November 2019 - Russia Special Weapons News

Chief of Ukraine's Naftogaz Says Ready to Consider Gazprom's Proposals to Repay $3 Billion Sputnik 30 Nov 2019 -- Ukraine's Naftogaz is prepared to discuss with Russia's Gazprom how the Russian gas giant plans to repay its nearly $3 billion debt to the Ukrainian gas company, as well as possible compensation Gazprom would pay Naftogaz for Kiev to drop its $12.2 billion claims, Naftogaz Executive Director Yuriy Vitrenko said.
No missile system can intercept our Yars ICBM, Russian army brags Press TV 30 Nov 2019 -- Russia's RS-24 Yars intercontinental ballistic missile (ICBM) cannot be intercepted by any existing missile defense system, a Russian military official says.
Construction Of First Highway Bridge Linking Russia, China Completed RFE/RL 30 Nov 2019 -- Construction of the first road bridge to connect Russia and China has been completed, with the structure expected to officially open in the spring of 2020, Russian officials say.
Russian Military Police Conduct Reconnaissance for Another Route in Northern Syria Sputnik 30 Nov 2019 -- Russian military police have conducted reconnaissance along a new patrol route near the city of Kobane in northern Syria, a Sputnik correspondent reported on Saturday.
Moscow Accuses NATO of Luring Extra-Regional Nations Into Military Activities in Arctic Sputnik 29 Nov 2019 -- NATO increases military and political tensions in the Arctic region through encouraging extra-regional nations to engage in military activities there, the Russian Foreign Ministry's ambassador-at-large for international Arctic cooperation, Nikolai Korchunov, said.
Russia successfully test fires nuclear ballistic missile system Press TV 29 Nov 2019 -- Russia has test launched a nuclear-capable intercontinental ballistic missile (ICBM) system, despite the West's concerns regarding Moscow's developing military technology.
Moscow May Stop Using Nukes as Deterrent Force, Commander of Russian Strategic Missile Forces Says Sputnik 29 Nov 2019 -- Earlier, Sergei Karakaev said that Russia's strategic missile forces have more than 200 mobile and stationary missile systems. Speaking with the Russian Armed Forces' official newspaper, Krasnaya Zvezda, Karakaev said that Russia's military is now replacing the last missile systems that were made in the Soviet Union.
Moscow on Proposed INF-Weapons Moratorium: No Country Can Say It Does not Share Russia's Concerns Sputnik 29 Nov 2019 -- Russian presidential spokesman Dmitry Peskov has commented on Germany's rejection of Russia's proposal to impose a moratorium on the deployment of intermediate-range and shorter-range missiles in Europe, as envisioned under the now-defunct Intermediate-Range Nuclear Forces (INF) Treaty.
Reporter's Notebook: They Do Things Differently in Russia VOA 29 Nov 2019 -- Everyone overlooks them as they scurry about in their luminescent orange uniforms at all hours of the day and night, armed only with small brushes and the the type of long-handled lobby dustpans a concierge might use in New York or London to tidy up an entrance.
Russia Says Proposed Four-Year Athletic Doping Ban 'Unfair,' 'Maybe Even A War' RFE/RL 29 Nov 2019 -- Russia has lashed back at a proposed four-year ban on the country's athletes over noncompliance with anti-doping regulations, calling it a politically motivated act designed to prevent its athletes from competing.
Russian woman arrested on suspicion of spying for Ukraine in Crimea Press TV 29 Nov 2019 -- Russia says it has arrested a woman in Crimea for allegedly trying to obtain Russian military secrets on behalf of the Ukrainian government.
Russia Detains Woman Suspected Of Spying For Ukraine In Crimea RFE/RL 29 Nov 2019 -- Russia's Federal Security Service (FSB) says a Russian woman has been detained on suspicion of state treason for allegedly spying for Ukraine in the Russian-occupied Crimean Peninsula.
Russian Black Sea Fleet Staffer Spying for Ukraine Detained in Sevastopol - Lawmaker Sputnik 29 Nov 2019 -- A Russian woman who tried to obtain national secret military information at the request of the Ukrainian Defence Ministry has been detained in Russia's southern city of Sevastopol, the country's Federal Security Service (FSB) said on Friday.
Russian Defence Ministry Delivers Small Arms to Gabon for Free to Fight Poaching Sputnik 29 Nov 2019 -- Russia delivered small arms for free to Gabon to help the former French colony on the west coast of Africa fight poaching and protect national parks, the Russian Defen?e Ministry said on Thursday
Briefing by Foreign Ministry Spokesperson Maria Zakharova, Moscow, November 28, 2019 Russia Ministry of Foreign Affairs 28 Nov 2019
European Parliament Condemns Russian Probe Targeting Lithuanian Judges Over War Crimes Convictions RFE/RL 28 Nov 2019 -- The European Parliament has passed a resolution condemning Russia for launching a criminal investigation into judges at a Vilnius court that convicted dozens of former Soviet Army personnel, mostly in absentia, of committing war crimes and crimes against humanity during Moscow's deadly 1991 crackdown on Lithuania's independence movement.
Russia urges OPCW members not to fund new Syria gas attack probe team Press TV 28 Nov 2019 -- Russia says creating a so-called investigative team within the Organization for the Prohibition of Chemical Weapons (OPCW) only suits the ends of the sponsors, urging the member states of the watchdog to vote against funding such a biased team.
Kremlin Aide: Putin-Zelenskiy Tete-A-Tete 'Likely' At Paris Summit RFE/RL 28 Nov 2019 -- Russian President Vladimir Putin is "likely" for the first time to have a face-to-face dialogue with Ukrainian counterpart Volodymyr Zelenskiy next month in Paris, where a summit is planned with the leaders of France and Germany aimed at resolving the armed Donbas conflict.
.Russian Defence Ministry Successfully Test Fires Topol ICBM Sputnik 28 Nov 2019 -- Russia successfully test-fired the Topol intercontinental ballistic missile (ICBM) from the Kapustin Yar firing range in the Astrakhan region, the warhead hit the simulated target in Kazakhstan, the Russian Defence Ministry said in a statement Thursday.
Russia's Alternative to Western Credit Cards Debuts in London VOA 28 Nov 2019 -- A Russian-backed bank payment card, introduced after Western sanctions upended Russia's financial system five years ago and prompted Visa and Mastercard to deny electronic services to some of the country's leading banks, is set for its European debut on London Wednesday, when a pilot project will be launched in collaboration with the Dutch global payment company PayXpert.
How Much Did Russian Spy Agencies Rely On Bitcoin? New Hints In Leaked Recordings RFE/RL 28 Nov 2019 -- When it was seized by U.S. law enforcement in 2017, BTC-e was described as "one of the world's largest and most widely used digital-currency exchanges." It was also one of the most notorious.
France's Macron Rejects Putin's Missile Moratorium Proposal Sputnik 28 Nov 2019 -- Macron Urges for 'Lucid, Robust' Dialogue With Russia
S. African navy hosts Russia, China for maritime exercise People's Daily 27 Nov 2019 -- The South African navy is hosting the Multinational Maritime Exercise with Russia and China in Cape Town.
London-based research group says UK cannot fight Russia Press TV 27 Nov 2019 -- The British army is no match for Russia's armed forces, according to research by a prestigious London-based think tank.
Russian-Made S-400 Systems Vital for Turkish Defence Capabilities – Ankara Sputnik 27 Nov 2019 -- Ankara will continue to negotiate with Washington, but will not bow to the United States' pressure over the use of Russian-made S-400 air defence systems which are vital for Turkish defence capabilities, Foreign Minister Mevlut Cavusoglu said on Wednesday, as reported by Turkish newspaper Daily Sabah.
Kremlin-Friendly Tycoon Deripaska Reportedly Stripped Of Cypriot Citizenship RFE/RL 27 Nov 2019 -- Cyprus has stripped Russian tycoon Oleg Deripaska, a 51-year-old billionaire with close ties to the Kremlin, of his Cypriot citizenship, local media in the EU country report.
I'll Show You Mine: Russian Military Presents New Avangard Nuclear Missile to US Inspectors Sputnik 27 Nov 2019 -- The Russian Defense Ministry officials explained that the new weapon's demonstration was conducted in order to help ensure the "viability and effectiveness" of the New START treaty.
Russia Suggests US Extend New START for 5 Years or Less - Deputy Foreign Minister Sputnik 27 Nov 2019 -- Russia has suggested that the United States extend the New START treaty for five years or for a shorter period if desired, Deputy Foreign Minister Sergei Ryabkov said Wednesday.
Possible New Doping Sanctions Loom for Russia VOA 27 Nov 2019 -- Top Russian officials decried the recommendations by a World Anti-Doping Agency committee to suspend Russia from international competition over tainted athlete doping probes – the latest in a drawn out saga over accusations of Russian state sponsored doping that has roiled global sport since 2014.
Iran, China, Russia to hold joint drills IRNA 27 Nov 2019 -- The Islamic Republic of Iran's Navy Commander announced the installation of perpendicular missile launchers on Navy destroyers, saying that Iran, China, and Russia's trilateral drills will be held in the near future in the northern Indian Ocean.
Navy cmdr says Iran, China, Russia to stage tripartite drills soon IRNA 27 Nov 2019 -- Navy Commander Rear-Admiral Hossein Khanzadi said on Wednesday that Iranian, Chinese and Russian Naval forces are to conduct a tripartite maneuver in the north Indian Ocean in the near future.
Russia's FSB Exposes Man Who Tried to Sell Military Secrets to Foreign Special Services Sputnik 27 Nov 2019 -- The Russian Federal Security Service (FSB) has exposed an attempt by a resident of the western city of Izhevsk to sell information about national secret military space developments to foreign special services, the FSB's department for the Udmurt Republic said on Wednesday.
Public Defender Says Butina Asks US Court for Voluntary Dismissal of Appeal Sputnik 28 Nov 2019 -- Russian national Maria Butina who had served a prison term in the United States asked a US court for voluntary dismissal of the appeal, her public defender A.J. Kramer said in a court filing.
Spy Fiction? The Soviet Spook Who Foiled A Nazi Plot -- Real Or Imagined -- To Save The Allied War Effort RFE/RL 27 Nov 2019 -- In 1943, with World War II raging, a petite 17-year-old was among a team of Soviet agents credited by Moscow with thwarting a Nazi plot and saving the lives of the "Big Three" Allied leaders.
Turkey tests Russian-made S-400 systems: sources People's Daily 26 Nov 2019 -- Turkey on Monday and Tuesday would be testing the radar systems of Russian-made S-400 anti-missile defense systems in capital Ankara, sources from the Turkish Defense Industries Directorate told Xinhua.
Russia plans to sign new S-400 deal with Turkey in first half of 2020: Official Press TV 26 Nov 2019 -- A high-ranking Russian military figure says Moscow plans to sign a new contract with Turkey to supply new batteries of the advanced Russian-made S-400 missile defense systems to Turkey in the first half of 2020.
Pompeo Brands Turkey's S-400 Tests 'Concerning' as Ankara Seeks Further Talks With Washington Sputnik 26 Nov 2019 -- During a press briefing on Tuesday, US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo specifically focused on Washington's approach to Turkey testing S-400 missile systems and the likelihood of further sanctions on Iran.
Efforts to Resolve the S-400 Row With the US to Continue Until April - Erdogan Sputnik 26 Nov 2019 -- Earlier in the day, Rosoboronexport Director General Alexander Mikheev said that the contract, under which Russia will deliver the second regiment of its S-400 missile systems to Turkey, is expected to be signed next year.
Russia, Turkey Agree on Technical Issues Regarding S-400, Discuss Financing - Rosoboronexport Sputnik 26 Nov 2019 -- Russia will give Turkey the option of purchasing a second S-400 regiment, Alexander Mikheev , director general of Rosoboronexport said.
In Doha, President Erdogan stresses military ties with Qatar Press TV 26 Nov 2019 -- During a visit to Qatar, Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan has said a military base built in and jointly run with the Arab country can ensure stability and peace in the Persian Gulf region, as Ankara and Doha further close ranks in the face of a Saudi Arabian-led blockade on Qatar.
Russian Military Police Continue Patrolling Syria's Aleppo, Raqqa Provinces Sputnik 26 Nov 2019 -- The Russian military police continue patrolling Syria's provinces of Aleppo and Raqqa, Major General Yuri Borenkov, the head of the Defence Ministry's Reconciliation Center in Syria, said on Tuesday.
Russian Defence Ministry Says Military Satellite Launched From Plesetsk Enters Into Orbit Sputnik 26 Nov 2019 -- The Russian military-purpose satellite that was launched from the Plesetsk space centre in the north of the country on Monday evening has entered into orbit, the Russian Defence Ministry has announced.
Number Of Young Russians Who Want To Emigrate Hits Highest Level In Decade RFE/RL 26 Nov 2019 -- A majority of young Russians want to leave the country, according to a new opinion poll, the highest number in a decade.
Anti-Doping Investigators Recommend Four-Year Ban on Russia VOA 26 Nov 2019 -- Russia faces a four-year ban from global sporting events, including next year's Tokyo Olympics, because of a continued failure to cooperate with anti-doping investigators.
China-Russia-S.Africa naval drills to help safeguard sea lanes, maritime security Global Times 26 Nov 2019 -- The Chinese navy is participating in its first-ever joint naval drills with Russia and South Africa in southern African waters, a move that will boost the countries' capability to face maritime security threats, secure sea lanes and contribute to world peace, Chinese experts said on Monday.
Russia Faces Four-Year Ban From Sporting Competitions RFE/RL 26 Nov 2019 -- A key panel of the World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA) recommends Russia be hit with a four-year ban from sporting competitions over noncompliance with the World Anti-Doping Code.
Turkey to test Russian S-400 systems despite US warnings: Report Press TV 25 Nov 2019 -- Turkey is set to test its Russian S-400 defense missile system despite repeated warnings from Washington that it could lead to sanctions, Turkish media report.
Russian Defence Ministry Says It Conducts Joint Patrol with Turkey in Syria's Al-Hasakah Sputnik 26 Nov 2019 -- Russia and Turkey have conducted a joint patrol in Syria's northeastern al-Hasakah province, Major General Yuri Borenkov, the head of the Defence Ministry's Reconciliation Center in Syria, said during a briefing on Monday.
Russian Parliament's Upper Chamber Approves 'Foreign Agents' Bill That Threatens Journalists With Libel RFE/RL 25 Nov 2019 -- The Russian parliament's upper chamber, the Federation Council, has approved a bill giving authorities the power to label reporters who work for organizations officially listed as foreign agents as foreign agents themselves.
Commander of Russian Ground Forces Presents New Military Robot Sputnik 25 Nov 2019 -- The Kungas robot, designed for the Russian Armed forces, has been tested successfully, Army General Oleg Salyukov said in an interview with the newspaper Krasnaya Zvezda.
Moscow Will Facilitate Dialogue Between Kurds, Damascus - Deputy Foreign Minister Sputnik 25 Nov 2019 -- Moscow intends to facilitate dialogue between the Syrian government and the Kurds, and remains in contact with all parties interested in the Syrian settlement, Russian Deputy Foreign Minister Mikhail Bogdanov said on Monday.
China, Russia Tighten Ties With Gas Pipeline Radio Free Asia 25 Nov 2019 -- After nearly 20 years of proposals, stalled plans, and complex negotiations, Russia and China are poised to open their first natural gas pipeline connection, raising interdependence to a new level for decades to come.
Russia's Marshal Ustinov Missile Cruiser Arrives in Cape Town for Naval Drills - Northern Fleet Sputnik 24 Nov 2019 -- Russia's Marshal Ustinov missile cruiser has arrived in Cape Town to take part in a naval exercise with China and South Africa, Capt. 1st Rank Vadim Serga, the chief of the Northern Fleet press service, said on Sunday.
U.S. Ambassador-Nominee To Russia Meets Lavrov, Sets Conditions For Improved Ties RFE/RL 23 Nov 2019 -- U.S. Deputy Secretary of State John Sullivan, who has been nominated to become Washington's next ambassador to Moscow, told Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov that an improvement in bilateral ties depends on Moscow's "disavowal of efforts to undermine our democratic processes" and a commitment to peace efforts in Ukraine.
Egyptian Leader's Son Heads to Moscow VOA 23 Nov 2019 -- Egyptian President Abdel Fattah el-Sissi, dubbed by critics "Putin on the Nile," is set to boost his burgeoning relationship with Russia by dispatching his son, Mahmoud, to Moscow as a military attache, independent regional media outlets are reporting.
Russia: US military presence hinders our Japan ties Press TV 23 Nov 2019 -- Russia calls the United States' extensive and growing military presence in Japan an obstacle in the way of further development of the Russo-Japanese relations.
Putin Stresses 'Responsibility' At Ruling Party Congress RFE/RL 23 Nov 2019 -- Russian President Vladimir Putin told a congress of the ruling United Russia on November 23 that the party has prospered by prioritizing "citizens' interests [and] the interests of our Motherland" and urged his allies not to fear "difficult decisions that don't yield situational popularity and extra points at elections."
Situation With WADA Panel Non-Compliance Recommendation 'Unfolding as Predicted' - RUSADA Sputnik 23 Nov 2019 -- The situation with the compliance status of the Russian Anti-Doping Agency (RUSADA) is developing dramatically, but in accordance with expectations, Margarita Pakhnotskaya, RUSADA's deputy director-general said on Saturday, after a WADA key panel issued a recommendation to strip RUSADA of its status of compliance.
U.S. Warns Turkey, Egypt About Purchase Of Russian Military Equipment RFE/RL 22 Nov 2019 -- A senior State Department official has lashed out at Turkey and Egypt for military deals they have struck with Russia, warning of sanctions against the U.S. allies if they don't reverse course.
Turkey Has to 'Destroy, Return, or Somehow Get Rid of S-400' - US Department of State Sputnik 22 Nov 2019 -- The news comes a week after President Recep Tayyip Erdogan refused to ditch the S-400 air defence systems that Ankara has purchased from Russia, stating it is "not right". The politician noted that his country is ready to buy Patriot systems from the US on favourable terms, but dismissed the US demands as meddling in Turkey's sovereign affairs.
US Not Doing Anything Illegal by Securing Syria's Oil Fields, Special Envoy Jeffrey Believes Sputnik 22 Nov 2019 -- Washington is not doing anything illegal by securing oil fields in Syria, US Special Representative for Syria Engagement James Jeffrey told reporters on Friday.
Moscow Slams US Actions in Syria, Including Near Oil Fields, as 'Destructive', 'Inconsistent' Sputnik 22 Nov 2019 -- Despite scaling down the US military presence in Syria, US President Donald Trump has repeatedly stated that the country intends to retain control of the oil fields in northeastern Syria.
Kremlin Denies Knowledge of Grisly Wagner Killing in Syria VOA 22 Nov 2019 -- A Russian who participated in the torture of a captive in Syria and filmed the prisoner's dismemberment and beheading has been identified by media outlets as a former policeman from Stavropol in southern Russia, who served as a mercenary employed by the Wagner Group, a Kremlin-sponsored private military contractor.
Russian Athletes Again Face Possible Olympic Ban After WADA Panel Ruling RFE/RL 22 Nov 2019 -- Russia is again facing an Olympic ban after a key World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA) committee recommended that Russia's anti-doping agency be declared noncompliant.
The Week In Russia: Survey Says: Russians Want More Rights RFE/RL 22 Nov 2019 -- An opinion poll shows that the proportion of Russians who consider rights like the freedom of speech and assembly to be of crucial importance has increased sharply during President Vladimir Putin's current term. Also, Moscow's unusual rights-court claim about domestic-violence victims is likened to trolling, and the Kremlin avoids substantive comment on a horrific killing in Syria.
World Athletics Council Suspends Process To Readmit Russia's Athletics Federation RFE/RL 22 Nov 2019 -- The World Athletics Council is putting on hold the readmission process of the Russian Athletics Federation (RUSAF) a day after several top RUSAF officials were suspended.
Putin Pledges To Perfect Mystery Weapon After Deadly August Blast RFE/RL 22 Nov 2019 -- Russian President Vladimir Putin has vowed to press on with the development of a weapon that has been at the center of a deadly nuclear accident in August.
Russian Duma Approves Bill Allowing Government to Label Individuals as Foreign Agents VOA 22 Nov 2019 -- The lower house of Russia's parliament, the State Duma, Thursday overwhelmingly passed legislation that would allow the government to label journalists, bloggers, and social media users as foreign agents.
Russia Confident Serbia 'Partnership' Won't Be Affected By Spying Scandal RFE/RL 22 Nov 2019 -- The Kremlin has expressed confidence that Serbian President Aleksandar Vucic's planned visit to Moscow next month will "once again demonstrate the spirit of partnership" between the two countries, after Belgrade said it had uncovered spying by Russian agents.
Briefing by Foreign Ministry Spokesperson Maria Zakharova, Moscow, November 21, 2019 Russia Ministry of Foreign Affairs 21 Nov 2019
Moscow Slams 'Aggressive' US Threats to Hit Egypt With Sanctions Over Purchase of Russia's Su-35 Sputnik 21 Nov 2019 -- US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo and Defence Secretary Mark Esper sent a letter to Egypt's defence minister threatening with sanctions if Cairo did not cancel purchasing more than 20 Su-35 Flanker-E next-generation fighters from Moscow, The Wall Street Journal reported last week.
In Symbolic Move, Ukraine's Zelenskiy Opens Rebuilt Bridge In War-Torn East RFE/RL 21 Nov 2019 -- Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy, in a symbolic move that highlights efforts to rebuild Ukraine's war-torn east, has reopened a bridge in the Luhansk region that has sat in ruins the past four years.
Ukraine's Zelenskiy Names Four Key Issues For Upcoming Peace Summit on Donbas RFE/RL 21 Nov 2019 -- Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy has said he will advance four key issues during an upcoming four-way meeting with the leaders of Germany, France, and Russia on a potential peace settlement in the Donbas conflict.
Russia, Ukraine Trade Barbs Over Condition of Returned Naval Ships VOA 21 Nov 2019 -- Ukraine says three captured naval vessels returned by Russia earlier this week were in poor condition and stripped of key components.
In Syria, A Mutilated Corpse, Video Evidence, And New Scrutiny For Russian Mercenaries RFE/RL 21 Nov 2019 -- The graphic video shows four men in camouflage gear exchanging jokes in unaccented Russian as they pour flammable liquid over a man's mutilated corpse strung up on two wooden beams.
Russian Duma Approves 'Foreign Agents' Bill That Threatens Journalists With Label RFE/RL 21 Nov 2019 -- The Russian parliament's lower chamber, the State Duma, has approved the final reading of a bill allowing reporters who work for organizations officially listed as foreign agents to be designated as foreign agents themselves.
Report: Russian Military, Command Control Exceeds NATO Capacities RFE/RL 21 Nov 2019 -- Russia's ongoing development of an advanced command-and-control military system using sophisticated artificial intelligence (AI) has surpassed the existing capacities of NATO, an analysis by the Washington-based global research group Jamestown Foundation says.
Vucic Accuses Moscow Of Spying On Serbia, Says Ties Still Strong RFE/RL 21 Nov 2019 -- Serbian security services have uncovered a large-scale intelligence operation between Russian spies and current and former members of the Serbian military, President Aleksandar Vucic said on November 21, but added that the scandal won't jeopardize friendship between Moscow and Belgrade.
U.S. Investigating Universities, Including MIT, Over Russian, Chinese Donations RFE/RL 21 Nov 2019 -- U.S. officials have asked the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) to turn over documents regarding the university's contacts with foreign governments and donations from foreign sources, including those coming from Russia, China, and Saudi Arabia.
Russia Arrests Soldier Suspected Of Spying For Ukraine RFE/RL 21 Nov 2019 -- Russia's Federal Security Service (FSB) has detained a military serviceman on suspicion of spying on behalf of Ukraine in the Rostov region.
US troops deployment to Saudi Arabia will stoke tensions: Russia Press TV 20 Nov 2019 -- Russia has warned that a plan by the US administration to deploy thousands of military forces to Saudi Arabia will only add to already simmering tensions in the Middle East region.
Ukrainian Navy Says Moscow Returned Three Ships To Kyiv In Bad Condition RFE/RL 20 Nov 2019 -- Ukraine's navy says that the three ships captured by Russia almost a year ago and released on November 19 have been returned in very poor condition and are not able to make it back to port under their own power.
Poll Shows Sharp Rise in Number Of Russians Valuing Freedom Of Speech RFE/RL 20 Nov 2019 -- Independent Russian pollster Levada Center says that the number of Russians citing freedom of speech, freedom of faith, and freedom of public gatherings has risen sharply.
Report: Major Swedish Bank Under U.S. Investigation For Suspicious Russian Money Transfers RFE/RL 20 Nov 2019 -- Sweden's public broadcaster has reported that U.S. regulators are investigating one of the Scandinavian country's largest banks for suspicious financial transactions involving the Russian weapons manufacturer Kalashnikov.
Russian envoy: JCPOA commission meeting to be held in early December IRNA 20 Nov 2019 -- Russia's Permanent Representative to the International Organizations in Vienna and the International Atomic Energy Agency Mikhail Ulyanov said that the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA) joint commission meeting is likely to be held early December.
Russia, France criticize US for ending Fordow sanctions waiver Press TV 20 Nov 2019 -- Russia and France have expressed dismay at a recent US decision to cancel a sanctions waiver related to Iran's Fordow enrichment facility ending a key part of a 2015 multilateral nuclear agreement, which Washington abandoned last year.
Serbia Probing Alleged Spy Episode Involving Russian Envoy RFE/RL 20 Nov 2019 -- Serbia says it is investigating reports of an alleged spying incident involving Russia after a video was posted on social media apparently showing a Russian diplomat bribing a person said to be a senior member of Serbia's security service.
Russia, China to Present Plan on Easing Tensions on Korean Peninsula - Moscow Sputnik 20 Nov 2019 -- Russia and China will submit a new plan of action on resolving tensions on the Korean Peninsula, Russian Deputy Foreign Minister Igor Morgulov told reporters.
Russia, China offer new plan to ease Korean Peninsula tensions Press TV 20 Nov 2019 -- Russia and China have prepared a new plan of action meant to resolve tensions on the Korean Peninsula, as the United States fails to engage North Korea in demilitarization talks.
Maria Butina's New Job? Maybe Advocating For Other Russians Held In U.S. Prisons RFE/RL 19 Nov 2019 -- During and after the 15-month prison sentence she served after admitting to working as an unregistered foreign agent, Maria Butina complained about both her sentence -- "this is absolutely absurd" -- and her treatment in prison -- "it is a torture."
Russia Deploys Additional Military Police to Northern Syria Amid Turkish Threat to Resume Offensive Sputnik 19 Nov 2019 -- On Monday, Turkish Foreign Minister Mevlut Cavusoglu warned that Ankara could resume its Syrian operation if the United States and Russia did not implement their commitments on the withdrawal of Kurdish militia forces from the so-called safe zone near the Turkish border.
Norway Probes Convicted Spy's Recruitment as Locals Ask Intelligence to 'Stay Away' Sputnik 19 Nov 2019 -- Frode Berg, who claims to have fallen prey to intelligence intrigues, was convicted of gathering data on Russia's North Fleet and its nuclear submarines.
START Treaty Non-Renewal Becoming More Realistic Prospect - Russian Envoy in Vienna Sputnik 19 Nov 2019 -- The possibility of the United States and Russia not extending the New Strategic Arms Reduction Treaty (START) has become a more realistic development, Russian Permanent Representative to International Organizations in Vienna Mikhail Ulyanov said.
Egypt Puts Itself at Risk of US Sanctions by Purchasing Russian Figher Jets, American Official Says Sputnik 18 Nov 2019 -- Russia intends to start deliveries of nearly two dozen Su-35E air superiority fighter planes to Egypt between 2020-2021 in a deal worth the equivalent of over $2 billion. US officials have repeatedly warned that the delliveries could lead to sanctions against Cairo.
Moscow Says NATO Impedes Adoption of Measures to Enhance Air Safety Over Baltics Sputnik 18 Nov 2019 -- NATO, not Russia, puts the brakes on international efforts to adopt air safety rules for flights of military jets over the Baltics, the director of the Russian Foreign Ministry's Second European Department, Sergey Belyaev, said in an interview.
Russian, Turkish Military Carry Out 8th Joint Patrol in Syria's North - Defence Ministry Sputnik 18 Nov 2019 -- The goal of the patrol was to monitor the situation in Syrian settlements eastward from the customs checkpoint in Aylishar along the Syrian-Turkish border.
Clock Ticking In Congress As Russia Presses Ahead With Nord Stream 2 Gas Pipeline RFE/RL 18 Nov 2019 -- As the impeachment inquiry hogs the spotlight in Washington, another drama in which Ukraine has a role is playing out more quietly -- and causing concern in Kyiv, which is watching warily as Russia brings its Nord Stream 2 pipeline closer to completion.
Russia's Yandex Proposes New Governance Structure Amid Kremlin Pressure RFE/RL 18 Nov 2019 -- Russian Internet giant Yandex has proposed creating a new "public interest foundation" to oversee its business operations in a move that is seen as a response to Kremlin pressure to limit foreign influence.
Is Vladimir Putin Weaker Than Soviet Leaders? VOA 18 Nov 2019 -- Intercepted phone conversations released last week by Dutch-led investigators featuring separatist leaders in Ukraine seeking guidance and practical support from Moscow in the weeks before the 2014 shooting down of a Malaysian jet are adding to a picture of the ties between senior Russian officials in the Donbas region in Ukraine and pro-Moscow rebel militias, say Dutch officials.
Russia Ready to Deliver Arms to Iran After Int'l Sanctions Lifted - Defence Cooperation Body Sputnik 18 Nov 2019 -- Russia is ready to deliver weapons to Iran but only after the international sanctions are lifted, the head of the Federal Service of Military-Technical Cooperation, Dmitry Shugayev, said on Monday.
Russia to Fulfill Contract on Delivering S-400 Systems to India in 2025 - Rostec CEO Sputnik 18 Nov 2019 -- Under the contract, signed in 2018, Russia should deliver five S-400 systems worth over $5 billion to India.
Moscow, Abu Dhabi Continuing Talks on Su-35 Delivery to UAE - Russian Gov't Agency Sputnik 17 Nov 2019 -- Russia and the United Arab Emirates (UAE) are continuing talks on the delivery of SU-35 fighter jets to the Middle Eastern country and the joint development of a 5th generation light combat fighter for UAE, Russia's Federal Service for Military-Technical Cooperation said Sunday.
Kremlin Adviser Says Summit On Ukraine Conflict May Happen In 2019 RFE/RL 17 Nov 2019 -- A senior Kremlin adviser said that a major summit aimed at resolving the more-than-five-year-old conflict in Ukraine could be held before the end of the year.
Impounded Ukraine Vessels Held By Russia Disembark For Handover RFE/RL 17 Nov 2019 -- Russia plans to return three seized Ukrainian naval vessels sometime within the next 24 hours, the press service of the border-security unit of the Federal Security Service (FSB) told Interfax.
Russia Never Denied It Could Return Ukrainian Warships Seized During Kerch Strait Incident - Moscow Sputnik 17 Nov 2019 -- On November 25, 2018, Russia's Federal Security Service seized three Ukrainian Navy ships after the vessels illegally entered Russian territorial waters in the Kerch Strait and proceeded to engage in dangerous manoeuvres while on route from the Black Sea to the Sea of Azov port of Mariupol.
Russia: S-400s sold to Turkey to go operational in 2020 Press TV 17 Nov 2019 -- A Russian military official says the S-400 missile defense systems sold to Turkey will be operational in spring 2020, adding that the training of Turkish personnel to work with the advanced weapons is almost complete.
Turkey's S-400 Systems to Be 'Ready for Combat' by Spring - Russian Gov't Agency Sputnik 17 Nov 2019 -- Earlier, the head of the Turkish Defence Industry Directorate, Ismail Demir, said that Turkey purchased S-400 missile defence systems from Russia to make use of them, not just store them away.
Russia's Space Agency Creates Rocket-Monitoring System Using Technology Found in Smart Homes Sputnik 17 Nov 2019 -- The patented method works by collecting information on the status of rocket parts with the help of the Zigbee-based communication protocol.
Pressure Mounts on Boris Johnson to Release Russian Meddling Report VOA 17 Nov 2019 -- A senior official from Britain's main opposition Labour Party says that leaks from a parliamentary report on Russian interference in British politics raises important questions about the fairness of next month's general election.
UK Security Minister Lewis: We Will Publish Report on "Russian Meddling" After Election Sputnik 17 Nov 2019 -- Earlier, Dominic Grieve, the chairman of the Intelligence and Security Committee of Parliament, accused UK Prime Minister Boris Johnson of stalling a publication of a dossier on the alleged Russian interference during the 2016 Brexit referendum.
Freed Norwegian Spy Frode Berg Returns Home - Reports Sputnik 17 Nov 2019 -- Convicted Norwegian spy Frode Berg, who was released from Russia into Lithuania earlier this week, arrived at Oslo airport in the early hours of Sunday, Norvegian tabloid VG reported.
User Friendly: Russian Su-57 Jet Has Better Interface Than US F-35 or F-22 - Air Force General Sputnik 16 Nov 2019 -- The Russian aircraft is a fifth-generation air superiority stealth fighter that performed its maiden flight back in 2010. It is currently in the final stage of development and is expected to be available after 2020.
Russia Declassifies Soviet-Era Document Ordering Creation of First Naval Cruise Missile Sputnik 16 Nov 2019 -- P-5 is considered to be "an ancestor" of modern-day Russian cruise missiles - like Kalibr or Biryuza, used by Russia's military against various terrorist groups in the Middle East.
Russian Military Police Patrol Syria's Aleppo, Hasakah Provinces Sputnik 16 Nov 2019 -- The Russian military police continued on Friday to patrol communities in the northern Syrian provinces, said Major General Yuri Borenkov, head of the Defence Ministry's Reconciliation Centre in Syria.
Freed Norwegian Spy Frode Berg to Go Home As Soon As Possible – Prime Minister Sputnik 16 Nov 2019 -- Convicted Norwegian spy Frode Berg will come home after being released into Lithuania from Russia as soon as possible, Norwegian Prime Minister Erna Solberg said Friday.
Putin, Zelenskiy To Meet Next Month To Discuss Ukraine Conflict RFE/RL 15 Nov 2019 -- The French presidency says Paris will host a four-way summit on December 9 seeking to end the conflict in eastern Ukraine, following months of diplomatic efforts to get all sides to agree on new talks.
U.S. threatens to punish Egypt over arms deal with Russia People's Daily 15 Nov 2019 -- The United States has threatened to punish Egypt for its decision to purchase fighter jets from Russia, flexing its muscles against a second regional power that is veering toward Moscow.
Turkey 'will go on with Russian S-400 purchase' Press TV 15 Nov 2019 -- A senior aide to Turkey's President Recep Tayyip Erdogan says the country is determined to go on with the purchase of Russian S-400 missile defense systems, despite threats of sanctions by the United States.
Russia still has great deal of work to do in Syria's Idlib, Putin says Press TV 15 Nov 2019 -- Russian President Vladimir Putin says Moscow feels it still has a lot of work to do in the last major bastion of foreign-backed militants and Takfiri terrorists in Syria's northwestern province of Idlib.
The Week In Russia: Impunity From Magnitsky To The Moika RFE/RL 15 Nov 2019 -- Beneath the grisly details of graduate student Anastasia Yeshchenko's killing lies a more banal, less tabloid-friendly tale - a seemingly never-ending story about the impunity of people who hold power in Russia. Activists say other chapters include the jailhouse death of whistle-blower Sergei Magnitsky 10 years ago and the long rule of Chechen leader Ramzan Kadyrov, whose suggestion that those who dishonor officials online should be slain has caused concern but no consequences.
New START Likely to Meet the Same Fate as INF Treaty - Russia's Foreign Intelligence Chief Sputnik 15 Nov 2019 -- Last year, the United States announced a unilateral suspension of its obligations under the Intermediate-Range Nuclear Forces (INF) Treaty, citing alleged violations of the accord by Russia – a claim Moscow denies. Russia responded in kind, suspending its obligations as well. On 2 August, the US officially pulled out from the accord.
Russia to Study Plea for Mercy of Norway's Berg in 'Not-so-Far Perspective' - Official Sputnik 15 Nov 2019 -- The office of Lithuanian President said on Friday that he had pardoned two Russian citizens, convicted of espionage. Lithuanian media have claimed that Norway, Lithuania and Russia are preparing an exchange of espionage-charged persons. However, the Russian Foreign Ministry has refuted these claims as political speculations.
Lithuanian President Pardons 2 Russian Citizens Convicted of Spying Sputnik 15 Nov 2019 -- Lithuanian President Gitanas Nauseda has pardoned two Russian citizens, Nikolai Filipchenko and Sergey Moiseenko, who had been convicted on espionage charges, the president's office said on Friday.
Lithuania, Russia, Norway Carry Out Three-Way Spy Swap RFE/RL 15 Nov 2019 -- Two Lithuanian men convicted of spying in Russia "have been reunited with their families" after they were released as part of a spy swap, the chief of Lithuania's counterintelligence, Darius Jauniskis, announced on November 15.
Briefing by Foreign Ministry Spokesperson Maria Zakharova, Moscow, November 14, 2019 Russia Ministry of Foreign Affairs 14 Nov 2019
Dutch-Led Investigators Probing MH17 Crash Release New Russia-Linked Intercepts RFE/RL 14 Nov 2019 -- The Dutch-led team investigating the 2014 downing of the Malaysia Airlines jet over Ukraine has released new phone intercepts, saying they show ties between Russian military and political officials and separatists in eastern Ukraine were much closer than previously known.
Russia sets up helicopter base in northeast Syria Press TV 14 Nov 2019 -- The Russian military says it has begun setting up a new combat helicopter and air defense base at a formerly US-controlled civilian airport in northeastern Syria.
Russia Sets Up Helicopter Base In Northeast Syria After U.S. Withdrawal RFE/RL 14 Nov 2019 -- Russia has announced that it set up a helicopter base at the northeastern Syrian city of Qamishli following the U.S. troop withdrawal from the area last month.
Germany Removes Legal Hurdle For Russia's Nord Stream 2 Pipeline Project RFE/RL 14 Nov 2019 -- Germany's parliament has passed an energy law that allows part of Russia's Nord Stream 2 pipeline project to skirt European rules that forbid one entity from the being both the producer and the supplier of natural gas.
Russia is Not Strategic Partner, But Strategic Problem for EU - President of European Council Tusk Sputnik 14 Nov 2019 -- The president of the European Council will step down on 1 December, with the office being passed on to ex-Belgian Prime Minister Charles Michel.
Legal challenge to force UK government to release Russia report Press TV 14 Nov 2019 -- It seems that the report on the alleged Russian interference in British politics is so embarrassing that the UK government prefers to tolerate the mounting criticism and pressure from within and without rather than publish it.
Navalny's Foundation Alleges Posh Property Abroad Belongs To Moscow Prosecutor's Family RFE/RL 13 Nov 2019 -- The Anti-Corruption Foundation (FBK), Russian opposition politician and blogger Aleksei Navalny's activist group, says it has found documentation showing luxury properties worth more than 3.5 million euros ($3.8 million) belonging to the family of the Moscow State Prosecutor Denis Popov, raising questions over how such valuable real estate purchases were funded.
Moscow Accuses U.S. Of 'Hunting' Russians After Israel Extradites Suspected Hacker RFE/RL 13 Nov 2019 -- The Russian Embassy in Washington says it has lodged a formal diplomatic protest after Israel extradited a Russian national to the United States, where he is suspected of stealing more than $20 million from U.S. consumers through credit card fraud.
British Refusal to Publish Russia Report Fuels Suspicions of Kremlin Links VOA 13 Nov 2019 -- The British government is refusing to publish a report examining Russian interference in its democratic process, despite widespread calls for its release before the December general election. The move is fueling suspicions that the details could be damaging for the ruling Conservative party.
Russian FM Lavrov Hints on US 2020 Presidential Election: 'We Will Resolve Problem' Sputnik 12 Nov 2019 -- Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov has said jokingly, commenting on the next year's presidential election in the United States, that Russia will "resolve the problem."
Israeli Media Claims IDF Spotted Russian Sub Off Tel Aviv's Coast Sputnik 12 Nov 2019 -- The outlet did not clarify what the Russian vessel was doing in the area, or why the Israel Defence Forces failed to detect its alleged entry into the country's territorial waters.
Six Crimeans Get Lengthy Prison Terms On Extremism Charges RFE/RL 12 Nov 2019 -- A Russian court has handed lengthy prison terms to six men from Ukraine's Crimea region, five of whom are Crimean Tatars, for being members of the banned Hizb ut-Tahrir Islamic group.
Kremlin Lukewarm On Zelenskiy Meeting Proposal By Former Kazakh President RFE/RL 12 Nov 2019 -- Former Kazakh President Nursultan Nazarbaev has proposed face-to-face talks between Russian President Vladimir Putin and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy to ease tensions between the two countries as a conflict pitting Kyiv against pro-Russia separatists rages in eastern Ukraine.
Russia says US attempts to control Syria's oil fields, facilities tantamount to 'robbery' Press TV 11 Nov 2019 -- Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov has reiterated that attempts made by the United States to control Syria's oil fields are "illegal" and amount to "robbery," stressing that such attempts only hinder a desperately-needed political settlement there.
US Attempts to Rob Syria of Its Oil Are Damaging Chances of Political Settlement - Lavrov Sputnik 11 Nov 2019 -- Last month, US President Donald Trump reiterated the lack of interest of the US in patrolling the Syrian-Turkish border, saying that the main interest was in controlling the country's oil.
Russian, Turkish Military Start 4th Joint Patrol in Syria's North - Russian Ministry Sputnik 11 Nov 2019 -- The Russian military police and the Turkish border service have started their fourth joint patrol in a new area in Syria's north, at the border with Turkey, and the route will make around 80 kilometers (49 miles), the Russian Defence Ministry said on Monday.
Lawyer For Suspect In Killing of Russian Lawmaker Voronenkov In Ukraine Shot Dead RFE/RL 11 Nov 2019 -- A lawyer for the suspected planner of the killing of former Russian State Duma Deputy Denis Voronenkov has been killed while hunting in the Ukrainian region of Zhytomyr west of Kyiv.
US Plans to Withdraw From Open Skies Treaty Increase Risk of Nuclear War - Russian Security Council Secretary Sputnik 11 Nov 2019 -- Washington Plans to Dominate Cyberspace, Use IT-Tech for Hostile Actions
Putin Explains Why Russia Can Afford to Spend Less on Defence Sputnik 11 Nov 2019 -- Russia is one of just a handful of major military powers to actually make cuts to its defence spending in recent years, and recently dropped out of the top five countries in terms of total spending.
Pompeo calls on NATO to grow against 'threats' from Russia, China Press TV 09 Nov 2019 -- US Secretary of State, Mike Pompeo, has unleashed new attacks against two military powers, Russia and China, calling on the NATO military alliance to grow and confront "the challenges of today."
Ukraine army, pro-Russians launch last phase of withdrawal from eastern regions Press TV 09 Nov 2019 -- Ukrainian troops and pro-Russia forces have launched the last phase of withdrawal from conflict-ridden regions in eastern Ukraine amid hopes that a complete pullout can usher in key talks between the two countries.
Ukrainian Forces, Russia-Backed Separatists Begin Pullback From Donetsk Village RFE/RL 09 Nov 2019 -- Ukraine's military says its forces and Russia-backed separatists have begun a planned pullback in a village in eastern Ukraine, a key condition that could lead to a peace summit.
Moscow Hopes ICJ to Reject Ukraine's Claims in Lawsuit Against Russia Over Donbass, Crimea Sputnik 09 Nov 2019 -- Moscow expects the International Court of Justice to turn down claims made by Ukraine against Russia over the latter's alleged violations of the International Convention for the Suppression of the Financing of Terrorism and the International Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Racial Discrimination, the Russian Foreign Ministry said.
U.S. Blasts Syria, Russia For 'Patterns Of Attacks Against Civilians' In Idlib Province RFE/RL 09 Nov 2019 -- The United States says it strongly condemns air strikes by Syrian government forces backed by Russia that it says have targeted civilians in the northwestern corner of the Middle Eastern country.
Erdogan, Putin Discuss Syria Over Phone, Reaffirm Commitment to Sochi Memorandum Sputnik 09 Nov 2019 -- Moscow and Ankara agreed in Sochi on 22 October that Russian military police and Syrian border guards would enter the northern areas of Syria to facilitate the withdrawal of Kurdish fighters from the YPG. Under the memorandum, Russia and Turkey also agreed to conduct joint patrols in the operation zone along the Turkish border.
Moscow Expects UN Court To Reject Ukraine's Terrorism-Financing Complaints Against Russia RFE/RL 09 Nov 2019 -- Russia's Foreign Ministry says it expects the International Court of Justice to "take full regard" of the Kremlin's arguments in a case filed against Russia by Kyiv and will "eventually reject all of Ukraine's claims."
'Neanderthal Russophobes': Kremlin Complaints Turn To Language RFE/RL 09 Nov 2019 -- There's a war going on, the Kremlin wants you to know. It's not in Syria. It's not in Libya. It's not in Ukraine. It's a war on Tolstoy, Dostoyevsky, Chekhov, Akhmatova, and Pasternak; more specifically, the language that gave humanity some of the world's greatest literature.
Russia Hopes US Understands Iranian Deal Collapse Will Hit Financial, Energy Markets Hard Sputnik 09 Nov 2019 -- The Atomic Energy Organisation of Iran (AEOI) announced on Saturday that Tehran had raised the uranium enrichment level to five percent as part of the scaling back of its commitments under the 2015 nuclear deal following the re-imposition of sanctions by the US.
The Week In Russia: The Kremlin Circles Its Wagons Around The 'Sovereign' Internet, A Chechen Strongman, And A Soldier's Shooting Rampage RFE/RL 08 Nov 2019 -- Russia's controversial "sovereign Internet" law comes into force, with critics saying its real aim is to quash dissent inside the country. The Kremlin shrugs off a chilling comment that deepens concerns about the latitude given to Chechen strongman Ramzan Kadyrov. And a conscript kills eight fellow servicemen in a shooting blamed by some in Moscow on violent video games.
Indian Newspaper Casts Doubt on S-400's Capabilities Owing to Its 'Untested' Status Sputnik 09 Nov 2019 -- Russia and India penned a $5.43 billion deal for the delivery of five regiments of the S-400 air defence system in October 2018, with Delhi recently reportedly asking Moscow for deliveries to be expedited, notwithstanding the threat of US sanctions.
Briefing by Foreign Ministry Spokesperson Maria Zakharova, Moscow, November 8, 2019 Russia Ministry of Foreign Affairs 08 Nov 2019
UN Court Rules It Can Judge Ukrainian Complaints Against Russia RFE/RL 08 Nov 2019 -- The International Court of Justice has ruled that it has jurisdiction to hear Kyiv's terrorism-financing complaint against Russia over Moscow's activities in eastern Ukraine.
Top UN court will consider Ukraine allegations against Russia of treaty violations UN News 08 Nov 2019 -- The International Court of Justice (ICJ) has agreed to hear claims by Ukraine related to the conflict in the east of the country, where Government forces have been fighting mostly pro-Russian separatists, for more than five years.
Russia deploys military helicopters to protect Syria-Turkey border patrols Press TV 08 Nov 2019 -- Russia has deployed military helicopters to assist and protect its military police patrolling along Syria's border with Turkey.
Russian Aerospace Forces Start Daily Helicopter Patrols in Northern Syria - Pilot Sputnik 08 Nov 2019 -- Russian Aerospace Forces have begun daily helicopter patrols in Syria's northern provinces, Russian military pilot Dmitry Ivanov told reporters.
Russia, Turkey Complete 3rd Joint Patrol in Syria After Covering Over 65 Miles - MoD Sputnik 08 Nov 2019 -- The Turkish-Russian patrol was carried out within the memorandum on securing the situation in Syria's northeast in light of Ankara's offensive against Kurdish militants, signed on 22 October.
Lavrov: U.S. Has 'No Proof' Russia Deployed Missile In Violation Of Treaty RFE/RL 08 Nov 2019 -- Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov has lashed out at the United States, accusing Washington of failing to provide proof that Moscow deployed a missile in violation of the Intermediate-Range Nuclear Forces (INF) Treaty.
Russia to Develop Missiles as Reciprocal Measure to US Actions - Lavrov Sputnik 08 Nov 2019 -- President Putin earlier proposed a moratorium on short- and intermediate-range missile deployment in Europe and other regions. NATO, however, responded to the proposal by saying that it was untrustworthy. The Russian Foreign Ministry later deplored the bloc's reaction to the initiative.
New START Treaty Extension is Only Way to Avoid Further Erosion of Arms Control - Moscow Sputnik 08 Nov 2019 -- Extension of the Russian-US Strategic Arms Reduction Treaty (New START) is the only way to avoid further erosion of arms control and prevent strategic stability degradation, Russian Deputy Foreign Minister Sergei Ryabkov said on Friday, accusing Washington of ignoring Moscow's concerns.
Lavrov Says Hopes Iran Deal Can Be Saved Despite 'Unacceptable' U.S. Withdrawal RFE/RL 08 Nov 2019 -- Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov has voiced hope that a landmark nuclear agreement between world powers and Iran will be saved despite Washington's withdrawal from the deal.
Lavrov: US action has not undermined JCPOA IRNA 08 Nov 2019 -- Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov said despite the US efforts, world powers' nuclear deal with Iran, known as the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA), still maintains its prime importance.
Retired Austrian Officer Charged With Spying for Russia RFE/RL 08 Nov 2019 -- A retired Austrian army colonel has been charged with spying for Russia for at least a quarter of a century and faces up to 10 years in prison if convicted.
Moscow, Damascus Urge Global Community to Compel US to Leave Syria's At Tanf Sputnik 08 Nov 2019 -- Russia and Syria urge the international community to compel the United States to completely withdraw its troops from the Syrian territory, the joint coordination committees said on Thursday in a statement on the humanitarian situation in the Rukban refugee camp.
Russian Combat Aircraft Carry Out Patrol Mission Over Northeastern Syria Sputnik 08 Nov 2019 -- The Russian tactical aircraft on Thursday conducted air patrolling along the Syrian-Turkish border as part of the Russia-Turkey deal over the buffer zone in northern Syria, the commander of the Russian centre for Syrian reconciliation said.
Serbia To Receive Russian Antiaircraft Missiles Despite U.S. Sanctions Risk RFE/RL 07 Nov 2019 -- Russia will deliver a sophisticated short-range air-defense missile system to Serbia despite U.S. warnings of possible sanctions against the Balkan country if the transaction goes through.
Erdogan Accuses Moscow, Washington of Failing to Deliver on Syrian Agreement VOA 07 Nov 2019 -- Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan is accusing Moscow and Washington of reneging on commitments to enforce the withdrawal of a Syrian Kurdish militia from Turkey's border, and he is warning of a resumption of military operations in Syria.
Russia 'ready to retaliate' if US quits Open Skies Treaty Press TV 07 Nov 2019 -- Russia has warned of retaliatory measures in case the United States withdraws from the Open Skies Treaty, a 17-year-old agreement that allows both countries to conduct surveillance flights over each other's territory.
Russia Prepared Response to Potential US Withdrawal from Open Skies Treaty - Moscow Sputnik 07 Nov 2019 -- Russia has prepared a response to the possible US withdrawal from the multilateral Treaty on Open Skies, Vladimir Ermakov, the director of the Department for Non-Proliferation and Arms Control at the Russian Foreign Ministry, said amid media reports on the potential withdrawal.
Senior diplomat rejects reports of Russians fighting in Libya Press TV 07 Nov 2019 -- Russia has strongly rejected Western media reports that Russian private military companies linked to the Kremlin were operating in Libya in favor of one of the conflicting sides.
Moscow Denies US Reports of 200 Russian Troops Allegedly Deployed in Libya Sputnik 07 Nov 2019 -- Russian Deputy Foreign Minister Sergei Ryabkov has refuted US media reports about Russian contractors allegedly operating in crisis-torn Libya, calling them "speculation".
Russia to Assist India in Developing Country Specific Super Sukhoi Prototype Sputnik 07 Nov 2019 -- While terming India an "exclusive strategic defence partner", Russian Defence Minister General Sergey Shoigu reaffirmed his country's commitment to extending all possible support in enhancing India's defence capabilities, including cooperation in advanced and cutting-edge technology.
Erdogan Threatens Deepening Russian Ties Unless US Unfreezes Jet Sale VOA 06 Nov 2019 -- Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan is threatening to deepen military ties with Moscow unless the United States lifts its embargo on the sale of a key fighter jet.
U.S. Security Leaders Warn About Russian, Iranian Interference In 2020 Polls RFE/RL 06 Nov 2019 -- Top U.S. intelligence and law enforcement officials have joined together to warn Americans about attempts by Russia, Iran, and other foreign "adversaries" to interfere with next year's presidential election.
Russia Ups the Ante in the Arctic VOA 06 Nov 2019 -- From launching the world's first "combat icebreaker" to training soldiers on how to handle sleds pulled by reindeer, from rebuilding Soviet-era airbases and radar stations to adapting weapon systems and armored vehicles for cold-weather warfare, Russia is bolstering its military presence in the Arctic - and is keen to advertise the fact with war games and test firings of new missiles.
Russia, India Working on Defence Industry Cooperation Program Until 2030 Sputnik 07 Nov 2019 -- Russia and India are coordinating a program of defence industry cooperation until 2030, Russian Deputy Prime Minister Yury Borisov said Wednesday. India is one of the largest buyers of Russian weaponry.
Kremlin Says Reviewing Pardon Request From Alleged Norwegian Spy RFE/RL 06 Nov 2019 -- The Kremlin says it has received a formal pardon request from Frode Berg, a Norwegian man convicted of espionage.
Kremlin Confirms Norway's Berg Requested Pardon, Application to Be Studied Statutorily Sputnik 06 Nov 2019 -- Norwegian national Frode Berg, jailed in Russia on espionage charges, has requested a presidential pardon, and his application will be studied in accordance with the law, Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov confirmed on Wednesday.
India Reportedly Wants Russia to Expedite S-400 Missile Delivery Schedule Sputnik 06 Nov 2019 -- Indian Defence Minister Rajnath Singh, leading an official delegation which includes over 50 businessmen, is expected to hold discussions with his Russian counterpart General Sergei Shoigu in Moscow, on all areas of bilateral military and military-technical cooperation.
US Defence Secretary Esper Warns Russia, China Flex AI Military Muscles Sputnik 06 Nov 2019 -- Pentagon Warns US Allies Against Hi-Tech Cooperation With China
Lithuanian FM: Russia 'Biggest Obstacle' To Ukraine Peace RFE/RL 05 Nov 2019 -- Lithuanian Foreign Minister Linas Linkevicius says Russia represents the biggest obstacle to the peace process in Ukraine, as it misleadingly represents itself as a "neutral party" in the conflict.
Timing Of British PM's Release Of Russian Meddling Report Causes Stir RFE/RL 05 Nov 2019 -- The office of Britain's Prime Minister Boris Johnson has indicated that a parliamentary report on alleged Russian interference in British politics would not be published before the next month's general elections, raising concerns of a cover up.
Russian Doping To Loom Large At WADA Summit RFE/RL 05 Nov 2019 -- The World Anti-Doping Agency's (WADA) three-day conference on drugs in sport has opened in Poland, with the long-running Russian doping scandal overshadowing the proceedings.
Kremlin Says US Silent on Future of Strategic Arms Reduction Treaty Sputnik 05 Nov 2019 -- Russia has not received any indication from the United States that it is ready to discuss the future of the New Strategic Arms Reduction Treaty (START), Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov said on Tuesday.
Bulgarian Charged As Russian Spy Returns From Moscow With Award From Putin RFE/RL 05 Nov 2019 -- A former Bulgarian lawmaker who is charged with spying for Russia has returned to Sofia from Moscow where he received an award from President Vladimir Putin for his "friendship and cooperation."
X-Files! Russia Plans to Resurrect Law on Classified Military Information Sputnik 05 Nov 2019 -- Currently, some military information is protected by the law on state secrets. However, security experts point out that this legislation doesn't address all the loopholes.
NATO Commences Exercise Iron Wolf Near Russian Borders Sputnik 04 Nov 2019 -- During a meeting of the Commonwealth of Independent States (CIS) in October, Russian President Vladimir Putin said that while attempts to create tensions at borders were unwelcome, Russia would remain calm during NATO exercises.
Military Contractor Deaths Raise Questions About Russia's Security Presence in Africa VOA 04 Nov 2019 -- The possible deaths in northern Mozambique of military contractors employed by a Russian firm are raising new questions about Russia's security presence in Africa.
Russian Prime Minister Says US New Concept in Southeast Asia Could Weaken ASEAN Sputnik 03 Nov 2019 -- Washington's recent efforts to increase US influence in Southeast Asia by promoting its concept of a free and open Indo-Pacific region are against the core principles of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN), Russian Prime Minister Dmitry Medvedev says.
HRW Says Russia Conscripting Men In Crimea In 'Grave Breach' Of International Law RFE/RL 02 Nov 2019 -- Human Rights Watch (HRW) says Russian authorities are continuing to conscript men in occupied Crimea to serve in the Russian armed forces in violation of international law.
Briefing by Foreign Ministry Spokesperson Maria Zakharova on the sidelines of the International Public Diplomacy Forum, Dialogue on the Volga: Peace and Mutual Understanding in the 21st Century, Volgograd, November 1, 2019 Russia Ministry of Foreign Affairs 01 Nov 2019
U.S. Accuses Russia Of Inflaming Tensions In Chile RFE/RL 01 Nov 2019 -- The United States has accused Russia of inflaming tensions in Chile, where recent protests and unrest have left more than 20 people dead in recent days.
State Department Accuses 'Russian Trolls' of Meddling in Chile Protests Sputnik 01 Nov 2019 -- The South American country has been rocked by massive anti-government protests for over three weeks now, with demonstrations and violence leading to a temporary curfew, soldiers in the streets and the cancellation of the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) summit, expected to have taken place in Santiago in mid-November.
Moscow Accuses NATO of Intensifying Tensions in Ukraine, Acting Destructively Sputnik 01 Nov 2019 -- NATO acts destructively and contributes to rising domestic tensions in Ukraine, the Russian Foreign Ministry's spokeswoman, Maria Zakharova, said on Friday, commenting on NATO Secretary General Jens Stoltenberg's recent visit to the country.
Russian Top Diplomat Says US Refuses to Discuss Russian-Chinese Idea Against Militarisation of Space Sputnik 02 Nov 2019 -- The United States has been refusing to launch negotiations on the initiative of Russia and China on preventing an arms race in space, Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov said.
Turkey and Russia Launch Joint Patrols in Syria VOA 01 Nov 2019 -- Turkey and Russia have held their first round of joint patrols in Syria as part of a deal that forced Kurdish forces away from Turkey's border.
Russia Completes Supplies of S-400 Air Defence Missile Systems to Turkey Sputnik 01 Oct 2019 -- Russia completed the delivery of all components of S-400 air defence missile systems to Turkey ahead of schedule, Russian state arms exporter Rosoboronexport Director General Alexander Mikheev said Friday.
Turkey begins joint patrols with Russia in northern Syria, hands over 18 captured Syrian troops Press TV 01 Nov 2019 -- Turkey has begun joint patrols with Russia in northern Syria after Kurdish militants met a 150-hour deadline to leave border areas near Turkey as part of a deal struck between Ankara and Moscow in Sochi late last month.
Turkey, Russia Launch Joint Patrols In Northeast Syria RFE/RL 01 Nov 2019 -- Turkish and Russian troops have conducted their first joint patrols in northeast Syria in accordance with a deal reached last week between Ankara and Moscow that halted a Turkish offensive against Syrian Kurdish fighters.
Turkish, Russian Troops Begin Joint Patrols in Northern Syria Sputnik 01 Nov 2019 -- Earlier in the day, some 300 Russian soldiers and 20 armoured vehicles were delivered to northern Syria where Russia and Turkey have been patrolling border areas.
About 300 Russian Soldiers, 20 Armored Vehicles Brought to Northern Syria for Patrolling Sputnik 01 Nov 2019 -- Some 300 Russian soldiers and 20 armored vehicles were delivered to northern Syria, where the Russian military police is patrolling border areas together with Turkey, a Sputnik correspondent reported on Friday.
Turkish Foreign Ministry Summons French Ambassador After Resolution on Syria - Reports Sputnik 01 Nov 2019 -- The Turkish Foreign Ministry summoned French Ambassador Charles Fries after a resolution was adopted by the French parliament condemning Ankara's Operation Peace Spring in northern Syria, the Anadolu news agency reported on Thursday, citing diplomatic sources.
Explainer: Russia Takes A Big Step Toward The 'Internyet' RFE/RL 01 Nov 2019 -- Russia's "sovereign Internet" law is in effect - a measure that is expected to ultimately enable the government to monitor electronic information flows in real time, cut off access to content it deems "dangerous," and isolate the Runet as a defense against foreign cyberattacks. Here's what you need to know about the new measure and Russia's changing Internet environment.
Russia's Controversial 'Sovereign Internet' Law Comes Into Force RFE/RL 01 Nov 2019 -- A controversial Russian law on the Internet came into force on November 1 amid warnings from critics that the legislation is an attempt to increase censorship.
The Week In Russia: As Revolution Swept Across Eastern Europe In 1989, Change Was In The Air In Moscow - Sort Of RFE/RL 01 Nov 2019 - As part of RFE/RL's coverage of the momentous events of 1989, this edition of The Week In Russia takes readers back to Moscow two years before the Soviet Union fell apart.
Moscow Court OKs Decision To Brand Navalny's Foundation 'Foreign Agent' RFE/RL 01 Nov 2019 -- A court in Moscow has approved the Justice Ministry's decision to brand opposition politician and blogger Aleksei Navalny's Anti-Corruption Foundation (FBK) as "a foreign agent."
Russia Spotted 20 Foreign Reconnaissance Jets Close to Airspace Over Past Week Sputnik 01 Nov 2019 -- The Russian Armed Forces have spotted 20 foreign aircraft that were engaged in reconnaissance activities close to Russia's airspace during the past week, the military's official newspaper Krasnaya Zvezda reported on Friday.
US Official Claims Russia Exploits Countries' Security Requirements with S-400 Sputnik 01 Nov 2019 -- Assistant Secretary of State for Political Military Affairs Clarke Cooper suggested on Thursday that Russia and China exploit other countries' security requirements, calling the US the defence partner of choice.

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November 2019 - Russia Special Weapons News