November 2018 - Russia Special Weapons News

Briefing by Foreign Ministry Spokesperson Maria Zakharova, Moscow, November 30, 2018 Russia Ministry of Foreign Affairs 30 Nov 2018
Report: Russia, China 'Stress-Testing' Resolve of West VOA 30 Nov 2018 -- Russia and China are among several countries attempting to "stress-test" the resolve of traditional powers, according to a report from the London-based International Institute for Strategic Studies.
Kremlin Says Putin, Trump Will Meet on Sidelines of G-20 VOA 30 Nov 2018 -- Russian authorities said Friday that Vladimir Putin will have a brief meeting with U.S. President Donald Trump during the G-20 summit in Buenos Aires, Argentina.
Trump Says He Will Meet Putin At 'The Appropriate Time' RFE/RL 30 Nov 2018 -- U.S. President Donald Trump says he has a "very good relationship" with Vladimir Putin, despite calling off planned talks after the Russian coast guard seized Ukrainian sailors and naval vessels, and will meet with the Russian president when the time is right.
Trump Defends His Russian Business Efforts As 'Very Legal & Very Cool' RFE/RL 30 Nov 2018 -- U.S. President Donald Trump has defended his decision to seek a business deal in Russia in 2016 even as he pursued the Republican presidential nomination.
Russian Men Barred From Entering Ukraine Amid Escalating Crisis RFE/RL 30 Nov 2018 -- Ukraine has barred Russian male nationals between 16 and 60 from traveling to the country, President Petro Poroshenko announced on November 30.
Lawyer For Detained Ukrainian Sailor Decries 'Political Trial' RFE/RL 30 Nov 2018 -- A lawyer for one of the Ukrainian sailors detained by Russia on November 25 off the Russia-occupied Ukrainian region of Crimea has said the case against the seamen was "a political trial."
EU, NATO React Coolly To Ukraine's Call For New Moves Against Russia RFE/RL 30 Nov 2018 -- European leaders and NATO have reacted coolly to calls by Ukrainian President Petro Poroshenko for new measures to strengthen defenses and penalize Russia over its capture of Ukrainian ships and crew off Crimea.
Pantsir-S Missile Battalion Enters Service in Crimea After Kerch Strait Incident Sputnik 30 Nov 2018 -- The deployment comes after three Ukrainian ships illegally entered Russian territorial waters as they sailed toward the Kerch Strait last Sunday. Moscow described the incident as a clear provocation in violation of the UN Convention on the Law of the Sea, and promised to suppress any attempts to challenge its territorial integrity.
Three New Russian Military Satellites Successfully Reach Orbit Sputnik 30 Nov 2018 -- The Briz-KM upper stage of the Rokot launch vehicle brought three new Russian military satellites to the orbit, the press service of the Russian Defense Ministry said on Friday.
Accused Russian Agent In Washington Appears Near Settling Case RFE/RL 30 Nov 2018 -- A woman charged with working secretly for the Russian government to sway politicians in Washington appears to be moving toward a settlement of her case with U.S. prosecutors, according to her family and court documents.
Germany 'Convinced' by US Claims About Russian Violations of INF Treaty – Report Sputnik 30 Nov 2018 -- Earlier, German Foreign Minister Heiko Maas urged the US "not to recklessly abandon" the Intermediate-Range Nuclear Forces Treaty, a landmark arms control treaty aimed primarily at reducing the risk of nuclear war in Europe.
Ukrainian President Seeks NATO Support in Russia Dispute VOA 29 Nov 2018 -- Ukrainian President Petro Poroshenko is asking NATO allies to send naval ships to the Sea of Azov to aid his country and "provide security" amid tensions with Russia.
Trump Cancels Meeting With Putin At G20 Due To Ukraine Crisis RFE/RL 29 Nov 2018 -- U.S. President Donald Trump says he is cancelling a meeting with Russian President Vladimir Putin due to take place during the upcoming summit for the Group of 20 (G20) industrialized nations in Argentina, over Russia's seizure of Ukrainian vessels.
Unknown Number Of Captured Ukrainian Sailors Transferred To Moscow, Say Lawyers RFE/RL 29 Nov 2018 -- An unknown number of 24 sailors from three Ukrainian naval vessels captured by Russia in the Sea of Azov last weekend have been transferred to a detention center in Moscow, one of their lawyers says.
Ukraine Says Only Its Citizens Will Be Allowed To Travel To Crimea RFE/RL 29 Nov 2018 -- Ukraine's border service has said that it will only allow Ukrainian citizens to travel to Crimea following the imposition of martial law.
Russia-Ukraine confrontation in Kerch Strait adds uncertainties to regional stability People's Daily 29 Nov 2018 -- A spike in tensions between Russia and Ukraine around the Kerch Strait could inflame a volatile situation in the region and incur more Western sanctions against Moscow.
Russia deploys S-400 air defense missile systems in Crimean Peninsula Press TV 29 Nov 2018 -- Russia has deployed a new battalion of its advanced S-400 air defense missile system on the Crimean Peninsula amid a standoff with Ukraine.
Ukraine accuses Russia of seeking 'to rebuild empire' Press TV 29 Nov 2018 -- Ukrainian President Petro Poroshenko has accused Russian President Vladimir Putin of planning to rebuild "the old Russian Empire" in the midst of tensions between Kiev and Moscow over the seizure of three Ukrainian vessels in Russia's territorial waters in the Sea of Azov.
Kiev Claims Kerch Strait Provocation Meant to Show Capabilities of Its Vessels Sputnik 29 Nov 2018 -- Kiev has sent naval ships to the Kerch Strait to signal its presence in the region and demonstrate the capabilities of its vessels, Ukrainian Navy Commander Ihor Voronchenko said on Thursday.
Ukraine to Ask Turkey to Close Bosphorus to Russian Ships Amid Kerch Strait Rift Sputnik 29 Nov 2018 -- Earlier in the day, Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan said he had discussed the possibility of mediating the crisis between Russia and Ukraine following a violation of Russia's maritime border by Ukrainian warships.
Fourth S-400 Battalion Deployed Near Ukraine to Protect Crimea – Black Sea Fleet Sputnik 29 Nov 2018 -- The fourth battalion of Russia's S-400 Triumph air defence missile systems has been put into active service in Crimea near the border with Ukraine, Russian Black Sea Fleet Information Department Head Alexey Rulev said.
National Currencies to Be Used in Russia-Turkey Settlements on S-400 Deliveries Sputnik 29 Nov 2018 -- The settlements between Moscow and Ankara on the deliveries of the Russian S-400 air defence systems to Turkey will be carried out with the use of national currencies, Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan said on Thursday.
Turkey, Russia will not use dollar for S-400 deal, says Erdogan Press TV 29 Nov 2018 -- Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan says Ankara will pay either in ruble or lira for the advanced Russian-built S-400 air defense missile system, regardless of strong opposition from the United States and warnings that Turkey should not buy the anti-aircraft platform.
Iran, Russia, Turkey vow to preserve Syria's sovereignty Press TV 29 Nov 2018 -- The guarantor states of the Astana peace process have ended their 11th round of talks in the Kazakh capital, reiterating their strong commitment to Syria's sovereignty and territorial integrity.
Saab Mulls Legal Recourse Against Indo-Russian Deal on Air Defense System Sputnik 29 Nov 2018 -- Konstruktorskoye Byuro Mashynostroyeniya's (KBM) Igla-S was recently declared the lowest bidder for the Indian Army's Very Short Range Air Defence System (VSHORADS) program beating Saab's RBS 70NG and MBDA's Mistraal. The new-generation man-portable missile systems will replace the outdated Igla-M MANPADs the Indian Army presently operates.
''New Russian missile undermines European security'' - Op-ed by NATO Secretary General Jens Stoltenberg NATO 29 Nov 2018
Russia's Undersea Fleet Poses 'Real Threat' to US – Navy Vice Admiral Sputnik 29 Nov 2018 -- Russia's underwater fleet poses a serious threat to the United States, US Navy Second Fleet Commander Vice Admiral Andrew Lewis said on Wednesday.
Mattis: Actions in Ukraine Show Russia's Word Cannot Be Trusted AFPS 28 Nov 2018 -- Russia's seizure of three Ukrainian ships in the Sea of Azov in contradiction to signed treaties and the Law of the Sea show that Russia cannot be counted on to keep its word, Defense Secretary James N. Mattis said at the Pentagon today.
Russian FM says US encouraging provocation between Moscow, Kiev Press TV 28 Nov 2018 -- Moscow says the United States is encouraging provocation between Russia and Ukraine over the recent confrontation off the coast of Crimea and the seizure of three intruding Ukrainian military vessels in Russian waters.
Russia 'to deploy new S-400 missiles in Crimea' Press TV 28 Nov 2018 -- Russia has announced it will deploy new S-400 defense missile systems on the Crimean Peninsula amid a standoff initiated by Ukraine.
Ukraine under threat of 'full-scale war' with Russia: Poroshenko Press TV 28 Nov 2018 -- Ukrainian President Petro Poroshenko says Russia has sharply increased its military presence on the border with his country, warning that the deployment entails the threat of "full-scale war."
Putin Accuses Poroshenko Of Electoral Ploy As Ukraine Imposes Martial Law After Sea Clash RFE/RL 28 Nov 2018 -- Martial law came into force across a large swath of Ukraine on November 28, following a clash at sea that Kyiv called an "act of aggression" by Moscow and Russian President Vladimir Putin claimed was a ploy to boost his Ukrainian counterpart's popularity ahead of an election in March.
Russia Puts One More S-400 Battalion Into Service in Crimea Amid Kerch Row Sputnik 28 Nov 2018 -- One more battalion of Russia's S-400 Triumph air defence missile systems will be put into active service in Crimea before the end of 2018, the Russian Southern Military District spokesman, Col. Vadim Astafyev, told reporters.
Putin Aims Below The Belt With Wry Remark Targeting U.S. Dollar RFE/RL 28 Nov 2018 -- Russian President Vladimir Putin denigrated the dollar and hit out at U.S. sanctions against Moscow with a wry remark about his country's efforts to decrease its reliance on the U.S. currency.
Russian Aircraft Corp. to Complete MiG-35 Fighter Testing in 2019 - MiG Chief Sputnik 28 Nov 2018 -- All tests of Russia's advanced MiG-35 multirole fighter will be completed in 2019, Russian Aircraft Corporation MiG Director General Ilya Tarasenko told reporters.
Russia urges Iran Deal parties to commit to agreement IRNA 28 Nov 2018 -- The stance adopted by Russia and France on the Iran nuclear deal is similar, Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov said, calling on all parties of the deal to stay committed to the international agreement.
Hungary: Lyubishin Extradition US Dept. of State 27 Nov 2018 -- Press Statement by Heather Nauert, Department Spokesperson
Hungary Denies Extradition Of Suspected Russian Arms Dealers To U.S. RFE/RL 27 Nov 2018 -- Hungary has denied a U.S. request to extradite two suspected Russian arms dealers and instead sent the two men to Russia, the State Department says.
Russia Moves Fast to Deepen Kerch Crisis VOA 27 Nov 2018 -- Russia's attack on Ukrainian military vessels in the Black Sea marks the first time the Kremlin has staged open aggression against Ukraine since President Vladimir Putin annexed Crimea four years ago, and launched a destabilization campaign in the Donbas region.
Crimean Court Orders Captured Ukrainian Sailors Detained VOA 27 Nov 2018 -- A court in Russia-annexed Crimea ordered 12 of 24 Ukrainian sailors who were apprehended at sea Sunday by Russian naval forces following a confrontation to be detained for two months.
Russian Court Jails Captured Ukrainian Sailors For Two Months RFE/RL 27 Nov 2018 -- A Russian court has ordered 12 of the 24 Ukrainian sailors who were captured by Russian coast-guard forces during a confrontation at sea off Crimea to be held in custody for two months, while the UN chief called for restraint from both Moscow and Kyiv and Estonia's president accused Russia of waging "war in Europe."
Russia Rejects $1.3 Billion International Arbitration Ruling In Ukraine Bank Case RFE/RL 27 Nov 2018 -- Russia says it will not accept an international arbitration ruling obliging Moscow to pay Ukraine's biggest state-run bank $1.3 billion in compensation for loss of business and assets in Crimea following Moscow's annexation of the peninsula in 2014.
North Atlantic Council statement on developments near the Sea of Azov NATO 27 Nov 2018 -- In view of Russia's use of military force against Ukraine near the Sea of Azov and the Kerch Strait, ‎NATO Allies call on Russia to ensure unhindered access to Ukrainian ports and allow freedom of navigation.
Ukrainian army on full combat alert over tensions with Russia in Sea of Azov People's Daily 27 Nov 2018 -- The Ukrainian armed forces were put on full combat alert over the situation in the Sea of Azov, the General Staff of the Ukrainian Armed Forces said Monday in a statement on Facebook.
Putin voices 'serious concern' over martial law in Ukraine Press TV 27 Nov 2018 -- Russian President Vladimir Putin has voiced "serious concern" over Ukraine's recent move to impose martial law in the country following the seizure of three intruding Ukrainian military vessels in Russian waters.
European politicians call for new sanctions on Russia over Ukraine crisis Press TV 27 Nov 2018 -- The European Union says it will consider further sanctions against Russia next month following the seizure of three intruding Ukrainian military vessels in Russian waters.
'US pullout from Russia treaty to have global consequences' Press TV 27 Nov 2018 -- A senior Russian official has cautioned the United States against a plan to withdraw from a landmark Cold War-era nuclear arms control treaty with Russia, saying such a move would have grave consequence for the world.
Arms For All? Khodorkovsky Says Russians Need Guns RFE/RL 27 Nov 2018 -- Former oil tycoon Mikhail Khodorkovsky, a staunch Kremlin critic who went from Russia's wealthiest man to its highest-profile inmate, remains upbeat about the country he fled upon his release from prison in 2013.
Russia Targets Google For Not Deleting Banned Groups From Search Results RFE/RL 27 Nov 2018 -- Russia's communications watchdog is accusing tech giant Google of failing to comply with a law requiring it to delete search results for organizations that are banned in Russia.
Press conference by NATO Secretary General Jens Stoltenberg following the meeting of the NATO-Ukraine Commission NATO 26 Nov 2018
NATO Secretary General's phone call with President Poroshenko NATO 26 Nov 2018 -- The NATO Secretary General and Ukrainian President Petro Poroshenko spoke this morning about developments in the Azov Sea and Kerch Strait, including yesterday's events involving Russian and Ukrainian naval vessels.
Russia's seizure of Ukrainian ships lawful: Kremlin Press TV 26 Nov 2018 -- The Kremlin has defended Russia's seizure of three Ukrainian navy ships off the coast of Crimea, saying the move was lawful and in strict accordance with international and domestic regulations.
Russia warns Ukraine over 'dangerous' provocation Press TV 26 Nov 2018 -- Russia has accused Ukraine of "dangerous" moves and deliberately provoking an incident in the Kerch Strait near Crimea in which Russia seized three Ukrainian vessels.
Russia's Dangerous Escalation in the Kerch Strait US Dept. of State 26 Nov 2018 -- Press Statement by Michael R. Pompeo, Secretary of State
Top UN official urges Russia and Ukraine to step away from further confrontation at sea UN News 26 Nov 2018 -- An "immediate de-escalation" of tensions is needed in the Sea of Azov and the Black Sea, the United Nations top political official has said, underlining the importance of "earnest attempts" to find a peaceful resolution to years of simmering conflict between Russia and Ukraine.
Ukraine Declares Martial Law Along Borders With Russia, Black Sea VOA 26 Nov 2018 -- Ukraine's parliament approved President Petro Poroshenko's call to impose martial law in parts of Ukraine bordering Russia and the Black Sea Monday, a day after Moscow attacked and seized three Ukrainian ships and their crews in waters off Crimea.
Ukraine Backs Martial Law After Gunfire At Sea RFE/RL 26 Nov 2018 -- The Ukrainian parliament has voted to impose martial law for 30 days after Russian forces fired on Ukrainian ships and seized 23 sailors in the Black Sea off the coast of the Russian-controlled Crimean Peninsula.
Explainer: What The Kerch Strait Skirmish Tells Us About A Simmering European Conflict RFE/RL 26 Nov 2018 -- A dusting of snow and unease fell over Ukraine one day after Russian Coast Guard vessels fired on and detained three Ukrainian military ships and their crews off the Crimean coast, igniting rioting outside the Russian Embassy and public demands for retaliation.
Seemingly In Unison, Moscow Cries Ukrainian 'Provocation' Ordered By Washington RFE/RL 26 Nov 2018 -- Russia has accused Ukraine of planning and staging a deliberate "provocation" for political purposes following a naval incident in the Kerch Strait that marked the first public acknowledgement by Moscow of its forces firing on Ukrainian troops since the onset of fighting in eastern Ukraine nearly five years ago.
Ukrainian Provocations in Kerch Strait Executed on Direct Orders from Kiev - FSB Sputnik 26 Nov 2018 -- Provocations carried out by the Ukrainian navy in the Kerch Strait area were coordinated by two officers from the Security Service of Ukraine (SBU) who were aboard the ships involved in the incident, Russia's Federal Security Service (FSB) said Monday.
UN Security Council Discusses Kerch Incident Sputnik 26 Nov 2018 -- Earlier in the day, Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov stated that the Kerch Strait incident would be discussed at a UN Security Council meeting later in the day at Russia's request.
Russian Foreign Ministry Declares Protest Over Kerch Strait Incident Sputnik 26 Nov 2018 -- The Russian Foreign Ministry is declaring a resolute protest over the recent violation of the rules of innocent passage in the Black Sea by Ukrainian Navy ships, the ministry said in a statement.
Ukrainian Army Put on Full Combat Alert Amid Kerch Strait Standoff Sputnik 26 Nov 2018 -- Russia has warned Ukraine against attempts to revise the status of the Sea of Azov – in violation of international law – and urged Kiev to refrain from attempting to unilaterally establish new state borders.
Kiev Urges Moscow to Return Servicemen Detained in Kerch Strait Incident Sputnik 26 Nov 2018 -- Kiev is demanding that Moscow return sailors from the Ukrainian Navy ships seized for violating the Russian state border, the Ukrainian Foreign Ministry said on Monday.
Russia Warns Against New U.S. Missile Deployments In Europe RFE/RL 26 Nov 2018 -- Russian Deputy Foreign Minister Sergei Ryabkov has warned that the planned U.S. withdrawal from a Cold War nuclear arms treaty could critically undermine stability in Europe.
Russian jets strike Syrian militants accused of using chemical weapons People's Daily 26 Nov 2018 -- Russian warplanes on Sunday struck militants in Syria who had been shelling civilians in the northern city of Aleppo with chemical munitions, the Russian Defense Ministry said.
India's navy chief in Russia despite US warnings Press TV 26 Nov 2018 -- India's navy chief on Monday was starting a three-day visit to Russia, where he will hold talks with Russian officials on expanding bilateral military relations, despite a looming threat of sanctions by the United States, which has constantly warned New Delhi against military transactions with Moscow.
Indian Navy Chief in Russia to Explore Co-op in Nuke Submarine Construction Sputnik 26 Nov 2018 -- Admiral Sunil Lanba is scheduled to visit the Nakhimov Naval School and Admiralty Shipyard that is building Lada-class submarines of project 677. The non-nuclear Amur-1650 submarine - an export option of the Lada-class submarine - is one of the contenders in India's project p75I for six non-nuclear submarines for the Indian Navy.
FSB to Escort Ukrainian Ships Seized in Black Sea Over Border Violation to Kerch Sputnik 26 Nov 2018 -- Three Ukrainian ships seized in the Black Sea for illegally crossing the Russian border will be escorted to the port of Kerch, a spokesman for the Border Directorate of the Russian Federal Security Service (FSB) for Crimea, Anton Lozovoy, said on Monday.
Russia Requests Urgent UN Security Council Meeting Over Azov Sea Issue Sputnik 26 Nov 2018 -- Russia requested an urgent meeting of UN Security Council members at 11 a.m. on Monday (16.00 GMT) to discuss the situation in the Sea of Azov, Russia's First Deputy Envoy to UN, Dmitry Polyanskiy, told reporters.
Poroshenko Threatens to Impose Martial Law in Ukraine Amid Kerch Strait Issue Sputnik 26 Nov 2018 -- Kiev is considering imposing martial law after a recent incident on the Black Sea, and the National Security and Defense Council of Ukraine (NSDC) convened an urgent meeting to discuss the issue, NSDC Secretary Oleksandr Turchynov said on Sunday.
Ukrainian Naval Ships Ignored Calls to Stop, Violated Russian State Border - FSB Sputnik 26 Nov 2018 -- According to the Russian Federal Security Service, weapons were used to force three Ukrainian vessels to stop after they violated the Russian maritime border.
Russia impounds transgressing Ukraine ships Press TV 25 Nov 2018 -- Russia says it has been forced to open fire at and impound three Ukrainian naval vessels after they illegally crossed its sea border, entering the Russian waters in the Black Sea off the Crimean Peninsula.
Russia and Ukraine involved in Black Sea naval standoff Press TV 25 Nov 2018 -- Russia and Ukraine forces have engaged in a maritime confrontation, reflecting rising tensions between Moscow and Kiev in the Black Sea near Crimea.
Kyiv Says Russia Attacked Ukrainian Navy Ships, Seized Three In Black Sea RFE/RL 25 Nov 2018 -- The Ukrainian Navy says Russian forces opened fire on a group of its ships in the Black Sea off the coast of the Crimean Peninsula late on November 25, striking two warships and wounding two crew members before seizing the vessels along with a Ukrainian Navy tugboat.
Three Ukrainian Naval Ships Depart Kerch Strait, Return to Berdyansk - FSB Sputnik 25 Nov 2018 -- The Russian Federal Security Service (FSB) said Sunday it has irrefutable evidence that Ukrainian Naval Forces prepared and staged a provocation in the Black Sea.
Three Ukrainian Navy Ships Crossed Russian Waters, Entered Kerch Strait - FSB Sputnik 25 Nov 2018 -- Three Ukrainian Navy ships crossed into temporarily off-limits Russian territorial waters, moving from the Black Sea to the Kerch Strait, the press service of the FSB's Crimean border department said on Monday.
Russia Attacks, Seizes 3 Ukrainian Navy Vessels VOA 25 Nov 2018 -- Russia fired on two Ukrainian naval ships and rammed a third vessel in the Black Sea Sunday, accusing the Ukrainians of illegally entering what it claims as its territorial waters.
Russia Scrambles Warplanes as Ukrainian Navy Moves on Kerch Strait Sputnik 25 Nov 2018 -- The sudden intrusion by the Ukrainian ships prompted Russia to deploy it's naval assets, along with military aircraft and combat helicopters, in order to contain the situation which Russian Federal Security Service described as "provocation."
Russian FSB Ships Pursue Ukrainian Vessels in Kerch Strait Sputnik 25 Nov 2018 -- Moscow deployed naval and air assets in the Kerch Strait on Sunday after Ukraine sent several ships into Russia's territorial waters in what the Federal Security Service said could only be described as a "provocation" orchestrated by Kiev.
Russia Sends Experts To Aleppo After Reports Of Chemical Attack RFE/RL 25 Nov 2018 -- Russia says it has sent military chemicals experts to Aleppo after reports that shells fired by insurgents in the Syrian city left dozens of people with breathing and vision problems.
Russian Jets Hit Targets at Militants' Staging Ground for Aleppo Chemical Attack Sputnik 25 Nov 2018 -- Syrian media reported on Saturday that militants based north of Aleppo bombarded the city with chlorine-filled shells, causing over a hundred people to be delivered to hospitals with symptoms typical for poisoning such as suffocation.
Russian MoD Confirms Chlorine Used in Aleppo Attack, Dispatches Army Chem Team Sputnik 25 Nov 2018 -- Russian military chemists arrived in the Syrian city of Aleppo, at which militants fired shells filled with poisonous agents on Saturday, Russian Defense Ministry spokesman Maj. Gen. Igor Konashenkov told reporters on Sunday.
Russia strikes militants behind 'chlorine' attack on Syria's Aleppo Press TV 25 Nov 2018 -- Russia has carried out airstrikes against militants it held responsible for firing shells filled with chlorine gas at Syria's northern city of Aleppo.
Just in Time for NATO: Military Deploys Advanced Radar Station in Central Russia Sputnik 25 Nov 2018 -- The Russian Armed Forces have observed a noticeable increase in NATO reconnaissance activity on its borders in recent months, scrambling aircraft repeatedly last week to prevent foreign spy planes from entering Russian airspace.
US, Russian forces clashed in Syria 'dozen times': US envoy Press TV 24 Nov 2018 -- US and Russian military forces have clashed a dozen times in Syria, including instances of gun battles, said an American envoy involved in the illegal US intrusion into the Arab country, without elaborating on specifics.
Britain's head of army calls Russia more threatening than Daesh Press TV 24 Nov 2018 -- The head of the British army has said that Russia poses more threats to the UK than the Daesh Takfiri terrorist group.
Russia warns West, Europe over Azov Sea issue Press TV 24 Nov 2018 -- Russia has warned the West against escalating tensions in the Sea of Azov that borders Russia and Ukraine through imposing new sanctions on Moscow.
British Army Chief Says Russia Poses 'Far Greater Threat' Than IS RFE/RL 24 Nov 2018 -- Russia is a "far greater threat" to Britain's national security than Islamic terrorist groups such as the Islamic State (IS), the new head of the British Army has warned.
British Police Release More Video Of Skripal Poisoning Suspects RFE/RL 23 Nov 2018 -- Police in Britain have released more video of the two suspects they believe poisoned former Russian spy Sergei Skripal and his daughter in Salisbury in March.
Bellingcat Names Second GRU Agent In Failed Montenegrin Coup RFE/RL 23 Nov 2018 -- The investigative group Bellingcat and Russian website The Insider say they have identified a second Russian GRU military intelligence officer allegedly involved in a 2016 coup attempt in Montenegro.
Russia Undermines Freedom Of Expression 'Both Domestically And Abroad,' U.S. Says RFE/RL 23 Nov 2018 -- Russia is working to subvert free speech both at home and abroad, and is stepping up pressure on its independent media, the United States has warned at a meeting of the Organization for Security and Cooperation in Europe (OSCE).
Poroshenko Says Russia Has No 'Veto' On Ukraine's EU, NATO Bids RFE/RL 23 Nov 2018 -- Ukrainian President Petro Poroshenko has said changing the country's constitution to state Kyiv's aim of joining NATO and the European Union as strategic state goals will send a strong "message" to Moscow that "we are parting completely and irrevocably."
Russia Plans To Tighten Data Protection RFE/RL 23 Nov 2018 -- Russia has drawn up a bill aimed at preventing leaks of personal information from state agencies, a move that follows publication of details of Russians allegedly involved in covert intelligence operations abroad.
Briefing by Foreign Ministry Spokesperson Maria Zakharova, Moscow, November 22, 2018 Russia Ministry of Foreign Affairs 22 Nov 2018
Poll Shows Putin's Electoral Rating Drops Below 60 Percent RFE/RL 22 Nov 2018 -- A leading independent Russian pollster says the electoral rating of President Vladimir Putin has fallen under 60 percent for the first time in five years.
Damage Sustained by Russian Aircraft Carrier During Dock Sinking Revealed Sputnik 22 Nov 2018 -- United Shipbuilding Corporation chief also revealed that the repairs won't affect the timetable for the aircraft carrier's planned refitting overhaul.
GRU Chief Dies After 'Serious And Long Illness' RFE/RL 22 Nov 2018 -- The chief of Russia's GRU military intelligence agency, Igor Korobov, has died after "a serious and long illness," Russian media reported on November 21, quoting the Defense Ministry.
Head of Russian military intelligence dies at 63 People's Daily 22 Nov 2018 -- Igor Korobov, chief of the Russian Main Intelligence Directorate, commonly known as the GRU, died at the age of 63 after a serious illness on Wednesday, the Defense Ministry said in a statement.
Turkey Suggests it Could Still Buy Patriot Systems Amid US Pressure Over S-400s Sputnik 22 Nov 2018 -- Earlier, a high-ranking US official told Turkish media that Washington was still considering slapping Ankara with sanctions over its purchase of Russia's S-400 air defence system amid fears that it could pose a threat to NATO and the F-35.
Turkey Wants First Batch of Russian S-400s Before 2020 - Erdogan's Spokesman Sputnik 22 Nov 2018 -- Ankara expects the first batch of Russian S-400 air defense systems to be delivered to Turkey by the end of 2019, and joint production will start then, Turkish presidential spokesman Ibrahim Kalin said on Thursday.
India to Make Payments in Rupees for Russian Air Defence System - Gov't Source Sputnik 22 Nov 2018 -- The deal, which is estimated to cost around US $1.5 billion, would be India's second-biggest defence contract with Russia following the S-400 deal concluded earlier this year. French and Swedish firms also bid to supply the Very-Short-Range Air Defence systems but Russia's Rosoboroexport offered to do so for the lowest price.
India to Make Payments in Rupees for Russian Air Defence System - Gov't Source Sputnik 22 Nov 2018 -- The deal, which is estimated to cost around US $1.5 billion, would be India's second-biggest defence contract with Russia following the S-400 deal concluded earlier this year. French and Swedish firms also bid to supply the Very-Short-Range Air Defence systems but Russia's Rosoboroexport offered to do so for the lowest price.
Russia calls for change in rules of using nuclear weapons Press TV 21 Nov 2018 -- Members of the Russian parliament have called on the country's National Security Council to revise Russia's rules on using nuclear weapons.
Russia: West after manipulating OPCW to own benefit Press TV 21 Nov 2018 -- Western attempts to manipulate the Chemical Weapons Convention have drawn Russia's firm response, with Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov saying the West tries to promote its own policies and turn the convention into its "obedient tool."
Moscow Criticizes West Over Vote By Chemical Arms Watchdog RFE/RL 21 Nov 2018 -- Russia is claiming that the West is seeking to turn an international convention on chemical weapons into a tool to pursue its own agenda.
Russian Lawmakers Recommend Review Of Nuclear Doctrine RFE/RL 21 Nov 2018 -- A committee of the Russian parliament's upper house has recommended to the Kremlin to review the nation's rules for the use of nuclear weapons, local news agencies report.
Russian Communist All But Barred From Rerun Of An Election He Nearly Won RFE/RL 21 Nov 2018 -- Just a few weeks ago, upstart Communist Party candidate Andrei Ishchenko appeared on the verge of clinching the governor's seat in Primorsky Krai, the most populous region in Russia's Far East.
One-Fifth Of Russians Live In Poverty, 36 Percent In 'Risk Zone,' Study Finds RFE/RL 21 Nov 2018 -- More than one-fifth of the Russian population now lives in poverty, according to a new study by a research institute with ties to the Kremlin.
Pentagon Refuses to Comment on Russia's Possible Nuke Deterrence Policy Revision Sputnik 21 Nov 2018 -- The US Defense Department declined to comment on the proposal of the upper house of the Russian parliament to revise the rules on nuclear weapons use, Pentagon spokesperson Johnny Michael told Sputnik on Wednesday.
Russia Accused of Abusing Interpol as It Seeks to Secure Presidency VOA 20 Nov 2018 -- Interpol is in danger of being politicized by Russia as the organization chooses a new president, according to Kremlin critics.
Kremlin: Opposition to Russian Candidate to Head Interpol is Election Meddling VOA 20 Nov 2018 -- The Kremlin says opposition to a Russian candidate to lead the global police group Interpol amounts to election interference.
Russia says US meddling in election of Interpol president Press TV 20 Nov 2018 -- Russia says public opposition by a group of American senators to a Russian candidate for the position of the head of the international police organization Interpol amounts to election meddling, in an apparent dig at an investigation into allegations that Moscow interfered with the 2016 US Presidential Election.
Pressure Builds On Interpol Ahead Of Vote To Choose New Chief RFE/RL 20 Nov 2018 -- Pressure is building on Interpol ahead of a vote to choose a new chief for the international police agency, with Russian opposition activists, U.S. senators, and officials from other countries warning against the possibility that a top Russian Interior Ministry official might become the agency's new head.
Interpol Might Get A Russian President, But His Clout Seen As Limited RFE/RL 20 Nov 2018 -- The potential election of a Russian official to Interpol's presidency has outraged Kremlin critics, including a group of senior U.S. senators who say installing one of Moscow's own at the global police clearinghouse would be "akin to putting a fox in charge of a henhouse."
Moscow, Ankara must take swift decisions on Syria's Idlib: Russian defense chief says Press TV 20 Nov 2018 -- Russian Defense Minister Sergei Shoigu says Moscow and Ankara need to take swift decisions to support a demilitarized zone in Syria's northwestern province of Idlib, which has so far held off a government offensive on the last major terrorist stronghold in the country.
Moscow, Ankara must take swift decisions on Syria's Idlib: Russian defense chief says Press TV 20 Nov 2018 -- Russian Defense Minister Sergei Shoigu says Moscow and Ankara need to take swift decisions to support a demilitarized zone in Syria's northwestern province of Idlib, which has so far held off a government offensive on the last major terrorist stronghold in the country.
U.S. Targets Iranian-Russian Network With Sanctions Over Oil Shipments To Syria RFE/RL 20 Nov 2018 -- The U.S. Treasury Department has targeted six individuals and three entities that it says are part of an Iranian-Russian network providing millions of barrels of oil to the government of Syrian President Bashar al-Assad and funding the militant groups Hamas and Hizballah.
UK warns Russia about military operations at Azov Sea Press TV 20 Nov 2018 -- The UK has warned Russia against using its growing military presence in the Sea of Azov to "destabilize" regional economy, amid allegations that Ukrainian ships are being denied access to the waters.
Putin urges Russian military to take 'concrete steps' against US withdrawal from INF Treaty Press TV 20 Nov 2018 -- Russian President Vladimir Putin said on Monday Moscow does not need to join another arms race, but it would not leave Washington's decision to unilaterally withdraw from the Intermediate-Range Nuclear Forces (INF) Treaty unanswered.
20 Years After Killing, Starovoitova's Sister Doesn't Believe Mob Boss Ordered Hit RFE/RL 20 Nov 2018 -- Twenty years after democratic reformer Galina Starovoitova was assassinated, her sister says she does not believe that an infamous alleged crime kingpin who was implicated in the slaying was, in fact, behind it.
India to Build Two Admiral Grigorovich Class Frigates Under ToT from Russia Sputnik 20 Nov 2018 -- The 3,620-ton Admiral Grigorovich-class is an upgraded variant of the six Talwar-class frigates that Russia built for the Indian Navy between 2003 and 2013. These frigates will be equipped with the sea-launch version of the BrahMos supersonic cruise missile system instead of 3M-54E Klub-N anti-ship missiles.
Russia's Igla Wins $1.5Bln Tender for Air Defence Systems in India - Source Sputnik 20 Nov 2018 -- Russia and its man-portable air defence system Igla won a tender in India to deliver $1.5 billion worth of short-range air defence systems, a source in the cooperation industry told Sputnik on Tuesday.
Pentagon Supports Enhanced Dialogue Between US, Russian Troops in Syria Sputnik 20 Nov 2018 -- US Department of Defense spokesman Eric Pahon told Sputnik on Monday that the existing deconfliction channel between the Russian and US militaries in Syria has worked well.
Ukraine Threatens To Suspend Interpol Membership If Russian Elected President RFE/RL 19 Nov 2018 -- Ukrainian Interior Minister Arsen Avakov says his country will consider suspending its membership in Interpol if a Russian official is elected as the international police agency's new chief.
Finnish Foreign Ministry Expresses Concern to Russian Envoy Over GPS Scandal Sputnik 19 Nov 2018 -- Russian Ambassador to Finland Pavel Kuznetsov was summoned by the Finnish Foreign Ministry earlier this month following an incident of alleged GPS jamming by Russia during the Trident Juncture exercises.
Russian servicemen arrive in India to take part in Indra-2018 joint military drills Press TV 19 Nov 2018 -- Russian troops of the Eastern Military District have arrived in India to participate in the Indra-2018 joint military drills, which will be held in the northern Indian state of Uttar Pradesh, Russia's military says.
Russian Veterans Appeal To ICC Over Moscow's Alleged Use Of Mercenaries RFE/RL 19 Nov 2018 -- An umbrella organization of groups representing Russian military veterans has appealed to the International Criminal Court (ICC) to investigate the alleged mercenary activities of Russian private security firms.
Putin Mulls Russia Retaliation If U.S. Quits INF Treaty RFE/RL 19 Nov 2018 -- Russian President Vladimir Putin has met with his top military officials to discuss a response to U.S. threats to pull out of a key nuclear arms treaty because of alleged violations by Moscow.
Russia Targets Kremlin Critic Browder With 'Kafkaesque' Poison Probe RFE/RL 19 Nov 2018 -- Russian authorities have leveled new accusations at British-based financier Bill Browder, saying the vocal Kremlin critic is now suspected of involvement in the death of his associate Sergei Magnitsky in a Moscow jail a decade ago.
Putin Says Russia 'Will Certainly Respond' to US Withdrawal From INF Treaty Sputnik 19 Nov 2018 -- Russian President Vladimir Putin proposed on Monday to discuss Russia's steps in regard to the US plans to withdraw from the Treaty on Intermediate-Range Nuclear Forces (INF Treaty).
India-Russia Joint Military Exercise Gets Underway in India's Jhansi Sputnik 19 Nov 2018 -- The exercise provides an opportunity to Indian and Russian forces to train in joint counter-terrorism operations in a multinational scenario.
Russia's Security Agency Pulls Ambitious Satellite Internet Venture Back To Earth RFE/RL 18 Nov 2018 -- A contract, estimated at $1 billion, to launch 21 Soyuz rockets over the next two years carrying "micro-satellites" -- part of a U.S.-based company's plans to offer broadband Internet access over remote territories of the globe, including parts of Siberia.
Russian Space Freighter Docks With ISS in Automatic Mode Sputnik 18 Nov 2018 -- The Progress MS-10 space freighter docked on Sunday with the International Space Stations (ISS) in an automatic mode, the Mission Control Center said.
Russia eyeing settlements with Iran in national currencies Press TV 18 Nov 2018 -- Russia says it may launch settlements with Iran in national currencies in order to continue bilateral cooperation despite the US sanctions against the Islamic Republic.
Europe's Justification of Military Spending Boost Far-Fetched - Moscow Sputnik 17 Nov 2018 -- Moscow believes that the explanation offered by European states for increasing military spending on the need to constraint some "illusory potential aggressor" is far-fetched, the Foreign Ministry said on Saturday.
Finland summons Russian ambassador over GPS jamming allegations during NATO war games Press TV 17 Nov 2018 -- Finland has summoned Russian ambassador over allegations that the Russian military had jammed its GPS signals during a major NATO military maneuver in Norway earlier this month.
Finland Summons Russian Envoy Over Blocked GPS Signals RFE/RL 17 Nov 2018 -- Russia's Ambassador to Finland Pavel Kuznetsov has been summoned to a meeting with Finnish State Secretary Matti Anttonen on November 19 over the disruption of Finland's global positioning system (GPS) signals during recent NATO military exercises.
U.S. Prosecutors In Settlement Talks With Accused Russian Agent RFE/RL 17 Nov 2018 -- U.S. prosecutors and lawyers for accused Russian agent Maria Butina are negotiating over a possible settlement of her case, court filings say.
The Week In Russia: War, Peace, And A Presidential Back-Pat In Paris RFE/RL 16 Nov 2018 -- Vladimir Putin made brief contact with U.S. President Donald Trump in Paris, where world leaders marked the centenary of the end of the "war to end all wars" - while wars involving Russia continue in Syria and eastern Ukraine. As Putin moved on to Asia, the European Court of Human Rights handed him a defeat in his ongoing showdown with Aleksei Navalny. And following his travels abroad, Putin returned to a country struggling to protect itself against Western sanctions without strangling economic growth.
Japan PM assures Russia's Putin of no US bases on disputed islands if handed over: Report Press TV 16 Nov 2018 -- Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe has reportedly assured Russian President Vladimir Putin that if the Kremlin hands over four disputed islands in the Western Pacific to Japan, they would not be subjected to a US military presence.
Finland Summons Russian Envoy Over GPS Glitches During NATO Drills - Reports Sputnik 16 Nov 2018 -- Previously, Finnish Prime Minister Juha Sipila stated that the several instances in which pilots reported losing GPS signals during the Trident Juncture exercises had been investigated as possible jamming by Russia.
Russia Successfully Launches Soyuz Rocket for First Time After October's Failure Sputnik 16 Nov 2018 -- Russian Soyuz-FG launch vehicle lifted off from the Baikonur space center in Kazakhstan on Friday for the first time since the failed launch in October, a Sputnik correspondent reported from Russia's Mission Control Center outside Moscow.
Putin Says Russia Ready To Cooperate With Saudis And Curb Oil Output RFE/RL 16 Nov 2018 -- Russian President Vladimir Putin said Moscow is ready to cooperate with Saudi Arabia in cutting oil production to stem a big plunge in oil prices, but he said it is also content with the lower prices.
Sanctions Play 'Key Role' In Russia's Economic Underperformance RFE/RL 16 Nov 2018 -- Western sanctions have played an important factor leading to the underperformance of the Russian economy over the past four years, a new study indicates.
New Bloomberg Research Reveals Western Sanctions' Toll on Russian Economy Sputnik 16 Nov 2018 -- Western sanctions imposed four years ago have reduced Russia's gross domestic product (GDP) by 6 percent since 2014, a study by Bloomberg Economics revealed on Friday.
Russian Army to Get 1st Tor-M2DT Air Defense Missile Systems Next Week Sputnik 16 Nov 2018 -- The Russian army will receive the first battalion of the Tor-M2DT short-range air defence missile systems next week, the Russian Defense Ministry said in a statement Thursday.
Briefing by Foreign Ministry Spokesperson Maria Zakharova, Moscow, November 15, 2018 Russia Ministry of Foreign Affairs 15 Nov 2018
Finland Discusses With Russia GPS Glitches at NATO Drills - Foreign Ministry Sputnik 15 Nov 2018 -- Helsinki is discussing with Moscow through diplomatic channels the investigation of GPS glitches during recent NATO exercises, the Finnish Foreign Ministry said on Thursday.
NATO Calls GPS Jamming 'Dangerous, Disruptive', Joins Norway in Accusing Russia Sputnik 15 Nov 2018 -- NATO has decided to throw its weight behind Helsinki's and Oslo's claims of GPS disruption during the recent alliance drill in Norway. Meanwhile, unsubstantiated allegations of Russian involvement are gaining momentum in the Nordic countries.
Separatist Leader In Eastern Ukraine Vows Closer Russia Integration After 'Sham' Polls RFE/RL 15 Nov 2018 -- The newly elected leader of an area controlled by Moscow-backed separatists in eastern Ukraine has promised closer integration
European Court Rules Navalny's Arrests 'Unlawful,' 'Politically Motivated' RFE/RL 15 Nov 2018 -- The European Court of Human Rights (ECHR) has ruled that Russia violated opposition politician Aleksei Navalny's rights over numerous arrests and jailings, calling them "unlawful and arbitrary" and "politically motivated."
State Arms Exporter Explains What Makes Russian S-400 So Unique Sputnik 15 Nov 2018 -- Russia's S-400 Triumph mobile air defense system is unmatched by rival weapons in both attack range and deployment time, Rosoboronexport, the state arms seller, said on Thursday.
At Least 13 States Mull Buying Russia's S-400 Despite US Sanctions - Reports Sputnik 15 Nov 2018 -- At least 13 countries have expressed their interest in purchasing the Russian S-400 Triumph surface-to-air missile systems instead of US equipment despite the likelihood of provoking Washington's sanctions, media reported citing people with first-hand knowledge of a US intelligence assessment.
Draft Design of Il-276 Military Transport Plane to Be Ready in 2019 Sputnik 15 Nov 2018 -- The draft design of the Il-276 prospective medium-lift military transport plane is expected to be completed in 2019, aircraft manufacturer Ilyushin Aviation Complex told Sputnik.
EU Official Names Russia As Main Disrupter Of Elections In Europe RFE/RL 14 Nov 2018 -- A top EU official has named Russia as the main source behind activities interfering with elections in Europe but noted that others are also learning from Moscow.
U.S. Energy Secretary Warns Czechs Against Cooperating With Russia RFE/RL 14 Nov 2018 -- U.S. Energy Secretary Rick Perry has warned the Czech government not to choose Russia as a partner for a lucrative nuclear-energy plan.
Russia, Japan agree to intensify peace treaty talks Press TV 14 Nov 2018 -- Russia's President Vladimir Putin and Japan's Prime Minister Shinzo Abe have agreed to intensify talks aimed at reaching a peace treaty that would end a long-running territorial dispute.
Any unilateral US sanctions illegitimate, could complicate bilateral ties, says Russia Press TV 14 Nov 2018 -- The Kremlin has warned the US against imposing any new sanctions on Russia, saying such a move will "further complicate" bilateral ties.
Russia Says U.S. 'Unpredictability' Causing 'Global Concern' RFE/RL 14 Nov 2018 -- The Kremlin has lashed out over what Russian President Vladimir Putin's spokesman says is the recent "unpredictability" of the United States, saying it was causing "deep global concern."
State Dept Considers Second Round of Sanctions Against Russia Over Skripal Case Sputnik 14 Nov 2018 -- The United States is actively considering a second, more draconian round of sanctions against Russia over the Skripal case, US Assistant Secretary of State for International Security and Nonproliferation Christopher Ford said on Wednesday.
Hypersonic Target Missile for Advanced Weapons Testing Being Created in Russia Sputnik 14 Nov 2018 -- A hypersonic target missile designed for testing of advanced weapons is being developed in Russia, director general of Russian scientific and production enterprise NPO Molniya, Olga Sokolova, told Sputnik.
Russian Military Approves Technical Specifications for Il-276 Transport Plane Sputnik 14 Nov 2018 -- The Russian Defense Ministry has approved the tactical and technical requirements for the Il-276 prospective medium-lift military transport plane, aircraft manufacturer Ilyushin Aviation Complex told Sputnik.
Russian Armed Forces Take Measures of Protection Against Cyberattacks Sputnik 14 Nov 2018 -- The Russian Armed Forces are making efforts to secure a maximum protection of communications as a number of countries have increased their capabilities to commit cyberattacks, Head of Russian Service for Protection of State Secret Gen. Lt. Yury Kuznetsov said.
Norway Blames Russia for Disrupting GPS Signal During NATO Drill Wrap-Up Sputnik 13 Nov 2018 -- As NATO's largest collective defence exercise since the Cold War, which goes by the name Trident Juncture, was drawing to an end, pilots in Norway and Finland partaking in the wargames reported a number of disruptions to GPS signals in their countries' northern regions.
Joining Finland, Norway Says Russia May Have Jammed GPS Signal In Arctic RFE/RL 13 Nov 2018 -- The Norwegian Defense Ministry says Russian forces in the Arctic disturbed GPS location signals during a recent large NATO drill in Norway.
Russian Envoy Warns Against Deploying US Missiles to Europe Sputnik 13 Nov 2018 -- The United States is risking triggering "dramatic events" in Europe if the country decides to deploy new missiles to Europe after withdrawing from the Intermediate-Range Nuclear Forces Treaty (INF Treaty), Russian Ambassador to the European Union Vladimir Chizhov said in an interview with Financial Times, released on Tuesday.
U.S. Official: Russia Shouldn't Be Permitted To Use Energy As Weapon RFE/RL 13 Nov 2018 -- Russia has historically used energy as a weapon and that continues today, making energy diversification crucial for Central and Eastern Europe, U.S. Energy Secretary Rick Perry has said.
Russia's Admiral Kuznetsov Has No Serious Damage After Crane Mishap – Ministry Sputnik 13 Nov 2018 -- Russia's Admiral Kuznetsov aircraft carrier was not significantly damaged when a crane fell on it during repairs in October, Russian Deputy Defense Minister Alexey Krivoruchko stated.
Demand for Russian Weapons Grows in Global Market - State Arms Exporter Sputnik 12 Nov 2018 -- Demand for Russian military products is growing due to their high quality and especially in conditions of instability around the world, director of the Rosoboronexport, state arms exporter, General Aleksander Mikheev said on Monday.
Finland Probes Possible Russian GPS Jamming During NATO Exercises RFE/RL 12 Nov 2018 -- Finland says it is investigating whether Russia has recently interfered with global positioning system (GPS) signals in the northern Finish region of Lapland during NATO war games, endangering civilian air traffic.
Moscow to Conduct Military Inspection of NATO Activity, Drills in Europe Sputnik 12 Nov 2018 -- Russian experts will carry out military activity assessments in Norway, Poland and Germany under the Vienna Document on Confidence- and Security-Building Measures on November 12-16, the head of Russia's Nuclear Risk Reduction Center said.
India Confident US Will Grant Waivers on S-400 Deal with Russia – Reports Sputnik 13 Nov 2018 -- India will keep the Trump administration informed when the contract for the purchase of Russian S-400 air defence missile systems is concluded and paid.
First Angara A5V Heavy-Class Rocket Launch to Take Place in 2026 – Roscosmos Sputnik 12 Nov 2018 -- The first heavy-lift Angara A5V carrier rocket equipped with a hydrogen space tug will be launched from the Vostochny space center in Russia's Far East in 2026, Roscosmos chief Dmitry Rogozin said on Sunday.
Su-57 Head Developer Explains Why Russian Stealth Jet is Better Than F-22, F-35 Sputnik 11 Nov 2018 -- The fifth generation fighter will be supplied to the Russia Air Force in 2018-2019 as a replacement for the Su-27 Flanker, developed in the final decades of the Soviet Union.
Russia Hopes to Restore Full-Fledged Negotiations With US on INF Treaty - Putin Sputnik 11 Nov 2018 -- Russia Tries Not to Hold Large-Scale Military Drills Near NATO Countries' Borders
Austria Suspects Domestic Intelligence Officer Spied for Russia - Report Sputnik 11 Nov 2018 -- The report comes amid an ongoing espionage scandal between Moscow and Vienna. The Austrian prime minister earlier announced that a retired army colonel is suspected of spying for Russia for around 20 years. In response, Russia slammed Vienna for publicising 'unfounded accusations' instead of using diplomatic channels to clarify the situation.
For Russia's Navy, A Damaged Aircraft Carrier Is Bad Enough. A Sunken Dry Dock Is Even Worse. RFE/RL 10 Nov 2018 -- It's bad enough that Russia's only aircraft carrier was damaged in a mishap involving the country's largest floating repair dock -- the only one big enough to maintain the flagship of the Russian Navy.
Video Places Putin-Connected Oligarch At Top-Level Military Talks RFE/RL 10 Nov 2018 -- A video posted on social media by the Libyan military shows a Russian oligarch with close personal ties to President Vladimir Putin and who owns Russia's best-known private security firm attending a November 7 meeting in Moscow between high-level Russian defense officials and a Libyan military delegation.
Veterans To Ask Hague Court To Probe Russia's Use Of Mercenaries RFE/RL 10 Nov 2018 -- Reuters is reporting that Russian military veterans will ask the International Criminal Court to investigate Russia's alleged secret deployment of civilian contractors to fight in Syria, Ukraine, and Africa.
U.S. Gives Russian Aluminum Tycoon More Time To Comply With Sanctions RFE/RL 10 Nov 2018 -- The United States has once again postponed the enforcement of sanctions against Russian aluminum giant Rusal and two other companies to allow their top shareholder time to carry out a plan to pare down his holdings.
Russia, Japan Launch Joint Naval Drills in Gulf of Aden - Military Sputnik 10 Nov 2018 -- Naval exercises involving combat ships of the Russian Navy and the Navy of Japan begun on November 10 in the Gulf of Aden, Russian Navy's Northern Fleet spokesman Capt. 1st Rank Vadim Serga said.
From the CAR to Eritrea, Russia's African Ambitions Unfold VOA 10 Nov 2018 -- The Central African Republic might seem like an unusual venue for Russia's evolving strategy in Africa. The CAR doesn't boast Ethiopia's booming economy or Angola's deep oil reserves. It lacks a developed mining industry like Zambia or a strategic location like Djibouti.
Lavrov Says Moscow Being 'Unfairly' Blamed In Spy Scandal With Austria RFE/RL 10 Nov 2018 -- Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov has told his Austrian counterpart that Russia was unfairly being accused of espionage after Vienna said it was probing a former Austrian colonel for allegedly spying for Moscow for decades.
Philippine navy hopes for more engagements with China, Russia People's Daily 09 Nov 2018 -- The Philippine Navy (PN) wants to have more engagements with the Chinese and Russian navies, noting the just-concluded maritime drill between China and the Southeast Asian countries' navies in the waters off China went well, the Philippine naval chief said on Thursday.
Bulgaria Detains Suspected Russian Hacker on US Request Sputnik 09 Nov 2018 -- The Bulgarian authorities have detained a Russian citizen for up to 60 days at the request by Washington over his suspected involvement in cyber-fraud, the man will be later extradited to the United States, the Bulgarian prosecutor's office said in a statement posted on its website on Friday.
U.S. imposes new sanctions against Russia People's Daily 09 Nov 2018 -- The United States has imposed new sanctions against individuals and entities supporting Russia's role in Ukraine issue, according to a statement issued by the Department of the Treasury on Thursday.
Russia says US nuke policy 'playing with devil' Press TV 09 Nov 2018 -- Russia has warned that the United States will be "playing with the devil" by implementing President Donald Trump's new nuclear weapons strategy, which identifies Russia and China as main threats and calls for producing small nuclear warheads for "limited" operations.
Russia Equips Cruise Missiles with Electronic Warfare Systems - Developer Sputnik 09 Nov 2018 -- Russia has finished the development and started mass production of electronic warfare systems for cruise missiles in service with the Russian armed forces, Vladimir Mikheev, adviser to the first deputy general director of the Concern Radio-Electronic Technologies (KRET), told Sputnik.
Russia Hosts Afghan Talks, Highlighting Growing Role VOA 09 Nov 2018 -- Russia hosted a group of Afghan government-linked envoys along with their Taliban rivals Friday, as the Kremlin waded into efforts to end a 17-year conflict where Western efforts have repeatedly failed.
Afghan Government Distances Itself From Moscow Conference VOA 09 Nov 2018 -- The Afghan government seemingly tried to distance itself from a conference in Moscow in which a Taliban delegation publicly appeared for the first time at an international forum.
Moscow hosts peace talks between Taliban, Afghan govt. Press TV 09 Nov 2018 -- Multilateral talks on Afghanistan peace opened in Moscow on Friday with the participation of the Taliban and the Afghanistan High Peace Council (HPC), which is said to be representing the Kabul government.
Austria, Russia summon diplomatic representatives amid espionage allegations Press TV 09 Nov 2018 -- Russia and Austria have summoned each other's diplomatic representatives amid a dispute over allegations of Russian espionage involving a retired Austrian colonel.
Retired Austrian Officer Suspected Of Spying For Russia RFE/RL 09 Nov 2018 -- Austrian authorities have questioned a recently retired military officer under suspicion of spying for Russia for almost 20 years, Chancellor Sebastian Kurz has said.
Vienna's 'Russian Spy' Claims are 'Suspicions Without Any Evidence' - Moscow Sputnik 09 Nov 2018 -- On Friday, Austrian Chancellor Sebastian Kurz confirmed that a former colonel in the Austrian armed forces has been suspected of spying for Russia over the course of about two decades.
Vienna Learned About Colonel Allegedly Spying For Russia From 'Friendly Service' Sputnik 09 Nov 2018 -- Earlier, Austria's Chancellor Sebastian Kurz said that a former Austrian colonel was suspected of having conducted espionage for Moscow. Russia's Foreign Minister Lavrov lambasted Vienna for using "megaphone diplomacy" instead of traditional diplomatic methods, adding that the Austrian Ambassador has been summoned to the Russian Foreign Ministry.
Austrian Army Colonel Suspected of Spying for Russia VOA 09 Nov 2018 -- A recently retired Austrian army colonel is suspected of having spied for Russia for several decades.
Briefing by Foreign Ministry Spokesperson Maria Zakharova, Moscow, November 8, 2018 Russia Ministry of Foreign Affairs 08 Nov 2018
Armenian Government Seeks Cuts In Natural-Gas Prices From Russia RFE/RL 08 Nov 2018 -- The Armenian government is in talks with Moscow and Russian state-owned energy giant Gazprom on the possibility of gaining a cost cut for natural gas supplied to the South Caucasus nation and prices charged to retail customers.
US imposes additional sanctions on Russia over Crimea Press TV 08 Nov 2018 -- The United States has slapped additional sanctions on Russian individuals and a company over Crimea's re-integration with Russia in 2014.
U.S. Sanctions Persons, Entities Over Activities In Russian-Occupied Crimea RFE/RL 08 Nov 2018 -- The United States is imposing a new round of financial sanctions related to Moscow's aggression in Ukraine, focusing on individuals and companies doing business in Russian-annexed Crimea.
US Sanctions 9 Russian Entities, 3 Individuals Over Crimea - Volker Sputnik 08 Nov 2018 -- The United States is imposing new sanctions against three Russian individuals and nine entities operating in Crimea, US Special Representative for Ukraine Negotiations Kurt Volker said in a telephone conference on Thursday.
Treasury Sanctions Officials and Targets Entities Supporting Russia's Occupation of Crimea and Forcible Control of Eastern Ukraine US Treasury 08 Nov 2018 -- The U.S. Department of the Treasury's Office of Foreign Assets Control (OFAC) today imposed additional sanctions in response to Russia's continuing malign activity and destabilizing behavior by designating three individuals and nine entities under Ukraine-related authorities. These designations include two individuals and one entity engaged in serious human rights abuses under the Support for the Sovereignty, Integrity, Democracy, and Economic Stability of Ukraine Act of 2014 (SSIDES), as amended by Section 228 of the Countering America's Adversaries Through Sanctions Act (CAATSA).
New US Sanctions Hit Russian, Ukrainian Individuals, Entities VOA 08 Nov 2018 -- The United States has announced additional sanctions against a number of Russian and Ukrainian entities tied to Russia's actions in neighboring Ukraine.
NATO Membership Won't Prevent Turkey From Having Good Ties With Russia - Ankara Sputnik 08 Nov 2018 -- Turkey's NATO membership will not stand in the way of it developing a good relationship with Russia, Volkan Bozkir, the chairman of the Foreign Affairs Committee of the Turkish Grand National Assembly, said Thursday.
U.S. Energy Secretary Warns Sanctions Still Possible Over Nord Stream 2 Project RFE/RL 08 Nov 2018 -- Washington may still impose sanctions over the construction of an underwater natural-gas pipeline between Russia and Germany through the Baltic Sea, U.S. Energy Secretary Rick Perry has said.
Russia, China Lash Out At U.S. Sanctions While Forging Closer Ties RFE/RL 08 Nov 2018 -- Russian and Chinese leaders are lashing out at U.S. sanctions and tariffs that they say are undermining the global trading system built by Washington, and say the measures have served to cement closer economic and political ties between Beijing and Moscow.
Israel threatens to target Russia-manned S-300s in Syria Press TV 07 Nov 2018 -- The Israeli regime has threatened to hit the Russia-made S-300 missile defense launchers in Syria, even those manned by the Russian military itself, should the launchers target Tel Aviv's warplanes.
Kremlin rules out better Russia-US relations Press TV 07 Nov 2018 -- The Kremlin says it saw no "rosy prospects" for an improvement in relations between Russia and the United States in the near future.
Russian State Missile Firm's CEO 'Funnels Business' To Hairstylist Daughter RFE/RL 07 Nov 2018 -- Russian President Vladimir Putin's spokesman sought to cast doubt on a newspaper's allegations of top-level corruption at Tactical Missiles Corporation, the state-controlled weapons manufacturer known as KTRV.
'Can't Get Much Worse, Probably Won't Get Better': Kremlin On U.S. Ties After Elections RFE/RL 07 Nov 2018 -- Russian President Vladimir Putin's spokesman says that relations with the United States cannot get much worse, but also suggests that prospects for improvement are hard to discern following the midterm elections in the United States.
Russia Deploys Frigate Carrying Kalibr Cruise Missiles to Mediterranean Sea Sputnik 07 Nov 2018 -- The warship will reinforce the Russian flotilla already deployed in the Mediterranean.
State Dept: US to Impose New Set of Sanctions Against Russia Over Skripal Attack Sputnik 06 Nov 2018 -- The United States intends to move forward with imposing additional sanctions against Russia for the attack against Russian ex-spy Sergei Skripal as required by law, State Department Spokesperson Heather Nauert told Sputnik on Tuesday.
Russia to Deliver Su-35, S-400 to China No Later Than 2020 - Rostec Sputnik 06 Nov 2018 -- Russia and China have concluded contracts on deliveries of weapons to be used in operations on the ground, in the air and in the sea, Viktor Kladov, the head of the delegation of Russian state corporation Rostec at the Zhuhai airshow, told Sputnik on Tuesday.
Russian Jet Intercepts U.S. Navy Plane Over Black Sea RFE/RL 06 Nov 2018 -- The U.S. Navy has posted a video showing one of its aircraft being intercepted by a Russian jet in international airspace over the Black Sea.
Russia's fighter jet intercepts U.S. aircraft over Black Sea People's Daily 06 Nov 2018 -- A Russian Su-27 fighter jet has intercepted a U.S. Navy EP-3E Aries plane over the Black Sea near Russian airspace and escorted it away in a safe manner, the Russian Defense Ministry said on Monday.
Russian jet intercepts US spy plane over Black Sea Press TV 06 Nov 2018 -- A Russian fighter jet has intercepted an American spy plane that was taking part in a NATO military exercise over the Black Sea in an effort "to prevent a violation" of Russian borders, Russia's Defense Ministry says.
U.S. Benchmarking Capabilities Against China, Russia, Dunford Says AFPS 06 Nov 2018 -- Russia and China are near-peer competitors and the United States must benchmark military capabilities against these possible threats, Marine Corps Gen. Joe Dunford said at Duke University here last night.
Russia, Iran discuss situation around Iran deal in light of new US sanctions IRNA 06 Nov 2018 -- The situation around the implementation of the Iran nuclear deal in the light of the United States' new sanctions against Teheran was in focus of a meeting between Russian Deputy Foreign Minister Sergei Ryabkov and Iranian Ambassador to Moscow Mehdi Sanaei, the Russian foreign ministry said on Tuesday.
Russia, Germany slam US re-imposition of sanctions on Iran Press TV 06 Nov 2018 -- Russia and Germany have slammed the United States' move to reinstate sanctions against Iran's vital oil exports, shipping and banking, saying Moscow and Berlin would continue trade with Tehran.
Russia,Iran underline continuing anti-terrorism war in Syria IRNA 06 Nov 2018 -- Russia and Iran affirmed the necessity of continuing the war against terrorism in Syria till eradicating it completely.
Lukashenka Says No Need For Russian Military Base In Belarus, Praises U.S. Role In Europe RFE/RL 06 Nov 2018 -- Belarusian President Alyaksandr Lukashenka has said that the U.S. "military and political role" in Europe is crucial to regional security and emphasized that he does not want a Russian military base in his country.
U.S. To Impose New Russia Sanctions Over Skripal Poisoning RFE/RL 06 Nov 2018 -- The United States says it is eyeing fresh sanctions against Russia over the poisoning of a Russian former spy in Britain earlier this year.
Russia Faces More US Sanctions Over British Poisoning Case VOA 06 Nov 2018 -- Russia is facing another round of U.S. sanctions over the poisoning of an ex-Russian spy and his daughter in Britain.
Israel Sheds Light on Contacts With Russian Military After Il-20 Downing Sputnik 05 Nov 2018 -- Israeli and Russian military maintain contacts after the downing of the Russian Il-20 plane off the Syrian coast, and the conflict prevention mechanism remains operational, Deputy Director General of the Israeli Foreign Ministry Alexander Ben-Zvi stated.
Trump, Kremlin Say Substantive Meeting 'Unlikely' In Paris RFE/RL 05 Nov 2018 -- Both U.S. President Donald Trump and the Kremlin now say that Trump and Russian President Vladimir Putin are unlikely to hold a substantive meeting in Paris on November 11.
U.S. EP-3 Intercepted in the Black Sea NNS 05 Nov 2018 -- On Nov. 5, 2018, a U.S. EP-3 Aries aircraft flying in international airspace over the Black Sea was intercepted by a Russian SU-27. This interaction was determined to be unsafe due to the SU-27 conducting a high speed pass directly in front of the mission aircraft, putting at risk the pilots and crew. The intercepting SU-27 made an additional pass, closing with the EP-3 and applying its afterburner while conducting a banking turn away. The crew of the EP-3 reported turbulence following the first interaction, and vibrations from the second. The duration of the intercept was approximately 25 minutes.
Russian Su-27 Intercepts US Navy Spy Aircraft Over Black Sea Sputnik 05 Nov 2018 -- Moscow has denied US claims that one of its planes was intercepted over the Black Sea by an Su-27 jet in an "unsafe manner." According to the official statement, the pilot followed the safety procedures in his actions.
Kyiv Patriarch Rejects Property Seizures, Saying They'll Give Kremlin Pretext For Incursions RFE/RL 03 Nov 2018 -- The leader of the Ukrainian Orthodox Church of the Kyiv Patriarchate says steps toward independence from Moscow must be carried out carefully to avoid giving the Kremlin a pretext for further Russian incursions into Ukrainian territory.
Putin Praises GRU Spy Agency Blamed For Attacks In West RFE/RL 03 Nov 2018 -- President Vladimir Putin on November 2 praised the Russian military spy agency that the West this year has blamed for a series of blatant attacks.
Putin, Cuban President Vow To Bolster Ties, Denounce U.S. 'Interference' RFE/RL 02 Nov 2018 -- The presidents of Russia and Cuba have vowed to strengthen political, economic, and military ties and denounced what they called U.S. "interference in the domestic affairs of sovereign nations."
Russia Influence Operations Taking Aim at US Military VOA 02 Nov 2018 -- With just days to go until the U.S. midterm elections, there are growing fears that Russia's efforts to undermine U.S. democracy extend far beyond the polls on Nov. 6 or the presidential election in 2020.
Briefing by Foreign Ministry Spokesperson Maria Zakharova, Moscow, November 1, 2018 Russia Ministry of Foreign Affairs 01 Nov 2018
Russia slaps counter-sanctions on Ukraine's political elite, businesses Press TV 01 Nov 2018 -- Russia's Prime Minister Dmitry Medvedev has signed a decree allowing sweeping financial sanctions against hundreds of Ukrainian politicians and authorities as well as dozens of businesses owned by Ukraine in response to the country's "unfriendly actions" targeting "citizens and legal entities of Russia."
US Move to Exit INF 'Driven by Desire for Total Military Superiority' - Moscow Sputnik 01 Nov 2018 -- Washington is using claims about Russia's alleged violations of the Intermediate-Range Nuclear Forces Treaty (INF) to cover up its own direct violations of the arms limitation pact, Russian Foreign Ministry spokeswoman Maria Zakharova has said.
Rocket Failure Caused By Sensor Damaged During Assembly, Official Says RFE/RL 01 Nov 2018 -- The launch failure last month of a manned mission to space was caused by a faulty sensor that was damaged during the Soyuz rocket's assembly at the launch center in Kazakhstan, the head of a Russian commission investigating the incident has said.
Russian State Commission Presents Findings on Soyuz MS-10 Failed Launch Sputnik 01 Nov 2018 -- On October 11, the Soyuz MS-10 mission was forced to perform emergency landing after the rocket's booster failed less than two minutes after the launch from Baikonur Cosmodrome in Kazakhstan.
Cause of Soyuz-FG Launch Failure Revealed - Probe Commission Sputnik 01 Nov 2018 -- On October 11, a Soyuz-FG launch vehicle with two members of the new crew for the International Space Station on board failed to reach its destination, becoming the first failure of a manned space launch in modern Russian history.

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Weapons of Mass Destruction (WMD)

November 2018 - Russia Special Weapons News