June 2020 - Russia Special Weapons News

US stance on nuclear-test ban treaty most destructive: Russia Press TV 30 Jun 2020 -- Russia says the United States is taking a "destructive" stance over a decades-old multilateral treaty that bans all nuclear explosions by saying openly that it does not plan to ratify it.
Bad Neighbors: Chechnya's Kadyrov Tied To Moscow Apartment Where Head Of Nord-Ost Attackers Lived RFE/RL 30 Jun 2020 -- Chechen strongman Ramzan Kadyrov and his family have been tied to an undeclared Moscow apartment in the same building where the head of a group of Chechen terrorists lived and planned the deadly "Nord-Ost" hostage-taking at a Moscow theater in October 2002, an opposition-backed media outlet has reported.
Your Whole Family Already Voted: Incident At Polling Station Points Up Inconsistencies In Russian Constitutional Ballot RFE/RL 30 Jun 2020 -- When a Moscow couple turned up to cast their ballots in Russia's nationwide vote on constitutional amendments, they were surprised to learn from election officials that they had already voted.
White House Updates More Lawmakers on Alleged Russian Bounties on US Troops in Afghanistan VOA 30 Jun 2020 -- Senior U.S. lawmakers walked out of a White House briefing early Tuesday, saying they are not satisfied with what the administration had to say about allegations Russia offered bounties to Taliban fighters to kill American and coalition troops in Afghanistan.
White House Defends Trump Not Being Briefed on Russia 'Bounty' for US Soldiers VOA 30 Jun 2020 -- The White House is on the defensive about President Donald Trump not being briefed on reports that a Russian military intelligence unit offered bounties to Taliban militants in Afghanistan to kill U.S. soldiers.
Trump Not Briefed on 'Unverified' Intel Allegations of Russian Collusion With Taliban - O'Brien Sputnik 30 Jun 2020 -- Groundless allegations that Russia offered reward money to Taliban militants for killing American soldiers, published in a recent article in The New York Times, have been denied by Moscow, the White House and the Taliban itself.
Republicans Urge 'Swift And Serious Action' If Reports About Russian Bounties Paid To Taliban True RFE/RL 30 Jun 2020 -- Republican lawmakers who have been briefed about reports alleging that Russia paid the Taliban bounties to kill U.S. troops in Afghanistan are calling for consequences for Russia, if the reports are true.
Kremlin denies report on Russian bounties for killing U.S. troops in Afghanistan People's Daily 30 Jun 2020 -- The Kremlin on Monday denied a New York Times report alleging that Russia offered bounties for killing U.S. soldiers in Afghanistan.
US House intelligence panel chairman calls for Russia sanctions after bounty briefing Press TV 30 Jun 2020 -- The United States should weigh new sanctions on Russia in response to unfounded reports that a Russian military intelligence unit had offered Taliban-linked militants bounties to kill American troops in Afghanistan.
US Should Consider Imposing More Sanctions on Russia Over Bounty Allegations, Schiff Says Sputnik 30 Jun 2020 -- The United States should consider imposing additional sanctions against Russian in light of the allegations that it offered bounties to Taliban-linked militants to assassinate US soldiers, House of Representatives Intelligence Committee Chairman Adam Schiff said on Tuesday.
Russia reports lowest number of coronavirus infections since April 29 SPA 29 Jun 2020 -- Russia on Monday reported 6,719 new cases of the novel coronavirus, the lowest one-day reported increase since April 29, pushing its nationwide tally to 641,156, Reuters reported.
Despairing Russian Doctors Cast Doubt on Coronavirus Tally VOA 29 Jun 2020 -- President Vladimir Putin has compared Russian doctors to heroic Red Army soldiers battling the Nazis during World War II. Last week, the Russian leader signed decrees honoring doctors with special awards for their coronavirus efforts.
US, Russia Maintain Deconfliction Communications in Syria, Pentagon Says Sputnik 29 Jun 2020 -- The US-led coalition in Syria continues to maintain deconfliction communications with Russia which has announced its decision to abandon the United Nations deconfliction mechanism in the country's northwest, a CENTCOM spokesperson said.
Statement by Assistant to the Secretary of Defense for Public Affairs on Intelligence That Russian GRU Operatives Were Engaged in Malign Activity Against the U.S. and Coalition Forces in Afghanistan DoD 29 Jun 2020
White House Defends Trump Not Being Briefed on Russia 'Bounty' for US Soldiers VOA 29 Jun 2020 -- The White House is on the defensive about President Donald Trump not being briefed on reports that a Russian military intelligence unit offered bounties to Taliban militants in Afghanistan to kill U.S. soldiers.
Congress Calls for Probe Into Reported Russian Bounties on US Troops VOA 29 Jun 2020 -- As members of Congress called for an investigation, President Donald Trump said Sunday he was not briefed on reports that a Russian military intelligence unit offered bounties to Taliban militants in Afghanistan to kill U.S. soldiers because U.S. intelligence officials did not deem them credible.
Lawmakers Press For Briefing On Claims Russia Paid Bounties For Taliban To Kill U.S. Troops RFE/RL 29 Jun 2020 -- Democratic and Republican lawmakers are demanding a full congressional briefing from top intelligence officials on reports that Russia offered bounties to Taliban-linked militants to kill U.S. troops in Afghanistan.
Explainer: Controversy Over Alleged Russian Bounties Puts Spotlight On Moscow's Motives, History In Afghanistan RFE/RL 29 Jun 2020 -- Controversy continues to mount over reports that Russian security officers allegedly offered bounties to the Taliban for the killing of U.S. troops in Afghanistan.
White House: No Consensus Among US Intel on Alleged 'Russian Bounties' for US Troops in Afghanistan Sputnik 29 Jun 2020 -- The New York Times' allegation that Russia has been offering reward money to Taliban-linked militants in Afghanistan to kill US and coalition troops has been attacked from all sides, with Moscow, the Trump administration and the Taliban itself saying that the claims aren't true.
Kremlin Refutes Reports of Russia's 'Deal' With Taliban, Notes Trump Doesn't See Claims as Credible Sputnik 29 Jun 2020 -- On Friday, The New York Times ran a story citing an anonymous source claiming that President Trump had received an intelligence report suggesting that Moscow paid the Taliban to kill US soldiers in Afghanistan. The Taliban refuted the report and President Trump dismissed the claims saying he had never been presented with such intelligence data.
Moscow Sees Reports About 'Bounties' for Taliban as 'Blatant Lies' Refuted Even by Trump Sputnik 29 Jun 2020 -- Russia sees new media reports about its alleged bounties offered to Taliban militants in Afghanistan to kill US troops there as part of the US' domestic political fight, since forces interested in US military presence in the country use fake news to justify their failure, Russia's special presidential representative said.
Trump denies being briefed on alleged Russian-Taliban bounties intelligence Global Times 29 Jun 2020 -- US President Donald Trump said on Sunday that he was never briefed on intelligence that Russians offered bounties to Taliban-linked militants for killing US troops.
Kremlin rejects reports of Russian bounties to Taliban to kill US troops in Afghanistan Press TV 29 Jun 2020 -- Russia has dismissed as "lies" media reports alleging that a Russian military intelligence unit attempted to pay bounties to members of the Taliban militant group to kill American troops in Afghanistan.
Trump: No briefings ever on Russian bounties to kill US troops in Afghanistan Press TV 29 Jun 2020 -- US President Donald Trump has denied he was ever briefed about an alleged Russian attempt to pay bounties to Taliban-linked militants to kill Western forces, including US troops, in Afghanistan, blasting a report by The New York Times on the bounties.
US, Russia Maintain Deconfliction Communications in Syria, Pentagon Says Sputnik 29 Jun 2020 -- The US-led coalition in Syria continues to maintain deconfliction communications with Russia which has announced its decision to abandon the United Nations deconfliction mechanism in the country's northwest, a CENTCOM spokesperson said.
Moscow Exited UN Syria Deconfliction Mechanism Because Terrorists Used It, Russian Envoy Says Sputnik 29 Jun 2020 -- Washington expressed "shock" over Russia's decision to exit the mechanism on Monday, accusing Moscow of endangering the lives of millions of people in militant-controlled parts of northwestern Syria.
EU Extends Economic Sanctions Against Russia Over Ukrainian Conflict RFE/RL 29 Jun 2020 -- European Union member states have formally extended a six-month extension of economic sanctions imposed against Russia over its role in the ongoing conflict in Ukraine.
Russia's Roscosmos Reveals Cost of Angara Heavy-Lift Rocket for Defence Ministry Sputnik 29 Jun 2020 -- The production cost of each of Russia's new Angara-A5 heavy-lift rockets, manufactured for the Defence Ministry under a contract on test flights, is below 5 billion rubles ($71.6 million), the State Space Corporation Roscosmos said on Monday.
Russia Denies Nuclear Incident Following Detection Of Isotopes In Northern Europe RFE/RL 29 Jun 2020 -- Russia has denied any nuclear incidents after an international body detected unusual radioactive isotopes produced by nuclear fission in northern Europe.
Russian Su-27 Fighters Scrambled to Intercept Two US Military Planes Over Black Sea Sputnik 29 Jun 2020 -- Russia has scrambled Su-27 fighters to intercept two US military aircraft over the Black Sea, according to the Russian National Defence Management Centre.
COVID-19 Disinformation From Russia, China More Influential Than Domestic News Sources, Study Finds RFE/RL 29 Jun 2020 -- Coronavirus disinformation published by Chinese and Russian state media outlets in France, Spain, and Germany is in some cases reaching a greater audience on social media than news coverage of the global pandemic produced by major domestic media outlets in those countries, according to a study by the Oxford Internet Institute (OII).
Trump Says He Wasn't Briefed on Reported Russian Bounties on US Troops in Afghanistan VOA 28 Jun 2020 -- U.S. President Donald Trump said Sunday he had never been told about reports that a Russian military intelligence unit was secretly offering bounties to Taliban militants in Afghanistan to kill U.S. soldiers.
Trump Denies Being Briefed On Reported Intelligence That Russia Offered Bounties RFE/RL 28 Jun 2020 -- U.S. President Donald Trump denies he has been briefed on a reported finding that Russian military intelligence offered bounties to Taliban-linked militants to kill U.S. troops in Afghanistan.
The Art Of The Trilateral Deal? U.S. Nuke Agreement With Russia, China Proving Difficult RFE/RL 28 Jun 2020 -- While the United States and Russia were satisfied after their jump-started nuclear talks in Vienna on June 22, Washington was clearly disappointed that China rejected its special invitation.
Russian Election Commission: Turnout Passes 28 Percent On Third Day Of Constitutional-Amendments Vote RFE/RL 28 Jun 2020 -- Russia's Central Election Commission (CEC) says overall turnout was nearly 28.5 percent on the third day of a weeklong vote for constitutional amendments that could pave the way for an extension of President Vladimir Putin's rule by 12 years.
Russia's Daily Number of New Coronavirus Cases Stays Below 7,000 SPA 27 Jun 2020 -- Russia on Saturday reported 6,852 new coronavirus cases, a figure that keeps the daily rise below 7,000 for a second day in a row for the first time since late April. The new cases take the cumulative nationwide tally to 627,646, Reuters reported.
White House Denies Trump Having Been Informed About Alleged Russian Bounty Intelligence Sputnik 27 Jun 2020 -- US President Donald Trump was not informed about the alleged intelligence that reportedly suggested that Russian intelligence had solicited killings of US troops by the Taliban* in Afghanistan, the White House said.
Report: Russian Military Intelligence Paid Afghan Militants To Target U.S. Troops RFE/RL 27 Jun 2020 -- U.S. intelligence officials have concluded that Russian military intelligence offered bounties to Taliban-linked militants to kill U.S. and coalition forces in Afghanistan, The New York Times reported.
Taliban Refutes Reports on Russia's Alleged Role in Killings of US Troops in Afghanistan Sputnik 27 Jun 2020 -- Taliban spokesman Zabihullah Mujahid refuted on Saturday the recent reports citing US intelligence assessments alleging that Russian intelligence has solicited killings of US troops by the Taliban in Afghanistan, saying that these rumors are set to create obstacles to US pullout from the country.
Russian Diplomat Says Reports on Moscow's Role in Killings of US Troops in Afghanistan 'Fake News' Sputnik 27 Jun 2020 -- Media reports citing US intelligence assessments alleging that Russian intelligence has solicited killings of US troops by the Taliban in Afghanistan are yet another fake news pursing to disrupt the Afghan peace process, a representative of the Russian Foreign Ministry said on Saturday.
Macron To Travel To Russia 'Soon' To Continue Dialogue With Putin RFE/RL 27 Jun 2020 -- French President Emmanuel Macron said on June 27 that he plans to visit Russia "soon" to continue talks with Russian President Vladimir Putin on key issues like security and climate change.
France's Macron to Travel to Russia Soon VOA 27 Jun 2020 -- French President Emmanuel Macron said Saturday that he would soon hold more "trust-building" talks in Russia with counterpart Vladimir Putin.
Russian Tu-142MK Aircraft Escorted by US and Norwegian Fighters Over Arctic and Pacific Oceans Sputnik 27 Jun 2020 -- Three of the Russian bombers were performing a scheduled mission over the Barents and Norwegian Seas, while another four planes flew over the Pacific Ocean, the Russian Defence Ministry said, stressing that the flights were conducted in strict compliance with international regulations.
Russian National Pleads Guilty for Role in Transnational Cybercrime Organization Responsible for more than $568 Million in Losses US Dept. of Justice 26 Jun 2020 -- One of the leaders of the Infraud Organization pleaded guilty today to RICO conspiracy. Infraud was an Internet-based cybercriminal enterprise engaged in the large-scale acquisition, sale, and dissemination of stolen identities, compromised debit and credit cards, personally identifiable information, financial and banking information, computer malware, and other contraband.
The Week In Russia: Putin's Vote (The Means And The End) RFE/RL 26 Jun 2020 -- At this point in Russian President Vladimir Putin's ongoing machinations over a potential fifth and sixth term, it's tempting to say, "Yeah, whatever." After all, the general public and even his close confidants may not know for more than three years whether he will seek reelection in 2024.
Russia Spotted 35 Foreign Spy Jets Close to National Airspace Over Past Week Sputnik 26 Jun 2020 -- The Russian Armed Forces detected 35 foreign jets that were engaged in reconnaissance activities close to Russia's airspace last week, the military's official newspaper Krasnaya Zvezda reported on Friday.
Overall Turnout At 9.2 Percent On First Day Of Russia's Weeklong Constitutional Vote RFE/RL 26 Jun 2020 -- Russia's Central Electoral Commision (CEC) says overall turnout was about 9 percent on the first day of a weeklong vote for constitutional amendments that could pave the way for an extension of President Vladimir Putin's rule by 12 years.
Voldemort No More? Putin Foe Navalny Makes Rare Appearance On Russian State TV RFE/RL 26 Jun 2020 -- For years, Aleksei Navalny has chronicled alleged corruption and exposed potential misdeeds by President Vladimir Putin and some of his closest allies.
Of Car Trunks And Tree Stumps: As Russians Vote On Putin's Future, A Chaotic Rush To Boost Turnout RFE/RL 26 Jun 2020 -- Polling stations have sprung up in car trunks and parked buses, on tree stumps and park benches, on soccer pitches and inside tents. Daily raffles are offering prizes to all who cast a ballot, whether voting "yes" or "no." And there's no shortage of hints as to which one they should choose.
Briefing by Foreign Ministry Spokesperson Maria Zakharova, Moscow, June 25, 2020 Russia Ministry of Foreign Affairs 25 Jun 2020
Russians Start Voting On Reforms, Multiple Voting Already An Issue RFE/RL 25 Jun 2020 -- Russians have begun casting ballots in a vote on constitutional reforms that could pave the way for an extension of President Vladimir Putin's rule by 12 years.
Russia Baffles German Historians With Request They Supplement Lectures With An Article By Putin RFE/RL 25 Jun 2020 -- When Julia Obertreis, a professor at a university in Bavaria, Germany, checked her e-mail on June 22, she was surprised to see a message from the Russian Embassy in Berlin.
India Urges Russia to Deliver Igla-S Missile System ASAP Amid Border Tensions, Media Claims Sputnik 25 Jun 2020 -- Media outlets earlier reported that Indian authorities have decided to "pressure" Russia into expediting the delivery of its S-400 air defence missile system to New Delhi amid the latter's ongoing border face-off with China.
Supreme Lama Of Russia's Siberian Region Of Tyva Dies Of Coronavirus RFE/RL 24 Jun 2020 -- The Supreme Lama Dzhampel Lodoi of Russia's Siberian region of Tyva - a remote area of 330,000 people near the Russia-Mongolia border - has died from COVID-19, the disease caused by the coronavirus.
Tatar Activist Loses Job After Publicly Challenging Coronavirus Numbers RFE/RL 24 Jun 2020 -- An activist in Russia's Republic of Tatarstan claims he has been dismissed as head of a branch of the local government-funded World Tatar Congress in the republic's second-largest city, Naberezhnye Chelny, after publicly challenging the official municipal statistics on the coronavirus.
US Envoy Rules Out Moratorium on Deploying Intermediate-Range Missiles Sputnik 24 Jun 2020 -- US Special Representative for Arms Control Marshall Billingslea on Wednesday ruled out the possibility of a moratorium on the deployment of intermediate-range missiles after the United States abandoned a respective treaty with Russia.
US, Russia Signal Progress in Nuclear Arms Talks VOA 24 Jun 2020 -- U.S. and Russian negotiators signaled progress Tuesday in talks on a possible replacement to a nuclear arms reduction treaty due to expire next February. But there are significant hurdles ahead – including China's opposition to being included in the talks.
With Delayed Military Parade, Putin Drums Up Patriotism Ahead Of Vote On Extending His Rule RFE/RL 24 Jun 2020 -- For 2020, the Kremlin had a season of political pageantry planned.
Russia Stages Massive 'Victory Day' Parade Amid Pandemic RFE/RL 24 Jun 2020 -- Russia staged a postponed Victory Day military parade in Moscow on June 24 with President Vladimir Putin seeking to solidify support ahead of a referendum that could pave the way for his extended rule.
Address to the Nation President of Russia 23 Jun 2020
Putin Says COVID-19 Hit Global Economy Hard, Provoking Global Recession Sputnik 23 Jun 2020 -- The coronavirus epidemic has dealt a huge blow to the global economy, provoking global recession, Russian President Vladimir Putin said on Tuesday.
Putin Announces Tax Hike For High Earners Ahead Of Constitutional Vote RFE/RL 23 Jun 2020 -- Russian President Vladimir Putin has proposed raising income tax on high earners as of next year, as he laid out measures to tackle the economic fallout of the coronavirus pandemic.
Raksha Mantri Shri Rajnath reviews India-Russia defence cooperation with Russian Deputy Prime Minister India PIB 23 Jun 2020 -- Raksha Mantri Shri Rajnath Singh reviewed India-Russia defence cooperation with Mr. Yury Borisov, Deputy Prime Minister of Russian Federation in Moscow today. Mr Borisov is the co-chair of the Inter-Governmental Commission with India on Trade & Economic & Scientific Cooperation. He also co-chairs with Raksha Mantri the High Level Committee on Science & Technology. Their discussions on bilateral cooperation and regional issues were very positive and productive.
Russia Agrees to Expedite Delivery of Ongoing Defence Contracts to India Including S-400, DM Says Sputnik 23 Jun 2020 -- The Indian government has reportedly requested Russia to fast-track the delivery of defence equipment, including a S-400 air defence missile system. India and Russia have signed defence contracts worth over $12 billion since 2018.
Raksha Mantri Shri Rajnath Singh's press statement at media interaction in Moscow India PIB 23 Jun 2020 -- Following is the text of statement issued to press by Raksha Mantri Shri Rajnath Singh in Moscow on June 23, 2020:
Russia slams Europe's dual standards on JCPOA, 'destructive' US actions Press TV 23 Jun 2020 -- Russia has censured the European signatories to a 2015 nuclear deal for putting pressure on Iran over its nuclear program in spite of claiming they remain committed to the accord, saying such problems are rooted in "destructive" measures adopted by the United States against the accord.
Russia says statements by EU officials do not conform to their commitment to JCPOA IRNA 23 Jun 2020 -- Russia's Foreign Ministry said in a statement that the statements of the EU states about the use of trigger mechanism did not conform to their commitments to the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA).
Russia says Libyan conflict has no military solution, calls for urgent truce Press TV 23 Jun 2020 -- Russia says the conflict in Libya has no military solution and an immediate ceasefire is required as foreign intervention continues to flame the fighting in the North African country.
Lavrov Says There Is No Military Solution to Libya Conflict Sputnik 23 Jun 2020 -- Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov said on Tuesday that the crisis in Libya could not be solved militarily.
Russia Reports 7,600 New Coronavirus Infections SPA 22 Jun 2020 -- Russia on Monday reported 7,600 new cases of the coronavirus, pushing its nationwide case total to 592,280, the world's third largest tally, Reuters reported.
U.S., Russian Envoys End First Day Of Talks On Nuclear Arms Treaty RFE/RL 22 Jun 2020 -- The United States and Russia on June 22 opened two days of talks on their last remaining nuclear arms control, the New START treaty, which caps the number of deployed long-range nuclear warheads each can have.
UK Navy Says Shadowed Russian Warship During Passage Via English Channel Sputnik 21 Jun 2020 -- UK navy said in a press release on Sunday it had sent a warship and a patrol ship to shadow a Russian destroyer as it passed through the English channel.
Putin says he may run for presidency again if constitutional amendments adopted Global Times 22 Jun 2020 -- Russian President Vladimir Putin has said that he does not rule out the possibility of bidding for another presidential term if constitutional amendments are adopted.
Two Defendants In Russian 'Network' Case Receive Lengthy Prison Terms RFE/RL 22 Jun 2020 -- Two Russian activists from a group known as Set (Network) have received lengthy prison terms on charges of being members of a terrorist group that planned to overthrow the country's authorities.
Kremlin Denies Eyeing Territorial Claims After Putin's Comments In Documentary RFE/RL 22 Jun 2020 -- The Kremlin has denied it has any territorial claims on former Soviet republics after President Vladimir Putin appeared to question the redrawn borders of Russia after the breakup of the Soviet Union.
Another Russian Scientist Sentenced On High Treason Charge RFE/RL 22 Jun 2020 -- Another Russian scientist has been sentenced to a lengthy prison term on a high treason charge in an ongoing spate of similar secretive cases targeting Russian academics.
Russia's Putin says may seek another term if constitutional changes approved Press TV 21 Jun 2020 -- Russian President Vladimir Putin says he may run for a new term in 2024 if the people vote to approve the constitutional reforms that would allow him to do so.
Putin Signals Possibility Of Seeking Reelection If Russians Back Constitutional Change RFE/RL 21 Jun 2020 -- President Vladimir Putin has said that he would consider standing for election again if Russian voters approve a controversial constitutional amendment in a vote scheduled for next month.
Putin Not Ruling Out Running for President If Constitutional Amendments Passed Sputnik 21 Jun 2020 -- Russian President Vladimir Putin said on Sunday that he did not rule out running for another term if the relevant amendments to the national constitution were passed.
Russia Reports Just Under 8,000 New Coronavirus Cases SPA 20 Jun 2020 -- Russia on Saturday reported 7,889 new cases of the novel coronavirus, pushing its nationwide case tally to 576,952 since the crisis began, Reuters reported.
U.S., Russia To Hold Arms Talks Next Week In Move To Preserve New START RFE/RL 20 Jun 2020 -- The United States says disarmament talks between its top arms control negotiator and Russian Deputy Foreign Minister Sergei Ryabkov will take place next week in Austria.
Meeting with representatives of industries affected by coronavirus spread President of Russia 19 Jun 2020 -- The President held a meeting, via videoconference, with representatives of various economy sectors affected by the spread of the coronavirus.
US new space strategy 'aggressive', Washington seeing space as arena for waging war: Russia Press TV 19 Jun 2020 -- Russia has lambasted the US's newly-unveiled space strategy document as "aggressive", saying Washington views space as a new "arena" to wage "war."
Baltic States Protest Russia's Historical Revisionism On Molotov-Ribbentrop Pact RFE/RL 19 Jun 2020 -- Estonia, Latvia, and Lithuania have protested moves in Russia they say are a whitewashing of historical facts about the 1939 nonagression pact between the Soviet Union and Nazi Germany that led to their annexation by Moscow.
Moscow's Approval Necessary For Any Deal Between Serbia, Kosovo, Lavrov Says RFE/RL 19 Jun 2020 -- Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov says Russia's approval would be required for any solution reached in peace talks between Kosovo and Serbia, whose leaders are scheduled to meet in the White House next week.
EU Leaders Support Extension Of Sanctions Against Russia Over Ukraine RFE/RL 19 Jun 2020 -- European Union leaders on June 19 have supported a six-month extension of economic sanctions imposed against Russia over its role in the ongoing conflict in Ukraine.
The Week In Russia: Trials, Tunnels, And An Ominous Homage To Orwell RFE/RL 19 Jun 2020 -- The consecration of a colossal cathedral for the successor of the Soviet Army. A school surveillance-camera system called Orwell. Spray-equipped tunnels set up at the Kremlin and President Vladimir Putin's main residence to protect him from the coronavirus. And a regional leader whose denial of a plot to murder a journalist seems to double as a threat.
Russian Air Force Scrambles Fighters to Intercept US B-52H Bombers Over Sea of Okhotsk Sputnik 19 Jun 2020 -- The General Staff of the Russian Armed Forces previously stated that the Defence Ministry had registered intensified military activity by the US and its NATO allies near the Russian border.
Russian Manufacturer Launches Batch Production of Mi-8AMT Civilian Arctic Helicopter Sputnik 19 Jun 2020 -- The manufacturing company Russian Helicopters (part of the Rostec Corporation) told Sputnik on Friday it was launching batch production of the Mi-8AMT Arctic helicopter for civilian customers, and that the Ulan-Ude Aviation Plant had already manufactured the first aircraft.
EU Extends Crimea Sanctions By One More Year RFE/RL 18 Jun 2020 -- The European Union has rolled over for another year sanctions imposed over Russia's annexation of the Crimean Peninsula from Ukraine.
Iran, Russia condemn US economic terrorism against Syrian nation Press TV 18 Jun 2020 -- Iran and Russia, both assisting Syria with its counter-terrorism campaign, have denounced the latest round of American coercive economic measures against the Arab country, saying the sanctions violate international law and humanitarian principles.
US Space Militarization Plans May Jeopardize Fragile Cooperation With Russia - Roscosmos Sputnik 18 Jun 2020 -- Washington's space militarization plans may jeopardize the already fragile cooperation with Russia, the deputy head of Russian State Space Corporation Roscosmos said on Thursday, still confirming the country's readiness to strengthen bilateral partnership.
New evidence of Russian aircraft active in Libyan airspace AFRICOM 18 Jun 2020 -- Russia's introduction of manned, armed attack aircraft into Libya changes the nature of the current conflict and intensifies the potential of risk to all Libyans, especially innocent civilians.
Ankara, Washington Agree to Join Forces in Libya, Turkish Foreign Minister Says Sputnik 18 Jun 2020 -- Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan and US leader Donald Trump have agreed to cooperate in Libya, gripped by a nine-year civil war, the Turkish foreign minister said Thursday.
German Prosecutors Accuse Russian Government Of Ordering Killing In Berlin RFE/RL 18 Jun 2020 -- Prosecutors in Germany have filed murder charges against a Russian national accused of the slaying of a Georgian man in Berlin last year and said the Russian government ordered the killing.
Germany Says Kremlin Behind Murder of Ethnic Chechen VOA 18 Jun 2020 -- Germany's federal prosecutors Thursday charged a Russian national for the killing last year of a Georgian rebel fighter in Berlin and said Moscow ordered the assassination. The development is likely to further strain Berlin's already rocky relations with the Kremlin, according to diplomats.
Russian Info Ops Putting US Police in Their Crosshairs VOA 18 Jun 2020 -- Russia appears to be intensifying its focus on police enforcement issues in the United States, using popular reactions to protests that have gripped the nation as part of a larger propaganda campaign to divide Americans ahead of the U.S. presidential election in November.
India to Purchase 33 MiG-29, Su-30MKI Jets Under Emergency Order Amid Border Tension With China Sputnik 18 Jun 2020 -- India and Russia have been negotiating the purchase of MiG-29 and Su-30MKI aircraft since last year. In 2019, a top-level Indian Air Force (IAF) team visited a Russian facility to check the MiG-29 fighter jets; later, it submitted a favourable report to the IAF headquarters.
Briefing by Foreign Ministry Spokesperson Maria Zakharova, Moscow, June 17, 2020 Russia Ministry of Foreign Affairs 17 Jun 2020
Russia says new coronavirus cases at lowest since April 30 SPA 17 Jun 2020 -- Russia on Wednesday reported 7,843 new cases of the novel coronavirus, its lowest daily caseload registered since April 30, pushing the nationwide total to 553,301, Reuters reported.
Russia, China Put at Risk US Military Space Superiority, Pentagon Says Sputnik 17 Jun 2020 -- The United States maintains a lead over Russia and China in military space capabilities, but is challenged by the pace of their development, Deputy Assistant Secretary of Defence Stephen Kitay told reporters on Wednesday.
Moscow Says U.S. Planes Intercepted Russian Nuclear-Capable Bombers Near Alaska RFE/RL 17 Jun 2020 -- Moscow says U.S. Air Force planes have escorted four Russian nuclear-capable bombers as they patrolled an area close to the Bering Strait that divides Russia's Chukotka Peninsula and the state of Alaska.
Russian Military Monitor Actions of US Navy Destroyer Upon Entry Into Black Sea, NDCC Says Sputnik 17 Jun 2020 -- A US Navy destroyer entered the Black Sea, the forces of Russia's Southern Military District monitor the actions of the ship, Russia's National Defence Control Centre (NDCC) said in a statement on Wednesday.
Russia Looks to Washington for Help in Libya VOA 17 Jun 2020 -- Sergey Lavrov, the Russian foreign minister, said Wednesday that he would welcome any efforts by Washington to use its influence on Turkey to help fashion a truce in Libya, where Ankara and Moscow are backing opposing sides and appear to be at increasing odds.
Russia: UN chief report blaming Iran for attacks on Saudi oil facilities not based on convincing evidence Press TV 17 Jun 2020 -- The Russian Foreign Ministry says the UN chief's report on Iran's involvement in the last year attacks on Saudi oil facilities is biased and not substantiated by facts.
OK, Yes, Big Brother IS Watching: Russian Schools Getting Surveillance Systems Called 'Orwell' RFE/RL 17 Jun 2020 -- You might think governments seeking digital oversight of their citizens would avoid invoking the author who coined the phrase "Big Brother is watching you" and implanted the nightmare of total state surveillance in the imaginations of millions of readers.
Turkish, Russian forces come under attack during joint patrol in Syria's Idlib Press TV 16 Jun 2020 -- Russia's Defense Ministry says Russian and Turkish military forces have been attacked during a joint patrol on the strategic M4 highway in Syria's northwestern province of Idlib, but there were no deaths or injuries among the troops.
Meeting on implementing support measures for economy and social sphere President of Russia 15 Jun 2020 -- The President held a meeting, via videoconference, on the implementation of previously adopted measures to support the economy and the social sphere.
Over 45 Drones Used by Militants in Syria Downed by Tor Air Defence Systems, Russian Military Says Sputnik 15 Jun 2020 -- Russian Tor air defence missile systems have downed more than 45 drones used by militants in Syria, the chief of the Russian air defence forces, Lieutenant General Alexander Leonov, said.
Criminal Case Opened Against Russian Opposition Figure Navalny For Suspected Libel RFE/RL 15 Jun 2020 -- Russian investigators have opened a criminal investigation against opposition politician Aleksei Navalny for suspected libel over comments he made on social media.
Upgraded S-400s May Get Anti-Hypersonic Capabilities, Air Defence Specialists Say Sputnik 15 Jun 2020 -- Entering into service with the Russian military in 2007, the S-400 remains the most advanced road-mobile anti-aircraft weapons system in Russia's arsenal, capable of shooting down everything from enemy aircraft and drones to ballistic and cruise missiles at ranges between 40 and 400 km.
Russian Fighters Scrambled to Intercept US Bombers Over Baltic Sea Sputnik 15 Jun 2020 -- The Russia military detected the activities of the US B-52H bombers and surveillance planes over the neutral waters of the Baltic Sea and scrambled fighter jets to follow them, the Russian Defense Ministry said Monday.
Turkey Says Moscow, Ankara Have 'No Significant Disagreements' on Need for Libya Ceasefire Sputnik 15 Jun 2020 -- Turkey deployed combat troops to Libya earlier this year, and has provided large amounts of military equipment to the Tripoli-based Government of National Accord (GNA) for its war against General Haftar's Libyan National Army (GNA). Moscow is seeking to facilitate a political settlement to end the long-running Libyan civil war.
U.S. Citizen Whelan Sentenced To 16 Years For Spying By Russian Court RFE/RL 15 Jun 2020 -- A Russian court has found former U.S. Marine Paul Whelan guilty on an espionage charge, a verdict that the top U.S. diplomat in Russia called a "mockery of justice."
Russian Foreign Ministry Slams Accusations of Moscow Drawing Out Whelan's Process Sputnik 15 Jun 2020 -- The accusations of the Western media of Moscow drawing out the process of US citizen Paul Whelan, sentenced to 16 years in prison over espionage earlier in the day, are groundless and absurd, the Russian Foreign Ministry said Monday.
The Conviction of U.S. Citizen Paul Whelan in Russia US Dept. of State 15 Jun 2020 -- "The United States is outraged by the decision of a Russian court today to convict U.S. citizen Paul Whelan after a secret trial, with secret evidence, and without appropriate allowances for defense witnesses."
Russian Court Sentences former US Marine to 16 Years for Espionage VOA 15 Jun 2020 -- A Moscow court convicted former U.S. Marine Paul Whelan on charges of espionage on Monday, sentencing him to 16 years of hard labor in a ruling all but certain to further roil the current low ebb in US-Russian relations.
Another Russian Researcher Charged With High Treason RFE/RL 15 Jun 2020 -- The Russian authorities have charged the president of the St. Petersburg-based Arctic Academy, Valery Mitko, with high treason in an ongoing spate of similar investigations targeting Russian academics.
In Diplomatic Tit-For-Tat, Moscow Expels Two Czech Diplomats RFE/RL 15 Jun 2020 -- Russia's Foreign Ministry has declared two Czech diplomats personae non gratae in retaliation to a similar move by Prague several days ago.
Russian Foreign Ministry Summons Czech Ambassador Over Diplomatic Row Sputnik 15 Jun 2020 -- The Czech ambassador has been summoned to the Russian Foreign Ministry in connection with a diplomatic scandal, a source in the Russian Foreign Ministry said.
COVID-19: Putin Credits Unified Approach For 'Minimal Losses'; Iran Daily Deaths Exceed 100 For First Time In Two Months RFE/RL 14 Jun 2020 -- The global death toll from the coronavirus is more than 430,000 with more than 7.8 million infections confirmed, causing mass disruptions as governments continue to try to slow the spread of the respiratory illness.
Russia reports 8,835 new coronavirus cases, 119 deaths in last 24 hours SPA 14 Jun 2020 -- Russia reported 8,835 new cases of the novel coronavirus on Sunday, bringing the number of infections nationwide to 528,964, Reuters reported.
Russian Military's Cathedral Consecrated Without Mosaic Featuring Putin RFE/RL 14 Jun 2020 -- Russian Orthodox Patriarch Kirill has consecrated the main cathedral dedicated to the armed forces, built to mark Victory Day in celebration of the 75th anniversary of the end of World War II in Europe.
Turkey, Russia Postpone Talks Focused On Libya, Syria RFE/RL 14 Jun 2020 -- Russia and Turkey have postponed high-level talks that were expected to focus on Libya and Syria, where the two countries support opposing sides in long-standing conflicts.
Germany Says Further U.S. Sanctions Over Nord Stream 2 Would Interfere With EU Energy Security RFE/RL 14 Jun 2020 -- The German government has "noted with regret" a U.S. proposal to expand sanctions over the Nord Stream 2 gas pipeline between Russia and Germany.
Russian Missile Forces in Baltic Region Conduct Drills Amid Ongoing NATO Exercises Nearby Sputnik 14 Jun 2020 -- US and Polish forces kicked off large-scale ground-based drills dubbed 'Allied Spirit' in northwestern Poland on June 4, while a NATO maritime exercise called 'BALTOPS 20' in the Baltic region got underway on June 7.
Russia's Coronavirus Cases Pass 520,000 SPA 13 Jun 2020 -- Russia on Saturday reported 8,706 new coronavirus cases, bringing its cumulative infection tally to 520,129, acordding to Reuters.
Armenia Rejects Russian Funding For Nuclear Plant Upgrade RFE/RL 12 Jun 2020 -- The Armenian government has announced it has decided to use only 60 percent of a $270 million Russian loan designed to finance the ongoing modernization of its Soviet-era nuclear power plant at Metsamor.
Kyrgyz Lawmakers OK Bill On Amendments To Russian Military Base Agreement RFE/RL 12 Jun 2020 -- Kyrgyz lawmakers have approved a bill ratifying a Kyrgyz-Russian protocol amending an agreement on the usage of Russia's military base in the Central Asian nation.
Russia welcomes US plans to pull back thousands of troops from Germany Press TV 12 Jun 2020 -- Russia has welcomed US plans to pull out thousands of its troops from Germany, saying the move could help easing military and political tensions in Europe.
The Week In Russia: Minneapolis, Minsk, Moscow, And The Future Of Putin's Rule RFE/RL 12 Jun 2020 -- Within a few weeks, barring the truly unexpected, Vladimir Putin will have the option of seeking two more six-year stretches as Russian president after his current term expires in 2024, meaning he could remain in the Kremlin until May 2036.
Russian Navy Receives First Improved Borei-A Class Missile Sub on Russia Day Holiday Sputnik 12 Jun 2020 -- Floating beneath the depths of the Barents Sea and the Arctic Ocean, the stealthy new sub is expected to help preserve global strategic stability in the face of US moves to pull out of major arms control agreements and deploy advanced dual-use missile defense systems near Russia's borders.
Opposition Report Labels Russia's FSB A 'Second Government' RFE/RL 12 Jun 2020 -- Russia's powerful Federal Security Service (FSB) has been transformed into a semicriminal structure that is functioning essentially as a "second government," according to a new report by the Dossier (Dosye) Center, which is funded by a former oligarch and staunch critic of President Vladimir Putin, Mikhail Khodorkovsky.
COVID-19: Russian Cases Pass Half-Million Mark, Death Toll Exceeds 6,500 RFE/RL 11 Jun 2020 -- The global death toll from the coronavirus is more than 416,000 with more than 7.3 million infections confirmed, causing mass disruptions as governments continue to try to slow the spread of the respiratory illness.
Moscow Not Party to MH17 Crash Proceedings, Russian Foreign Ministry Says Sputnik 11 Jun 2020 -- Moscow is not a party to the criminal process in the case of the MH17 flight crash, which takes place in the Netherlands, Russian Foreign Ministry spokeswoman Maria Zakharova said, commenting on this week's hearings on the case.
As Russia Lifts Lockdowns, Expanded Surveillance Network May Remain RFE/RL 11 Jun 2020 -- When Marina Khublarova, a Russian mother of seven, experienced coronavirus symptoms in late April, she called the local health service to report them.
Moscow Warns Russia-NATO Ties Will Become More Complicated if US Moves Troops From Germany to Poland Sputnik 11 Jun 2020 -- Washington has earlier mulled moving its troops, which are reportedly equipped with nuclear weapons, from Germany, where they are currently stationed, to Poland, closer to Russia's borders. The suggestion was triggered by opposition from German parties to continuing the deployment of American forces in the country.
Two Russian Bombers, Two Jets Intercepted Off Alaska, U.S. Says RFE/RL 11 Jun 2020 -- U.S. fighter jets intercepted Russian jets and bombers twice on June 10 off the coast of Alaska, the U.S. air defense command said.
Melting Down: Climate Change May Prove A Major Problem For Russia's Arctic Infrastructure RFE/RL 10 Jun 2020 -- Just a few days after thousands of tons of diesel fuel leaked from a storage tank and turned the waters of an Arctic river a sickly purply-red, the mining giant that owned the tanks offered a tentative explanation of what happened.
US says intercepted Russian bombers off the coast of Alaska Press TV 10 Jun 2020 -- The United States says it has intercepted two Russian bombers that remain in international airspace.
Moscow Lifts its Coronavirus Restrictions VOA 10 Jun 2020 -- After more than 2 months of shutdown due to the coronavirus, Russia's capital sprung back to life this week – with city authorities lifting restrictions on most business closings and stay at home rules for Moscow's 12 million plus residents.
Top Russian Diplomat Says Moscow, Washington, Kabul To Consult On Taliban Talks RFE/RL 10 Jun 2020 -- A top Russian diplomat says Russia, the United States, and Afghanistan will hold video consultations to try and jump-start intra-Afghan peace talks.
American F-22 Jets Scrambled to Escort Russian Tu-95Ms Bombers Over Neutral Waters Sputnik 10 Jun 2020 -- US Air Force F-22 fighters were scrambled to escort Russian Tu-95MS strategic missile-carrying bombers during their flight over neutral waters near the Russian-US border, the Russian Defence Ministry said on Wednesday.
Russia's MiG-35 to Be Equipped With Voice Assistant Helping Pilot in Tough Situations Sputnik 10 Jun 2020 -- Russia's next-generation fighter jet, the MiG-35 will be equipped with a new expert system capable of providing pilots with recommendations in various difficult situations, Dmitry Selivanov, a test pilot at the MiG aircraft corporation (part of Rostec), has said in an interview with Sputnik.
Russia Spotted 32 Foreign Spy Jets Close to National Airspace Over Past Week Sputnik 10 Jun 2020 -- A total of 32 foreign aircraft conducted reconnaissance activities along Russia's borders in the past week, the military's official newspaper Krasnaya Zvezda reported on Wednesday.
Russia, China should stand up to US' conspiracy: Iran's President ISNA 10 Jun 2020 -- Appreciating the efforts of Iran's medical and hospital staff in combatting COVID-19 over the past four months, the President said that with the exception of a few provinces that are in red conditions, we have reached the stage of controlling coronavirus in the country, adding, "The resilience of the Iranian people in the simultaneous fight against coronavirus and the severe, illegal US sanctions is well-known today and will be recorded in the history of the country".
China, Russia fighting off US 'snapback' threat against Iran at UN Press TV 10 Jun 2020 -- Veto powers China and Russia have written to the United Nations, arguing strongly against a US threat that it will try and bring about a return of all sanctions against Iran if the world body fails to extend an arms embargo against Tehran.
Retired Austrian Army Colonel Found Guilty Of Spying For Russia RFE/RL 10 Jun 2020 -- An Austrian court has sentenced a retired army colonel to three years in prison after convicting him of spying for Russia's military intelligence service (GRU) for more than 25 years.
China Again Declines To Join Arms-Control Talks With U.S., Russia RFE/RL 10 Jun 2020 -- China has reiterated its refusal to participate in three-way disarmament talks with the United States and Russia ahead of a new round of arms-control talks between Washington and Moscow scheduled for June 22 in Vienna.
COVID-19: Muscovites Can Return To Their 'Normal' Lives As Measures Eased; Kazakh Women Demand Financial Support RFE/RL 09 Jun 2020 -- The global death toll from the coronavirus is more than 393,000 with more than 6.7 million infections confirmed, causing mass disruptions as governments continue to try to slow the spread of the new respiratory illness.
Kyrgyz Parliamentary Committee Approves Bill Increasing Russia's Military-Base Fee RFE/RL 09 Jun 2020 -- A parliamentary committee in Kyrgyzstan has approved a bill that would increase Russia's annual fee for renting land for its combined military base in the Central Asian nation.
China says has no plans to join US-Russia arms control talks Press TV 09 Jun 2020 -- China says it has no plans to participate in negotiations on arms control with Russia and the United States, after being invited by Washington to take part in the talks, to be held later this month.
COVID-19: Russia Reports Nearly 9,000 New Cases RFE/RL 08 Jun 2020 -- In Russia, almost 9,000 new cases were reported on June 8, bringing the total to more than 476,000 - the world's third-highest count after the United States and Brazil.
Trump Envoy: U.S., Russia To Hold Nuclear Arms Talks In June, China Invited RFE/RL 08 Jun 2020 -- The United States and Russia have agreed on a time and place for nuclear arms negotiations this month and invited China, President Donald Trump's arms negotia
Ankara, Moscow reach agreement over another S-400 batch: Official Press TV 08 Jun 2020 -- Ankara and Moscow have agreed on the delivery of new batteries of the advanced Russian-made S-400 missile defense systems, the head of Turkey's Defense Industry says.
Venezuela hails Iran, Russia, China, Cuba as true friends Press TV 08 Jun 2020 -- Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro has hailed Iran, Russia, China, and Cuba as real friends of Caracas and expressed gratitude for their humanitarian aid.
Stoltenberg Urges NATO Unity Amid Challenges From China, Russia RFE/RL 08 Jun 2020 -- NATO Secretary-General Jens Stoltenberg says the 30-member alliance must "stay strong militarily, be more united politically, and take a broader approach globally" in order to continue to "protect our democracies" in a "more competitive world."
NATO 'Works Hard' for Arms Control With Russia, Stoltenberg Says Sputnik 08 Jun 2020 -- The North Atlantic Treaty Organisation (NATO) believes in dialogue with Russia and is working hard for arms control with that country given that an arms race may be both costly and dangerous, NATO Secretary-General Jens Stoltenberg said on Monday.
Russia, Turkey Reach Agreement in Principle on Delivery of Second Batch of S-400s - Turkish Official Sputnik 08 Jun 2020 -- The deployment of the first batch of S-400 air defence systems was delayed due to the global pandemic and was not complete by April 2020 as previously planned. Despite this setback, Turkey assured that eventually the systems will be deployed and used in spite of the US threats of sanctions against the country.
Basic Principles of State Policy of the Russian Federation on Nuclear Deterrence Russia Ministry of Foreign Affairs 08 Jun 2020 -- These Basic Principles represent a strategic planning document in the area of ensuring defence and reflect the official view on the essence of nuclear deterrence, identify military risks and threats to be neutralized by implementation of nuclear deterrence, the principles of nuclear deterrence, as well as the conditions for the Russian Federation to proceed to the use of nuclear weapons.
Russia's Combat Jets, S-400 Finish Large-Scale Drills in Far East Sputnik 08 Jun 2020 -- Russia's combat aircraft, S-400 air defences and Pantsir-S missile systems were involved in massive drills that the country has just finished in the Far East, the Eastern Military District said on Monday.
Russia's Admiral Kasatonov Stealth Warship Completes State Sea Trials Sputnik 07 Jun 2020 -- The Admiral Kasatonov frigate is capable of destroying surface ships, convoys and airborne military units, along with searching and targeting submarines and providing anti-aircraft, anti-submarine and anti-missile defence.
Russia registers new drug to treat COVID-19 Press TV 07 Jun 2020 -- A leading Russian innovative biotech company has registered a new drug for treatment of coronavirus disease (COVID-19) which would help alleviate the harshest complications caused by the deadly virus, including lung failure.
Russia's Coronavirus Cases Climb Past 467,000; Chief Rabbi Being Treated RFE/RL 07 Jun 2020 -- Russian officials have reported 8,984 new coronavirus cases, bringing the total number of infections in the country to nearly 470,000.
Russian State Channel RT Files Lawsuit Against Opposition Figure Navalny RFE/RL 07 Jun 2020 -- The Russian state-controlled broadcaster RT has filed a lawsuit against opposition politician and anti-corruption activist Aleksei Navalny, alleging that he damaged the firm's business reputation.
Russia Reports 8855 New Coronavirus Infections SPA 06 Jun 2020 -- Russia reported 8855 new infections of the novel coronavirus in the past 24 hours, taking the nationwide tally of infections to 458,689 cases.
Report: German Neo-Nazis Training At Russian Terrorist Camp RFE/RL 06 Jun 2020 -- German neo-Nazis are conducting paramilitary training with a Russian ultranationalist group at a camp near St. Petersburg, German magazine Focus reported on June 5.
Russia Orders Review Of Infrastructure Built On Permafrost In Wake Of Arctic Fuel Disaster RFE/RL 06 Jun 2020 -- Russia's Prosecutor-General's Office on June 5 ordered a review of all hazardous objects built on permafrost in response to a fuel tank leak that has created an ecological disaster in the Arctic linked to climate change.
U.S. Senators Introduce Legislation To Stop Completion Of Russian Gas Pipeline RFE/RL 05 Jun 2020 -- A group of bipartisan senators has submitted legislation to stop Russia from completing a controversial undersea natural-gas pipeline to Germany.
The Week In Russia: Plebiscites, Parades, And Opinion Polls RFE/RL 05 Jun 2020 -- Some people say that, in the wake of the coronavirus pandemic, everything's got to change. Others hope for a return to the way things were before - or the way they think they were.
Czech Government Orders Out Two Russian Embassy Staff Over Ricin Plot Hoax RFE/RL 05 Jun 2020 -- Czech Prime Minister Andrej Babis says his government has designated two staff members at the Russian Embassy in Prague as personae non gratae and ordered them to leave.
Briefing by Foreign Ministry Spokesperson Maria Zakharova, Moscow, June 4, 2020 Russia Ministry of Foreign Affairs 04 Jun 2020
Russian Farmers Suffering As COVID-19 Pandemic Keeps Central Asian Workers At Home RFE/RL 04 Jun 2020 -- Russian farmers who are highly dependent on Central Asian workers to harvest their crops are in a bind as the coronavirus pandemic lockdown has left hundreds of thousands of migrants unable to get into Russia.
Shining Light In A Black Box: Can The U.S. Slow The Flow Of Dirty Money From The Ex-U.S.S.R.? RFE/RL 04 Jun 2020 -- When Ukraine's Privatbank filed a lawsuit in the United States against its former owner Ihor Kolomoyskiy one year ago, it claimed the tycoon had used a slew of anonymous shell companies registered in the U.S. state of Delaware to carry out what it called a "brazen" heist.
Russia delivers new batch of advanced MiG-29 fighter jets to Syria Press TV 04 Jun 2020 -- The Russian Embassy in Damascus says Syria has received a new batch of advanced Mikoyan MiG-29 twin-engine fighter jets, which are currently being used by Syrian pilots to strike the positions of foreign-sponsored Takfiri militants in the country.
Russia Delivers 'Second Batch' Of Planes To Syria After U.S. Accuses It Of Sending Jets To Libya RFE/RL 04 Jun 2020 -- Russia has confirmed the delivery of more MiG-29 fighter jets to Syria, just days after the U.S. military accused Moscow of using Syria to transfer warplanes to Libya.
Russia to never initiate use of nukes: Kremlin People's Daily 04 Jun 2020 -- Russia will never initiate the use of nuclear weapons, Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov said regarding the country's newly released nuclear deterrence policy on Wednesday.
'I Put On My Spacesuit And Go Off To Save The World': Buryat Bodybuilder Spends Lockdown Helping COVID-19 Patients In Moscow RFE/RL 03 Jun 2020 -- People around the world have spent their idle weeks in lockdown baking sourdough bread, learning to knit, or just zoning out with television and video games. But for 35-year-old Aldar, who requested his last name not be used or his face shown in this article, that was not enough.
Trump Says 'Common Sense' To Invite Russia to G7 RFE/RL 03 Jun 2020 -- U.S. President Donald Trump has said it is "common sense" to invite Russian President Vladimir Putin to an expanded Group of Seven (G7) summit.
RAF jets in Lithuania intercept Russian aircraft UK MOD 03 Jun 2020 -- Royal Air Force Typhoon fighter jets deployed to Lithuania have conducted their first intercept of Russian aircraft as part of the NATO Baltic Air Policing mission.
Russia Eyes Military Expansion in Northeast Syria VOA 03 Jun 2020 -- Russian troops in Syria are looking to expand their military presence in the northeastern part of the war-ravaged country, local sources said.
In apparent signal to US: Russia's Putin endorses strategy of using nukes against conventional strike Press TV 03 Jun 2020 -- Russian President Vladimir Putin has endorsed a strategy document outlining the country's nuclear deterrent policy, amid rising tensions with the United States over a nuclear arms control accord.
'The Message Sends Itself': In Coverage Of U.S. Protests, Russia Reveals Its Own Fears Of Unrest, Disorder RFE/RL 03 Jun 2020 -- The screen depicts the Statue of Liberty backdropped by a cloud-specked sky, its outstretched arm and crowned head superimposed over the body of an American police officer whose knee presses firmly into the neck of a black man pinned to the ground and struggling to breathe.
Russia's Coronavirus Case Tally Rises to More Than 423,000 SPA 02 Jun 2020 -- Russia reported 8,863 new cases of the novel coronavirus on Tuesday, pushing its nationwide tally to 423,741, the world's third highest reported total, according to Reuters.
Not Rocket Science? Some In Kremlin Orbit Greet SpaceX Success With A Dose Of Derision RFE/RL 02 Jun 2020 -- When two NASA astronauts blasted off on May 30 under American - albeit commercially produced - power for the first time in nearly a decade, much of the world celebrated the achievement.
Putin approves Nuclear Deterrence Policy Framework TASS 02 Jun 2020 -- Russian President Vladimir Putin approved the Fundamentals of State Policy of the Russian Federation in the Field of Nuclear Deterrence. The document signed on Tuesday replaces a similar one, adopted 10 years ago and valid until 2020.
Moscow Vaccine Claim Questioned As Researchers Press Forward In Race Against Coronavirus RFE/RL 01 Jun 2020 -- Lockdowns and social distancing, masks and regular handwashing, expanded coronavirus testing, contact tracing - all form part of public-health strategies to slow the spread of COVID-19 until one or more vaccines can be created to end the crisis.
Russia Reports 9,035 New Coronavirus Infections SPA 01 Jun 2020 -- Russia on Monday reported 9,035 new cases of the novel coronavirus, taking the nationwide tally of infections to 414,878, according to Reuters.
COVID-19: Armenian PM, Family Test Positive; Russian Airlines Allowed To Fill Planes RFE/RL 01 Jun 2020 -- The global death toll from the coronavirus is more than 370,000 with more than 6.1 million infections confirmed, causing mass disruptions as governments continue to try to slow the spread of the new respiratory illness.
Putin, Trump Discuss G7 Summit, Arms Control In Phone Call RFE/RL 01 Jun 2020 -- U.S. President Donald Trump has called Russian President Vladimir Putin to tell him about his proposal to convene an expanded Group of Seven (G7) summit later this year that would involve Russia, the Kremlin says.
Putin Sets July 1 For Controversial Constitutional Vote RFE/RL 01 Jun 2020 -- Russian President Vladimir Putin has set July 1 as the date for the national vote on constitutional amendments that among other things would allow him to remain in power until 2036.
Russia Records High Level of US Military Activity Near Country's Borders, General Staff Says Sputnik 01 Jun 2020 -- Russian General Staff Slams NATO for Planning Drills in Baltics
Why are Russia's Most Advanced Warships Deployed in the Arctic? Sputnik 01 Jun 2020 -- The Russian Northern Fleet remains the country's main military force in the Arctic, something that Defence Minister Sergei Shoigu stressed helps protect "important industrial facilities and Russia's economic interests in the Arctic area".

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Weapons of Mass Destruction (WMD)

June 2020 - Russia Special Weapons News