July 2019 - Russia Special Weapons News

Senate Panel Backs Nord Stream 2 Pipeline Sanctions VOA 31 Jul 2019 -- The Senate Foreign Relations Committee on Wednesday approved legislation to sanction construction of the underwater Nord Stream 2 pipeline from Russia to Germany.
Hungary Defends Transit of Russian Military Goods to Serbia VOA 31 Jul 2019 -- Inspecting 10 newly arrived Russian armored vehicles at a Serbian Army base in Nis, Serbian President Aleksandar Vucic thanked Russian President Vladimir Putin for "strengthening" Belgrade's military.
US-Russian New START Treaty Unlikely to Be Extended - Bolton Sputnik 31 Jul 2019 -- The New START treaty was signed in 2010 and is currently the only Russia-US arms control treaty.
Demise of US-Russian Nuclear Treaty Triggers Warnings VOA 31 Jul 2019 -- In December 1987, U.S. President Ronald Reagan hosted Soviet leader Mikhail Gorbachev at the White House for a ceremony that signaled the changing times.
India Opens Office in Moscow Ahead of its First Ever Manned Space Mission Sputnik 31 Jul 2019 -- In a bid to take space co-operation with Russia to the next level, the Indian government has approved the setting up of an ISRO Technical Liaison Unit (ITLU) in Moscow. The two countries have signed an agreement to select and train astronauts for the Gaganyaan programme, which is expected to cost more than $1.31 billion.
Russian Hospital Says Tests Exclude Navalny Poisoning RFE/RL 31 Jul 2019 -- The head of a Russian medical center says laboratory tests performed on unspecified biomaterial taken from opposition politician Aleksei Navalny have excluded poisoning as a reason for his recent hospitalization.
Russian Libertarian Party Leader Sentenced For Unsanctioned Rally RFE/RL 31 Jul 2019 -- A court in Moscow has sentenced Mikhail Svetov, the leader of the Libertarian Party of Russia, to 30 days in jail after finding him guilty of violating laws on holding public events.
Ukraine Detains Ex-Police Officer Suspected Of Spying For Russia RFE/RL 31 Jul 2019 -- Ukraine's security service (SBU) says a former police officer has been detained in the southern region of Zaporizhzhya on suspicion of spying for Russia.
RAF Typhoons scrambled from Ämari Air Base to intercept a Russian military transport aircraft UK MOD 30 Jul 2019 -- RAF Typhoons intercept a Russian IL-76 military transport aircraft
Russia Launches Meridian Military Satellite From Plesetsk Cosmodrome - Defence Ministry Sputnik 30 Jul 2019 -- Russia launched successfully on Tuesday its Soyuz-2.1a carrier with Meridian military communications satellite from Plesetsk cosmodrome, located in Arkhangelsk region, the Russian Defence Ministry told reporters.
Researchers Say Source Of 2017 Radioactive Cloud Over Europe Was Likely Russian Nuke Site RFE/RL 30 Jul 2019 -- European researchers have concluded that a radioactive cloud that drifted over Europe in 2017 likely originated in Russia, possibly from a plant that was the site of an infamous nuclear disaster.
Russia Launches Criminal Case Into 'Mass Unrest' At Moscow Election Protest RFE/RL 30 Jul 2019 -- Russia has opened a criminal investigation into the July 27 protest in Moscow where police detained almost 1,400 people, the Investigative Committee said on July 30.
India signs deal to purchase Russian air-to-air missiles : Govt. sources Press TV 30 Jul 2019 -- India has reportedly signed a deal with Russia for purchase of advanced air-to-air missiles to be fitted on its Sukhoi fighter jets, as New Delhi defies warnings from the US and turns to Moscow to strengthen its air defenses.
Russia Signs Deals With India to Deliver 1,000 Air-to-Air Missiles - Gov't Agency Sputnik 30 Jul 2019 -- Russia has signed deals with India to deliver about 1,000 air-to-air missiles of different kinds, the press service of the Federal Service of Military-Technical Cooperation said on Tuesday.
Iran, Russia to Hold Joint Military Exercises in Indian Ocean Before Year-End - Commander Sputnik 30 Jul 2019 -- Iran and Russia will hold joint military drills in the Indian Ocean region before the end of this year, Iranian Navy Commander Rear Adm. Hossein Khanzadi said in an interview released on Monday.
Iran's Navy gives explanation on Iran-Russia joint military drill IRNA 30 Jul 2019 -- Iran's Navy force is preparing to conduct a joint naval exercise with Russia in the north of Indian Ocean and Oman Sea, the Army's public relations department said on Tuesday.
Iran, Russia mull to carry out war games in Sea of Oman, North Indian Ocean IRNA 30 Jul 2019 -- Iran's Navy said on Tuesday that talks with Russian naval officials are underway to conduct war games in the Sea of Oman and North Indian Ocean.
Iran's Naval Group berthing in Baku IRNA 30 Jul 2019 -- The Islamic Republic of Iran's Naval Group of 4th District and the Northern Fleet arrived in Baku on Tuesday, the capital of the Republic of Azerbaijan, for the third consecutive year to participate in "2019- Sea Cup".
Analysis: Why The Official Response To The Moscow Protests May Be A Turning Point RFE/RL 29 Jul 2019 -- The images from Moscow's streets were familiar enough. Riot police, clad in helmets, black-and-blue camouflage, and jackboots, bludgeoning cowering protesters, frog-marching others into armored police vans. Demonstrators - many in shorts, T-shirts, sneakers, some in baseball caps, many recording on smartphones - wrestling with crowd barriers, chanting taunts and aspirational slogans.
Moscow Courts Begin Sentencing, Fining Demonstrators From Mass Rally Against Municipal Election Irregularities RFE/RL 29 Jul 2019 -- Russian courts have begun sentencing politicians and demonstrators who were detained during a mass rally against the exclusion of opposition candidates from the ballot for Moscow city council that was violently dispersed by police on July 27.
Russian Opposition Leader Navalny Says He May Have Been 'Poisoned' In Prison RFE/RL 29 Jul 2019 -- Jailed Russian opposition leader Aleksei Navalny said in a statement on July 29 that he might have been "poisoned" in his prison cell amid a crackdown on anti-Kremlin protesters.
Navalny To Appeal Arrest As 3 Moscow Duma Candidates File Complaints With Election Officials RFE/RL 29 Jul 2019 -- The Moscow City Court is scheduled to hear an appeal on July 30 by opposition activist Aleksei Navalny over his 30-day prison sentence, his lawyer Olga MIkhailova said.
Russia Launches Mass Production of 5th Generation Su-57 Fighters - Developer Sputnik 29 Jul 2019 -- Mass production of the fifth-generation Su-57 fighter has started in Russia, the brochure dated to the 80th anniversary of the Sukhoi aircraft manufacturer, read.
Iran, Russia to stage joint drills in Persian Gulf: Iran Navy chief Press TV 29 Jul 2019 -- Iranian Navy Commander Rear Admiral Hossein Khanzadi says Iran and Russia have agreed to conduct joint naval drills in the Persian Gulf region "in the near future."
India Signs $215 mn Contract with Russia for Air-to-Air Missile Used to Down Pakistani F-16 Sputnik 29 Jul 2019 -- The R-73 air-to-air missile was used by Indian Air Force pilot Abhinandan Varthaman to allegedly shoot down an F-16 of the Pakistan Air Force on 27 February when the two countries engaged in an aerial clash.
Moscow's 'Disproportionate' Use Of Force Condemned After 1,300 Detained During Opposition Protests RFE/RL 28 Jul 2019 -- Police in Moscow detained more than 1,300 people in a day of protests against alleged irregularities in the run-up to local elections, according to an independent group that monitors crackdowns on demonstrations.
Crowd Dispersed, Journalist Detained Where Navalny Hospitalized RFE/RL 28 Jul 2019 -- Police in Moscow dispersed a crowd of about two dozen people and detained a Russian journalist at a prison hospital where opposition activist Aleksei Navalny is being treated for what his personal doctor says are possible effects of "undefined chemical substances."
Russia urges Iran to practice restraint on JCPOA IRNA 28 Jul 2019 -- Deputy Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Ryabkov said Russia requests Iran to practice restraint in the process of implementing the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA).
INSTEX Still Operating in Pilot Mode But First Transactions Already Made - Moscow Sputnik 28 Jul 2019 -- The INSTEX trade mechanism is still operating in pilot mode, but the first transactions have already been made, Russian Deputy Foreign Minister Sergey Ryabkov said Sunday following the JCPOA Joint Commission's meeting.
Russian vessel detained in North Korea released: Embassy Press TV 28 Jul 2019 -- The Russian embassy in Pyongyang says North Korea has released a Russian fishing vessel along with its crew after it was seized over alleged violation of entry rules.
North Korea Releases Detained Russian Fishing Boat, Crew RFE/RL 28 Jul 2019 -- North Korea has released a Russian fishing boat with a crew of 15 Russians and two South Koreans after it was detained for allegedly violating entry regulations, officials say.
Russia, Turkey Discuss Joint Production of Helicopters, Jets – Russian Energy Minister Sputnik 27 Jul 2019 -- Russia and Turkey are discussing prospects for joint production of helicopters as well as Sukhoi Superjet 100 and MC-21 airliners, Russian Energy Minister Alexander Novak said on Friday.
Police Beat, Detain Protesters And Opposition Figures At Moscow Rally RFE/RL 27 Jul 2019 -- Police in Moscow have detained and beaten opposition politicians, along with protesters, in an attempt to disperse a demonstration against the refusal of election officials to register several opposition figures as candidates in municipal elections.
1,074 Protesters Arrested in Moscow, Russian Media Say VOA 27 Jul 2019 -- Russian police on Saturday beat some people and arrested more than 1,000 who were protesting in Moscow against the exclusion of opposition candidates from a local election later this year. Police also stormed into a TV station broadcasting the protest.
Russia: Iran's nuclear actions can save deal IRNA 27 Jul 2019 -- Iran's moves within the nuclear deal make it possible for the remaining parties to salvage the deal, said a high-level Russian official on Saturday as an extraordinary meeting of the deal's signatories will kick off in Vienna on Sunday.
Moscow: Chances to Save Iran Nuke Deal Will Increase if INSTEX Opened to Third Countries Sputnik 27 Jul 2019 -- The INSTEX payment mechanism for trade with Iran and the situation around the heavy water reactor in Arak will be the main topics at the upcoming meeting of the Joint Commission of the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA), known as the Iran nuclear deal, Deputy Foreign Minister Sergei Ryabkov said.
Romania Says It Blocked A Russian Arms Shipment To Serbia RFE/RL 26 Jul 2019 -- Romania has announced it has blocked a Russian military shipment to Serbia earlier this month because of international sanctions against Moscow for its actions in Ukraine.
Russian Military Denies Reports of Arms Deliveries to Serbia Intercepted by Romania Sputnik 26 Jul 2019 -- Russian Defence Ministry has denied Romanian government allegations about the interception and seizure of a Russian vessel carrying armoured personnel carriers for the Serbian army.
Russia Seeks to Use Its RD-180 Rocket Engines Which May Be Rejected by US In Soyuz-2.1 Carriers Sputnik 26 Jul 2019 -- Russia may start using its RD-180 rocket engines, which it exports to the United States but does not currently use itself, in the first stages of Soyuz-2.1 carriers, Russian State Space Corporation Roscosmos CEO Dmitry Rogozin said on Friday.
Russia, Pakistan militaries set for joint war games in October Press TV 26 Jul 2019 -- Russia and Pakistan have agreed to hold a joint military exercise – using Russian military equipment– in southern Russia in October.
The Week In Russia: Unity Or Terror? Putin Seeks 'Political Stability' In Moscow And Bishkek RFE/RL 26 Jul 2019 -- "The country needs political stability, and all the people must unite around the current president and help him develop the state." That was Russian President Vladimir Putin's message for Kyrgyzstan -- but he may have had Moscow in mind, too.
Austria Issues Arrest Warrant For Russian Man Suspected Of Spying RFE/RL 26 Jul 2019 -- Austria has issued European and international arrest warrants for a Russian man on suspicion of espionage and working for Russia's Military Intelligence (GRU).
Russia Dismisses Austria's New Spying Claims as Pure Disinformation Sputnik 26 Jul 2019 -- Moscow regrets the fact that Vienna is trying to revive the "spy mania" by putting a Russian national on a wanted list on suspicion of spying for the Russian Main Intelligence Directorate (GRU) "to the detriment of the Republic of Austria", the Russian Foreign Ministry said.
Moscow Council Candidate Sobol Detained As Pressure Builds on Opposition RFE/RL 26 Jul 2019 -- Lyubov Sobol, a Russian opposition figure, was briefly detained early on July 26 outside the headquarters of the Moscow Election Commission, the latest in a series of actions taken against political candidates independent of the Kremlin.
Russia warns Ukraine of 'consequences' after tanker seized Press TV 25 Jul 2019 -- Russia warns Ukraine that it will soon face "consequences" after the latter seized a Russian oil tanker, claiming it had been involved in a November naval confrontation with Kiev.
Ukrainian Authorities Seize Russian Tanker Implicated In Sailors' Detention RFE/RL 25 Jul 2019 -- Ukraine's Security Service (SBU) says it has seized a Russian tanker that Moscow allegedly used to block three Ukrainian naval vessels before detaining them and 24 Ukrainian sailors in November near Crimea.
Ukraine's SBU Detains Russian Tanker in Sea of Azov Sputnik 25 Jul 2019 -- The Russian Foreign Ministry said Thursday that Russia would retaliate urgently if Ukraine takes the Russians on the tanker hostage.
Embattled Atambaev Holds Talks With Putin In Moscow Amid Pressure In Kyrgyzstan RFE/RL 25 Jul 2019 -- Former Kyrgyz President Almazbek Atambaev, who faces five counts of criminally abusing his office when he held power from 2011 to 2017, has held talks with Russian President Vladimir Putin in Moscow.
South Korea Provides Russia With Materials Allegedly Proving Airspace Violation - Reports Sputnik 25 Jul 2019 -- South Korean officials have provided their Russian colleagues with materials, including radar images and voice recordings of South Korean soldiers, that allegedly prove Russian aircraft illegally entered South Korean airspace earlier in the week, the Yonhap news agency reported.
Austrian Police Say Searching for Russian National Suspected of Spying for Moscow Sputnik 25 Jul 2019 -- The Austrian Interior Ministry said a Russian national on a wanted list on suspicion of spying for the Russian Main Intelligence Directorate (GRU) "to the detriment of the Republic of Austria".
Russian Authorities, Opposition Go Toe-To-Toe Over Moscow Duma Elections RFE/RL 24 Jul 2019 -- Moscow authorities and members of the anti-Kremlin opposition are on a collision course after election officials in the capital refused to register a large number of independent candidates for the September 8 city Duma elections in the Russian capital.
Russian Activist Navalny Sentenced Amid Clampdown On Moscow Opposition RFE/RL 24 Jul 2019 -- A Russian court has sentenced Aleksei Navalny to 30 days in jail as part of a larger clampdown on opposition leaders ahead of an unauthorized protest this weekend.
Russia changes story on S. Korea airspace intrusion Updated: 2019-07-24 ARIRANG 24 Jul 2019 -- Seoul's defense ministry has rejected what it's saying are distorted claims by Russia regarding Tuesday's intrusion into Korea's airspace.
Russia starts shipment of second batch of S-400 missile systems to China Press TV 24 Jul 2019 -- Russia has begun delivering the 2nd batch of its advanced S-400 missile defense systems to China as part of a 2014 contract.
Russia Says it Will Scrutinize Mueller's Congressional Testimony VOA 24 Jul 2019 -- Russian government officials are watching former U.S. Special Counsel Robert Mueller's testimony before Congress Wednesday while continuing to deny Moscow interfered in the 2016 presidential election.
Moscow Denies Voicing 'Deep Regret' To Seoul Over Airspace Violation RFE/RL 24 Jul 2019 -- South Korean officials say Russia has expressed "deep regret" over the intrusion of one of its military aircraft into South Korean airspace, a claim that Moscow is denying.
Russia and China Deny Violating South Korean Airspace VOA 24 Jul 2019 -- Both Russia and China are denying their military aircraft violated South Korea's territorial airspace during a joint air patrol Tuesday.
Russia's Avangard Hypersonic Glide Vehicle Not Violating New START Deal - General Staff Sputnik 24 Jul 2019 -- Russia's new Avangard hypersonic glide vehicle, which the Russian Strategic Missile Forces are set to receive by the end of the year, will not violate the provisions of the Russian-US New START arms reduction treaty, Viktor Poznikhir, an acting head of the Main Operational Directorate at the Russian General Staff, said.
China-Russia military ties come first Global Times 24 Jul 2019 -- A newly released white paper said military relations between China and Russia have reached a high and continue to develop, a signal experts said demonstrates the two countries' determination to safeguard regional and international peace and stability.
Russia Starts Shipping New S-400s to China Months Ahead of Schedule – Report Sputnik 24 Jul 2019 -- Previously, Russia began delivering its top air defence systems to Turkey despite major pressure from the US to force Ankara to drop its contract with Moscow.
Russia's South Military District Starts Exercise Ahead of NATO Drills In Georgia RFE/RL 24 Jul 2019 -- Two armies of Russia's Southern Military District on July 24 began a large-scale military exercise in the region ahead of a scheduled NATO exercise in Georgia, TASS reported citing the district's press service.
Russia 'absolutely intent' on interfering in US elections: FBI director Press TV 23 Jul 2019 -- FBI Director Christopher Wray says Russia is determined to interfere in the next US presidential election in 2020 despite US sanctions and other efforts to deter such actions.
S Korean Military Fired Warning Shots, Saying Russian Warplane Illegally Entered Country's Airspace Sputnik 23 Jul 2019 -- South Korea's Ministry of National Defence official said that it was the first time a Russian military aircraft had violated South Korean airspace.
South Korea says fired warning shots at Russian plane violating its airspace Press TV 23 Jul 2019 -- Seoul says its fighter jets have fired warning shots at a Russian military aircraft after it entered South Korean airspace, in the first such incident between the countries.
South Korea Fires Warning Shots At Russian Military Aircraft, Japan Scrambles Warplanes RFE/RL 23 Jul 2019 -- South Korea says its warplanes fired warning shots at a Russian surveillance plane that entered its airspace above the Sea of Japan on July 23.
Moscow Summons S. Korean Attache to Protest Dangerous Actions by S. Korean Combat Planes Sputnik 23 Jul 2019 -- South Korean military attache was handed a protest note in connection with the illegal and dangerous actions by the pilots of S. Korean fighter jets, Russian long-range aviation commander, Lt. Gen. Sergey Kolybash, said Tuesday.
Tokyo Lodges Protest With Moscow, Seoul Over Incident With Russian Plane in Sea of Japan Sputnik 23 Jul 2019 -- Tokyo lodged a diplomatic protest with Moscow and Seoul after an incident involving a Russian warplane flying over the Liancourt Rocks, a territory in the Sea of Japan/East Sea that is contested by Japan and South Korea.
Seoul: Russian Jets Violate South Korea Airspace VOA 23 Jul 2019 -- South Korean jets fired flares and warning shots Tuesday after a Russian warplane violated its territorial airspace, according to Seoul's defense ministry.
Russia counters US proposal for Mideast maritime coalition Press TV 23 Jul 2019 -- Russia expresses unease and confusion over a proposal made by the United States for the establishment of a so-called maritime security coalition to patrol the Middle East region's waterways.
Russian Foreign Ministry Unveils Concept of Collective Security in Persian Gulf Region Sputnik 23 Jul 2019 -- The situation in the Persian Gulf has been overshadowed by a series of incidents, including attacks on oil tankers in June and the seizure of the UK-flagged Stena Impero vessel last week.
Turkey May Produce Components of Russian S-400 Air Defence System Sputnik 23 Jul 2019 -- Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan recently touted Ankara's S-400 deal with Russia as "the most important agreement" in Turkey's history. He spoke after the first batches of missile system components were delivered to Turkey earlier this month.
Russia denies violating S.Korean airspace Global Times 23 Jul 2019 -- The Russian Defense Ministry denied on Tuesday that its strategic Tu-95 MS missile carriers had violated South Korean airspace and had been met with warning shots from South Korean warplanes.
Enthusiasm Toward Russia's S-400 Not Decreasing Despite US Pressure - Russian Official Sputnik 23 Jul 2019 -- The number of countries wishing to purchase Russia's S-400 air defence systems is not decreasing despite Washington's sanctions on Turkey over the purchase, the head of the Russian Federal Service of Military-Technical Cooperation, Dmitry Shugayev.
Russia, China Hold 1st Joint Long-Range Aviation Patrolling Exercise - Defence Ministry Sputnik 23 Jul 2019 -- Russia and China held on Tuesday the first joint long-range aviation patrolling of the Asia-Pacific region, an exercise that was not directed against other countries, the Russian Defence Ministry said.
Some Countries Importing Russian Weapons Receive Threats - Defence Cooperation Service Sputnik 23 Jul 2019 -- Some countries importing Russian weapons receive "semi-bandit" threats due to cooperating with Russia, the head of the Russian Federal Service of Military-Technical Cooperation, Dmitry Shugayev, said on Tuesday.
Moscow Denies Russian Warplanes Killed 23 Civilians In Syria Air Strikes RFE/RL 22 Jul 2019 -- Russia's Defense Ministry is denying reports that Russian warplanes carried out air strikes that hit a market in the rebel-held Syrian city of Maarat al-Numan, killing at least 23 civilians and wounded dozens more.
Russia dismisses claims of striking Syrian city in Idlib province Press TV 22 Jul 2019 -- Russia has strongly denied reports that its warplanes conducted deadly airstrikes that killed around two dozen people in a militant-held city in Syria's northwestern province of Idlib.
Russia says Iran's tanker seizure arguments more convincing than UK's Press TV 22 Jul 2019 -- Russia says Iran's arguments for its recent seizure of a UK-flagged oil tanker in the Strait of Hormuz were more convincing than those of London.
China's growing power, Russia's nukes main threats to US security: Pentagon official Press TV 21 Jul 2019 -- The United States deems China's growing influence and Russia's nuclear weapons strategy as the biggest threats to its national security, says a senior Pentagon official.
Anger Boils Over In Moscow After Barring Of Opposition Candidates RFE/RL 21 Jul 2019 -- Russian opposition leaders rallied thousands of people in Moscow to demand free and fair elections as a decision by officials to ban some independent candidates in local elections has seemingly sparked new life into the political protest movement.
Russian Military Experts Completed Their Mission in Venezuela, But Can Return if Needed - Moscow Sputnik 21 Jul 2019 -- In January 2019 the President of the National Assembly of Venezuela, Juan Guaido, proclaimed himself the country's interim president. He was recognised by the US, the UK and some other countries, while Russia, China and Cuba continue to support Nicolas Maduro as constitutionally-elected president.
One Small Step For Hollywood? In Russia, Denying Moon Landings May Be Matter Of National Pride RFE/RL 19 Jul 2019 -- In October 2015, Russian blogger and space enthusiast Vitaly Yegorov began crowdfunding for an ambitious project.
Russia deploys, test fires new air defense missiles in Arctic region Press TV 20 Jul 2019 -- The Russian Navy has reportedly deployed and test-fired its new Tor-M2DT air defense missiles, designed to cope with the freezing temperatures of the country's Arctic region.
Thousands Rally In Moscow For Barred Opposition City-Council Candidates RFE/RL 20 Jul 2019 -- More than 10,000 people, including prominent opposition politicians, have gathered in Moscow to demand free and fair local polls, an NGO that tracks participation in protest rallies says.
Ukrainian President's Office Proposes Sentsov, Vyshinsky Prisoner Swap RFE/RL 19 Jul 2019 -- Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy's office has proposed a prisoner exchange with Russia involving Ukrainian filmmaker Oleh Sentsov, who is jailed in Russia, and Russian journalist Kirill Vyshinsky, who is in detention in Ukraine.
Volker: Moscow's Passport Move For Donbas Residents Diverges From Peace Plan RFE/RL 19 Jul 2019 -- Kurt Volker, the special U.S. envoy to Ukraine, says Russia's move to fast-track the granting of citizenship to all residents of the Ukrainian regions of Donetsk and Luhansk runs counter to efforts to achieve peace in an armed conflict that is in its sixth year.
U.S. Lawmakers Draft Sanctions On 24 Russians Over 24 Detained Ukrainian Sailors RFE/RL 18 Jul 2019 -- A bipartisan group of U.S. lawmakers dedicated to Ukrainian issues has introduced legislation to sanction members of Russia's Federal Security Service (FSB) over their roles in taking 24 Ukrainian crewmen captive last November near the Kerch Strait.
The Long Arc Of A Gorbachev-Era Dream To Map The Universe RFE/RL 19 Jul 2019 -- When one of the workhorses of Russia's space program took to the sky from Baikonur Cosmodrome last weekend with a payload of Russian and German space telescopes, it was carrying one of humankind's most daring efforts to map the universe.
Indian Military to Reconsider Joint Creation, Purchase of SU-57 Jets With Russia Sputnik 19 Jul 2019 -- Russia's Sukhoi Su-57 (also known as the PAK FA and the T-50) fifth-generation jet fighter now has an export permit, and the Russian government is reportedly reviewing documents to officially rename the aircraft from its T-50 internal designation to Su-57, according to a source in the Russian aviation industry.
The Week In Russia: Not That Much Of A Mystery, Riddle, Or Enigma RFE/RL 19 Jul 2019 -- With three of its citizens facing murder charges as increasingly detailed information about how Malaysia Airlines flight MH17 was shot down, Russia is still casting it as a "crash" whose cause is a mystery - a familiar tactic when Moscow's involvement in mayhem abroad and at home leads to tragedy.
'It's Not Pretty To Snoop': Tatarstan's Muslims Decry Plans To Install Surveillance Cameras In Mosques RFE/RL 19 Jul 2019 -- As imam of the Mirgaziyan mosque in Kazan, capital of Russia's majority-Muslim republic of Tatarstan, Abdurrauf Zabirov says his sermons have helped parishioners develop "immunity to radical sectarian propaganda of all types."
NATO Chief Stoltenberg Warns of 'World With More Russian Missiles' Sputnik 18 Jul 2019 -- Jens Stoltenberg put the responsibility for saving the dying treaty on Moscow, despite the fact it was Washington who unilaterally withdrew from the agreement earlier this year and Russia's assertion that Washington also violated the nuclear agreement.
Deputy Secretary of State Sullivan and Senior U.S. Officials Brief NATO Allies on U.S.-Russia Strategic Security Dialogue US Dept. of State 18 Jul 2019
Russia calls on US to store nuclear weapons only on its own territory Press TV 18 Jul 2019 -- Russia has called on the United States to keep its nuclear weapons only on its own territory, a day after a NATO report unwittingly revealed that Washington has stored some of its nuclear weapons in several European countries, including Turkey.
'Without Further Delay': European Parliament Calls On Russia To Release Detained Ukrainians RFE/RL 18 Jul 2019 -- The European Parliament has overwhelmingly passed a resolution calling on Russian authorities "to release without further delay and unconditionally all illegally and arbitrarily detained Ukrainian citizens both in Russia and in the temporarily occupied territories of Ukraine."
Russia Ready to Discuss Delivery of Su-35 Fighter Jets to Turkey - Rostec Sputnik 18 Jul 2019 -- The statement comes on the heels of Washington announcing that Turkey's decision to purchase Russian S-400 air defence systems "renders its continued involvement with the F-35 impossible".
Russia denies having ground troops fighting for liberation of Syria's Idlib Press TV 18 Jul 2019 -- Russia has strongly dismissed allegations by militant groups that Russian special forces or ground troops are fighting for the liberation of Idlib province in northwest Syria.
Moscow Refutes Claims That Russian Ground Troops Present in Syria's Idlib Sputnik 18 Jul 2019 -- The Russian Defence Ministry refuted on Thursday a recent report by Reuters information agency that claimed that Russia had recently sent its ground troops and special forces to the northwestern Syrian province of Idlib for fighting alongside the Syrian Army against the opposition.
Putin, Lukashenka Meet Again To Discuss Integration Via Union State RFE/RL 18 Jul 2019 -- Russian President Vladimir Putin held talks with his Belarusian counterpart, Alyaksandr Lukashenka, in St. Petersburg on July 18 to discuss further integration within the Russia-Belarus Union State, a grouping that has existed mainly on paper after it was established in the 1990s.
Russia says continues cooperation with Iran at Bushehr power plant despite US bans Press TV 18 Jul 2019 -- Russia has affirmed its resolve to keep up cooperation with Iran at the Bushehr nuclear power plant, defying illegal US sanctions against the Islamic Republic.
Briefing by Foreign Ministry Spokesperson Maria Zakharova, Moscow, July 17, 2019 Russia Ministry of Foreign Affairs 17 Jul 2019
NATO Must Not Forget Central Europe's Energy Needs In Countering Russian Influence, U.S. Senator Says RFE/RL 17 Jul 2019 -- The United States and NATO should invest in the energy infrastructure of former Warsaw Pact members as they seek to counter growing Russian power, a U.S. senator has said.
Putin Widens Citizenship Offer To All Residents Of Ukraine's Donetsk, Luhansk Regions RFE/RL 17 Jul 2019 -- Russian President Vladimir Putin has signed a decree expanding the simplified procedure for obtaining Russian citizenship for all residents of Ukraine's eastern Donetsk and Lugansk regions.
Moscow Court Extends Pretrial Detention Of 24 Ukrainian Sailors RFE/RL 17 Jul 2019 -- A Moscow court has prolonged by three months the pretrial detention of 24 Ukrainian sailors detained by Russian forces along with their three naval vessels in November near the Kerch Strait, which links the Black Sea and Sea of Azov.
Families, Countries Mark Fifth Anniversary Of MH17 Flight Downed Over Ukraine RFE/RL 17 Jul 2019 -- Relatives of victims killed in the 2014 downing of a passenger jet over Ukraine are marking the anniversary of the tragedy, an incident that international investigators have blamed on Russia and the separatist forces it backs in the region.
Delivery of S-400 Triumph Air Defence Systems to India to be Completed by 2023 - Defence Ministry Sputnik 17 Jul 2019 -- The Indian Defence Ministry on Wednesday announced the delivery of five units of S-400 Triumf Air Defence systems from Russia is likely to be completed by April 2023. The statement comes on the backdrop of finalisation of a new payment mode between India and Russia to skirt the CAATSA threat.
Italy's Salvini Shrugs Off 'Russia Allegations,' Doubles Down on Immigration VOA 16 Jul 2019 -- Italy's deputy prime minister, Matteo Salvini, is shrugging off allegations that his populist party sought secret Russian funding and is doubling down on his defense of "Christian culture" and the issue that has rewarded him the most in the voting booths – immigration.
Stoltenberg Promises 'Credible & Effective' Response by NATO if Russia Leaves INF Treaty Sputnik 16 Jul 2019 -- Earlier in the month, Russian President Vladimir Putin enacted the official suspension of Russia's participation in the
Turkey's Erdogan: Russian S-400 Missiles To Be Deployed By April 2020 RFE/RL 15 Jul 2019 -- Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan has said its Russian-made S-400 missile-defense system will be fully deployed in April 2020.
All S-400 defense systems will be installed by April 2020: Turkey's Erdogan Press TV 16 Jul 2019 -- Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan says all the Russian S-400s received by his country will be fully deployed in April 2020, and that Ankara seeks to produce the missile defense systems jointly with Moscow.
Russia rejects starting talks with Japan on return of islands: Kyodo Press TV 15 Jul 2019 -- Russia has rejected starting talks with Japan on the return of two disputed islands despite an agreement last year, in a move that could further delay the signing of a peace treaty, Kyodo news agency says.
When Russia-Backed Forces Boasted They Shot Down A Ukrainian Military Plane…That Was Actually MH17 RFE/RL 15 Jul 2019 -- The wreckage of Malaysia Airlines Flight MH17 was still smoldering in the countryside of eastern Ukraine, the remains of the 298 people aboard strewn across several kilometers of rolling fields of wheat and sunflowers, when Russian media began relaying news of a downed plane in the area.
Russian, Ukrainian Officials Discuss Prisoner Swap RFE/RL 15 Jul 2019 -- Russian and Ukrainian officials say they are holding talks on a major prisoner swap just days after their countries' presidents discussed the conflict in eastern Ukraine and a possible prisoner exchange in their first telephone call.
Turkey Meets Pledge to Buy World's Most Powerful S-400 Air Defence Systems From Russia - Erdogan Sputnik 16 Jul 2019 -- The Turkish Defence Ministry announced on Friday the beginning of the delivery of elements of the S-400 to the country. The information was later confirmed by Russia's Federal Service for Military-Technical Cooperation.
Ninth Plane With Russian S-400 Components Arrives in Turkey - Ankara Sputnik 15 Jul 2019 -- The ninth plane carrying components of Russian S-400 air defence system arrived in Turkey on Monday, the Turkish Defense Ministry said.
Eighth Aircraft With Russian S-400 Air Defenсe System Parts Arrives in Turkey – Ankara Sputnik 15 Jul 2019 -- The Turkish Defence Ministry said on Monday that an eighth plane carrying components of Russia's S-400 air defence system had arrived in Turkey.
Turkey Looks Back at Failed Coup VOA 15 Jul 2019 -- Turkey commemorated a three-year-old failed military coup Monday, as the fallout over the botched takeover deepens political divisions within the country and strains ties with its Western allies.
Syria Likely to Turn to Russia for Fuel VOA 15 Jul 2019 -- The impounding last week off the coast of Gibraltar by British marines of an Iranian tanker loaded with oil destined for war-wracked Syria may force Damascus to turn to Russia to help alleviate its acute fuel shortages, say analysts and diplomats.
Moscow Election Commission Chief Scraps Meeting With Independent Candidates RFE/RL 15 Jul 2019 -- A meeting between the Moscow Election Commission chief and independent candidates for the city council, or City Duma, has been canceled.
Russian Scientist, 77, Under House Arrest On Treason Charges RFE/RL 15 Jul 2019 -- Authorities in Russia have arrested a 77-year-old researcher at a Russian rocket- and spacecraft-design institute on treason charges.
Trump admin to impose sanctions on Turkey for buying Russian S-400 air defense systems Press TV 14 Jul 2019 -- The administration of US President Donald Trump has reportedly decided to slap sanctions on Turkey over its acquisition of the Russian S-400 missile defense system.
For Third Day, Russia Delivers Missile System Parts To Turkey RFE/RL 14 Jul 2019 -- Russia has sent new components of its S-400 air-defense system to a military air base near the Turkish capital, Ankara.
Erdogan: S-400 Deal With Russia Among 'Most Important Agreements' in Modern Turkish History Sputnik 14 Jul 2019 -- The first batch of S-400 missile system components arrived in Turkey on Friday, with at least five plane-loads of equipment making its way into the country by Sunday morning, and two more expected later in the day.
Russian Defence Ministry Confirms More S-400 Components Delivered to Turkey on Sunday Sputnik 14 Jul 2019 -- The Russian Defence Ministry confirmed on Sunday that Russia had delivered several more batches of S-400 air defence system components to Turkey.
Fifth Batch of Russian S-400 Air Defenсe System Parts Arrives in Turkey - Ankara Sputnik 14 Jul 2019 -- The fifth plane carrying components of Russian S-400 air defence system arrived in Turkey on Sunday morning, and two more batches are expected to be delivered later in the day, the Turkish Defense Ministry said.
Russia to definitely give region more advanced armaments: Russian lawmaker Press TV 14 Jul 2019 -- A Russian lawmaker says Moscow will "definitely" present regional countries with armaments that are more advanced than the S-400, a sophisticated air defense system that Russia has already given to Turkey.
Moscow Protesters Demand Opposition Candidates Be Included On City-Council Ballots RFE/RL 14 Jul 2019 -- Around 1,000 people have gathered in central Moscow to demand that opposition candidates be included on ballots for the September 8 Moscow City Duma elections.
Turkey gets fresh S-400 shipment as US mulls sanctions Press TV 13 Jul 2019 -- Turkey says a fresh shipment of Russian S-400 missile defense systems has arrived in the country, a day after it received the first batch of the systems.
US assured no change in Turkey's strategic orientation amid S-400 delivery Press TV 13 Jul 2019 -- Turkey has assured the US that its acquisition of the Russian-made S-400 missile defense system does not in any way mean a change of the country's "strategic orientation".
U.S., Turkey Move Closer To Full-Blown Crisis After S-400 Deliveries Begin RFE/RL 13 Jul 2019 -- The United States moved closer to a full-blown crisis with fellow NATO member Turkey after Ankara said the first parts of the S-400 Russian missile defense systems had been delivered on July 12 and that more deliveries will follow.
Washington Plans to Announce Sanctions Against Turkey Over S-400 Delivery Next Week - Reports Sputnik 13 Jul 2019 -- Previously, the US threatened to exclude Turkey from its F-35 programme over its decision to buy Russia's S-400 missile systems, saying that they could compromise US-made aircraft.
Another Batch of Russian S-400 Air Defense System Components Arrives in Turkey Sputnik 13 Jul 2019 -- A Russian aircraft delivered on Saturday another batch of Russian S-400 air defence system components to a Turkish air base, according to the NTV broadcaster.
Assad, Russian diplomats discuss Syria constitutional committee Press TV 13 Jul 2019 -- Syrian President Bashar al-Assad has discussed with two Russian diplomats the formation of a constitutional committee as the war against the foreign-backed terrorists is winding down in the Arab country.
Russia Successfully Launches Next-Generation Space Telescope RFE/RL 13 Jul 2019 -- A Russian Proton-M rocket has successfully launched a new cutting-edge space-based telescope after several days of launch delays.
Proton-M carrier Rocket Launches Spektr-RG Orbital Observatory Sputnik 13 Jul 2019 -- The Russian Proton-M carrier rocket with the Spektr-RG space observatory on board has successfully blasted off the Baikonur Cosmodrome in Kazakhstan on Saturday after the launch had been delayed on two occasions, Russian state space corporation Roscosmos said.
Russia's Putin discusses ending conflict in eastern Ukraine with president Zelenskiy Press TV 12 Jul 2019 -- Russian President Vladimir Putin has discussed settling the long-running conflict in eastern Ukraine with the country's new president Volodymyr Zelenskiy, in their first telephone conversation initiated by Kiev.
Russian, Ukrainian Leaders Talk at Last VOA 12 Jul 2019 -- Russian President Vladimir Putin and his Ukrainian counterpart, Volodymyr Zelenskiy, on Friday held their first talks since the election of the Ukraine president last April – a 20-minute phone call noteworthy for its implications regarding efforts to end the simmering war between Kyiv and pro-Russian separatists in Ukraine's east.
Russian Air Defences at Hmeymim Airbase Destroy 3 UAVs Launched by Idlib Militants Sputnik 12 Jul 2019 -- Russian air defences at the Hmeymim airbase in Syria shot down three aerial drones launched by militants operating in the Idlib de-escalation zone, Maj. Gen. Alexey Bakin, head of the Russian Center for Syrian Reconciliation, said Friday.
The Week In Russia: Fire, Floods, Foul Language, And A Frightening Proposal RFE/RL 12 Jul 2019 -- Here's how the Kremlin handled devastating flooding, the second-deadliest submarine disaster since the Kursk, and an expletive-laden tirade targeting President Vladimir Putin. Also, does an over-the-top marriage-proposal video mirror Moscow's foreign policy tactics?
Emigre Laser Company Chief Fights U.S. Treasury's 'Russian Oligarch' Designation RFE/RL 12 Jul 2019 -- Valentin Gapontsev is the kind of immigrant U.S. President Donald Trump's administration has said it prefers: one who can contribute to economic growth.
Briefing by Foreign Ministry Spokesperson Maria Zakharova, Moscow, July 11, 2019 Russia Ministry of Foreign Affairs 11 Jul 2019
Italian Prosecutors Investigate Russian Funding Allegations RFE/RL 11 Jul 2019 -- Italian prosecutors are investigating allegations of illicit Russian funding of the far-right League party of Deputy Prime Minister and Interior Minister Matteo Salvini, media reports said on July 11.
Zelenskiy, Putin Discuss East Ukraine Conflict In First Phone Call RFE/RL 11 Jul 2019 -- Russian President Vladimir Putin and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy have held their first telephone call and discussed the conflict in eastern Ukraine as well as swapping prisoners.
Putin Held Phone Conversation With Zelenskyy on Ukrainian President's Initiative - Moscow Sputnik 11 Jul 2019 -- Russian President Vladimir Putin held a phone conversation with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky on the latter's initiative, Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov said Thursday.
Ukraine-Russia Tensions Spark Human Rights Debate VOA 11 Jul 2019 -- A U.N. report on extensive human rights violations in the Russian-backed separatist regions of eastern Ukraine and in the Russian-annexed Crimean peninsula has triggered a fiery debate at the U.N. human rights council.
Komsomolets Wreck Site Reveals High Radiation Levels 30 Years After Soviet Sub Sinks RFE/RL 11 Jul 2019 -- The K-278 Komsomolets was on its first operational patrol when the Soviet nuclear-powered and nuclear-armed submarine met its fiery demise in the Barents Sea on April 7, 1989, killing 42 crewmen.
Tusk: Russia's Georgia Flight Ban 'Unjustified' RFE/RL 11 Jul 2019 -- European Council President Donald Tusk says Russia's move to ban direct flights to Georgia was "unjustified and disproportional."
Presence of Russian Experts in Venezuela Does Not Change Regional Forces Balance - Moscow Sputnik 11 Jul 2019 -- Commander of US Southern Command, Admiral Craig Foller, previously alleged at a Senate hearing that hundreds of Russian military staff and contractors are in Venezuela.
Russian Military Equipment to Participate in Drills in Venezuela on 24 July - Moscow Sputnik 11 Jul 2019 -- Russian military equipment will participate in military drills in Venezuela, scheduled for 24 July, Russian Deputy Foreign Minister Sergei Ryabkov said on Thursday.
No Progress Reported At Helsinki Talks Between Top U.S., Russian Diplomats RFE/RL 10 Jul 2019 -- U.S. Undersecretary for Political Affairs David Hale has met with Russian Deputy Foreign Minister Sergei Ryabkov in Helsinki and discussed "U.S.-Russia relations and the impact of regional challenges in Europe, the Middle East, and Asia," the State Department said in a statement.
Russia's Arms Deliveries to Venezuela Do Not Affect Balance of Forces in Region - Moscow Sputnik 10 Jul 2019 -- Deliveries of Russian military equipment to Venezuela do not destroy the balance of forces in the region, Russian Deputy Foreign Minister Sergey Ryabkov said.
Turkey warns US against harmful steps over Russian S-400 systems Press TV 10 Jul 2019 -- Turkey has called on the United States to refrain from steps that could harm bilateral relations after the US State Department said Ankara would face "real and negative consequences" in case it presses ahead with plans to acquire advanced Russian-made S-400 missile defense systems.
With Russian Missiles Due in Turkey, Many Speculate on Erdogan's Motives VOA 10 Jul 2019 -- The U.S. and Turkey remain on a collision course with the imminent delivery of Russian S-400 missiles. With reports one battery will be based in Ankara, analysts suggest Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan has a personal stake in the escalating crisis.
Activist: Number Of Political Prisoners In Russia Twice What It Was In U.S.S.R. RFE/RL 10 Jul 2019 -- A prominent Russian opposition activist says the number of political prisoners in Russia is twice what it was in the Soviet Union in 1976.
Russia's New Aircraft Carrier to Be Able to House Over 40 Planes, Jets - Developer Sputnik 10 Jul 2019 -- The new concept of a non-nuclear aircraft carrier for the Russian Navy provides for over 40 aircraft, jets and sea drones to be placed on it, Pavel Filippov, director general of the developer of the model, Krylov State Research Centre, said in an interview.
Belarus To Get Money From China To Pay Off Russian Debts RFE/RL 10 Jul 2019 -- Belarus has almost completed talks on borrowing $600 million from China, an amount which would be used to repay debts to Russia, Belarusian Deputy Finance Minister Andrey Byalkavets said.
Putin Says He Opposes Call For Sanctions Against Georgia RFE/RL 09 Jul 2019 -- Russian President Vladimir Putin has rejected a parliamentary call to impose sanctions on Georgia, saying patching up strained relations was more important than reacting to provocations by "scumbags."
Russia Expects India's Advance Payment for S-400 by End of 2019 Sputnik 09 Jul 2019 -- Russia is hoping to receive an advance payment for S-400 air defence systems from India by the end of 2019 so that the deliveries may begin in 2020 and be completed by 2025, Deputy Director of the Federal Service for Military-Technical Cooperation (FSMTC) Vladimir Drozhzhov told reporters.
Russia's President Opposes Duma Call for Georgia Sanctions VOA 09 Jul 2019 -- Russian President Vladimir Putin says he won't support a unanimously backed parliamentary resolution to sanction neighboring Georgia, maintaining that improved ties with the former Soviet republic outweigh any response to verbal taunts by what he termed "some scumbags."
Big war in the Arctic: How could it happen? RT 08 Jul 2019 -- The Arctic’s ice cover is melting, which presents new economic opportunities for the Arctic states, while also making the competition between them stiffer. Can these opposing interests lead to a large-scale war in the region?
Ukraine's Zelenskiy Calls On Putin To Meet Face-To-Face For Talks RFE/RL 08 Jul 2019 -- Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy has called on Russian President Vladimir Putin to talk.
Ukraine's Zelenskiy Calls for Putin, Trump to Join Peace Talks VOA 08 Jul 2019 -- Ukraine's newly elected President Volodymyr Zelenskiy is calling on Russian President Vladimir Putin to join in a new round of expanded-format peace talks that involve U.S. President Donald Trump and other Western leaders.
Preparations Underway to Deliver Russian S-400 Systems to Turkey - Erdogan Sputnik 08 Jul 2019 -- The preparations to deliver Russian S-400 air defence systems to Turkey are ongoing, Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan said on Monday.
Putin's Ban On Direct Russia-Georgia Flights Comes Into Force RFE/RL 08 Jul 2019 -- A decree banning direct flights between Russia and Georgia, issued by Russian President Vladimir Putin in response to anti-Russia protests in Tbilisi, came into effect on July 8.
Ingushetia's Former Head Becomes Russia's Deputy Defense Minister RFE/RL 08 Jul 2019 -- The former leader of Russia's Ingushetia region has been appointed deputy defense minister of Russia.
Brand-New S-500 Missile Systems Can Tackle Attack From Space – Russian Military Official Sputnik 08 Jul 2019 -- In late June, Sergei Chemezov, chief executive of the country's defence industry giant Rostec, said that Russia had recently started manufacturing the sophisticated S-500 missile systems.
Deadly Arctic Submarine Blaze Casts Light on Russia's Underwater Intel Service VOA 08 Jul 2019 -- The blaze on board a nuclear-powered Russian deep-diving submersible that killed 14 elite crewmen last week has cast some light on Russia's top secret underwater intelligence service as well as its growing focus on the resource-rich polar region.
NATO mulls missile system boost amid INF void, risking tensions with Russia Press TV 06 Jul 2019 -- NATO is considering options to upgrade its "air defenses" against Russian missiles after Washington withdrew from a key arms control treaty that will expire next month, European officials say.
Russia Holds Funeral Ceremonies For 14 Sailors Killed In Submarine Fire RFE/RL 06 Jul 2019 -- Russian officials and relatives have laid to rest 14 sailors who were killed in a fire on one of the navy's research submersibles.
Russia Lays to Rest Seamen Killed in Sub Fire VOA 06 Jul 2019 -- The 14 Russian naval officers who died in a military nuclear-powered submarine earlier this week were buried Saturday amid tight security at a St. Petersburg cemetery. The cemetery was cordoned off by the military, and the media was not allowed to attend either the burial or the vigil at a local church.
Russia mocks US request to convene IAEA Board of Governors on Iran IRNA 06 Jul 2019 -- Russian Permanent Representative to International Organizations in Vienna Mikhail Ulyanov in a message offered his surprise of US recent request to convene IAEA Board of Governors' special meeting.
Polish Court Convicts Former Government Worker Of Spying For Russia RFE/RL 06 Jul 2019 -- A Polish court has convicted a former government employee of passing classified energy information to Russian military intelligence.
Press point by NATO Secretary General Jens Stoltenberg following the meeting of the NATO-Russia Council NATO 05 Jul 2019
Russia Vows to Beef Up Venezuelan Military, Counter Destabilisation Attempts Sputnik 05 Jul 2019 -- The situation in Venezuela has been tense since January following the eruption of anti-government protests, fueled by opposition leader Juan Guaido's proclamation as the nation's interim president.
Russia intercepts US spy plane over Black Sea Press TV 05 Jul 2019 -- A Russian Sukhoi Su-27 fighter jet has intercepted a US spy plane that was approaching Russia's border over the Black Sea.
President Putin calls on Italian PM to help improve ties between Russia, EU Press TV 05 Jul 2019 -- Russian President Vladimir Putin has called on Italy to help improve a "mutually respectful relationship" between Moscow and the European Union.
NATO Chief: Russia Still Not Complying With Arms-Control Treaty RFE/RL 05 Jul 2019 -- NATO's secretary-general said Russia has shown no signs of complying with a key Cold War-era arms-control treaty, amid years of accusations from Washington and European allies.
Foundation Linked To Russian Troll Farm Says Two Employees Detained In Libya RFE/RL 05 Jul 2019 -- A Moscow organization with links to the notorious Russian "troll farm" said two of its employees have been arrested by Libyan authorities, and one news report said they were accused of trying to influence upcoming elections there.
Putin Looks To Italy To Help Mend EU Ties, Bring Sanctions Relief RFE/RL 05 Jul 2019 -- Russian President Vladimir Putin says he hopes the leadership of the populist government of Italy will help persuade the European Union's new chiefs to ease their policy towards sanctions imposed on Moscow.
Russia Vows Mirror Response to Mid-Range Missile Deployment in NATO Countries Sputnik 05 Jul 2019 -- Earlier on Friday NATO Chief Jens Stoltenberg said that the alliance would respond with coordinated "defensive" measures in the event of the termination of the Intermediate-Range Nuclear Forces Treaty.
Russian Su-27 Jet Scrambled to Intercept US Spy Plane Over Black Sea - Military Sputnik 05 Jul 2019 -- A Russian Su-27 fighter jet intercepted a US P-8A Poseidon reconnaissance aircraft as it approached Russian airspace over the Black Sea, the Russian Defence Ministry said on Friday.
Russian Navy Starts Own Drills in Black Sea Amid NATO Sea Breeze Exercises Sputnik 05 Jul 2019 -- The Russian Navy has begun scheduled exercises in the Black Sea, as NATO's Sea Breeze naval drills are currently taking place, the press service of the Southern Military District said.
NATO: No Breakthroughs in INF Talks With Russia VOA 05 Jul 2019 -- NATO and Russia did not make any breakthroughs on the Intermediate-Range Nuclear Forces Treaty (INF) in talks at the alliance headquarters, NATO's secretary-general said.
Putin blames NATO for destruction of Libya, warns about flow of terrorists from Syria Press TV 05 Jul 2019 -- Russian President Vladimir Putin says the US-led NATO military alliance is to blame for the destruction of Libya, warning that the situation there was deteriorating as more and more militants are moving from Syria into the North African country.
Russia condemns UK for seizing Iranian oil supertanker off Gibraltar Press TV 05 Jul 2019 -- Russia has condemned Britain for its seizure of an Iran-operated supertanker off the coast of Gibraltar, calling the provocative move a deliberate step geared to further deteriorate the situation in the Middle East.
Russian Security Agency Detains Aide To Presidential Envoy On Treason Charges RFE/RL 05 Jul 2019 -- Russia's main security agency detained an aide to a Kremlin-appointed envoy on treason charges, in what appeared to the first such case targeting a government official since the Soviet collapse.
Briefing by Foreign Ministry Spokesperson Maria Zakharova, Moscow, July 4, 2019 Russia Ministry of Foreign Affairs 04 Jul 2019
Russia tracking NATO warships in Black Sea Press TV 04 Jul 2019 -- Russia says its Black Sea Fleet is monitoring NATO warships in the sea, as the military bloc has increased its presence and boosted its activities there.
Managing To Win: Sagging Popularity Forces Russia's Ruling Party To Dig Into Its Bag Of Election Tricks RFE/RL 04 Jul 2019 -- Oleg Shein might seem like a perfect choice of a candidate to challenge the ruling-party incumbent in the race for governor in Russia's Astrakhan Oblast.
Russia: Fire On Nuclear-Powered Submarine Started In Battery Compartment RFE/RL 04 Jul 2019 -- Russian President Vladimir Putin has disclosed that a deep-sea submarine hit by a deadly fire earlier this week was nuclear-powered, and the defense minister assured him of the containment of the vessel's reactor.
Putin Visiting Rome To Bolster Ties With Italy, Meet With Pope RFE/RL 04 Jul 2019 -- Russian President Vladimir Putin has arrived in Rome where he is set to hold talks with Italian leaders and Pope Francis, in a possible prelude to a papal trip to Russia.
Russian Helicopters Working on World's Heaviest Arctic Helicopter - Company CEO Sputnik 04 Jul 2019 -- Russian Helicopters (part of Russian state corporation Rostec) is developing the arctic version of the heaviest mass-produced helicopter in the world, Mi-26T2V, Andrei Boginsky, the holding's director general, told Sputnik Thursday.
Fire in Battery Compartment Main Reason Behind Fire on Sub - Russian Defence Minister Sputnik 04 Jul 2019 -- The fire broke out inside the submersible on 1 July, killing 14 crew members who died of toxic smoke inhalation; the rest of the crew were rescued and the research vessel has been towed to the Severomorsk naval base in northern Russia.
Putin Meets With Pope, Italian Leaders During Rome Visit VOA 04 Jul 2019 -- Russian President Vladimir Putin visited Italy on Thursday for the first time in four years, at the invitation of Prime Minister Giuseppe Conte, who was in Moscow last October.
Russia urges US to lift Iran's oil embargo IRNA 04 Jul 2019 -- Russia's envoy to Vienna-based international organizations urged the US to lift Iran's oil embargo in order to de-escalate tensions in the region.
Iran's enrichment limitation voluntary step: Russia's IAEA envoy Press TV 04 Jul 2019 -- The Russian envoy to the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) says Iran accepted to limit the amount of its low-enriched uranium only as a voluntary step, adding that the UN nuclear agency does not enforce any limitations on the volume of the product that the Islamic Republic can keep.
Moscow Ready to Settle INF Treaty Dispute With Washington Based on Mutual Transparency - Russian FM Sputnik 04 Jul 2019 -- The director of the Russian Foreign Ministry's Department for Nonproliferation and Arms Control, Vladimir Ermakov, said Wednesday that Moscow welcomes Washington's support to create preconditions for further moves toward nuclear disarmament.
Bolivia Interested in Purchasing Russian Military Equipment - President Sputnik 03 Jul 2019 -- Bolivia is interested in purchasing Russian military equipment, and even considering replacing US T-33 jet trainers with Russian analogues, according to Bolivian President Evo Morales.
Russian Government Mum After Deadly Sub Fire VOA 03 Jul 2019 -- Russian officials have come under intense public scrutiny for their response to a submarine fire that left 14 dead. Some media figures have even alleged a cover-up, likening the government's response to that of the Soviet Union's after the Chernobyl nuclear meltdown.
Russia successfully tests new anti-ballistic missile People's Daily 03 Jul 2019 -- Russia has successfully tested a new anti-ballistic missile, Colonel Pavel Kuzmin, a spokesman for the Russian air and anti-missile defense command of the Aerospace force, said Tuesday.
Russia's Putin formally suspends INF treaty with US Press TV 03 Jul 2019 -- Russian President Vladimir Putin has signed into law a bill to suspend the country's participation in the Intermediate-Range Nuclear Forces Treaty (INF) with the United States after the US suspended its obligations under the landmark nuclear arms control agreement.
Putin Signs Law Suspending Russia's Participation In INF Treaty RFE/RL 03 Jul 2019 -- Russian President Vladimir Putin has signed legislation that suspends the country's participation in the Cold War-era Intermediate-Range Nuclear Forces (INF) Treaty between Moscow and Washington.
Putin Signs INF Treaty Suspension Into Law Sputnik 03 Jul 2019 -- The US formally suspended its obligations under the INF Treaty on 2 February, over alleged violations by Russia, and triggered a six-month withdrawal process. Moscow has denied the accusations, blaming Washington for breaching the deal. In March, President Putin signed a decree on suspending Russia's participation in the deal.
Late Reports, An Article Scrubbed: Details Scant Following Deadly Russian Submarine Fire RFE/RL 03 Jul 2019 -- At 11 a.m. on July 1, Yevgeny Karpov, a journalist from the Arctic port of Severomorsk, received a call from one of his sources at the city's naval base – the headquarters of Russia's Northern Fleet.
Russian Sailors Who Died In Submarine Fire To Receive State Awards RFE/RL 03 Jul 2019 -- Commenting on investigations into a deadly fire involving a Russian deep-sea submarine, Defense Minister Sergei Shoigu has described the 14 sailors who died in the July 2 incident as "unique military specialists" who will all be nominated for state awards.
Russia vows to help Iran remain equal energy player Press TV 03 Jul 2019 -- Russia says it supports Iran in the face of US sanctions and wants the Middle Eastern powerhouse to remain an equal player in the energy market despite American efforts to blot Tehran out of the market.
OPEC, Russia Agree To Extend Oil Output Cuts Into 2020 RFE/RL 02 Jul 2019 -- OPEC members have reached an agreement with other major oil producing nations, including Russia, to extend production cuts into next year amid concerns over weaker global growth.
Russia: Israel's Syria strikes menace regional stability Press TV 02 Jul 2019 -- Russia takes serious issue with Israeli military aggression against Syria, a day after Israeli strikes claim four lives in the Arab country.
IS Group Claims Responsibility For Deadly Attack In Chechnya RFE/RL 02 Jul 2019 -- The Islamic State (IS) extremist group has claimed responsibility for an attack in Russia's North Caucasus region of Chechnya in which a police officer was killed.
Russia's Putin orders inquiry into submarine fire that killed 14 sailors Press TV 02 Jul 2019 -- Russian President Vladimir Putin has ordered an inquiry into a fire on a deep-water research submarine carrying out a survey of the sea floor near the Arctic, killing fourteen Russian sailors on board.
Did A Deadly Fire Break Out On A Secret Russian Spy Sub? Here's What We Know About 'Losharik' RFE/RL 02 Jul 2019 -- It's one of the more unique, more capable, and more distinctive vessels in Russia's naval fleet. And it now appears to hold the distinction of being the latest Russian naval ship to suffer a catastrophic -- and, so far, unexplained -- incident.
Putin Orders Defense Chief To Region After 14 Sailors Killed In Fire On Russian Submersible RFE/RL 02 Jul 2019 -- Russian President Vladimir Putin has ordered the country's defense chief to travel to a northern naval base to conduct a probe after a fire on a deep-sea research submersible killed 14 crew members.
Major Russian Submarine Accidents Since 2000 RFE/RL 02 Jul 2019 -- A fire aboard a Russian submersible on July 1 killed 14 crew members, the Defense Ministry reported. It is the nation's deadliest submarine-related incident since 2008.
Kaspersky Complies With Kremlin Blacklist As Other VPN Services Remain Defiant RFE/RL 02 Jul 2019 -- A Russian cybersecurity company has become the latest to comply with controversial government legislation on Internet freedoms, according to a watchdog group and VPN users who say they have been denied access to websites blacklisted by the state communications regulator.
U.S. Relative Of Sanctioned Russian Oligarch Sues Treasury Department RFE/RL 02 Jul 2019 -- The U.S. cousin of Russian billionaire Viktor Vekselberg is suing the U.S. Treasury Department for seizing his assets worth millions of dollars.
Russian Military Denies Telling Norwegian Nuke Watchdog of Alleged Submarine Gas Explosion Sputnik 02 Jul 2019 -- Norwegian authorities said earlier on Tuesday that Russian officials had notified the country's Radiation and Nuclear Safety Agency about an alleged gas explosion on board of the nuclear-powered submarine.
'Great Loss': Putin Says Highly Decorated Naval Officers Died in Submersible Fire Sputnik 02 Jul 2019 -- The Russian Defence Ministry announced earlier in the day that 14 people had died as a result of a fire that erupted inside a deep-sea military submersible while it was coducting research of the sea bottom in Russian territorial waters for the Russian military.
Russia Conducts Another Successful Test of New Interceptor Missile Sputnik 02 Jul 2019 -- Russia's Aerospace Forces have carried out the successful launch of a new interceptor missile at a testing range in Kazakhstan, the Russian Defence Ministry said.
Fire on Russian Submersible Kills 14 VOA 02 Jul 2019 -- Fourteen sailors have died in a fire on a deep-sea submersible, the Russian military says.
Russia Calls on EU Big Three to Recognise Responsibility for Preserving JCPOA - Lavrov Sputnik 02 Jul 2019 -- Russia is calling on the so-called EU big three to recognise their responsibility for preserving the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA), including through enabling Iran to sell its oil, Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov said on Tuesday.
Russian Man Detained On Treason Charge RFE/RL 02 Jul 2019 -- A court in Moscow has sent a man to pretrial detention on the charge of high treason.
Turkey to Consider Buying Russian Warplanes If US Refuses to Supply F-35 - Report Sputnik 01 Jul 2019 -- The United States earlier threatened to remove Turkey from it's F-35 program after Ankara refused to scrap a deal with Russia to buy Moscow's cutting-edge S-400 missile systems, which Washington claimed could compromise US-made aircraft.
Reports: High-Ranking Officials Of Russia's National Guard Quitting RFE/RL 01 Jul 2019 -- Several top officials of Russia's National Guard, including deputy directors, are expected to resign in the coming days, reports say.
Fake Candidates, 'Terrorist Threats,' Detentions: In St. Petersburg, Kremlin Foes Face Minefield Just To Get On The Ballot RFE/RL 01 Jul 2019 -- For almost a week, Pavel Chuprunov has tried in vain to register as a candidate for September municipal elections in St. Petersburg, Russia's second-largest city.
Russian Navy Monitoring NATO's Sea Breeze-2019 Naval Drills - Defence Ministry Sputnik 01 Jul 2019 -- The Black Sea Fleet is closely monitoring NATO Sea Breeze-2019 naval drills in the Black Sea region to react to possible emergency situations, the Russian Defence Ministry said Monday.
Bellingcat: Top GRU Officer Coordinated Skripal Attack From London RFE/RL 01 Jul 2019 -- The Bellingcat investigative organization says it has obtained evidence suggesting that a senior Russian military intelligence officer worked from a hotel in central London to coordinate the March 2018 nerve agent attack against former Russian spy Sergei Skripal.
Russia, US Conducted Mutual Inspections Under New START Treaty Last Week- Russian Military Sputnik 01 Jul 2019 -- Russia and the United States last week carried out mutual inspections in the framework of the New START nuclear arms control treaty, the Russian Defence Ministry's official newspaper Krasnaya Zvezda reported.
Russia Starts Producing S-500 Missile System - Developer Sputnik 01 Jul 2019 -- Deputy Prime Minister Yury Borisov has previously said that the S-500 anti-ballistic missile system would be received by the Russian military in the coming years.
Russian Navy Following Moves of US Destroyer Sailing in Black Sea - MoD Sputnik 01 Jul 2019 -- The Arleigh Burke-class guided-missile destroyer USS Carney has reportedly entered the Black Sea passing the Bosphorus ahead of a naval exercise called Sea Breeze.

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Weapons of Mass Destruction (WMD)

July 2019 - Russia Special Weapons News