January 2019 - Russia Special Weapons News

Briefing by Foreign Ministry Spokesperson Maria Zakharova, Moscow, January 31, 2019 Russia Ministry of Foreign Affairs 31 Jan 2019
Russia Ordered To Pay $11.5 Million Over 2006 Expulsion Of Georgians RFE/RL 31 Jan 2019 -- The European Court of Human Rights (ECHR) has ordered the Russian state to pay Georgia 10 million euros ($11.5 million) over the mass deportation of Georgian citizens from Russia in 2006.
'No Progress' In Talks On Saving Russia-U.S. Missile Pact As Deadline Looms RFE/RL 31 Jan 2019 -- Russia and Washington have failed to bridge their differences over a key Cold War-era arms control treaty at last-ditch talks in Beijing, Russian and U.S. officials say.
Russia, US make 'no progress' in nuclear treaty talks Press TV 31 Jan 2019 -- The United States and Russia have failed to make any progress in negotiations on a landmark Cold War-era arms control treaty, with Washington expected to go ahead with a unilateral withdrawal from the key pact this weekend, a senior Russian diplomat says.
Russia Slams US 60-Day Ultimatum on INF Treaty as 'Game' Sputnik 31 Jan 2019 -- Russian Deputy Foreign Minister Sergei Ryabkov said Thursday that Moscow would continue working toward a settlement on the disputed INF Treaty, adding that the issue would be more difficult because the 60-day deadline set by Washington is a "game aimed at covering up the decision to quit the agreement".
Putin Blasts Kyiv For 'Blatant Interference' In Orthodox Church RFE/RL 31 Jan 2019 -- Russian President Vladimir Putin has accused Ukraine's government of "blatant interference" in the Orthodox Church in Ukraine after a new national institution split from Moscow's patronage.
India Seeks License Extension from Russia to Manufacture More Su-30MKI Locally Sputnik 31 Jan 2019 -- India's decision to manufacture additional Su-30MKI for the air force has been taken against the backdrop of a delay in the formal tendering process to acquire 110 fighter jets and upgrades of other existing jets, according to a highly placed official in India's Defence Ministry.
Protected by Armor: US Sanctions Pose no Risk for Russia-Venezuela Ties - Maduro Sputnik 30 Jan 2019 -- New US sanctions against Venezuelan state-owned PDVSA energy company pose no risks for the cooperation of Venezuela and Russia, country's President Nicolas Maduro told Sputnik in an interview.
US Development of New Warhead Increases Risk of Nuclear War - Lavrov Sputnik 30 Jan 2019 -- The statement by the Russian Foreign Minister comes two days after the National Nuclear Security Agency announced that the US had begun manufacturing an undisclosed number of W76-2 Initial Operational Capability [IOC] warheads.
Five Nuclear Powers Meeting In Beijing As U.S. Calls For Transparency RFE/RL 30 Jan 2019 -- The United States has called for more transparency from Russia and China regarding their nuclear programs, as diplomats from five major nuclear powers meet in Beijing.
EU Again Urges Moscow To Release Ukrainian Sailors RFE/RL 30 Jan 2019 -- The European Union has again called on Russia to immediately and unconditionally release the 24 Ukrainian Navy sailors seized along with their three naval vessels last year near the Kerch Strait, which links the Black Sea and the Sea of Azov.
New low-yield US nukes make nuclear conflict more likely: Lavrov Press TV 30 Jan 2019 -- Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov has warned that the United States' decision to produce a low-yield nuclear warhead will only make a nuclear war more likely.
U.S. Lawmakers Seek Treasury Records On Deripaska Sanctions Decision RFE/RL 30 Jan 2019 -- Congressional Democrats are pushing to get documents from the U.S. Treasury Department about its decision to lift financial sanctions on companies connected to Russian oligarch Oleg Deripaska.
Washington Post: Russia Offered To Build Nuke Plant For North Korea RFE/RL 30 Jan 2019 -- The Washington Post is reporting that Russian officials have made a secret proposal to build North Korea a nuclear power plant in exchange for dismantling its weapons programs.
US plans to suspend INF nuclear arms treaty with Russia: White House Press TV 29 Jan 2019 -- The administration of US President Donald Trump is poised to suspend a landmark Cold War-era arms control treaty with Russia, a move likely to escalate already high tensions between Washington and Moscow.
Russia Vows to Support Venezuela's Legitimate Authorities Sputnik 29 Jan 2019 -- According to Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov, the opposition in Venezuela is highly influenced by foreign forces and has been prohibited from contacting the government.
Maduro is Not Protecting Russian, Chinese Investment - Venezuela's Guaido Sputnik 29 Jan 2019 -- Venezuela's self-proclaimed acting president and leader of the country's National Assembly, Juan Guaido, has told CNN in Spanish that incumbent Venezuelan President, Nicolas Maduro, is not protecting Chinese and Russian investment in Venezuela.
Russia Vows To Do 'Everything' To Support Maduro, Criticizes U.S. Sanctions RFE/RL 29 Jan 2019 -- Russian officials have lashed out at the United States over the upheaval in Venezuela, vowing to support embattled President Nicolas Maduro and sharply criticizing Washington for imposing sanctions on the Venezuelan state oil company PDVSA.
Navalny Office Manager Claims Russian Security Officer Tried To Recruit Her RFE/RL 29 Jan 2019 -- An employee of the Anti-Corruption Foundation run by Russian opposition leader Aleksei Navalny has alleged that a member of the Russian secret services attempted to recruit her and issued threats when she refused to cooperate.
Russian Justice Ministry To Decriminalize 'Unavoidable' Bribes RFE/RL 29 Jan 2019 -- Russia's Justice Ministry has proposed a bill decriminalizing bribery and other corruption acts committed under "exceptional circumstances."
CIA Provided Intelligence On Lifting Of Deripaska Sanctions But Raised No Concerns RFE/RL 29 Jan 2019 -- The Central Intelligence Agency (CIA) says it didn't raise any concerns over the lifting of sanctions by the U.S. Treasury Department on three companies linked to Russian oligarch Oleg Deripaska.
Japan Reserves Right on US Bases Decision in Case of Gaining Kuril Islands - Abe Sputnik 29 Jan 2019 -- The US must receive a permission to set up military bases in any area of Japan, despite the Treaty of Mutual Cooperation and Security between the two countries, Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe said Tuesday when asked about the possibility of US military bases appearing on the Kurils in case of their handover by Russia to Japan.
DNI: Russia, China Most Serious Espionage Threats To U.S. RFE/RL 29 Jan 2019 -- Director of National Intelligence (DNI) Dan Coats says Russia and China present the most serious espionage and cyberattack threats to the United States as the two seek to expand their global reach.
Avangard Hypersonic Glide Vehicle Devs Patent New Rocket Refueling Tech Sputnik 28 Jan 2019 -- The glider system, capable of accelerating to up to 27 times the speed of sound, was unveiled by the Russian president last March as one of six new Russian weapons designed to preserve the global strategic balance.
Moscow Not Planning to Have Any Contacts With Venezuela's Guaido - Kremlin Sputnik 28 Jan 2019 -- Earlier, the United States and Israel, alongside a handful of other nations, recognised opposition leader Juan Guaido as the interim president.
Russian Su-27 Jet Scrambled to Intercept US P-8A Poseidon - Russian MoD Sputnik 28 Jan 2019 -- On 24 January, the Russian Defence Ministry stated that a Russian Su-27 warplane was scrambled to intercept another target that was spotted over the Baltic Sea close to the Russian border. The spotted target turned out to be a Swedish reconnaissance aircraft, called Gulfstream.
New Astana talks on Syria due in mid-February: Russia Press TV 28 Jan 2019 -- Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov says the next round of peace negotiations for Syria in the Astana format will be held in the Kazakh capital in mid-February.
U.S., Russian Leaders Urged To Help Ethnic Kazakhs In Xinjiang RFE/RL 28 Jan 2019 -- A group of ethnic Kazakhs originally from China have urged the U.S. and Russian presidents to help secure the release of their relatives whom they say are being held at so-called "reeducation camps" in the northwestern Chinese region of Xinjiang.
Washington Lifts Sanctions Against Russian Companies En+, Rusal, Eurosibenergo Sputnik 28 Jan 2019 -- US Treasury Department announced in a press release that it lifts sanctions on Russian firms Rusal, En+ and Eurosibenergo.
Kremlin Casts Doubt On Report It Sent Military Contractors To Help Venezuela's Maduro RFE/RL 27 Jan 2019 -- The Kremlin has cast doubt about a report that it has sent as many as 400 private military contractors to Venezuela to help embattled socialist President Nicolas Maduro strengthen security amid opposition protests and a competing claim to leadership by opposition head Juan Guaido.
Kremlin Spokesman Refutes Reports of Russian Military Presence in Venezuela Sputnik 27 Jan 2019 -- Media reports claiming that Russian military contractors have arrived in Venezuela to reinforce the security of President Nicolas Maduro are untrue, Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov said on Sunday.
Japan Won't Budge on Kuril Islands Position - Cabinet Deputy Chief Secretary Sputnik 27 Jan 2019 -- The Japanese government has not changed its principal stance on the disputed Kuril islands amid ongoing peace talks with Russia and continues to insist that they are Japan's ancestral territory, Deputy Chief Secretary of the Japanese cabinet Koichi Hagiuda said.
Kremlin: Talks on Peace Deal Between Russia, Japan Hampered by Tokyo's Sanctions Sputnik 27 Jan 2019 -- Conclusion of a peace treaty over the disputed Kuril islands between Moscow and Tokyo is impeded by Japan's sanctions against Russia, Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov said on Sunday.
Russia Detects US Military Satellites' Manoeuvres in Outer Space – Report Sputnik 27 Jan 2019 -- The reported manoeuvres come after US President Donald Trump presented the country's new Missile Defence Review last week, saying that in line with the document, Washington "will recognise that space is a new war-fighting domain, with the Space Force leading the way".
US, Canada scramble jets to escort Russian bombers Press TV 27 Jan 2019 -- The United States and Canada have sent four fighter jets to shadow Russian long-range bombers flying near Canadian air defense identification zone in the Arctic region, authorities say.
U.S., Canadian Jets Scrambled To Escort Russian Bombers Away From North American Coastline RFE/RL 27 Jan 2019 -- U.S. and Canadian fighter jets were scrambled to escort two Russian nuclear-capable bombers away from the North American coastline in the Arctic region, military officials say.
US, Canadian Jets 'Identified' Russian Bombers in Airspace Near Canada - NORAD Sputnik 27 Jan 2019 -- On Saturday, the Russian Defence Ministry said that two Tu-160 strategic bombers had carried out a planned flight over the neutral waters of the Arctic Ocean, spending over 15 hours in the airspace. The ministry noted that all flights had been conducted in strict accordance with the international rules on the use of the airspace.
U.S. Lifts Sanctions On Rusal, Other Firms With Links To Deripaska RFE/RL 27 Jan 2019 -- The U.S. Treasury Department says sanctions imposed on three companies linked to Russian oligarch Oleg Deripaska have been lifted.
OFAC Delists En+, Rusal, and EuroSibEnergo US Treasury 27 Jan 2019 -- The U.S. Department of the Treasury's Office of Foreign Assets Control (OFAC) today lifted sanctions imposed on En+ Group plc ("En+"), UC Rusal plc ("Rusal"), and JSC EuroSibEnergo ("ESE"), following an earlier notification submitted to Congress on December 19, 2018.
Lavrov denounces 'destructive' US policy in Venezuela as Russia takes sides with Maduro Press TV 26 Jan 2019 -- Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov has lashed out at the United States for its "destructive" policy on Venezuela, after Washington threw its weight behind the anti-government opposition and its self-proclaimed president despite international support for President Nicolas Maduro's legitimate government .
Russia Registering Massive Movement of US' GSSAP Military Satellites Sputnik 26 Jan 2019 -- The Russian track means are registering massive movement of the US Geosynchronous Space Situational Awareness Program (GSSAP) military satellites in the geostationary orbit, the Russian Astro Space Center said in a document obtained by Sputnik.
Russia cements Cuba ties with aviation fleet overhaul Press TV 26 Jan 2019 -- Russia says it will help Cuba overhaul its flag carrier, Cubana de Aviacion, which is hardly hit by persisting US economic sanctions against the Caribbean island country.
Russia offers to mediate between Venezuela government, opposition Press TV 25 Jan 2019 -- Russia has offered to mediate between the Venezuelan government and opposition, amid a political crisis that has plagued the Latin American country.
US Policy Toward Venezuela is 'Destructive' - Lavrov Sputnik 25 Jan 2019 -- Earlier, Washington recognised Venezuelan National Assembly leader Juan Guaido as the country's interim president while calling Nicolas Maduro's presidency "illegitimate" and warning Caracas against the use of force against protesters.
Russia Warns Military Scenario in Venezuela Would Be Catastrophic Sputnik 25 Jan 2019 -- Russian Deputy Foreign Minister Sergey Ryabkov said Friday that a military scenario in Venezuela, which is experiencing a deep political crisis, may be catastrophic.
Russia: US igniting arms race in outer space by weaponizing it Press TV 25 Jan 2019 -- Russia has warned that the United States' new space missile program would weaponize outer space and ignite an arms race there.
Moscow Once Again Urges US to Abandon Plans to Resurrect 'Star Wars' Programme Sputnik 25 Jan 2019 -- Earlier on Friday, NATO Secretary-General Jens Stoltenberg has held a press conference after the meeting of the Russia-NATO Council. The meeting focused on the fate of the Intermediate-Range Nuclear Forces Treaty (INF Treaty) in light of Washington's decision to withdraw from the agreement.
Missile Pact In Danger, NATO Chief Says After Russia Talks RFE/RL 25 Jan 2019 -- A meeting between NATO and Russian envoys has failed to resolve a dispute over a new Russian cruise missile that the alliance says is a threat to Europe, NATO Secretary-General Jens Stoltenberg said on January 25.
Russia to Express Concern Over US Arms Violating INF Treaty During Friday Talks Sputnik 25 Jan 2019 -- Russia will express its concern over the US weapons violating the Intermediate-range Nuclear Forces Treaty (INF Treaty) during the Friday meeting of the NATO-Russia Council in Brussels, Russian Deputy Foreign Minister Sergey Ryabkov told reporters.
Activist Group Publishes 'Hacked E-Mails' From Russia RFE/RL 25 Jan 2019 -- A self-described "transparency collective" has released a massive trove of hacked e-mails and leaked documents from what it describes as "Russian politicians, journalists, oligarchs, [and] religious, and social figures."
Russian Lawmakers Pass Bills On 'Fake News,' Offending Authorities In First Reading RFE/RL 25 Jan 2019 -- Russian lawmakers have given tentative approval to bills prohibiting the spread of fake news online and punishing those who insult authorities with jail terms of up to 15 days, in measures the opposition says are aimed at curbing dissent.
Russia Withdraws Appeal Against Doping Ban RFE/RL 25 Jan 2019 -- Russia's athletics federation has said it will withdraw its appeal against its ban from international competition.
Russia Confirms 'Private Security Companies' Operating Amid Unrest In Sudan RFE/RL 24 Jan 2019 -- The Russian Foreign Ministry says private Russian companies are training the army in Sudan, confirming their presence in the African country being shaken by mass street demonstrations by opposition forces.
Russia Offers Support To Embattled Venezuelan Leader, Condemns Bid To 'Usurp Power' RFE/RL 24 Jan 2019 -- Russian President Vladimir Putin "expressed support" to his Venezuelan counterpart, Nicolas Maduro, in a telephone call, after an opposition leader declared himself interim leader of the South American country.
Interview: Russia's Ties To Venezuela Give It 'Nuisance Power' Over The U.S. RFE/RL 24 Jan 2019 -- As the political standoff in Venezuela escalates, Moscow has become increasingly ardent in its support for embattled socialist President Nicolas Maduro since Washington and other capitals recognized opposition leader Juan Guaido's claim to being Venezuela's interim leader.
Russia Warns US Against Military Interference in Venezuela's Affairs Sputnik 24 Jan 2019 -- Russia warns the United States against military interference in Venezuela's affairs, it would be a disaster, Russian Deputy Foreign Minister Sergei Ryabkov said on Thursday, noting that Moscow stands for the principle of non-interference in internal affairs.
Russia, Turkey vow to continue joint anti-terror fight in militant-held Idlib Press TV 24 Jan 2019 -- Russian President Vladimir Putin and his Turkish counterpart, Recep Tayyip Erdogan, have agreed to take steps towards stabilizing the situation in Syria's northwestern province of Idlib, the last major militant stronghold in the Arab country.
Russian S-300s not active during attack in Syria IRNA 24 Jan 2019 -- Head of Majlis (parliament) national security and foreign policy commission Heshmatollah Falahat-Pisheh said on Thursday afternoon that Russian air defense system of 'S-300', which are deployed in Syria, were inactive during the Zionist attack on Syria.
U.S. Official Accuses Russia Of Stonewalling On Missile Treaty Demands RFE/RL 24 Jan 2019 -- Russia is unlikely to meet U.S. demands for more verification on a missile system Washington says has violated a key Cold War treaty, the lead U.S. negotiator on arms control issues said.
Germany Claims Russia Lacks Transparency Despite Demostration of 9M729 Missile Sputnik 24 Jan 2019 -- German Foreign Minister Heiko Maas said on 23 January after meeting with US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo that Russia had "failed to provide enough transparency" on the 9M729 missile, which, according to Washington's claims, allegedly violated the Intermediate-Range Nuclear Forces (INF) Treaty.
Sweden Says Russian Military Planes Briefly Violated Airspace RFE/RL 24 Jan 2019 -- The Swedish military says a Russian reconnaissance plane and two fighter jets briefly violated Sweden's air space on the country's Baltic Sea coast.
Russian Su-27 Jet Scrambled to Intercept Swedish Reconnaissance Aircraft Sputnik 24 Jan 2019 -- The Russian airspace control equipment spotted the Swedish reconnaissance aircraft Gulfstream over the Baltic Sea close to the Russian border, the Russian Defense Ministry said on Thursday, adding that the Russian Su-27 jet was scrambled to intercept it.
Kalashnikov Concern Plans to Start Production of NATO-Standard Assault Rifle Sputnik 24 Jan 2019 -- The Kalashnikov Concern is planning to begin mass production of the AK-308 assault rifle with NATO-standard ammunition in 2019, the concern's General Director Vladimir Dmitriev said.
Chinese, Russian Anti-Satellite Tech Puts US 'Space Assets at Risk' - Report Sputnik 24 Jan 2019 -- A new report released by the US National Air and Space Intelligence Center (NASIC) on Wednesday is claiming that Chinese and Russian military forces are using advanced and counterspace technologies for warfighting strategies in an effort to "challenge US superiority."
Briefing by Foreign Ministry Spokesperson Maria Zakharova, Moscow, January 23, 2019 Russia Ministry of Foreign Affairs 23 Jan 2019
Pompeo Says It's 'Struggle' To Reduce Risk Of Confrontation With Russia RFE/RL 23 Jan 2019 -- U.S. Secretary of State Mike Pompeo has told the World Economic Forum in Davos, Switzerland that Washington and Moscow are not "doomed to a Cold War rivalry," but "it has been a struggle" to reduce the risk of confrontation with Russia.
Israel must stop 'spontaneous' Syria strikes: Russia Press TV 23 Jan 2019 -- Russia has urged Israel to stop its "spontaneous" airstrikes on Syria, days after the Israeli military carried out fresh strikes against targets near the Syrian capital, Damascus.
Russia Says 'Arbitrary' Israeli Air Strikes On Syria Should Stop RFE/RL 23 Jan 2019 -- Russia has called on Israel to stop carrying out "arbitrary' air strikes on Syrian territory, days after the Israeli Air Force targeted what Israel said were Iranian forces in the war-torn country.
Continuous Terrorist Provocations Threaten Russian Air Base in Idlib - Moscow Sputnik 23 Jan 2019 -- Earlier in the day, the Russian Defence Ministry's Reconciliation Centre for Syria reported that militants of the Al-Nusra Front terror organisation had attacked Syrian army positions in the Idlib de-escalation zone, near the settlements of Abu-Duhur and Abu-Sharjah.
Russia's new missile keeps INF dispute with US hot Press TV 23 Jan 2019 -- Russia has refuted the US claim that its new missile is violating the Intermediate-range Nuclear Forces Treaty (INF), releasing the specifications of the missile for the first time since Washington threatened to withdraw from the Cold War-era nuclear arms control treaty.
Russia Presses Claim In Cold War Missile-Pact Dispute RFE/RL 23 Jan 2019 -- Russia has held an elaborate presentation to amplify its claim that a new missile at the center of a dispute with the United States and NATO does not violate a key Cold War-era arms pact, the Intermediate-Range Nuclear Forces (INF) Treaty.
'Your Turn To Lie': Former Russian State TV Cameraman Describes 'The Business Of Misinforming Viewers' RFE/RL 23 Jan 2019 -- Strict control of broadcast television has been a key element of Russian President Vladimir Putin's nearly two decades in power. The vast majority of Russians continue to get most of their information from TV, giving the Kremlin a powerful tool for shaping public perceptions.
WADA Chief Defends Decision Not To Penalize Russian Anti-Doping Agency RFE/RL 23 Jan 2019 -- The director-general of the World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA) has defended his organization's decision not to impose new penalties against the Russian Anti-Doping Agency (RUSADA) for delaying access to data from the Moscow drug-testing laboratory at the center of alleged state-sponsored doping.
A Chechen Court Ruled To Forgive $100 Million Of Citizens' Gas Debts. Gazprom Isn't Happy RFE/RL 23 Jan 2019 -- A district court's ruling that Chechnya's $135 million gas debt should be written off because collecting it could lead to social unrest has left other Russian regions wondering why they shouldn't get the same deal, and has prompted the local Gazprom affiliate to fight back.
Russia Suspects US Tests Short-, Medium-Range Missile Tech Under Guise of Drills Sputnik 23 Jan 2019 -- The US will suspend adherence to the Intermediate-Range Nuclear Forces Treaty (INF) with Russia on 2 February, triggering a six-month notice of a complete withdrawal. Washington stated that Moscow would have six months to "prove compliance" with the treaty, if it wishes to preserve the accord. Russia, in turn, has repeatedly denied any wrongdoing.
U.S. Intelligence Strategy Sees 'Diverse' Threats From Russia, China, and North Korea RFE/RL 23 Jan 2019 -- A major U.S. intelligence report released in Washington on January 22 says Russia's efforts to expand its influence and the modernization of China's military are among the "ever more diverse" threats facing the United States.
Russia, China, Cyber Domain Among Key Threats Named in US Intelligence Strategy Sputnik 23 Jan 2019 -- The newly-released 2019 US National Intelligence Strategy identified Russia, China, and cyber activities among some of the major emerging threats to the United States while addressing ways to enhance the effectiveness of the Intelligence Community (IC) to combat these challenges.
Japan's Abe heads to Russia to discuss disputed islands with Putin Press TV 22 Jan 2019 -- Japan's Prime Minister Shinzo Abe is set to hold talks with President Vladimir Putin in Moscow on Tuesday over a group of Pacific islands claimed by both sides, amid low hope for a solution to the decades-old dispute.
Russia's Putin Says 'Painstaking Work' Remains Before Peace Deal With Japan RFE/RL 22 Jan 2019 -- Russian President Vladimir Putin has said that "painstaking work" remains before Russia can conclude a peace treaty with Japan to formally end World War II.
Russia, Japan Confirm Interest in Signing Peace Treaty - Putin Sputnik 22 Jan 2019 -- Abe Shed Light on Recent Talks
Russian Heavy Bomber Crash-Lands In Murmansk Region, Killing Three Crew RFE/RL 22 Jan 2019 -- A Russian long-range bomber has crash-landed in the Arctic, killing three of its crew of four, officials said on January 22.
Russian Anti-Doping Agency Avoids New Punishment Over Missing Deadline RFE/RL 22 Jan 2019 -- The Russian Anti-Doping Agency (RUSADA) remains compliant and will face no new penalties for delaying access to data from its Moscow laboratory, the World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA) says.
Russian Tu-22M3 Bomber Crashes During Landing in Murmansk Region - Russian MoD Sputnik 22 Jan 2019 -- Two crew members of a Tu-22M3 have died and two more were injured during a hard landing in Russia's Murmansk region, the Russian Defence Ministry said in a statement.
American Jailed On Spy Charge In Russia Was Set Up, Lawyer Suggests RFE/RL 22 Jan 2019 -- A lawyer for Paul Whelan, a former U.S. Marine jailed in Russia on an espionage charge, says his client did not know that a USB stick he was given in his hotel room moments before his arrest contained state secrets.
Espionage Suspect Whelan Had Classified Docs at Detention in Russia - Attorney Sputnik 22 Jan 2019 -- Vladimir Zherebenkov, attorney for espionage suspect Paul Whelan, told Sputnik on Monday that his client was found to be in possession of classified documents at the time he was detained last month in Moscow.
Russian Court Denies Bail to Former US Marine Accused of Spying VOA 22 Jan 2019 -- A court in Russia has denied bail to an American man being held on spying charges.
EU sanctions Russians, Syrians over alleged links to chemical attacks Press TV 22 Jan 2019 -- The European Union has imposed sanctions against a number of Russian and Syrian individuals over what it claims to be their links to chemical weapons attacks.
The Kuriles Question: Not So Fast On Russia-Japan World War II Peace Treaty RFE/RL 21 Jan 2019 -- When Japanese President Shinzo Abe addressed a packed audience at the Eastern Economic Forum in September, held in the Russian Far East city of Vladivostok, he had a direct message for his host.
Kremlin Had No Contacts Regarding Construction of Trump Tower in Moscow - Peskov Sputnik 21 Jan 2019 -- The Kremlin was not engaged in any discussions regarding the potential construction of a Trump Tower skyscraper in Moscow, even though it received several emails regarding the matter, Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov has stated.
EU's Sefcovic Says Russia-Ukraine Gas Deal Possible End Of 2019 RFE/RL 21 Jan 2019 -- Ukraine and Russia should be able to reach an agreement by the end of 2019 on the transportation of natural gas to the European Union, a top EU official has said.
Russia rejects US demand to destroy new missile system Press TV 21 Jan 2019 -- Russia has rejected a US demand for Moscow to destroy a new cruise missile system, a weapon Washington alleges is in violation of the landmark Intermediate-range Nuclear Forces (INF) Treaty.
U.S. Envoy Blasts Russia's 'Irresponsible' Behavior, Calls For 'Demonstrable Steps' To Save INF Treaty RFE/RL 21 Jan 2019 -- Washington has again called on Moscow to take "demonstrable steps" to save a key Cold War arms-control treaty, and reiterated claims that Russia's behavior is not that of a "responsible state actor."
Russia Ready to Show US 'Unprecedented Transparency' Over SSC-8 Missile Sputnik 21 Jan 2019 -- The statement by the official comes amid Washington's plans to suspend the Intermediate-Range Nuclear Forces (INF) Treaty with Moscow.
Russian Warships Observe, Escort Two US Destroyers in Baltic Sea - Military Sputnik 21 Jan 2019 -- The US fleet has yet to comment on the move, however, the Pentagon has recently been boosting its naval presence near Russia's territorial waters, with the USS Donald Cook guided-missile destroyer entering the Black Sea over the weekend.
Iran Not Invited, Russia Snubs Mideast Conference In Warsaw, Poland Says RFE/RL 21 Jan 2019 -- Iran has not been invited to a global conference on the Middle East in Warsaw next month and Russia has declined the invitation, Poland's foreign minister says.
UK, EU impose sanctions against Russia's GRU military intelligence agency Press TV 21 Jan 2019 -- The British government and the European Union have imposed sanctions against senior officials from Russia's GRU military intelligence agency, over the agency's suspected poisoning attack on a former Russian spy in southern England last year.
EU Foreign Ministers OK Sanctions On GRU Chiefs, Novichok Suspects RFE/RL 21 Jan 2019 -- European Union foreign ministers have approved targeted sanctions against two senior Russian military intelligence officials and two men Britain suspects in the nerve-agent poisoning of Sergei Skripal.
EU imposes sanctions against Salisbury suspects UK FCO 21 Jan 2019 -- EU foreign ministers agree to impose sanctions on the leadership of the GRU, and Salisbury suspects.
EU Sanctions Russians, Syrians Over Use of Chemical Weapons VOA 21 Jan 2019 -- The European Union has imposed sanctions on Russian military intelligence chiefs over the nerve agent attack on a former Russian double agent in Britain last year.
Stay away from our coast, Russia warns US warship in Black Sea Press TV 21 Jan 2019 -- Russia has warned the American destroyer USS Donald Cook deployed in the Black Sea against approaching Russian coasts, stressing that Moscow is closely watching and monitoring the warship's actions.
Moscow 'Trump Tower' Talks Lasted Through 2016, Lawyer Says VOA 20 Jan 2019 -- U.S. President Donald Trump's personal attorney Rudy Giuliani says Trump's discussions with Russian officials over construction of a Trump Tower in Moscow went on throughout the time he was campaigning for the White House in 2016, months longer than previously acknowledged.
Laos Show Off New Russian-Made Military Equipment During Parade Sputnik 20 Jan 2019 -- A major military parade was held in Vientiane on Sunday to mark the 70th anniversary of the founding of the Lao People's Army.
Russians Hold Protests Against Possible Kurile Handover RFE/RL 20 Jan 2019 -- Russians in Moscow and other cities across the country have protested against the prospect of transferring the disputed Kurile Islands to Japan.
Japan's Abe Mulls Trading Peace Deal With Russia for 2 Kuril Islands - Reports Sputnik 20 Jan 2019 -- Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe has been considering signing a peace treaty with Russia if it hands over two islands in a disputed chain off Japan's northern tip, Kyodo news agency said.e
Tokyo's Claims to Kuril Islands Will Complicate Abe's Talks With Putin - Aide Sputnik 20 Jan 2019 -- Statements made by Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe about Tokyo's claims to the disputed Kuril islands will significantly complicate his upcoming negotiations with Russian President Vladimir Putin, Yury Ushakov, an aide to the Russian leader, said on Sunday.
U.S. Warship Donald Cook Heads To Black Sea For 'Security Operations' RFE/RL 20 Jan 2019 -- The U.S. Navy says the USS Donald Cook is heading to the Black Sea to conduct maritime security operations and enhance maritime stability with NATO allies in the region.
Russia to Launch First-Ever Arctic Weather Satellite - Source Sputnik 20 Jan 2019 -- The first Russian satellite for weather forecasting and monitoring climate and environment in the Arctic region, Arktika-M, is planned to be sent to near-earth orbit in June 2019, a source in the Russian space industry told Sputnik on Sunday.
Analysis: Under Moscow Pressure, Could Belarus's Balancing Act Come Crashing Down? RFE/RL 20 Jan 2019 -- Speculation that the merger of Russia and Belarus is just over the horizon has become so strident in recent weeks that top officials in both countries have made efforts to refute it.
Russian Space Corporation Ready to Design New Super Heavy Rocket – Director Sputnik 20 Jan 2019 -- Russia's space industry corporation Roscosmos is ready to design a new super heavy-lift rocket launcher, its director announced Saturday.
Russia successfully test fires anti-satellite missile system: US intelligence report Press TV 19 Jan 2019 -- Russia has successfully test-fired an anti-satellite missile system that is reportedly capable of disrupting US navigation and communications satellites.
Russia warns Israel against more Syria strikes Press TV 19 Jan 2019 -- Russia has warned Israel against carrying out airstrikes near the Damascus International Airport in the Syrian capital.
Russian Navy Monitoring US Destroyer in Black Sea – Control Center Sputnik 19 Jan 2019 -- Russia's Black Sea Fleet is currently keeping tabs on a US missile destroyer that arrived in the maritime on Saturday, the national defense control center said.
Hundreds Protest In Sakhalin Against Any Transfer Of Nearby Kurile Islands RFE/RL 19 Jan 2019 -- Hundreds have demonstrated on Sakhalin in Russia's Far East to protest against any potential transfer to Japan of any of the islands from the disputed Kurile chain.
In Serbia, Putin blasts West's destabilizing moves in Balkans Press TV 19 Jan 2019 -- Russian President Vladimir Putin has censured Western countries and their allies in the NATO military alliance for actively seeking to destabilize the Balkans.
Russia Mulling Sovereign's Eye Satellite Network to Watch 'Any Process on Earth' Sputnik 19 Jan 2019 -- Russia launched over two dozen satellites into space last year, and had some 146 civilian and military satellites orbiting the planet as of mid-2018, according to UN figures.
Moscow Calls New Pentagon Report 'Relaunch of Reagan-Era Star Wars Programme' Sputnik 18 Jan 2019 -- The Russia Foreign Ministry has reacted to the new US Missile Defence Strategy, presented by Trump on Thursday. The policy, as the US president described it, "recognises that space is a new war-fighting domain with the Space Force leading the way".
Moscow: New US missile strategy will spark space arms race Press TV 18 Jan 2019 -- Moscow says America's newly unveiled space-based military strategy will unleash a dangerous arms race, urging Washington to settle arms treaty disputes "before it's too late."
U.S. Missile Strategy to Unleash Space Arms' Race, Relaunch Cold War Era -Russia Says SPA 18 Jan 2019 -- Russia said on Friday Washington's new missile defense strategy would lead to a dangerous arms race in space and amounts to a relaunch of the Cold War-era "Star Wars" program.
Two Su-34 jets collide in Russia's Far East People's Daily 18 Jan 2019 -- Two Su-34 jets accidentally collided in Russia's Far East region while performing training flights on Friday, the Russian Defense Ministry confirmed in a statement.
German Foreign Minister Urges Russia To Save INF Treaty RFE/RL 18 Jan 2019 -- German Foreign Minister Heiko Maas has urged Russia to help prevent a new arms race by saving a key arms treaty with the United States.
Russia Accuses US of Creating Medium and Short-Range Missiles, INF Fate in Limbo Sputnik 18 Jan 2019 -- Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov and his German counterpart Heiko Maas discussed the future of the Intermediate-Range Nuclear Forces (INF) Treaty, the situation in Syria and the Nord Stream 2 project at a joint press conference in Moscow.
Su-34 Jets Accidentally Collide In Far East, Both Crews Eject - Defence Ministry Sputnik 18 Jan 2019 -- Two Su-34 bombers collided in the Far East but their crews managed to eject safely; both planes were flying without ammunition, the Department of Information and Mass Communications of the Russian Defence Ministry said.
US Puts Intl Security at Risk Claiming Russia Provided Missile Tech to N Korea Sputnik 18 Jan 2019 -- The US Defense Department has unveiled a new plan to strengthen and expand the US missile defense capabilities on land, sea and in space amid fears of sparking a nuclear crisis with Russia and China.
Belarus Looking Into Russian Detention Of Former Model Who Claimed Kremlin Election Meddling RFE/RL 18 Jan 2019 -- The Belarusian Embassy in Moscow says it is looking into the case of a Belarusian model who was detained by Russian authorities after landing in Moscow following her deportation from Thailand.
Russia, Japan far from being partners: Lavrov Press TV 17 Jan 2019 -- Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov says Russia and Japan are still "far from being partners" on the international stage, despite renewed efforts to resolve a decades-old conflict over a group of Pacific islands claimed by both sides.
U.S. Says 'No New Ground Broken' With Russia On Missile Treaty Impasse RFE/RL 17 Jan 2019 -- The United States has rejected a Russian proposal on saving a key Cold War arms control treaty because the pact cannot be properly verified.
Facebook Removes Hundreds Of Fake Pages, Accounts 'Linked' To Russia's Sputnik RFE/RL 17 Jan 2019 -- Facebook has removed hundreds of pages, groups, and accounts on its Facebook and Instagram platforms that the U.S. company says were part of two online disinformation operations targeting users across the former Soviet space.
Legislation To Maintain Sanctions On Deripaska Companies Fails In U.S. Senate RFE/RL 17 Jan 2019 -- The U.S. Senate has failed to pass a resolution that could have stopped sanctions on companies linked to Russian oligarch Oleg Deripaska from being lifted.
Russia Detains Belarusian Escort Claiming Trump Secrets RFE/RL 17 Jan 2019 -- Russia has detained a Belarusian model who claimed she had evidence of the Kremlin's efforts to help Donald Trump win the presidency, reports from Moscow say.
US Failed to Provide Proof for Claims of Russian Missile Violating INF - Moscow Sputnik 17 Jan 2019 -- The United States has not provided Russia with specific proof to substantiate its claims that the ground-launched SSC-8 cruise missile (Russian designation 9M729) violated the Intermediate-Range Nuclear Forces Treaty (INF), Russian Deputy Foreign Minister Sergey Ryabkov told Sputnik Thursday.
OFAC Extends Expiration Date of General Licenses Related to En+, RUSAL, and ESE US Treasury 16 Jan 2019 -- "The U.S. Department of the Treasury's Office of Foreign Assets Control (OFAC) today extended the expiration date of certain general licenses related to En+ Group plc (EN+), United Company RUSAL PLC (RUSAL), and JSC EuroSibEnergo (ESE) from January 21, 2019 to January 28, 2019."
Russia concerned by US talk of possible military involvement in Venezuela Press TV 16 Jan 2019 -- Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov has expressed concerns over US talk of some kind of possible military involvement in Venezuela, slamming Washington for inciting the Latin American country's opposition to hamper talks with the Caracas government.
Is Turkmenistan Being Pulled Into Russia's Orbit? RFE/RL 16 Jan 2019 -- April will mark 10 years since a mysterious explosion at a gas pipeline leading from Turkmenistan to Russia.
Serbian Officials Tuning Up For Putin's Visit To Belgrade RFE/RL 16 Jan 2019 -- When Russian President Vladimir Putin visits Belgrade on January 17, Serbian Foreign Minister Ivica Dacic is hoping to hit all the right notes. Literally.
Ahead Of Serbia Visit, Putin Claims U.S. Is Playing Destabilizing Role In Balkans RFE/RL 16 Jan 2019 -- Russian President Vladimir Putin alleged that the United States is destabilizing the Balkans by "asserting their dominant role" in the region, according to interviews published in Serbian newspapers.
Statement by Vice President Mike Pence on the terrorist attack in Syria The White House 16 Jan 2019
US Soldiers Killed in IS-Claimed Syria Blast VOA 16 Jan 2019 -- The Islamic State terror group quickly claimed responsibility for Wednesday's attack, identifying the bomber as one of its Syrian fighters and said he had targeted a patrol of U.S. and coalition forces.
Pence Says Daesh Defeated as Group Claims Credit for Killing US Troops in Manbij Sputnik 16 Jan 2019 -- The Daesh* has been defeated and its Caliphate has crumbled, Vice President Mike Pence said on Wednesday, the same day several US service members were killed in a Syria attack the terror group claimed credit for.
Explosion Kills Four in Manbij CENTCOM 16 Jan 2019 -- Two U.S. servicemembers, one Department of Defense (DoD) civilian and one contractor supporting DoD were killed and three servicemembers were injured while conducting a local engagement in Manbij, Syria, Jan. 16, 2019.
Four US servicemen, 14 others killed in bomb attack in Syria's northern city of Manbij Press TV 16 Jan 2019 -- At least four US servicemen and 14 other people have been reported dead after a massive bomb explosion struck near a patrol of the US-led coalition purportedly fighting the Daesh Takfiri terrorist group in Syria's flashpoint northern city of Manbij.
Four Americans, Including Two Soldiers, Killed In Syria Blast, Pentagon Says RFE/RL 16 Jan 2019 -- The Pentagon says two U.S. troops and two American civilians are among among those killed in a suicide bombing claimed by the Islamic State (IS) group in Syria.
US Official Announces Start Date for American Withdrawal Process From INF Treaty Sputnik 16 Jan 2019 -- The US called the latest round of negotiations aimed at preserving the Intermediate-Range Nuclear Forces (INF) Treaty "disappointing". At the same time, Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov slammed the US for ignoring Moscow's "constructive proposals" and sticking to its own "prepared position that was based on an ultimatum".
Russian Court Leaves Jailed Ukrainian Sailors In Pretrial Detention RFE/RL 16 Jan 2019 -- A Moscow court has prolonged the pretrial detention of 24 Ukrainian sailors detained by Russian forces who attacked three Ukrainian Navy vessels in the Black Sea in November.
Russia, Kurdish militants reject US-proposed 'security zone' under Turkish control Press TV 16 Jan 2019 -- US-backed Kurdish militants have rejected Washington's proposal for the establishment of a "security zone" under Turkish control along the Syrian side of the two countries' border, saying it infringes on the sovereignty of the Arab country.
Turkey to Purchase Russian S-400 Regardless of Potential Patriot Deal With US Sputnik 16 Jan 2019 -- Turkish Foreign Minister Mevlut Cavusoglu earlier stated that Turkey was open to a US proposal on Patriot air defence systems supplies only if abandoning the S-400 deal with Russia is not a precondition for the agreement with Washington.
US Senate advances measure critical of easing Russia sanctions Press TV 16 Jan 2019 -- The US Senate has voted to move ahead with a Democratic-backed resolution blocking President Donald Trump's plan to lift sanctions against three major Russian companies.
U.S. Senators Advance Deripaska Sanctions Resolution Over Administration Objections RFE/RL 16 Jan 2019 -- The U.S. Senate has moved forward with a resolution opposing President Donald Trump's administration for a plan to ease sanctions on Russian companies tied to billionaire Oleg Deripaska.
Lavrov Says U.S. Out To Torpedo 'Strategic Stability,' Maintains Hard Line In Kuriles Dispute RFE/RL 16 Jan 2019 -- Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov has accused the United States of seeking to dismantle the system of weapons pacts and said that Moscow is willing to continue trying to preserve the Intermediate-Range Nuclear Forces (INF) Treaty.
Classified Russian Military Town From UK's Skripal Probe No Longer Secret Sputnik 16 Jan 2019 -- The closed unit status was revoked upon the Russian president's order shortly after the name of the town popped up in London's investigation into the alleged March 2018 nerve gas attack.
US Senate Upholds Lifting Sanctions on Russian's Companies VOA 16 Jan 2019 -- The U.S. Senate on Wednesday narrowly upheld a Trump administration plan to lift sanctions against three companies linked to Russian oligarch Oleg Deripaska, a close ally of Russian President Vladimir Putin.
Kremlin Dismisses 'Stupid' Claims That Trump A Russian Agent RFE/RL 16 Jan 2019 -- Top Russian officials on January 16 dismissed as ridiculous allegations that U.S. President Donald Trump could have worked for Moscow's interests, calling them "absurd" and "stupid."
EU Ambassadors Approve Sanctions Against Novichok Suspects RFE/RL 16 Jan 2019 -- European Union ambassadors agreed on January 16 to impose sanctions on four Russian military intelligence officers who the EU says are responsible for carrying out chemical attacks, including the poisoning of ex-spy Sergei Skripal in Britain in 2018.
Russia's FSB Says It Deported Ukrainian Spy RFE/RL 16 Jan 2019 -- Russia's Federal Security Service (FSB) says it has deported a man it it says is an agent of the Ukrainian Security Service (SBU) who planned to collect information about Russian military forces in Crimea.
US 'fully' responsible if INF collapses, Russia says Press TV 15 Jan 2019 -- Moscow has blamed Washington for the looming collapse of a key nuclear arms control deal after consultations between the two sides made no progress to reach an accord to save the Intermediate-Range Nuclear Forces Treaty (INF).
Russian Court Leaves Jailed Ukrainian Sailors In Pretrial Detention RFE/RL 15 Jan 2019 -- A Moscow court has prolonged the pretrial detention for 12 of 24 Ukrainian sailors detained by Russian forces who attacked three Ukrainian Navy vessels in the Black Sea in November.
NASA chief accepts invitation to visit Russia People's Daily 15 Jan 2019 -- NASA Administrator Jim Bridenstine has accepted an invitation to make a working visit to Russia in the next several months, Russian space agency Roscosmos said Tuesday on its website.
Russia In 'Material Breach' Of Key Nuclear Treaty, U.S. Says RFE/RL 15 Jan 2019 -- Russia remains "in material breach" of the Intermediate-Range Nuclear Forces (INF) Treaty, the United States has said after a new round of bilateral talks ended with no progress.
Russia, US: No Progress in Talks Over 1987 Nuclear Arms Treaty VOA 15 Jan 2019 -- Russia and the United States said Tuesday there was no progress in talks over Washington's intention to withdraw from a 1987 nuclear arms treaty because it says Moscow is violating its terms.
U.S. Senate To Vote On Deripaska Sanctions Resolution RFE/RL 15 Jan 2019 -- The U.S. Senate is set to vote on a resolution criticizing the decision by President Donald Trump's administration to ease sanctions on companies linked to Russian oligarch Oleg Deripaska.
Iran govt. gets clearance for $5 billion Russian loan Press TV 15 Jan 2019 -- The Iranian government has been allowed to get a $5 billion loan from Russia for infrastructure projects, a parliamentary spokesman said on Tuesday.
Russia to Complete Military Satellite Constellation Blagovest in April - Source Sputnik 15 Jan 2019 -- The communications satellites will be spread out evenly to provide seamless global coverage. They are equipped with modern Ka and Q-band transponders and support high-speed Internet, telephony and other broadcasting services.
'Military deal with Sudan paves way for Russia to build base on Red Sea' Press TV 14 Jan 2019 -- A senior Sudanese parliamentarian says a draft military deal with Russia on mutual navy port visits could pave the way for Moscow to build a permanent military base on the Red Sea coast.
Major differences still hinder peace talks with Japan over contested islands: Russian FM Press TV 14 Jan 2019 -- Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov says there are still significant disagreements with Japan on reaching a conclusive peace deal to end a decades-long territorial dispute over a group of islands, which has prevented the two sides from promoting their ties since the conclusion of World War II.
Lavrov Talks Tough At Meeting With Japan On Disputed Islands RFE/RL 14 Jan 2019 -- Moscow has warned Tokyo not to expect progress toward an agreement over the disputed Kurile Islands unless Japan first recognizes Russian sovereignty over the Pacific island chain claimed by both countries since World War II.
'I Never Worked For Russia,' Trump Says, Slamming 'Big Fat Hoax' RFE/RL 14 Jan 2019 -- U.S. President Donald Trump says he has "never worked for Russia," in response to reports that raised questions about his ties to President Vladimir Putin, reports which he called a "big fat hoax."
Trump: I Never Worked for Russia' VOA 14 Jan 2019 -- U.S. President Donald Trump declared Monday, "I never worked for Russia," days after news reports suggested he might be beholden to Russia and President Vladimir Putin.
Reports Of New Antigay Purge In Chechnya Prompt Renewed Calls For Moscow's Accountability RFE/RL 14 Jan 2019 -- LGBT activists allege that a new antigay purge in Chechnya has led to at least two deaths by torture and the detention of around 40 people.
Russian Space Agency Hopeful Despite Failed Attempt To Control Satellite RFE/RL 13 Jan 2019 -- Russia's space agency says it has again failed to restore communications with an orbiting radio telescope but remains hopeful it will regain control of the satellite soon.
Communication Session With Spektr-R Space Telescope Fails - Roscosmos Sputnik 13 Jan 2019 -- A representative of Russian space agency Roscosmos told Sputnik on Sunday that an attempt to establish contact with Russia's only space telescope Spektr-R has failed.
I have been tougher on Russia than any other president: Trump Press TV 13 Jan 2019 -- US President Donald Trump claims he has been "far tougher" on Russia than past presidents, following new revelations about a 2017 FBI probe into whether he was working for the Russian government.
Trump Dismisses New Allegations He Is Beholden to Putin VOA 13 Jan 2019 -- U.S. President Donald Trump is dismissing news reports suggesting he is beholden to Russia and President Vladimir Putin or hiding accounts of his private talks with the Russian leader the five times they have met, including at their July summit in Helsinki.
Trump Denies Hiding Details Of Putin Meetings RFE/RL 13 Jan 2019 -- U.S. President Donald Trump has denied hiding details of conversations with Russian leader Vladimir Putin from administration officials, saying he is "not keeping anything under wraps."
Trump Refutes Reports About Hiding Details of Talks With Putin Sputnik 13 Jan 2019 -- US President Donald Trump refuted on Saturday media reports that he had allegedly hidden some details of his one-on-one conversations with Russian President Vladimir Putin.
US officials reportedly kept in dark about Trump-Putin meetings Press TV 13 Jan 2019 -- US officials have reportedly been unaware of details in the meetings between US President Donald Trump and his Russian counterpart, Vladimir Putin.
House Democrats eye reported FBI probe of Trump Press TV 13 Jan 2019 -- A US House committee will look into a media report that claims the FBI launched an inquiry in 2017 to find out whether President Donald Trump had been working on behalf of Russia, against US interests, says the panel's chairman.
US threatens German companies with sanctions on Russian gas imports Press TV 13 Jan 2019 -- The United States has threatened German energy companies with possible sanctions over their dealings with Russia, after President Donald Trump warned that reliance on Russian energy makes Berlin a "captive" of Moscow.
Schumer Says He Will Force Vote On U.S. Move To Ease Sanctions On Deripaska RFE/RL 13 Jan 2019 -- U.S. Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer says he will use the Countering America's Adversaries Through Sanctions Act to force a vote on a resolution disapproving a decision by President Donald Trump to relax sanctions on companies connected to Russian oligarch Oleg Deripaska.
Russia to Launch Serial Production of Pistol to Replace Makarov in 2019 - Source Sputnik 13 Jan 2019 -- Serial production of the newest Russian pistol for the Defence Ministry, which is intended to replace the legendary Makarov pistol (PM), will begin this year, a defence industry source told Sputnik.
Control Over Russia's Only Space Telescope Lost - Scientists Sputnik 12 Jan 2019 -- The connection with Russia's only space telescope, Spektr-R, is partially lost; the device isn't accepting commands from the Earth, Nikolai Kardashev, the head of the Astro Space Centre at the PN Lebedev Physics Institute told Sputnik.
Report: Former WADA Chief Downplays Russia Missing Lab Deadline RFE/RL 12 Jan 2019 -- The former head of the World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA) is downplaying the fact that Russia missed the latest deadline to allow international inspectors access to a Moscow laboratory.
Russia May Set Up Red Sea Naval Base After Deal on Port Calls - Senior Sudan MP Sputnik 12 Jan 2019 -- A deal between Sudan and Russia on navy port visits could morph into permanent Russian military presence on the Red Sea coast, the head of Sudan's parliamentary defense committee told Sputnik.
Trump Says He Expects US, Russia to Eventually Restore Good Relations Sputnik 12 Jan 2019 -- Trump hinted at the need to improve relations with Russia on the campaign trail, even has his administration would go on to increase tensions with Moscow through new sanctions, diplomatic expulsions, and a NATO military buildup on Russia's western borders.
Briefing by Foreign Ministry Spokesperson Maria Zakharova, Moscow, January 11, 2019 Russia Ministry of Foreign Affairs 11 Jan 2019
Japanese FM To Visit Moscow For Talks On Disputed Islands RFE/RL 11 Jan 2019 -- Russia's Foreign Ministry says Japanese Foreign Minister Taro Kono plans to visit Moscow next week for talks with Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov on the four Pacific islands that have been disputed since World War II.
New Georgian President Says Time Not Right to Mend Diplomatic Ties With Russia Sputnik 11 Jan 2019 -- Georgia's newly-elected President Salome Zourabichvili said Friday conditions were not right for restoring diplomatic ties with Russia after they broke off over a decade ago.
Central African Republic open to Russian military base Press TV 11 Jan 2019 -- Moscow is considering the establishment of a military base in the Central African Republic (CAR), where Russian forces are already training local troops as part of a deal with Bangui.
Russian Defense Ministry Proposes Law To Allow Shooting Down Of Passenger Planes RFE/RL 11 Jan 2019 -- Russia's Defense Ministry has outlined draft legislation that would allow Russian forces to shoot down civilian passenger planes within the country's airspace.
U.S. Lawmakers Slam Treasury Secretary Over Sanctions Relief For Deripaska RFE/RL 11 Jan 2019 -- The U.S. Treasury secretary has said he told U.S. lawmakers that President Donald Trump will keep strict sanctions on Oleg Deripaska, as congressional Democrats turned up pressure on the administration's policy toward the Kremlin-connected oligarch.
Germany Says U.S. Sanctions Against Gas Pipeline 'Not The Way To Go' RFE/RL 11 Jan 2019 -- U.S. sanctions against the Moscow-backed Nord Stream 2 natural-gas pipeline project would be the wrong way to solve a dispute over energy supply, according to German Foreign Minister Heiko Maas.
Russia Condemns British Plans To Build Military Bases RFE/RL 11 Jan 2019 -- Moscow has condemned Britain's plans to build new military bases in Southeast Asia and the Caribbean, saying Russia is prepared to take retaliatory measures if its own interests or those of its allies are threatened.
Russia Vows Response as UK Defence Chief Issues 'Warning to Putin' Sputnik 11 Jan 2019 -- Earlier, UK Defence Secretary Gavin Williamson boasted that Britain's new fleet of F-35s served as a message to the country's "enemies", including Russia, not to "mess with" Britain.
Mnuchin: Treasury to Be Vigilant in Ensuring EN+, RUSAL Meet Commitments Sputnik 11 Jan 2019 -- The US Department of Treasury will monitor closely whether En+ Group PLC (En+), United Company RUSAL PLC (Rusal), and EuroSibEnergo (ESE) adhere to the requirements for sanctions relief, Secretary of Treasury Steven Mnuchin said in a statement on Thursday.
Turkey Stands By Deal To Buy Russian Missiles, Attack Kurds In Syria RFE/RL 10 Jan 2019 -- Foreign Minister Mevlut Cavusoglu says Turkey may buy U.S. Patriot missile systems if conditions are right, but insists such a deal would be impossible if Washington forces Ankara to cancel its agreement to purchase S-400 antiaircraft missiles from Russia.
Turkey Refuses to Cancel S-400 Purchase as Precondition for US Patriot Deal Sputnik 10 Jan 2019 -- Turkey is ready to consider US proposal on deliveries of Patriot air defense systems, but refuses to abandon the S-400 deal with Russia as a potential precondition for the Ankara-Washington agreement, Turkish Foreign Minister Mevlut Cavusoglu said Thursday.
Russian Military Base May Appear in CAR - Defence Minister Sputnik 10 Jan 2019 -- A Russian military base may appear in the Central African Republic, the framework agreement envisions such a possibility, but the issue has not been discussed so far, CAR Defense Minister Marie-Noelle Koyara said in an interview with Sputnik.
Statement by Secretary Mnuchin on Congressional Briefing on Russia Sanctions US Treasury 10 Jan 2019 -- U.S. Treasury Secretary Steven T. Mnuchin issued the following statement today in advance of a bipartisan, classified briefing for Members of the House of Representatives on the sanctions against Russian oligarch and Specially Designated National Oleg Deripaska and three companies he controlled at the time sanctions were imposed, En+ Group PLC (En+), United Company RUSAL PLC (Rusal), and EuroSibEnergo (ESE)
US to Lift Sanctions Against 3 Russian Companies VOA 10 Jan 2019 -- Three Russian companies have cut ties to a sanctioned oligarch and will no longer be under U.S. sanctions themselves, Treasury Secretary Steven Mnuchin said Thursday.
India will receive S-400 systems without delay: Russia Press TV 10 Jan 2019 -- Russia says India will receive "without any delays" the advanced Russian-built S-400 air defense missile systems under a contract signed between Moscow and New Delhi some four months ago.
Belarusian Leader Warns Russia Over Energy Dispute RFE/RL 10 Jan 2019 -- Belarusian President Alyaksandr Lukashenka has warned Russia that it could lose its ally if Moscow fails to offer Minsk compensation for higher oil prices.
Russia Expresses Anger Over Japanese Comments On Disputed Pacific Island Chain RFE/RL 10 Jan 2019 -- Russia has summoned the Japanese ambassador and accused Tokyo of deliberately ramping up tensions ahead of a planned visit by Prime Minister Shinzo Abe for talks with President Vladimir Putin on formally ending World War II hostilities.
Tokyo to Continue Peace Treaty Talks With Moscow on Principle Position Basis Sputnik 10 Jan 2019 -- Tokyo to continue holding talks on the peace treaty with Moscow, seeking to put into effect its position that envisions the conclusion of the deal after the settlement of the territorial dispute between the two countries, a spokesperson of the Japanese Foreign Ministry told Sputnik on Thursday.
Putin, Merkel Agree To Coordinate Syria Peace Efforts Amid U.S. Troop Pullout RFE/RL 10 Jan 2019 -- Russian President Vladimir Putin and German Chancellor Angela Merkel agreed in a telephone call to coordinate efforts to work toward peace in Syria, the Kremlin says.
Roscosmos Introduces $15Bln Cap on Building Yenisei Super-Heavy Rocket - Source Sputnik 10 Jan 2019 -- The leadership of Russian space agency Roscosmos has introduced a limit of 1 trillion rubles (approximately $15 billion) for the project of building the first specimen of the super-heavy Yenisei rocket, a source in the aerospace industry told Sputnik.
Moscow: Japan's Claims on Peace Treaty With Russia Distort Previous Arrangements Sputnik 09 Jan 2019 -- Last week, Japan's Prime Minister Shinzo Abe said that Tokyo had no plans to displace Russian residents from the Kuril Islands if Russia transfers the territory as a result of talks.
Blacklisted Russian Space Chief Says 'Victim' Of Trump-Congress Rivalry RFE/RL 09 Jan 2019 -- The head of Russia's Roskosmos space agency, an official who has been targeted by U.S. and European Union sanctions, has criticized President Donald Trump and U.S. lawmakers over the cancellation of his planned visit to NASA facilities in the United States.
House Democrats Demand Briefing On Russia Sanctions Move RFE/RL 09 Jan 2019 -- Seven House committee leaders have called on U.S. Treasury Secretary Steven Mnuchin to outline the reasons why the United States is easing sanctions on entities connected to Russian tycoon Oleg Deripaska.
Kremlin Says 'Understanding' Reached On Doping Data For WADA RFE/RL 09 Jan 2019 -- The Kremlin says Russia and the World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA) have reached an understanding on the handover of crucial data from the former Moscow anti-doping laboratory.
Waters Off Syrian Coast Closed Off for Russian Navy Missile Drills Sputnik 09 Jan 2019 -- Russia maintains a naval presence off the Syrian coast, consisting of about ten vessels of various classes, including warships and submarines which have been used to rain precision Kalibr cruise missiles down on terrorist targets in the Arab Republic.
Kremlin Denies Using Detained Ex-U.S. Marine As A 'Pawn' RFE/RL 09 Jan 2019 -- Russia has rejected a British suggestion that it might use a former U.S. Marine detained last month in Russia on espionage charges as a pawn in a diplomatic game, saying that Moscow reserves the right to conduct counterintelligence activities.
Kremlin Dismisses Claims Detained American Pawn in Diplomatic Game VOA 09 Jan 2019 -- Fears are mounting for Paul Whelan, the former U.S. marine seized last month in a Moscow hotel after being accused of espionage. Western intelligence officers and analysts fear he may remain in detention in Russia for a long time and are casting doubt on the likelihood of a spy exchange.
Indian Firm Signs $110 Mln Contract for Production of Russian ATGM for Army Sputnik 09 Jan 2019 -- Russia and India had signed a $225 million contract to supply about 10,000 Konkurs anti-tank missiles to the Indian Armed Forces in 2012. Konkurs are partially produced in India under Russian license.
India to Receive Russia's S-400 Air Defense Systems Without Delays - Moscow Sputnik 09 Jan 2019 -- India will receive S-400 air defense systems within the timeframe agreed under contract with Russia, without delays, Russian Deputy Foreign Minister Sergey Ryabkov said Wednesday.
Russian Military Police Begin to Patrol Manbij Area in Syria's Aleppo Province Sputnik 08 Jan 2019 -- The military police of the Russian Armed Forces began patrolling the territory in the Manbij area in the Syrian province of Aleppo near the Turkish border, the police's spokesman Yusup Mamatov told reporters.
Russian Patrol Ship Monitoring USS Fort McHenry's Actions in Black Sea – MoD Sputnik 07 Jan 2019 -- Patrol ship Pytlivy of Russia's Black Sea Fleet is monitoring actions of USS Fort McHenry that entered the Black Sea on January 6, the Russian Defence Ministry said on 7 January.
Orthodox Christians Celebrate Christmas Amid Internal Divisions RFE/RL 07 Jan 2019 -- Orthodox Christians celebrated Christmas as believers gathered in Moscow, Kyiv, Bethlehem, Jerusalem, Cairo, and cities throughout the world to mark in the holy day.
Constantinople Patriarch Legalises Schism as Ukraine Gets Autocephaly Sputnik 07 Jan 2019 -- Patriarch Bartholomew of Constantinople has completed the process of creation of a new schismatic religious structure in Ukraine by granting the tomos of autocephaly to the newly-established church that the Ukrainian political leadership has been striving for.
Creation of New Church in Ukraine 'Political Put-Up Job' - Russian Patriarch Sputnik 07 Jan 2019 -- The absence of any reaction from the West to Ukrainian authorities' unprecedented interference in church's affairs indicates obvious political motives behind the creation of a new religious structure in Ukraine, Patriarch of Moscow and All Russia Kirill said.
China, Russia, Iran cited by US govt as biggest 'national security threats' Press TV 06 Jan 2019 -- China, Russia and Iran have been identified as the biggest three "national security threats" to the United States in an official US government report listing its top 26 perceived security threats.
Iran, Russia to hold joint naval drills ISNA 06 Jan 2019 -- Iranian Navy Commander, Rear Admiral Hossein Khanzadi announced on Sunday that Iranian and Russian navies are preparing to hold joint naval exercises in the Caspian Sea, including rescue and anti-piracy drills.
Iran, Russia to hold joint military drill in Caspian Sea Press TV 06 Jan 2019 -- The commander of the Iranian navy says Iran and Russia will hold joint drills in the Caspian Sea as he underlines opposition to the military presence of any country from outside the region.
Still No Word On Location, Fate Of Abducted Russian Sailors Off West Africa Coast RFE/RL 06 Jan 2019 -- The whereabouts are still unknown of six Russian sailors abducted by pirates in the dangerous waters off the West African coast, Russian officials say.
Turkey Rejects New US Offer to Cancel Purchase of Russian S-400 Systems - Report Sputnik 06 Jan 2019 -- According to the Yeni Safak newspaper, a US delegation has tried to convince Turkey to give up on purchasing the Russian missile systems during the visit to Ankara earlier this week. However, the Turkish authorities reportedly rejected the offer since it did not include a discount on the price set or a transfer of technology.
Russia demands official explanation for US revoking visit by space agency chief Press TV 05 Jan 2019 -- Russia's space agency has demanded an "official explanation" from its American counterpart NASA after it postponed indefinitely a planned visit to the US by its director, Dmitry Rogozin.
Russian Space Agency Demands NASA Explanation After Rogozin Visit Called Off RFE/RL 05 Jan 2019 -- Russia's space agency says it is demanding an explanation after NASA called off the planned visit to the United States by Dmitry Rogozin, the chief of Roskosmos who is subject to U.S. and European Union sanctions.
Roscosmos Expects NASA to Explain Position on Rogozin's Visit to US Sputnik 05 Jan 2019 -- The planned visit by Dmitry Rogozin, the director general of the Russian state space corporation Roscosmos, to the United States may not just be postponed but cancelled, a source in the rocket and space industry has told Sputnik.
NASA Postpones Roscosmos Chief's Visit to US - Space Agency Sputnik 05 Jan 2019 -- NASA has notified Roscosmos that Director General Dmitry Rogozin's planned visit to the United States will need to be postponed, Press Secretary Megan Powers told Sputnik.
U.S. national Whelan detained in Moscow holds British citizenship People's Daily 05 Jan 2019 -- Russia says it is too early to discuss a swap of individuals with United States after the two countries detained citizens of the other in alleged espionage-related cases.
Russia Says Too Early To Consider Swap After Mutual Arrests RFE/RL 05 Jan 2019 -- Russia says it is too early to discuss a swap of individuals with United States after the two countries detained citizens of the other in alleged espionage-related cases.
Days After Whelan Arrest, Moscow Claims U.S. Has Detained A Russian Citizen RFE/RL 05 Jan 2019 -- Days after Moscow arrested the former U.S. Marine Paul Whelan on spying charges, Russia has accused the United States of detaining a Russian citizen.
Russia Now Juggling Challenges of War-Wracked Syria VOA 04 Jan 2019 -- "You break it, you own it," Colin Powell once warned in referring to U.S. military interventions overseas and the possible fallout that comes with those decisions.
Military Starting Trials of Russian Engineering Vehicle Impervious to Radiation Sputnik 04 Jan 2019 -- Russian armoured vehicle maker Uralvagonzavod first showed off its new engineering vehicle, based on the chassis of the T-90 main battle tank, at the Army-2018 military technical forum outside Moscow last summer.
For Your Spies Only: Cold War Prisoner Swaps RFE/RL 04 Jan 2019 -- While Russia has detained and officially charged Paul Whelan - a dual U.S.-British citizen - with espionage, questions have arisen over whether this is a real spy case or just another move in a decades-old Cold War game.
Over 23,000 terrorists killed in Syria last year: Russia IRNA 04 Jan 2019 -- Russian Ministry of Defense affirmed that thousands of terrorists were killed in Syria and hundreds of their positions, weapons warehouses and heavy equipment have been destroyed during the war against terrorism last year.
23,000 Takfiri terrorists killed in Russia strikes in Syria last year: Defense ministry Press TV 03 Jan 2019 -- Russia's Defense Ministry says tens of thousands of foreign-sponsored Takfiri terrorists were killed during its military's counter-terrorism airstrikes against militant redoubts in Syria last year.
'Right To Be There'? Afghan Officials, Observers Dispute Trump's View Of Soviet Occupation RFE/RL 03 Jan 2019 -- U.S. President Donald Trump's claim that the Soviet Union was in the "right" when it occupied Afghanistan for nearly a decade did not go down well with many Afghans, and his take on Moscow's justification for invading the country was also questioned.
US demands Russia explain detention of ex-Marine on spying charges Press TV 03 Jan 2019 -- US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo says Washington wants an explanation for why Russia detained a former American Marine on spying charges in Moscow and will demand his immediate return if it determines his detention is inappropriate.
Russia Charges Former U.S. Marine With Espionage; Lawyer Applies For Bail RFE/RL 03 Jan 2019 -- Russia has charged a retired U.S. Marine arrested in Moscow with espionage, the Interfax news agency reported, meaning he could face up to 20 years in prison if found guilty.
Russia Reportedly Charged Former US Marine with Espionage VOA 03 Jan 2019 -- Russia has charged former U.S. Marine Paul Whelan with espionage, according to an Interfax news agency report that has not been independently verified.
Russia to expand Iskander arsenal in 2019, test 200 new weapons Press TV 02 Jan 2019 -- The Russian military is slated to expand its arsenal of Iskander-M nuclear-capable missiles in 2019, one of the nearly 200 new weapons that Moscow continues to develop under its new state armament program.
National Antidoping Agencies Urge WADA To Act Now On Russia's Missed Deadline RFE/RL 02 Jan 2019 -- Sixteen national antidoping organizations (NADOs) have called on the World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA) to take immediate action following Russia's failure to meet a December 31 deadline to hand over data from its antidoping laboratory.
WADA Athlete Committee Calls for Russian Anti-Doping Agency to Be Banned Sputnik 03 Jan 2019 -- The Athlete Committee of the World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA) on Wednesday has called for declaring the Russian Anti-Doping Agency's (RUSADA) non-complaint with the World Anti-Doping Code.
U.S. Demands Explanation From Russia Over Arrest Of Ex-Marine On Spying Charges RFE/RL 02 Jan 2019 -- The United States is seeking an explanation for why Russia arrested a retired U.S. Marine on spying charges in Moscow and will demand his immediate return if it determines his detention is inappropriate, U.S. Secretary of State Mike Pompeo said.
Moscow Grants Washington Consular Access to US Citizen Suspected of Espionage Sputnik 02 Jan 2019 -- On 31 December, the Russian Federal Security Service (FSB) detained Paul Whelan, accusing him of espionage and launching a criminal case against him.
Russia Grants Consular Access to Retired Marine Held on Spy Charges VOA 02 Jan 2019 -- Russia has allowed consular access to a retired U.S. Marine who has been detained on espionage charges, the country's foreign ministry said Wednesday.
Tokyo Has No Plans to Displace Russians From Kurils If Gets Islands - Abe Sputnik 01 Jan 2019 -- Tokyo has no plans to seek the displacement of Russian residents from the Kuril Islands if Russia transfers the territory as a result of negotiations, and believes that the obtaining of residents' permission is vital to such a transfer, Japan's Prime Minister Shinzo Abe said.
Ukraine Fears Breakout Offensive as Russia Breaks 'New Year's Truce' VOA 01 Jan 2019 -- Ukrainian officials are warning that Russia may be about to escalate its conflict with Ukraine, including possibly launching a breakout offensive from Crimea.
WADA 'Bitterly Disappointed' At Russian Failure To Meet Anti-Doping Deadline RFE/RL 01 Jan 2019 -- Russia faces the possibility of renewed sporting sanctions after the World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA) confirmed that Russian officials failed to hand over data from its anti-doping laboratory by December 31.
Family Says Detained U.S. Citizen Is Innocent, Was In Moscow For Wedding RFE/RL 01 Jan 2019 -- The family of a U.S. citizen being held by Russia's Federal Security Service (FSB) over suspected spying says he is innocent and was in Moscow to attend a wedding.
American in Russian Custody Identified as Retired Marine VOA 01 Jan 2019 -- Paul Whelan, the American citizen detained in Moscow on Friday on espionage charges, has been identified as a retired U.S. Marine.

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Weapons of Mass Destruction (WMD)

January 2019 - Russia Special Weapons News