns of impacts Press TV 17 Sep 2018 -- Russia has described emerging US sanctions against Iran as 'unproductive' with the country's top energy official warning that there would be consequences for the world should Iran's oil supplies to global markets are halted due to the sanctions.
Russia: IAEA reports shows Iran's full compliance with JCPOA IRNA 17 Sep 2018 -- Russia's representative to the Vienna-based international organizations Mikhail Ulyanov says the recent report of the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) indicated Iran's full compliance with the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action.
US: Russia 'Cheating' on North Korea Sanctions Implementation VOA 17 Sep 2018 -- U.S. Ambassador to the United Nations Nikki Haley accused Russia of "cheating" on international sanctions against North Korea, saying Moscow is undermining U.S. efforts to denuclearize the Korean peninsula.
US envoy to UN accuses Russia of 'cheating' on North Korea sanctions Press TV 17 Sep 2018 -- US Ambassador to the United Nations Nikki Haley has accused Russia of "cheating" on UN sanctions on North Korea and said Washington has "evidence of consistent and wide-ranging violations" by Moscow.
Russia Denies US Accusations of Violating North Korea Sanctions - UN Ambassador Sputnik 17 Sep 2018 -- Russia refutes the claims made by the United States that Moscow has breached the sanctions regime against North Korea, Russian Ambassador to the United Nations Vassily Nebenzia said on Monday.
Baikonur Facilities to Undergo Overhaul Before OneWeb Satellites Launch - Source Sputnik 16 Sep 2018 -- The assembly and testing facility of the Baikonur cosmodrome which will be used for the launch of OneWeb satellites atop Russian rockets will go through a reconstruction ahead of the beginning of the launches, a source at the cosmodrome told Sputnik Sunday.
Russian Tu-160 Performs 9 Hour Flight Passing Over North Pole Sputnik 16 Sep 2018 -- The giant supersonic strategic bomber with variable-sweep wings is the biggest and heaviest in its class in the world. It is capable of flying 12,300 km without mid-air refueling.
Russia to Conduct Large-Scale Military Exercises Every Five Years - Minister Sputnik 16 Sep 2018 -- Russia plans to conduct large-scale military exercises twice a decade, Russian Defense Minister Sergei Shoigu said in an interview.
Skripal Poisoning 'Suspects' Have Nothing to Do With Putin - Kremlin Sputnik 16 Sep 2018 -- On September 13, RT released an interview with Petrov and Boshirov, in which they denied any involvement in the Skripal case. The men stressed that they have no connection to the Russian military intelligence service (GRU) and were simply visiting Salisbury as tourists.
WADA Defends Russian Anti-Doping Agency Reinstatement Recommendation Amid Criticism RFE/RL 15 Sep 2018 -- The World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA) has defended its review committee's decision to recommend reinstatement of Russia's antidoping organization amid criticism about transparency and the resignation of a Canadian Olympic champion from the panel.
Putin, Abe Reportedly Discussed Upcoming Peace Treaty Negotiations Sputnik 15 Sep 2018 -- Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe and Russian President Vladimir Putin exchanged opinions about the upcoming talks after Putin expressed his initiative on the peace treaty between the two countries, local media reported.
Russia holds largest military drill since Cold War Press TV 15 Sep 2018 -- Russia has held its largest-ever military drills in the Sea of Japan, amid rising tensions between Moscow and NATO.
Russian Orthodox Church Warns Of Violence As It 'Cuts Ties' With Bartholomew RFE/RL 15 Sep 2018 -- The Russian Orthodox Church has announced it will no longer take part in structures chaired by the Ecumenical Patriarchate of Constantinople and that a deepening row in Orthodox Christianity over the Ukrainian Church's bid to formally break away from Russia's orbit may lead to violence.
Russian Air Force Destroys 'Hostile' Airbase During Scaled Vostok-2018 Drills Sputnik 15 Sep 2018 -- More than 10 Russian Tu-22M3 bombers carried out an airstrike on an airfield of the simulated enemy in the Zabaikalsky Territory as part of the Vostok-2018 drills, the Russian Defense Ministry's press service said on Saturday in a statement obtained by Sputnik.
Swiss Confirm Russians Tried To Hack Lab Analyzing Skripal Samples RFE/RL 15 Sep 2018 -- The Swiss government has confirmed reports that Dutch authorities had arrested and expelled two suspected Russian spies earlier this year after the two allegedly tried to hack a Swiss laboratory that conducts chemical weapons tests.
New Delhi attaches 'highest importance' to ties with Moscow: Indian FM Press TV 15 Sep 2018 -- Senior Indian and Russian officials have discussed ways to develop trade ties and remove barriers in investment, science and technology as well as other issues of mutual interests.
Russian 'hybrid warfare' targeting German troops in NATO: Merkel Press TV 15 Sep 2018 -- Germany says it is boosting military cyber capabilities to respond to Russian "hybrid warfare" techniques, targeting "NATO forces deployed in Eastern Europe".
Pompeo says Russia is in breach of sanctions against North Korea Press TV 15 Sep 2018 -- US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo has accused Russia of working to undermine economic sanctions imposed on North Korea, arguing that implementing the bans is the only way to force Pyongyang to give up its nuclear weapons.
NATO Embraces Strong' Approach with Russia VOA 14 Sep 2018 -- NATO Secretary General Jens Stoltenberg says he has no intention of backing down in the face of a "resurgent" Russia, insisting the Western alliance will hold a firm but fair line with Moscow while continuing to accept former Soviet states.
Russia will continue supporting Syria in combating terrorism IRNA 14 Sep 2018 -- Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov said Moscow stands with Syria in the fight against terrorism, adding that the presence of foreign forces which have not been invited by the Syrian state is illegal.
Russia's Putin concerned by terrorist moves in Syria's Idlib: Kremlin Press TV 14 Sep 2018 -- Russian President Vladimir Putin has expressed his concern over terrorist activities in the northwestern Syrian province of Idlib, the RIA news agency cites the Kremlin as saying.
Ankara Keeps Plans to Buy S-400 Systems Despite US Pressure - Russian Deputy PM Sputnik 14 Sep 2018 -- Deputy Prime Minister Yury Borisov's statement comes following earlier US media reports that Turkey has begun construction of a platform site for a Russian S-400 missile defense system, despite pressure from Washington to abandon plans to purchase the military equipment.
Russian War Games Seek to Cement Ties With China, Send Message to West VOA 14 Sep 2018 -- Russia is holding its largest military exercises since the Cold War in the far eastern part of the country, and for the first time it has invited contingents from China and Mongolia.
Bellingcat: Russian Documents Suggest Novichok Suspects Were Operatives RFE/RL 14 Sep 2018 -- The independent Bellingcat research organization says it has reviewed Russian documents, which indicate that the two men suspected in the poisoning of British spy Sergei Skripal have no records in the Russian resident database prior to 2009, a sign they may be working as operatives for the government.
Novichok Suspects: Gay Or Not Gay? That Is Russian State Media's Question RFE/RL 14 Sep 2018 -- "Living together is merrier and easier, it's normal," explained Ruslan Boshirov as he appeared to defend himself against the suggestion that he and fellow Novichok-poisoning suspect Aleksandr Petrov had slept in the same bed during their March trip to England.
Russia Ready For Serious Talks With London on Skripal Case - Lavrov Sputnik 14 Sep 2018 -- Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov has announced that Moscow is prepared to conduct serious talks with London regarding the investigation of the alleged poisoning of Sergei Skripal.
North Korea warns US as China, Russia back Pyongyang Press TV 14 Sep 2018 -- China says it has sternly protested to the US for imposing sanctions on a tech firm which Washington accuses of moving illicit funding to North Korea.
US imposes North Korea-related sanctions on Russian, Chinese tech firms Press TV 14 Sep 2018 -- The United States has imposed sanctions on two tech firms, one in Russia and one in China, accusing them of moving illicit funding to North Korea in violation of American sanctions.
U.S. Accuses Russia Of Altering UN Report On North Korea Sanctions RFE/RL 14 Sep 2018 -- The United States has accused Russia of altering an independent United Nations report to cover up Moscow's alleged violation of UN sanctions on North Korea.
Pompeo Accuses Russia of Undermining Sanctions Policy on North Korea Sputnik 14 Sep 2018 -- Russia is working actively to undermine US sanctions against North Korea, US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo said in a press conference on Friday, echoing accusations lodged a day earlier by US Ambassador to the UN Nikki Haley.
Beijing, Moscow vow to reinforce military relations, combat abilities People's Daily 14 Sep 2018 -- China and Russia vowed to further deepen military ties and improve their troops' combat abilities to respond to various security threats, as they formally concluded the "Vostok-2018" strategic drills with a military parade on Thursday.
Pentagon Protests After U.S. Jets Intercept Russian Bombers Near Alaska RFE/RL 14 Sep 2018 -- The Pentagon has issued a protest after U.S. Air Force fighter jets intercepted two Russian bombers in international airspace west of the U.S. state of Alaska.
US Air Force F-22s intercept Russian nuclear bomber off Alaska Press TV 13 Sep 2018 -- The US Air Force has intercepted two Russian nuclear-capable jets flying near Alaska, according to a statement by the North American Aerospace Defense Command (NORAD).
US Fighter Jets Intercept Russian Tu-95 Bombers West of Alaska - NORAD Sputnik 13 Sep 2018 -- The Russian Defense Ministry said in a statement Wednesday that Tu-95MS strategic bombers have carried out patrol flights over the three northern seas surrounding the country and the Arctic Ocean as part of the international large-scaled Vostok-2018 military war games.
NATO, Russia Drill Their Military Forces Amid Raised Tensions RFE/RL 13 Sep 2018 -- British, French, Italian, and German jets have simulated flight interceptions over Western Europe as part of NATO maneuvers to deter Russian planes from entering alliance airspace.
Putin vows to beef up army to better defend Russia, allies Press TV 13 Sep 2018 -- Russia's President Vladimir Putin says his country's military practices are defensive and offensive in nature, and has pledged to strengthen Russia's armed forces and provide them with the "latest weapons and technologies" to help them better protect the country and its allies.
EU Court Upholds Sanctions On Russian Energy Companies, Banks RFE/RL 13 Sep 2018 -- The European Union's General Court has upheld the bloc's sanctions regime against Russian bank and energy companies over Russia's involvement in the crisis in Ukraine.
EU Prolongs Russia Sanctions Until March 2019 RFE/RL 13 Sep 2018 -- The European Union has extended by another six months visa bans and asset freeze against 155 Russian and Ukrainian individuals, as well as 44 companies, for undermining or threatening the independence of Ukraine.
HRW Slams Russia's 'Strong-Arm Response' To Peaceful Protesters RFE/RL 13 Sep 2018 -- Russian police arbitrarily detained hundreds of protesters, including "older people and children," taking part in September 9 peaceful demonstrations against the government's plan to raise the retirement age, Human Rights Watch (HRW) said.
U.S. Warns Sanctions Possible On Nord Stream 2 Pipeline RFE/RL 13 Sep 2018 -- Washington may follow through on threats to impose sanctions over the construction of an underwater natural gas pipeline between Russia to Germany, U.S. Energy Secretary Rick Perry has said.
Top Republican Lawmaker Calls For Stronger U.S. Action Against Russia RFE/RL 13 Sep 2018 -- A top U.S. Republican lawmaker has called for more to be done to punish Russia for its "aggressive acts" in Syria, Ukraine, and elsewhere, as pressure grows in Congress to move more forcefully against Moscow.
US Believes Sanctions Have Cost Moscow Tens of Billions of Dollars - State Dep't Sputnik 13 Sep 2018 -- US sanctions against Russia have cost Moscow dozens of billions of dollars, Assistant Secretary of State for Economic and Business Affairs Manisha Singh said during a congressional hearing on Thursday.
Vostok-2018 Drills Show Russian Army Capable of Countering Threats - Putin Sputnik 13 Sep 2018 -- Russian President Vladimir Putin arrived on Thursday at the Tsugol Range in Russia's Zabaikalsky Territory to attend the main stage of the Vostok-2018 maneuvers.
Russians Accused in UK Poisoning: 'Coincidence' They Were in Salisbury VOA 13 Sep 2018 -- Two Russian men accused by Britain of carrying out the March poisoning of a former Russian spy in Salisbury, England, said Thursday it was just an "incredible, fatal coincidence" they were in the city at the time of the attack.
UK rejects poisoning suspects' claims, reiterates they were Russia agents Press TV 13 Sep 2018 -- Authorities in Britain have rejected claims by two Russians suspected of poisoning a double spy in March in the English town of Salisbury, repeating their previous statements that the pair were Moscow's agents and had carried out the attack on Sergei Skripal and his daughter.
Russian Novichok Suspects Claim They Visited Salisbury As Tourists RFE/RL 13 Sep 2018 -- Two men accused by London of poisoning former spy Sergei Skripal and his daughter with a military-grade nerve agent have told Russia's state-funded RT television station they visited the British city of Salisbury in March as tourists.
Skripal Poisoning "Suspects" Tell Sputnik, RT Editor-in-Chief They're Not Agents Sputnik 13 Sep 2018 -- The statement comes following an announcement from Sputnik and RT editor-in-chief Margarita Simonyan that the "suspects" in the Skripal poisoning case had agreed to be interviewed by RT and Sputnik.
Treasury Targets North Korea-Controlled Information Technology Companies in China and Russia US Treasury 13 Sep 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 sanctions. Today's action against two entities and one individual targets the revenue North Korea earns from overseas information technology (IT) workers.
In Surprise Move, Putin Proposes Signing Peace Pact With Japan This Year RFE/RL 12 Sep 2018 -- Russian President Vladimir Putin has proposed signing a World War II peace treaty with Japan by the end of the year "without preconditions."
Iran, Russia call for continued anti-terror fight in Syria at UN Security Council Press TV 12 Sep 2018 -- At the UN Security Council, Iran and Russia have underlined the need to purge Takfiri terrorists from their last major stronghold in Syria amid strong objections by sponsors of militant groups fighting against the Syrian government.
Russia Calls on OPCW Not To Allow Provocation With Chem Weapons in Idlib - Envoy Sputnik 12 Sep 2018 -- Earlier, the Russian Defense Ministry warned that it had intelligence indicating that militants in the besieged terrorist-held Syrian province of Idlib had started creating footage of fake chemical attacks in an effort to discredit the Syrian government.
In Russia, a whopping 300,000 troops drilling for readiness Press TV 12 Sep 2018 -- A drill mobilizing at least 300,000 troops, thousands of vehicles, fighter jets, and warships has gotten underway in Russia.
UK slams Putin's account on suspected agents in poisoning case Press TV 12 Sep 2018 -- The British government has slammed Russia's most recent clarifications on a spy poisoning case that has caused bilateral relations to sink to historic lows, saying Moscow has responded with nothing but "lies" to requests for more investigation into the issue.
Putin Says Russia Has Identified U.K.'s Novichok Suspects, Claims They Are Civilians RFE/RL 12 Sep 2018 -- President Vladimir Putin says Russia has identified the men Britain suspects of poisoning former spy Sergei Skripal and his daughter with a military-grade nerve agent, contradicting U.K. authorities by claiming they are civilians.
Russia, Iran to thwart US bid to undermine Iran deal: Ryabkov ISNA 12 Sep 2018 -- Russia and Iran will intensify work with Europe and China in coming days to counter U.S. attempts to undermine the Iran nuclear deal, Russian deputy Foreign Minister Sergei Ryabkov said.
Russia says halting Iran's oil sales 'not feasible' Press TV 12 Sep 2018 -- Russia says US efforts to bring down Iran's oil exports to zero would lead to nothing with a top official describing Washington's objectives in pursuing sanctions against Iran as "unrealistic."
Much in return for nothing: Putin slams US over North Korea Press TV 12 Sep 2018 -- Russian President Vladimir Putin has criticized the United States for not taking a single step in response to North Korea's several moves toward denuclearization, saying Washington instead continues to make "endless demands" from Pyongyang.
Putin Says North Korea Needs More Encouragement RFE/RL 12 Sep 2018 -- Russian President Vladimir Putin has said that North Korea should be given security guarantees in exchange for steps toward denuclearization, and suggested that Washington is not reciprocating adequately in its dealings with Pyongyang.
US Blocks Russian Surveillance Flights Despite Open Skies Treaty - Russian MoD Sputnik 12 Sep 2018 -- The Open Skies Treaty covers most NATO member states as well as Russia, Belarus, Ukraine, Georgia, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Sweden and Finland. As a rule, flights of Russia and NATO member states are conducted on a reciprocal basis.
Russia to kick off largest drill in decades; China, Mongolia to participate Press TV 11 Sep 2018 -- Russia is set to kick off its largest military maneuver in almost four decades in the country's Far East, with forces from China and Mongolia also participating.
Russia Holding Massive Military Drills, As Putin Meets Xi RFE/RL 11 Sep 2018 -- Russia has begun massive military exercises across its central and eastern regions, starting weeklong war games the Defense Ministry says will involve some 300,000 personnel -- twice as many as the biggest Soviet maneuvers of the Cold War era.
US Pushes NATO States to Renege on Outer Space Agreements – Moscow Sputnik 11 Sep 2018 -- The United States is exerting pressure on the NATO countries so that they roll back previously reached agreements on outer space, the director of the Russian Foreign Ministry's Department for Nonproliferation and Arms Control said.
Chinese troops take part in Russia's huge military exercise People's Daily 11 Sep 2018 -- Russia's largest military drills in over three decades, also attended by the Chinese military forces, kicked off at the Tsugol training range in Russia's Trans-Baikal region on Tuesday.
Pashinian: Moscow To Continue Supply Of Weapons To Yerevan RFE/RL 10 Sep 2018 -- Russia has agreed to continue to supply weapons to Armenia, the Caucasus country's prime minister, Nikol Pashinian, told the Kommersant newspaper in an interview.
Russia's 'Biggest-Ever' War Games Claims Seen As Message To West RFE/RL 10 Sep 2018 -- Russia this week is staging war games in Siberia and the Far East that the Kremlin has described as "the largest-ever" military-training drills on Russian territory.
Russia's Ruling Party Faces Runoffs In Four Gubernatorial Races RFE/RL 10 Sep 2018 -- Four candidates from Russia's ruling United Russia party have failed to secure first-round victories in gubernatorial elections over the weekend and will now face their respective challengers in a runoff.
Russia to Hold Largest Military Exercises in Nearly 4 Decades VOA 10 Sep 2018 -- Russia is preparing to hold its largest military drills in almost 40 years beginning Tuesday in eastern Siberia.
Putin Meets With Japan's Abe, Pledges 'Close Contacts' On North Korea RFE/RL 10 Sep 2018 -- Russian President Vladimir Putin held talks with Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe, discussing North Korea's nuclear program and other issues in the first of several planned meetings with visiting Asian leaders.
'Hundreds Detained' As Kremlin Opponents Protest Pension-Reform Plan On Election Day RFE/RL 09 Sep 2018 -- Thousands of anti-Kremlin demonstrators have taken to the streets in Russia to protest the government's plan to raise the retirement age in rallies coinciding with regional and local elections nationwide, triggering tense confrontations with police and resulting in hundreds of detentions, according to a rights-monitoring group.
Russia Protests Putin, as Pro-Kremlin Candidates Cruise to Election Wins VOA 09 Sep 2018 -- Thousands of Russians rallied against government-backed pension reforms and hundreds of them faced arrest Sunday, as Kremlin-backed candidates for governorships and the powerful mayorship post in Moscow appeared headed to easy victory in elections scattered across the country.
U.K. Will Nab Spy Poisoning Suspects If They Leave Russia, Home Secretary Says RFE/RL 09 Sep 2018 -- Britain will catch two men accused of using the Novichok nerve agent in the English town of Salisbury if they ever step out of Russia, Home Secretary Sajid Javid has said.
Putin, Armenian Prime Minister Meet In Moscow, Praise State Of Relations RFE/RL 08 Sep 2018 -- Russian President Vladimir Putin and Armenian Prime Minister Nikol Pashinian praised the current level of relations between the two countries as they met for talks in Moscow.
American marines fire shots to warn Russian forces in Syria Press TV 08 Sep 2018 -- US Marines stationed in Syria have fired air and artillery shots into a desert area in south to send Russian forces a warning.
Russian, Syrian Aircraft Pound Opposition-Controlled Idlib Province RFE/RL 08 Sep 2018 -- Russian and Syrian government aircraft have carried out intense attacks on opposition-held towns in Syria's Idlib Province.
Angered Over Pension-Reform Plan, Russians Vote In Local Elections RFE/RL 08 Sep 2018 -- Voters in regions across Russia head to the polls on September 9 for regional and local elections being held in an atmosphere of unusual public discontent sparked by a controversial government plan to raise retirement ages.
Confusion Reigns Over Identities of Alleged Russian Hitmen VOA 08 Sep 2018 -- The two Russian hitmen who British authorities accuse of attempting to murder former Russian spy Sergei Skripal and his daughter Yulia made several European trips – including half-a-dozen to Geneva – in the months leading up to the Salisbury nerve agent attack.
North Korean Leader Kim Confirmed Readiness to Visit Russia - Matvienko Sputnik 08 Sep 2018 -- North Korean leader Kim Jong-un confirmed his readiness to visit Russia, Speaker of the Russian Parliament's Upper House Valentina Matvienko told reporters adding that the timing and place of the visit would be clarified through the diplomatic channels.
France joins space race with Russia spying accusations Press TV 08 Sep 2018 -- France has announced measures to join a space race which escalated recently as the US unveiled plans for militarization of the Earth's outer space.
France Accuses Russia Of Spying On Military Satellite In Space RFE/RL 08 Sep 2018 -- A Russian satellite attempted last year to spy on a satellite providing secure communications for the French and Italian militaries, French Defense Minister Florence Parly said on September 7.
Armenian PM Calls For 'More Strategic' Relations With Russia Ahead Of Moscow Trip RFE/RL 07 Sep 2018 -- Ahead of a visit to Moscow for talks with Russian President Vladimir Putin, Armenian Prime Minister Nikol Pashinian has called for developing "much more strategic and cooperative" relations with Russia.
Moscow Watches Anxiously As Pashinian Realigns Armenia's Foreign Policy RFE/RL 07 Sep 2018 -- Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov raised a lot of eyebrows when he voiced Kremlin concern on September 3 that the "situation in Armenia is heating up."
Putin: Terrorists in Syria's Idlib Preparing Provocations Sputnik 07 Sep 2018 -- The presidents of Russia, Turkey, and Iran are meeting in Tehran on Friday for the third trilateral summit to discuss the situation in Syria.
US fighter jets shadow Russian bombers patrolling Arctic airspace Press TV 07 Sep 2018 -- Two US F-22 jet fighters have shadowed Russian Tu-95 long-range bombers training over neutral waters of the Arctic Ocean, Russia's Defense Ministry announced.
Russia's Tu-95MS Jets Carry Out Flights Over Arctic Ocean – Defense Ministry Sputnik 07 Sep 2018 -- NORAD Says Intercepted Russian TU-95 Bombers that Did Not Enter US, Canada Airspace
Russia calls for preparing ground for return of Syrian refuges IRNA 07 Sep 2018 -- Russian president on Friday called for reconstruction of Syria and planning the return of refugees.
Putin, Erdogan in Tehran for crucial Syria summit Press TV 07 Sep 2018 -- Russian President Vladimir Putin and his Turkish counterpart Recep Tayyip Erdogan have arrived in Tehran for a key summit to discuss key issues of interest, mainly a planned Syrian operation to retake Idlib.
Russia to US: Reveal your targets for possible Syria attack Press TV 07 Sep 2018 -- Russia has called on the United States to reveal the list of the targets that it will attack in response to what it claims to be an upcoming chemical attack by the Syrian government.
Total of 22 Aircraft Spotted Spying Near Russian Borders Over Past Week Sputnik 07 Sep 2018 -- A total of 22 aircraft have been found out conducting reconnaissance operations along Russian borders over the past week, the Russian armed forces' official media outlet Krasnaya Zvezda (Red Star) reported on Friday.
French Defense Ministry Claims Russia Spied on French-Italian Military Satellite Sputnik 07 Sep 2018 -- French Defense Minister Florence Parly has accused Russia of committing "an act of espionage" back in 2017, claiming that a Russian satellite then approached the French-Italian military satellite Athena-Fidus in an attempt to intercept its communications.
Iran president praises Russia's role in maintaining JCPOA Press TV 07 Sep 2018 -- Iranian President Hassan Rouhani has commended Russia for its role in bringing the Iran nuclear deal into fruition and maintaining it despite the US' illegal withdrawal.
UK Spy Chief: London Ready to Counter 'Real Threat' From 'Brazen' Russia Sputnik 07 Sep 2018 -- The GCHQ intelligence chief's warning came hot on the heels of a UN Security Council meeting where the UK envoy claimed that the Salisbury poisoning attack was perpetrated by two GRU officers.
Russia 'to fight terrorists in Syria until their obliteration' Press TV 06 Sep 2018 -- Russia has stressed that it will continue to fight terrorist forces in Syria until "their total elimination," as a full-scale liberation operation against remaining militants concentrated in Syria's northwestern province of Idlib draws close.
Russia Calls on US to Release Targets in Syria Tied to Alleged Chemical Weapons Sputnik 06 Sep 2018 -- The United States should release the list of facilities in Syria where chemical weapons are allegedly stockpiled and allow the OPCW to inspect these sites, Russian Ambassador to the UN Vassily Nebenzia told the Security Council on Thursday.
Russia denies involvement in Skripal poisoning, slams UK's 'unacceptable' claim Press TV 06 Sep 2018 -- The Russian government has categorically rejected the UK's "unacceptable" claim that Kremlin had been involved in a nerve agent attack in March on a former spy in Salisbury.
UK minister heaps blame on Putin for Novichok attack Press TV 06 Sep 2018 -- Britain's security minister has directly blamed Russian President Vladimir Putin for a poisoning attack in March in the southern English city of Salisbury a day after London named two suspects for an incident that has caused relations between the two countries to sink to historic lows.
Britain, Allies Urge Moscow To Accept 'Compelling Evidence' In Novichok Attack RFE/RL 06 Sep 2018 -- Britain, bolstered by strong backing from its allies, condemned Russia at the UN Security Council over the chemical attack on a former Russian spy and his daughter on British soil earlier this year, urging Moscow to accept the "compelling evidence in this crime."
British Security Minister Says Putin 'Ultimately Responsible' For Skripal Poisoning RFE/RL 06 Sep 2018 -- Russian President Vladimir Putin bears ultimate responsibility for the nerve-agent poisoning of a former Russian spy and his daughter in England in March, Britain's security minister says.
Kremlin Regrets London's Noncooperation With Russia on Skripal Case Sputnik 06 Sep 2018 -- Moscow has once again rejected London's newest claims over the Skripal case. On September 5, the UK police press service revealed photos of alleged suspects in the poisoning of Sergei Skripal and his daughter. The two men were said to be Russian nationals.
Putin Bears 'Strong Responsibility' for Skripal Attack - UK Security Minister Sputnik 06 Sep 2018 -- UK Minister of State for Security Ben Wallace said on Thursday that Russian President Vladimir Putin 'bears very strong responsibility' for the poisoning of Russian ex-spy Sergei Skripal and his daughter Yulia in the city of Salisbury.
Russian operatives carried out Salisbury chemical attack alleges UK; accusations part of 'post-truth world' asserts Moscow UN News 06 Sep 2018 -- The United Kingdom and Russia traded a volley of words at the United Nations Security Council on Thursday, with the former laying out information which, it alleges, clearly places two Russian military intelligence operatives behind the deadly nerve-agent attack in the English city of Salisbury on 4 March.
Kremlin: UK Accusing Russia in Ex-Spy's Poisoning 'Unacceptable' VOA 06 Sep 2018 -- Russia has again denied involvement in the poisoning of a former Russian spy and his daughter, and said Britain's accusation that Moscow played a role was unacceptable.
Four Russian Warplanes Hit Nusra Front Positions in Syria's Idlib Province - MoD Sputnik 05 Sep 2018 -- On Tuesday night, Russia's Hmeymim Airbase in Syria destroyed two terrorist drones with surface-to-air missiles, Russian Defense Ministry spokesman Maj. Gen. Igor Konashenkov said.
Drones Downed Near Hmeymim Base Launched From Idlib Zone - Russian Military Sputnik 05 Sep 2018 -- Two drones destroyed overnight to Tuesday near Russia's Hmeymim airbase in Syria were launched from the Idlib de-escalation zone, head of Russia's center for Syrian reconciliation Lt. Gen. Vladimir Savchenko said Wednesday.
Russia says airstrikes hit terrorists not populated areas in Syria's Idlib Press TV 05 Sep 2018 -- The Russian Defense Ministry says its fighter jets have bombed the positions of foreign-sponsored Takfiri terrorists in Syria's militant-held northwestern province of Idlib, as Syrian government troops and allied fighters are preparing for a ground operation to liberate the territory.
Russian Officials Warn Google Not To 'Meddle' In Elections By Hosting Navalny Videos RFE/RL 05 Sep 2018 -- Russian officials say they have warned U.S. Internet giant Google against "meddling" in local elections scheduled for this weekend by allowing Kremlin foe Aleksei Navalny to post videos calling for mass protests on YouTube.
Moscow accuses London of 'manipulating information' in nerve agent case Press TV 05 Sep 2018 -- Russia has accused the United Kingdom of "manipulating information" concerning a nerve agent attack in March on a former spy in the city of Salisbury after the British authorities charged two Russians.
U.K. Charges Russians In Novichok Case, May Says 'Not a Rogue Operation' RFE/RL 05 Sep 2018 -- Britain has announced charges against two Russian men they believe poisoned former spy Sergei Skripal and his daughter Yulia with a deadly nerve agent, alleging they were military intelligence officers acting with approval from "a senior level of the Russian state."
May's Statement on Skripal Case Unacceptable - Russian Foreign Ministry Sputnik 05 Sep 2018 -- The Russian Foreign Ministry has issued a statement, commenting on UK Prime Minister Theresa May's speech concerning new data on the Skripal case that she delivered to Parliament earlier in the day.
May Claims 2 Suspects in Skripal Poisoning Are Officers of Russian Intelligence Sputnik 05 Sep 2018 -- "We were right to say in March the Russian state was responsible," said the UK Prime Minister Theresa May, addressing the Parliament on Wednesday with an update on the Salisbury incident.
British PM: Skripals' Attackers Were Russian Military Agents VOA 05 Sep 2018 -- Two active members of Russian military intelligence were sent to Britain in March to poison a former spy, Britain's prime minister told Parliament on Wednesday after prosecutors charged two Russian nationals with conspiracy and attempted murder.
Estonia Arrests Army Officer, His Father On Suspicion Of Spying For Russia RFE/RL 05 Sep 2018 -- An Estonian Army officer and his father have been arrested on suspicion of treason and spying for Russia, authorities say.
Moscow, Tehran, Ankara Ultimately Want Put an End to War in Syria - Russian FM Sputnik 04 Sep 2018 -- Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov said that the end goals of Russia Turkey and Iran in Syria may differ at some aspects, but the countries ultimately want the Syrian conflict to end.
UN Urges Putin, Erdogan To Help Avert 'Bloodbath' In Syria's Idlib RFE/RL 04 Sep 2018 -- The presidents of Russia and Turkey should act urgently to avert a "bloodbath" in Idlib Province, the last major rebel stronghold in Syria, the UN envoy to Syria has said.
Russia dismisses President Trump's warning about offensive in Syria's Idlib Press TV 04 Sep 2018 -- Russia has strongly dismissed US President Donald Trump's warning to Syria not to carry out a full-scale offensive against terrorists in the militant-held province of Idlib, stressing that the northwestern region is a "nest of terrorism."
Peskov:Idleb situation undermines Syria political settlement IRNA 04 Sep 2018 -- Kremlin Spokesman Dmitry Peskov affirmed that Idleb province has become a nest of terrorism, where many terrorist groups have settled there and this leads to the destabilization of the situation and undermines attempts for diplomatic settlement in Syria.
Russia Joins Iran in Support of Syrian Idlib Offensive VOA 04 Sep 2018 -- Russia on Tuesday joined Iran in expressing support for Syria's impending operation to retake control of rebel-held Idlib province, the last major opposition stronghold in the country.
Russia Ready to Construct Helicopter Carriers for Foreign States Sputnik 04 Sep 2018 -- Russian shipbuilders are ready to construct helicopter carriers for foreign countries in case of relevant requests, Russian Industry and Trade Minister Denis Manturov told Sputnik.
Chemical Weapons Watchdog Confirms Novichok Killed British Woman RFE/RL 04 Sep 2018 -- The substance that killed a woman in England in June was the same Novichok nerve agent that poisoned a former Russian agent and his daughter in May, the world's chemical weapons watchdog has confirmed.
OPCW Probe Confirms Amesbury Victims Poisoned by Same Substance as Skripals Sputnik 04 Sep 2018 -- The Organisation for the Prohibition of Chemical Weapons (OPCW), which had been conducting an independent investigation into two poisoning cases, which took place in the United Kingdom, has released a report on what it called "toxic chemical incidents" in Amesbury.
Rwanda Wants Russia to Sign Deal on Air Defense Systems ASAP – Ambassador Sputnik 03 Sep 2018 -- Earlier, Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov visited Rwanda where he discussed the provision of the African state with Russian air defense systems. It led to current Rwanda's desire to sign an agreement on supplies as soon as possible, Jeanne d'Arc Mujawamariya, Rwanda's ambassador to Russia, told Sputnik.
Russia to continue supporting Syria in combating terrorism IRNA 03 Sep 2018 -- Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov reiterated that his country will continue to provide support to Syria to combat terrorism and to reach a political solution to the crisis in it based on the Security Council's resolution no. 2254.
Roscosmos Head Offers to Continue Rocket Engines Supply to US Despite Sanctions Sputnik 03 Sep 2018 -- At the same time, Russia stated that it was prepared to supply rocket engines to China, Russian state space corporation Roscosmos head Dmitry Rogozin told reporters Monday.
Syrian Government Has Every Right to Liquidate Terrorists In Idlib - Lavrov Sputnik 03 Sep 2018 -- It is impossible to tolerate the situation in Syria's Idlib province indefinitely, it is necessary to separate the armed opposition from terrorists, Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov said.
Russian Defense Enterprise to Create Tilt-Rotor Aircraft for Airborne Forces Sputnik 03 Sep 2018 -- A tilt-rotor aircraft, or convertiplane, is planned to be created for Russian Airborne Forces, which are currently preparing a customer specification, a defense industry source told Sputnik on Sunday.
India to Convey to US Plans to Go Ahead With Purchase of Russian S-400 - Reports Sputnik 03 Sep 2018 -- India plans to convey to the United States at their first "2+2" ministerial talks later this week that New Delhi will go ahead with the procurement of Russia's S-400 Triumph air defense systems despite Washington's objections and sanctions threat, the Press Trust of India (PTI) reported, citing sources.Russians Protest 'Cannibalistic' Pension Reform, Despite Putin's Concessions RFE/RL 02 Sep 2018 -- Thousands of people across Russia have protested against a deeply unpopular pension reform, despite concessions offered recently by President Vladimir Putin.
Russia-Eritrea Relations Grow with Planned Logistics Center VOA 02 Sep 2018 -- Russia and Eritrea expanded their diplomatic relationship Friday when Moscow announced plans to build a logistics center at a port in the East African country.
Iran, Russia, Iraq, Syria hold security meeting in Iraq IRNA 02 Sep 2018 -- Iran, Russia, Iraq, and Syria security committee meeting was held at Baghdad on Saturday to facilitate intelligence coordination among these countries.
Iran, Russia, Iraq, Syria hold quartet meeting in Baghdad ISNA 02 Sep 2018 -- Iraqi sources announced that senior military commanders from Iraq, Russia, Iran and Syria have met in Baghdad and exchanged views on security and intelligence cooperation.
Iraq, Russia, Iran, Syria military chiefs discuss security, intel cooperation Press TV 02 Sep 2018 -- Senior military commanders from Iraq, Russia, Iran and Syria have met in Baghdad and exchanged views on security and intelligence cooperation.
Iraqi Military Hosts Counterparts From Russia, Iran, Syria RFE/RL 01 Sep 2018 -- Iraq says its senior military commanders have met in Baghdad with their counterparts from Russia, Iran, and Syria to discuss regional security and the fight against Islamic State (IS) and other militants.
US General: Russia Trying to 'Undercut' Progress in Afghanistan VOA 01 Sep 2018 -- Russia is not giving up on efforts to destabilize Afghanistan and drive divisions between the United States and its coalition partners, according to the outgoing commander of U.S. forces in the country.
Moscow denies Hollande's claim that Putin threatened to 'crush' Ukraine troops Press TV 01 Sep 2018 -- Moscow has denied a claim made by former French president Francois Hollande in his memoirs that Russian President Vladimir Putin had threatened to "crush" Ukrainian troops.
Russia, Ukraine Trade Blame Over Zakharchenko Killing RFE/RL 01 Sep 2018 -- Ukraine and Russia are trading blame for the killing of a top separatist leader in eastern Ukraine.
Russia's foreign minister dismisses 'counterproductive' US sanctions Press TV 01 Sep 2018 -- Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov has dismissed the United States' latest sanctions against his country as counterproductive, saying the US is pushing Moscow-Washington ties into a stalemate.
Kremlin slams pro-Russia leader's murder as a 'provocation' against peace Press TV 01 Sep 2018 -- Russian President Vladimir Putin's spokesman has denounced the murder of pro-Russia forces' leader in eastern Ukraine as a "provocation" that will undermine a Western-brokered peace agreement.
Russia In Talks With Eritrea To Set Up 'Logistics Center' On Red Sea Coast RFE/RL 01 Sep 2018 -- Russia is in talks with Eritrea to set up a logistics center at one of the North African country's seaports, Russian news agencies cited Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov as saying on August 31.
Russian Navy, Warplanes Start Massive Drills in Mediterranean Sputnik 01 Sep 2018 -- The Russian Navy and Aerospace Forces will hold joint large-scale training exercises in the Mediterranean Sea on September 1-8.

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September 2018 - Russia Special Weapons News