April 2021 - Russia Special Weapons News

Turkish Health Ministry Authorizes Use of Sputnik V Vaccine, Health Minister Says Sputnik 30 Apr 2021 -- The Turkish Health Ministry has authorized the use of Sputnik V, a Russian COVID-19 vaccine, in the country, Health Minister Fahrettin Koca said on Friday.
Russian Vaccines Protect From All Known Strains of COVID-19, Rospotrebnadzor Says Sputnik 30 Apr 2021 -- The immunity developed after Russian vaccines currently protects from all strains of coronavirus, the head of consumer rights watchdog Rospotrebnadzor, Anna Popova, said on Friday.
Russia Reports 8,731 New COVID-19 Cases, 397 Deaths SPA 30 Apr 2021 -- Russia reported 8,731 new COVID-19 cases on Friday, including 2,662 in Moscow, taking the official national tally since the pandemic began to 4,805,288, Reuters reported.
Thousands Rally Against Czech President Over Russia Stance RFE/RL 30 Apr 2021 -- Thousands of Czechs have rallied in Prague against President Milos Zeman, calling for his removal from office and condemning what opponents say are his pro-Russia views.
Extended Troika Expects Taliban to Prevent Terrorists From Using Afghan Soil Sputnik 30 Apr 2021 -- The so-called extended Troika on peaceful settlement in Afghanistan - the United States, Russia, China and Pakistan - in a joint statement on Friday expressed hope that the Taliban will prevent terrorist groups from using Afghan territory to threaten the security of other countries.
Joint Statement on the Extended "Troika" on Peaceful Settlement in Afghanistan US Dept. of State 30 Apr 2021 -- The text of the following statement was released by the Governments of the United States of America, the Russian Federation, the People's Republic of China, and the Islamic Republic of Pakistan on the occasion of the Extended "Troika" on Peaceful Settlement in Afghanistan.
US Sees Russia's Forces Withdrawal From Ukraine Border as Constructive Step, White House Says Sputnik 30 Apr 2021 -- The United States considers Russia's withdrawal of troops from the Ukraine border as a constructive step, National Security Advisor Jake Sullivan said on Friday.
Russia Releases Video of Black Sea Military Drills VOA 30 Apr 2021 -- Russia's defense ministry released video Friday of its warships firing rockets during military drills in the Black Sea, the Reuters news agency reported Friday.
Russian agency designates Navalny's network as 'terrorist, extremist' organization Press TV 30 Apr 2021 -- Russia's financial monitoring agency has designated opposition figure Alexei Navalny's network of regional offices as a "terrorist and extremist" organization.
Colleagues Say Lawyer For Navalny's Foundation Detained In Moscow RFE/RL 30 Apr 2021 -- Ivan Pavlov, one of Russia's top human rights lawyers who is representing jailed Kremlin-critic Aleksei Navalny's Anti-Corruption Foundation (FBK), has been detained for allegedly disclosing classified information relating to an ongoing investigation.
US Embassy in Moscow cuts visa services as tensions rise Press TV 30 Apr 2021 -- The US has announced it will reduce visa and consular services at its embassy in the Russian capital, due to "the actions of the Russian government," as tensions rise between Washington and Moscow.
U.S. Embassy In Moscow Announces Reduction In Services After Russia Imposes Staff Limits RFE/RL 30 Apr 2021 -- The U.S. Embassy in Moscow says it is reducing the number of consular services it will provide because of restrictions Russia has imposed over the hiring of local staff.
State Department Warns Of U.S. Response If Russia Shutters RFE/RL Under 'Foreign Agent' Law RFE/RL 30 Apr 2021 -- The U.S. State Department says press freedom in Russia is under growing threat as authorities slap RFE/RL and other media organizations with restrictive "foreign agent" labels and fines.
EU Says Reserves Right to Respond to Russia's Entry Ban for Eight EU Officials Sputnik 30 Apr 2021 -- The European Union reserves the right to retaliate following Russia's latest decision on sanctions against EU officials, according to a joint statement by the heads of the European Council, the European Commission and the European Parliament.
Comment by Foreign Ministry Spokeswoman Maria Zakharova on EU Ambassador to Russia Markus Ederer being summoned to the Foreign Ministry Russia Ministry of Foreign Affairs 30 Apr 2021
Russia Bars Eight EU Citizens From Entry In Tit-For-Tat Move Slammed By Brussels RFE/RL 30 Apr 2021 -- Russia has barred eight officials from European Union countries from entering the country in retaliation for sanctions imposed on Russian citizens by Brussels - a move to which the bloc said it "reserves the right" to respond.
Bulgaria expels another Russian diplomat People's Daily 30 Apr 2021 -- The Bulgarian Foreign Ministry said on Thursday in a statement that it has declared a diplomat at the Russian Embassy in Sofia persona non grata.
The Week In Russia: A False Choice And A Punch In The Gut RFE/RL 30 Apr 2021 -- The Russian state's reputation is taking some hits abroad, with rejections of its Sputnik V coronavirus vaccine, mounting evidence of nefarious acts by its military intelligence agency across Europe, and anger over a buildup of military forces that sent tensions skyrocketing. At home, it's hitting out hard at imprisoned Kremlin opponent Aleksei Navalny's already marginalized organizations, seemingly seeking to annihilate a force that President Vladimir Putin fears ahead of parliamentary elections in September.
President Putin: Russia hopes for full restoration of Iran deal in original format Press TV 30 Apr 2021 -- Russian President Vladimir Putin has expressed hope for the revitalization of the 2015 multilateral agreement on Iran's nuclear program within its original format, amid a diplomatic process in Vienna, Austria, aimed at having the United States rejoin the accord.
Russia: US does not regard non-JCPOA sanctions against Iran as removable Press TV 30 Apr 2021 -- Russia's Permanent Representative to the International Organizations in Vienna Mikhail Ulyanov says the US would not remove all the sanctions it has imposed on the Islamic Republic under different tags.
Putin Expresses Hope for Full Restoration of Iran Nuclear Deal Sputnik 30 Apr 2021 -- Russian President Vladimir Putin expressed hope on Friday for the full restoration of the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action.
Briefing by Foreign Ministry Spokeswoman Maria Zakharova, Moscow, April 29, 2021 Russia Ministry of Foreign Affairs 29 Apr 2021
Russia Records 9,284 New Cases of COVID-19, 364 Deaths SPA 29 Apr 2021 -- Russia recorded 9,284 new cases of coronavirus (COVID-19) and 364 deaths during the past 24 hours.
Russia's daily COVID-19 cases drop below 8,000 People's Daily 29 Apr 2021 -- Russia confirmed 7,848 new coronavirus infections over the past 24 hours, below 8,000 for the first time since the end of September, taking the nationwide tally to 4,787,273, the country's official monitoring and response center said Wednesday.
Putin pledges medical aid to India in phone call with Modi People's Daily 29 Apr 2021 -- Russian President Vladimir Putin on Wednesday held a phone conversation with Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi, pledging to offer emergency medical assistance to pandemic-battered India.
Bangladesh approves proposal of producing Russian, Chinese COVID-19 vaccines People's Daily 29 Apr 2021 -- The Bangladeshi government on Wednesday gave the greenlight to a proposal of producing Chinese and Russian COVID-19 vaccines in the country.
Mexico to produce Russia's Sputnik V vaccine People's Daily 29 Apr 2021 -- Mexico will begin production of Russia's Sputnik V COVID-19 vaccine as early as in May, the vaccine's official Twitter account said Wednesday during Mexican Foreign Minister Marcelo Ebrard's ongoing visit to Moscow.
U.S. Detains Alleged Russian Operator Of Bitcoin Money-Laundering Website RFE/RL 29 Apr 2021 -- U.S. officials have arrested the alleged main operator of the cryptocurrency money-laundering website Bitcoin Fog.
Defense Official Says Partnerships Vital to Holding Russia Accountable in Eurasia DoD News 29 Apr 2021 -- Russian influence and meddling in nations around the Mediterranean and the Middle East have been characterized as destabilizing and opportunistic and pose concerns for regional security and stability, according to a Defense Department official.
No Agreement Reached On Easter Truce In Ukraine RFE/RL 29 Apr 2021 -- Negotiators in the conflict in eastern Ukraine have failed to agree a truce ahead of Orthodox Easter later this week amid a surge in fighting since the start of the year.
Watch: Kalibr Cruise Missile Spirals Out of Control in Test by Russia's Marshal Shaposhnikov Warship Sputnik 29 Apr 2021 -- While Russian naval strategy has long emphasized long-range missiles as the key to
Russia's Foreign Ministry to Retaliate Against Bulgaria's Decision to Expel Diplomat Sputnik 29 Apr 2021 -- This comes after Bulgarian prosecutors claimed that at least six Russians had been involved in explosions at Bulgarian arms depots. Bulgarian prosecutors are currently looking into four alleged explosions at arms depots from 2011 to 2020.
US-Russia ties worse than during Cold War: Lavrov Press TV 29 Apr 2021 -- Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov says bilateral relations between Russia and the United States are now even worse than during the Cold War due to a lack of mutual respect.
Biden 'Not Seeking Escalation' With Russia, But 'Actions Have Consequences' RFE/RL 29 Apr 2021 -- U.S. President Joe Biden has said in an address to Congress that he is not seeking to escalate tensions with Russian President Vladimir Putin after imposing fresh sanctions over cyberattacks, election interference, and other malign actions.
A Gaunt Navalny Appears in Court After Hunger Strike VOA 29 Apr 2021 -- In his first court appearance since ending a three-week hunger strike, Kremlin critic Alexey Navalny called Russian President Vladimir Putin a "naked, thieving king."
Navalny Appears In Court, Blasts Russian President, Justice System As His Network Disbanded RFE/RL 29 Apr 2021 -- Jailed opposition leader Aleksei Navalny has issued a scathing assessment of President Vladimir Putin and Russia's justice system at a court hearing as his regional network said it will disband amid a push by prosecutors to declare the main pillars of the Kremlin critic's political organization "extremist."
Western-backed blogger Navalny's network says it is 'disbanding' Press TV 29 Apr 2021 -- The political network of Western-backed blogger Alexei Navalny says it is disbanding, as he appeared in court for the first time since ending his hunger strike.
Extremism As A Blunt Tool: Behind The Russian Law Being Used To Shut Up Navalny RFE/RL 29 Apr 2021 -- Four years ago, a court in the Russian Far Eastern city of Blagoveshchensk watched Kill The Cosmonauts -- a satirical music video that proposed murdering space adventurers for "climbing toward heaven"-- and was not amused.
Populism With A Price: Russians Weigh In On Putin's Gift Of A 10-Day Paid Holiday RFE/RL 29 Apr 2021 -- Earlier this month, Russian President Vladimir Putin issued an order making the entire period from May 1 through May 10 a paid nonworking holiday. The extended vacation will encompass the May 3 Labor Day holiday and Victory Day, which is marked on May 10 this year.
Czech Republic 'Not Interested' in Escalating Relations With Russia, Foreign Minister Claims Sputnik 29 Apr 2021 -- The Czech Republic is not interested in escalating relations with Russia, which have entered a difficult phase; it believes that relations may improve and become mutually beneficial, but this will certainly require mutual respect, Czech Foreign Minister Jakub Kulhanek said.
Bulgaria To Expel Russian Diplomat Over Arms Depot Blasts RFE/RL 29 Apr 2021 -- Bulgaria says it will expel another Russian diplomat after the country's authorities said they suspected six Russian citizens of involvement in a series of blasts that hit four weapons and armament facilities over the past 10 years.
European Parliament Passes Resolution Condemning Russia RFE/RL 28 Apr 2021 -- The European Parliament on April 29 passed a resolution threatening action against Russia over its treatment of jailed opposition leader Aleksei Navalny, its military buildup on Ukraine's border, and what lawmakers describe as "Russian attacks in the Czech Republic."
First Shipment of Russian COVID Relief Aid Lands in India, Includes Coronavir, Ventilators Sputnik 28 Apr 2021 -- In a telephone call with Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Wednesday, Russian President Vladimir Putin assured the Indian leader that Moscow is committed to helping the country as it reels from a second COVID wave.
Russia Reports 7,848 New COVID-19 Cases, 387 Deaths SPA 28 Apr 2021 -- Russia reported 7,848 new COVID-19 cases in the last 24 hours on Wednesday, including 1,840 in Moscow, taking the national tally to 4,787,273, according to Reuters.
Developers of Sputnik V Slam Brazilian Regulator's Refusal to Allow Vaccine Imports Sputnik 28 Apr 2021 -- The decision of Brazil's health regulator Anvisa to deny the request by the country's regional governments on the import of Russia's Sputnik V coronavirus vaccine is politically motivated, the developers said on Wednesday.
EU Blasts 'Manipulation' Of Vaccine Info by Russia, China RFE/RL 28 Apr 2021 -- The European Union says that China and Russia have intensified "state-sponsored disinformation" campaigns denigrating Western-developed COVID-19 vaccines while promoting their own.
Russia says its fleet monitoring US warship movements in Black Sea Press TV 28 Apr 2021 -- Russia has expressed alarm about the presence of a US warship in the Black Sea while its naval forces were conducting military drills in the area, declaring that it was monitoring the actions of US Coast Guard Patrol Cutter Hamilton.
Claims About Suspension of Deal to Create Russian Naval Base on Red Sea Untrue, Embassy Says Sputnik 28 Apr 2021 -- Sudanese Foreign Ministry spokesman Mansour Boulad told Sputnik that at the moment he did not have official confirmation of the suspension of the agreement on the establishment of a Russian Navy facility on the Red Sea.
Russia Expels 7 Diplomats VOA 28 Apr 2021 -- Russia ordered the expulsion Wednesday of seven diplomats from Slovakia and the Baltic countries of Estonia, Latvia and Lithuania in response to the expulsion of Russian Embassy personnel.
Russia Expels Seven European Diplomats In Continuing Standoff RFE/RL 28 Apr 2021 -- Russia has announced the expulsion of seven diplomats from Slovakia and the three Baltic states in a continuation of the diplomatic war sparked by Czech allegations that Russian spies were involved in a deadly arms depot explosion in 2014.
Russia expels more diplomats from some Western-aligned countries Press TV 28 Apr 2021 -- Russia has given one week to seven diplomats from some Western-aligned countries to leave, in a tit-for-tat move against the backdrop of the expulsion of Russian diplomats.
Russia to prepare list of 'unfriendly' states soon Press TV 28 Apr 2021 -- Russia says it will soon present a list of governments deemed "unfriendly" to the state, following a decree by President Vladimir Putin to clearly identify and take countermeasures against hostile countries.
Russia Unveils A New Tactic To Deter Dissent: CCTV And A 'Knock On The Door,' Days Later RFE/RL 28 Apr 2021 -- In the week since a wave of protests in support of imprisoned opposition leader Aleksei Navalny swept Russia on April 21, at least 115 people in 23 cities have been detained by police. At least seven journalists who were covering the protests have also been summoned for questioning.
Sofia Looks At Links Between Czech Blast And Bulgarian Incidents, Summons Russian Envoy RFE/RL 28 Apr 2021 -- The Russian envoy has been summoned to the Bulgarian Foreign Ministry after the authorities launched an investigation into six citizens of Russia suspected of involvement in a series of blasts at four weapons and armament facilities in Bulgaria between 2011 and 2020.
Prime Minister's telephonic Conversation with President Putin of Russian Federation India PIB 28 Apr 2021 -- Prime Minister Narendra Modi spoke on telephone today with President of the Russian Federation H.E. Vladimir Putin.
Ukrainian Security Service Says It Prevented Cyberattack Ordered By Moscow RFE/RL 27 Apr 2021 -- Ukraine's SBU security service says it has arrested a local resident suspected of planning a Russian-ordered cyberattack on Ukrainian state institutions.
Brazil Rejects Russia's Sputnik V COVID-19 Vaccine, Citing 'Inherent Risks' RFE/RL 27 Apr 2021 -- The Brazilian federal health regulator has rejected importing Russia's Sputnik V COVID-19 vaccine after technical staff pointed to "inherent risks" and said there was a lack of information guaranteeing its safety, quality, and effectiveness.
Russian Vaccine Sputnik V to Be Effective Against Indian Mutation of COVID-19, Developer Says Sputnik 27 Apr 2021 -- Russian vaccine Sputnik V will also be effective against the Indian mutation of the coronavirus, Alexander Gintsburg, director of the Gamaleya Research Centre for Epidemiology and Microbiology of the Russian Health Ministry, told Sputnik.
Russia senses increasing military threat from US, NATO Press TV 27 Apr 2021 -- Russian Defense Minister Sergei Shoigu says actions by the United States and NATO in Europe are contributing to an increased military threat to Russia.
Syria backs Russia's efforts to stand against West's escalatory moves, Assad says Press TV 27 Apr 2021 -- Syrian President Bashar al-Assad says his country supports Russian efforts to confront the escalatory steps taken by certain Western countries and the US-led NATO military alliance to provoke hostilities, especially in the eastern Ukraine region.
Russia expels Italian military diplomat in retaliation People's Daily 27 Apr 2021 -- The Russian Foreign Ministry said on Monday that it is expelling a military attache of the Italian Embassy in Moscow in a retaliatory measure.
Slovak, Baltic Ambassadors 'Summoned To Russia's Foreign Ministry' RFE/RL 27 Apr 2021 -- The Russian Foreign Ministry has summoned the ambassadors of Slovakia and the three Baltic states on April 28, Russian news agencies said on April 27 without reporting a reason.
Kyiv Expels Russian Consul in Odesa In Latest Tit-For-Tat Move RFE/RL 27 Apr 2021 -- Ukraine has declared the Russian consul in the Black Sea port city of Odesa as 'persona non grata' after a second Ukrainian diplomat was kicked out of Russia in an ongoing diplomatic spat between the two countries.
Navalny Groups Vow To Carry On After Moscow Court Suspends 'Certain Activities' RFE/RL 27 Apr 2021 -- A Russian court has approved a motion by prosecutors to suspend some of the activities of jailed opposition politician Aleksei Navalny's Anti-Corruption Foundation (FBK) and his Citizens' Rights Defense Foundation (FZPG).
Prosecutor Seeking 'Extremist' Tag For Navalny Groups Was The Subject Of A Corruption Exposé By Navalny RFE/RL 27 Apr 2021 -- The state prosecutor spearheading a potentially devastating bid to brand Aleksei Navalny's network of organizations "extremist" is no stranger to the Kremlin foe: In 2019, a report by Navalny's Anti-Corruption Foundation (FBK) alleged that the lawman's family controlled undeclared property worth millions of dollars.
Journalists, Activists Under Pressure In Moscow After Navalny Rally RFE/RL 27 Apr 2021 -- Journalists and activists are under pressure in Moscow for being at a rally earlier this month demanding the immediate release of jailed opposition leader Aleksei Navalny.
Russian envoy: JCPOA participants agree on full restoration of nuclear deal IRNA 27 Apr 2021 -- Permanent Representative of Russia to the International Organizations in Vienna Mikhail Ulyanov on Tuesday said that "participants are guided by the unity of purpose which is the full restoration of the nuclear deal in its original form".
Iran, Russia, China call for immediate lifting of all US sanctions against Tehran ISNA 27 Apr 2021 -- Trilateral meeting was held between the heads of Iranian, Chinese and Russian delegations ahead of the resumption of the meetings of the Joint Commission of the JCPOA in Vienna.
Iran, Russia, China: US must lift sanctions all at once as prerequisite to rejoining JCPOA Press TV 27 Apr 2021 -- Heads of the Iranian, Russian and Chinese delegations to the Vienna talks have once again emphasized that the United States must terminate the sanctions it has imposed on the Islamic Republic all at once as a necessary precondition for Washington's return to a landmark 2015 nuclear agreement.
U.K. Imposes First Sanctions From Magnitsky Law, Including 14 Russians RFE/RL 27 Apr 2021 -- The United Kingdom has announced its first round of sanctions under its new global anti-corruption regime, freezing assets and imposing restrictions on 14 individuals from Russia, as well as eight others from different parts of the world.
RDIF to Deliver Sputnik V Vaccine to India, First Doses to Arrive on May 1 Sputnik 26 Apr 2021 -- The Russian Direct Investment Fund (RDIF) will deliver Sputnik V vaccine to India amid a difficult situation with COVID-19, the first doses will arrive on May 1, the fund's CEO Kirill Dmitriev said in an interview with CNN on Monday.
Mexican Minister Visits Russia For Talks On Plan To Bottle Sputnik V RFE/RL 26 Apr 2021 -- Mexico's foreign minister has left for talks in Moscow on a plan to bottle Russia's Sputnik V COVID-19 vaccine in Mexico after delays in the delivery of shipments from Russia.
US Keeping Wary Eye on Russian Troops Near Ukraine VOA 26 Apr 2021 -- U.S. officials are not yet convinced Russia is making good on its word to de-escalate in Crimea and along its border with Ukraine following a weekslong military buildup, insisting it is "too soon to tell."
Russian Opposition Figure Navalny Files Three Lawsuits Against Prison Sputnik 26 Apr 2021 -- A district court in Russia's Vladimir Region has received three lawsuits from opposition activist Alexey Navalny against the prison where he is serving his sentence, he complains about the withdrawal of books, censorship of newspapers, and recognition as a person prone to escape, the court told Sputnik on Monday.
Russia Orders Navalny Offices Shut VOA 26 Apr 2021 -- Russian authorities ordered all offices of jailed opposition leader Alexey Navalny closed Monday as a court reviews a request from state prosecutors to label his Anti-Corruption Foundation an "extremist" group.
Activities At Navalny Offices Suspended By Russian Court RFE/RL 26 Apr 2021 -- The Moscow City Prosecutor's Office has suspended all activities at the offices of jailed opposition politician Aleksei Navalny's headquarters across the country and asked the Moscow City Court to do the same for Navalny's Anti-Corruption Foundation (FBK) and the Citizens' Rights Protection Foundation (FZPG).
Russia Expels Italian Diplomat; Rome Calls Move 'Unfounded And Unjust' RFE/RL 26 Apr 2021 -- Russia has expelled an Italian diplomat over what it said was an "unjustified" move by Rome to expel two Russian diplomats in March.
Romania Declares Russian Deputy Military Attache Persona Non Grata Sputnik 26 Apr 2021 -- Bucharest also summoned Russian Ambassador Valery Kuzmin to notify him of the decision made by the Romanian authorities.
Russia favors internal solution to Myanmar crisis, Kremlin says as Myanmar junta postpones Suu Kyi court Press TV 26 Apr 2021 -- Russia has voiced concern about the situation in Myanmar, saying it favors an internal solution to tension in the wake of a February 1 military coup in the country.
Russia expels Italian diplomat in tit-for-tat move amid espionage charges Press TV 26 Apr 2021 -- Russia has decided to expel an Italian diplomat in a tit-for-tat move following the expulsion of two Russian diplomats from Rome last month over an alleged espionage charge.
Russia Expels Italian Diplomat in Tit-For-Tat Move Sputnik 26 Apr 2021 -- According to an official statement from the Russian Foreign Ministry, a staff member from the Italian Embassy will have to leave the country in 24 hours.
Czech president discounts alleged Russia role in 2014 depot blast Press TV 26 Apr 2021 -- Czech President Milos Zeman has expressed doubts about alleged Russian involvement in the 2014 ammunition dump blast in the central European nation that sparked a major row with Moscow, which fiercely denied the accusation.
Czech Government Rejects President's Comments Casting Doubt On Russian Role In Arms Depot Blast RFE/RL 26 Apr 2021 -- The Czech government on April 26 reiterated that evidence linking Russian GRU military intelligence to arms depot explosions in 2014 is "very convincing," after President Milos Zeman cast doubt over allegations that have sparked a deep diplomatic rift with Russia.
Czech Defense Ministry Says Vrbetice Warehouses Did Not Store Banned Weapons Sputnik 26 Apr 2021 -- The Czech Defense Ministry on Monday rejected reports that the warehouses in Vrbetice that blew up in 2014 stored illegal weaponry.
Romania To Expel Russian Diplomat Amid Prague-Moscow Dispute Over Arms Depot Blast RFE/RL 26 Apr 2021 -- Romania says it is expelling a Russian diplomat, the latest European country to do so amid a diplomatic dispute between Moscow and Prague over Russia's alleged role in a deadly 2014 explosion at a Czech arms depot.
Ukrainian Spy Who Tried to Obtain S-300 Parts Sentenced to 10 Years in Russian Prison Sputnik 26 Apr 2021 -- Ukraine itself still uses several dozen S-300 systems although the models are older than those utilised by Russia. It is unclear, however, why the spy was trying to obtain the parts and if they were for newer versions of the air defence system.
Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov's answer to question from the Moscow. Kremlin. Putin programme, Moscow, April 25, 2021 Russia Ministry of Foreign Affairs 25 Apr 2021
Russia Reports 8,780 New COVID-19 Cases SPA 25 Apr 2021 -- Russia reported 8,780 new coronavirus cases on Sunday, including 2,526 in Moscow, taking the national tally to 4,762,569 since the start of the pandemic, according to Reuters.
Czech President Says There Are Two Theories On 2014 Arms Depot Blast RFE/RL 25 Apr 2021 -- Czech President Milos Zeman has said there are two theories about what caused the 2014 arms depot blast that has sparked a severe diplomatic rift with Russia, and that both must be investigated.
German Foreign Minister Rejects More Sanctions On Russia Over Navalny Situation RFE/RL 25 Apr 2021 -- German Foreign Minister Heiko Maas has rejected additional EU sanctions against Russia over the situation of imprisoned opposition leader Alexsei Navalny.
Top Kremlin Aide Signals Possible Biden-Putin Summit In June RFE/RL 25 Apr 2021 -- Russian President Vladimir Putin may hold a summit with his U.S. counterpart Joe Biden in June, a top Kremlin aide said on April 25.
Russia Reports 8,828 New COVID-19 Cases, 399 Deaths SPA 24 Apr 2021 -- Russia reported 8,828 new coronavirus cases on Saturday, including 2,541 in Moscow, which took the national tally to 4,753,789 since the start of the pandemic, Reuters reported.
China reveals moon station plan with Russia, openness on Space Day Global Times 24 Apr 2021 -- In the latest show of China's consistent open-mindedness in the space sector, China National Space Administration and its Russian counterpart issued a joint declaration on cooperation in the creation of the International Lunar Research Station (ILRS), with the two sides emphasizing the facility is open to all international partners interested in cooperation, the CNSA disclosed to the Global Times on Saturday, which marked the Space Day of China 2021.
China, Russia emphasize international cooperation in establishing Lunar station with joint declaration Global Times 24 Apr 2021 -- In the latest show of China's consistent open-mindedness in the space sector, China National Space Administration and its Russian counterpart issued a joint declaration on cooperation in the creation of the International Lunar Research Station (ILRS), with the two sides emphasizing the facility is open to all international partners interested in cooperation, the CNSA disclosed to the Global Times on Saturday, which marked the Space Day of China 2021.
Putin signs decree on countermeasures against 'unfriendly' countries Press TV 24 Apr 2021 -- Russian President Vladimir Putin has signed a decree on countermeasures against countries that take "unfriendly" actions towards Russia as a diplomatic row escalates between Moscow and some European states.
EU 'Rejects' Russian Labeling Of Meduza Media Outlet As 'Foreign Agent' RFE/RL 24 Apr 2021 -- The European Union has dismissed Russian authorities' labeling of Latvia-based independent news outlet Meduza as a "foreign agent" and urged Moscow to end its "systematic infringement" of basic rights and freedoms for the political opposition and other Russians.
Coup Plots, Poison, Hacking, Sabotage: What Is The GRU's Unit 29155? RFE/RL 24 Apr 2021 -- On March 20, 2012, a decree signed by Defense Minister Anatoly Serdyukov was published by the Russian government. The decree set out a system of payments to military servicemen "for special achievements in the service."
Russia reports 8,840 new COVID-19 cases, 398 deaths SPA 23 Apr 2021 -- Russia reported 8,840 new COVID-19 cases on Friday, including 2,502 in Moscow, taking the national tally to 4,744,961 since the pandemic began, Reuters reported.
Russia's FSB Detains Members Of Islamic Group In Siberia RFE/RL 23 Apr 2021 -- Security authorities in the Siberian cities of Kemerovo and Novosibirsk say they have apprehended an unspecified number of alleged supporters of the banned Hizb ut-Tahrir Islamic group.
US, West Wary of Russian Claims That Military Buildup Near Ukraine Is Over VOA 23 Apr 2021 -- Claims that Russian troops are beginning to pull back from positions in Crimea and along the Russian border with Ukraine are being met with caution in the West, where officials are demanding that Moscow be more transparent and refrain from additional saber-rattling.
Russia Announces Start Of Troop Pullback From Occupied Crimea RFE/RL 23 Apr 2021 -- Russia says it has started moving troops from the annexed Ukrainian region of Crimea to their permanent bases following a major buildup around the areas of eastern Ukraine that had raised concerns in Kyiv and the West.
The Week In Russia: A Tale Of Two Countries RFE/RL 23 Apr 2021 -- President Vladimir Putin stuck to a familiar narrative of unity in his annual address, while crowds of protesters demanding imprisoned Kremlin opponent Aleksei Navalny's release told a different story. Doctors urged Navalny to end his hunger strike, saying it could soon lead to "the saddest outcome."
Russian Opposition Leader Navalny to End Hunger Strike VOA 23 Apr 2021 -- Russian opposition leader Alexei Navalny announced Friday he is ending his hunger strike after he was examined by a panel of civilian doctors.
Navalny Says He Will End Hunger Strike RFE/RL 23 Apr 2021 -- Jailed Russian opposition politician Navalny says he is ending a hunger strike he launched last month over his medical treatment in prison saying he had "achieved enough."
'No One Is Leaving': Navalny's Backers Defiant As Threat Of 'Extremist' Label Looms RFE/RL 23 Apr 2021 -- Few if any of the workers and volunteers in structures tied to imprisoned Russian opposition leader Aleksei Navalny was surprised earlier this month when prosecutors in Moscow began procedures aimed to officially label them "extremist organizations."
Russia Labels Meduza Media Outlet As 'Foreign Agent' RFE/RL 23 Apr 2021 -- The Russian government has designated the Latvia-based independent Meduza news outlet as a foreign agent - a move that will require it to label itself as such and will subject it to increased government scrutiny.
Putin willing to discuss bilateral ties with Ukraine president in Moscow 'any time' Press TV 23 Apr 2021 -- Russian President Vladimir Putin has expressed willingness to invite his Ukrainian counterpart to discuss bilateral ties amid a military escalation between the two sides near Ukraine's southern borders and the Crimean Peninsula.
Putin Signs Decree on Measures to Influence Unfriendly Actions of Foreign States Sputnik 23 Apr 2021 -- Russian President Vladimir Putin signed a decree on the application of measures of influence on unfriendly actions of foreign states, the Kremlin said on Friday.
Russia summons Polish ambassador, expels five diplomats Press TV 23 Apr 2021 -- The Russian Foreign Ministry has summoned Poland's ambassador to protest his country's expulsion of Russian diplomats, informing him of Moscow's decision to respond in kind.
Press release on retaliatory measures following the expulsion of Russian diplomats from Poland Russia Ministry of Foreign Affairs 23 Apr 2021 -- "On April 23, Krzysztof Krajewski, the Ambassador of Poland to Moscow, was summoned to the Foreign Ministry whose officials lodged a resolute protest in connection with an unjustified decision to declare three officials of the Russian Embassy in the Republic of Poland personae non gratae under an absurd pretext of solidarising with the United States that groundlessly claims that the Russian Federation is involved in cyberattacks on US territory."
Moscow Pledges Response After Baltic States Expel Russian Diplomats in Solidarity With Prague Sputnik 23 Apr 2021 -- This comes against the backdrop of a diplomatic row between Prague and Moscow which has resulted in the mutual expulsion of embassy staff and reduction of employees in both capitals.
Russia asks Czech embassy to cut employees in retaliation People's Daily 23 Apr 2021 -- The Russian Foreign Ministry on Thursday demanded the Czech embassy in Moscow reduce the number of employees shortly after Prague made a mirror-like decision.
Moscow, Prague To Keep Equal Number Of Staff At Each Other's Embassies, Says Czech Foreign Minister RFE/RL 23 Apr 2021 -- Czech Foreign Minister Jakub Kulhanek says the number of people that will be allowed by Prague and Moscow at their respective embassies will be 32, as tensions between the two continue to simmer over Russia's alleged role in a deadly 2014 explosion at a Czech arms depot.
Tajikistan Says It Didn't Issue Passport Allegedly Used By Russian Agent Implicated In Czech Blast RFE/RL 23 Apr 2021 -- Tajik authorities say they didn't issue a passport that was allegedly used in 2014 by a Russian agent implicated in a deadly arms depot explosion in the Czech Republic.
Moscow Expels Five Polish Diplomats After Russians Expelled By Warsaw RFE/RL 23 Apr 2021 -- Russia has expelled five staff members at Poland's embassy in Moscow in a tit-for-tat move after Warsaw declared three Russian diplomats in Poland personae non gratae for violating their diplomatic status.
Russian Military Court Sentences Former Top Security Agent To Prison For Massive Fraud RFE/RL 23 Apr 2021 -- A Moscow military court on April 22 sentenced a former senior officer in the Federal Security Service (FSB) to seven years in prison after he and two others were caught with tens of millions of dollars worth of cash in 2019.
Briefing by Foreign Ministry Spokeswoman Maria Zakharova, Moscow,April 22, 2021 Russia Ministry of Foreign Affairs 22 Apr 2021
Meeting with President of Belarus Alexander Lukashenko President of Russia 22 Apr 2021
Turkey to Start Using Russian Vaccine Sputnik V Soon, Health Minister Says Sputnik 22 Apr 2021 -- Turkey will soon start using the Russian coronavirus vaccine Sputnik V, the country's health minister, Fahrettin Koca, said on Thursday.
Ukraine's President Says Russian Troop Pullback Eases Tensions VOA 22 Apr 2021 -- Ukraine's president said Thursday that Russia's troop reduction near the Ukraine border was reducing tensions between the countries but cautioned his country must remain alert.
Russia Orders Troops Back To Permanent Bases After Drills In Annexed Crimea RFE/RL 22 Apr 2021 -- Moscow says it has ordered its troops to start returning to their permanent bases following extensive military drills in southern Russia and in and around the occupied Ukrainian region of Crimea, which Moscow annexed in March 2014.
Ukraine urges West to act to deter potential Russian military action Press TV 22 Apr 2021 -- The Ukrainian foreign minister has called on Kiev's Western allies to consider imposing a new round of sanctions on Moscow to deter potential Russian military action against his country.
NATO on End of Military Drills in Southern Russia: Steps Towards De-Escalation Important Sputnik 22 Apr 2021 -- NATO believes that "any steps" towards de-escalation are important, a NATO official said on Thursday, when commenting on the Russian Defence Ministry's announcement on the conclusion of military drills in the country's south.
Putin says Russia to continue modernization of weapons People's Daily 22 Apr 2021 -- Russia is continuously strengthening its armed forces by modernizing weaponry, President Vladimir Putin said Wednesday in his annual state-of-the-nation address to the Federal Assembly.
Slovakia Expels Three Employees of Russian Embassy in Solidarity With Czech Republic Sputnik 22 Apr 2021 -- Three employees of the Russian embassy in Bratislava need to leave Slovakia within one week in light of the situation in the Czech Republic, Slovak Prime Minister Eduard Heger said on Thursday.
Navalny Ally Urges Him to End Hunger Strike VOA 22 Apr 2021 -- An ally of jailed Kremlin critic Alexei Navalny has urged Navalny to end his hunger strike, which is in its third week.
Russia Will Face Sanctions If Navalny Dies, France Says VOA 22 Apr 2021 -- French Foreign Minister Jean-Yves Le Drian said Thursday that Russia and President Vladimir Putin will face sanctions if opposition leader Alexey Navalny dies.
Navalny Expresses 'Pride And Hope' After Protests As Concerns About His Health Mount RFE/RL 22 Apr 2021 -- Imprisoned Russian opposition leader Aleksei Navalny has expressed "pride and hope" after nationwide demonstrations calling for his release amid reports his health is deteriorating.
Concerns relating to the detention of Alexey Navalny: UK statement UK FCDO 22 Apr 2021 -- Ambassador Neil Bush raises UK concerns about Mr Alexey Navalny's deteriorating health and calls for his immediate and unconditional release.
Freedom of the media in the Russian Federation: UK-Canada statement UK FCDO 22 Apr 2021 -- Ambassador Neil Bush raises concerns about the erosion of independent media and critical voices in Russia at the OSCE Permanent Council.
Kremlin Explains Russia's 'Red Lines' Are Related to National Interests Sputnik 22 Apr 2021 -- On Diplomatic Row With Prague
Putin warns West of harsh response to unfriendly acts People's Daily 22 Apr 2021 -- Russia vowed on Wednesday to quickly respond to unfriendly acts by the West, spare no effort to deal with the COVID-19 pandemic and continue its weapons development, Russian President Vladimir Putin said during his 17th State of the Nation Address in Moscow.
Prague-Moscow Tensions Escalate As Czechs Slash Russian Embassy Staff And Slovakia Expels Diplomats RFE/RL 22 Apr 2021 -- The Czech Republic has said it wants more Russian diplomats to leave the country and neighboring Slovakia has decided to eject three Russian Embassy staff in solidarity, as tensions between Prague and Moscow escalate over Russia's alleged role in a deadly 2014 explosion at a Czech arms depot.
'Very Dubious': Data Shows Alleged Russian Agents In Bulgaria Around Time Of Arms-Depot Blasts RFE/RL 22 Apr 2021 -- On the evening of March 21, 2015, around 7:30 p.m., the skies over Iganovo burst into fiery shades of red and orange, and the windows of homes in the tiny Bulgarian village rattled and shook.
Diplomatic Row Between Moscow, Prague Intensifies VOA 22 Apr 2021 -- The Czech Republic on Thursday ordered Russia to remove more staff from its Prague embassy, in a growing spat between the two countries.
North Atlantic Council statement in solidarity with the Czech Republic NATO 22 Apr 2021
FSB Says Detained Russian National for Leaking Sensitive Military Data to Ukraine Sputnik 22 Apr 2021 -- The Russian Federal Security Service (FSB) announced on Thursday the detention of a Russian citizen in the city of Sevastopol on suspicion of leaking information about the activities of the Black Sea Fleet to Ukraine.
Russian Arrested In Crimea Accused Of Spying For Ukraine RFE/RL 22 Apr 2021 -- A Russian national suspected of spying for Ukraine has been arrested in the Russian-occupied region of Crimea.
In Moscow Talks, Putin And Lukashenka Praise Progress On Union State RFE/RL 22 Apr 2021 -- Belarusian strongman Alyaksandr Lukashenka has met in Moscow with Russian President Vladimir Putin, seeking Russia's continued support amid ongoing protests triggered by last year's widely disputed presidential election.
Russia starts major military drills in Crimean Peninsula as Ukraine tensions mount Press TV 22 Apr 2021 -- Russia has launched major military exercises in the Crimean Peninsula under the personal supervision of Defense Minister Sergei Shoigu near the southern borders of Ukraine amid exacerbating tensions between Moscow and Kiev.
Comment by Foreign Ministry Spokeswoman Maria Zakharova on the US State Department's report 2021 Adherence to and Compliance with Arms Control, Nonproliferation, and Disarmament Agreements and Commitments Russia Ministry of Foreign Affairs 21 Apr 2021 -- On April 15, the US Department of State published the regular report 2021 Adherence to and Compliance with Arms Control, Nonproliferation, and Disarmament Agreements and Commitments. The report's lack of any conclusive evidence, its dissemination of blatantly false accusations and suppression of Washington's own imperfect compliance with arms control, nonproliferation and disarmament agreements relegate it to the category of information noise.
Iran embassy receives 6th 'Sputnik V' consignment IRNA 21 Apr 2021 -- The Iranian Embassy in Moscow received the fifth consignment of 'Sputnik V' vaccine on Wednesday which includes 620,000 doses.
Russia Records 8,271 New Cases of Coronavirus SPA 21 Apr 2021 -- Russia recorded 8,271 new cases of the novel coronavirus, 399 deaths and 9,644 recoveries during the past 24 hours.
Czechs Round Up Suspects Allegedly Planning To Join Russia-Backed Fighting In Ukraine RFE/RL 21 Apr 2021 -- The Czech national unit to combat organized crime has detained at least five Czechs suspected of planning to travel to eastern Ukraine to fight alongside Russia-backed separatists against a backdrop of rising tensions between Prague and Moscow.
Russian defense chief concerned about NATO "provocation" in Black Sea People's Daily 21 Apr 2021 -- The United States and other members of the North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO) continue "provocative activities" in the airspace and waters of the Black Sea, Russian Defense Minister Sergei Shoigu said Tuesday.
Russia restricts flights over Black Sea, Crimea, as Ukraine tensions mount Press TV 21 Apr 2021 -- Russia has restricted civilian flights over the Black Sea and the Crimean Peninsula, amid rising tensions with Ukraine and its Western supporters.
Russia accuses US, NATO of 'provocative activities' in Black Sea Press TV 21 Apr 2021 -- Russia has accused the United States and NATO of "provocative activities" in the waters and the airspace of the strategic Black Sea.
Presidential Address to the Federal Assembly President of Russia 21 Apr 2021 -- The President of Russia delivered the Address to the Federal Assembly. The ceremony took place at the Manezh Central Exhibition Hall.
Putin Warns Nations of 'Crossing Red Line' with Russia VOA 21 Apr 2021 -- Russian President Vladimir Putin is warning foreign rivals against provocation or testing the nation's strength, insisting Russia's response would be "asymmetric, fast, and tough."
Putin vows 'harsh' response to anyone crossing Russia's 'red lines' Press TV 21 Apr 2021 -- President Vladimir Putin has warned Russia's rival powers against threatening his country, vowing a tough response to anyone who crosses Moscow's 'red lines.'
'Red Lines' And Rosy Promises: Five Takeaways From Putin's State-Of-The-Nation Speech RFE/RL 21 Apr 2021 -- President Vladimir Putin thundered about Russia's "red lines" in warnings aimed westward, extolled the virtues of parenthood, elaborately hailed the country's response to the COVID-19 pandemic, and called for cash support for citizens struggling with stagnant incomes.
In Tit-For-Tat Move, Russia Expels 10 U.S. Embassy Workers In Moscow RFE/RL 21 Apr 2021 -- Russia has declared 10 employees at the U.S. Embassy in Moscow to be personae non gratae in what it called a "mirror" response to Washington's expulsion earlier this month of 10 Russian diplomats and wide-ranging sanctions as it moved to hold the Kremlin accountable for actions against the United States and its interests.
'Red Lines,' Coup Attempts and Zircon Missiles: Highlights of Putin's Address to Federal Assembly Sputnik 21 Apr 2021 -- The president's annual address, given to members of the two houses of Russia's parliament, plus members of the cabinet, regional governors, and various distinguished guests, outlines his views on the state of the nation, and establishes guidelines for the country's foreign and domestic policy in the year to come.
Russia Will Find a Way to Protect Its Interests If Other Countries Refuse Dialogue, Putin Says Sputnik 21 Apr 2021 -- The president's remarks come amid a new round of tensions between Russia and the West, including fresh sanctions against Moscow by Washington, claims about cyberattacks and election meddling, and mutual recriminations over the escalating civil conflict in Ukraine.
Amid Heightened Tensions With West, Putin Uses Address To Warn Against Foreign 'Provocations' RFE/RL 21 Apr 2021 -- Russian President Vladimir Putin used his 17th annual state-of-the-nation address to a joint session of the Russian parliament to issue threats against what he called foreign provocations, vowing amid several widening rifts with the West that Moscow would respond in a harsh and swift way.
Press release on summoning US Deputy Head of Mission to Foreign Ministry Russia Ministry of Foreign Affairs 21 Apr 2021 -- On April 21, Deputy Chief of Mission of the US Embassy Bart Gorman was summoned to the Russian Ministry of Foreign Affairs, where he was handed a note saying that 10 US Embassy employees in Moscow had been declared persona non grata. These people have been ordered to leave the Russian Federation before the end of the day on May 21.
'Ultimatums Won't Work': Moscow Brushes Aside Prague's Threat to Expel More Russian Diplomats Sputnik 21 Apr 2021 -- On Saturday, Czech Foreign Minister Hamacek announced the expulsion of 18 Russian diplomats on suspicion of being officers of Russia's special services. They were obliged to leave the country within 48 hours.
UN Experts: Russian Dissident Navalny's Life in 'Serious Danger' VOA 21 Apr 2021 -- United Nations human rights experts said Wednesday that jailed Russian opposition leader Alexey Navalny's life is in "serious danger" and appealed to Moscow to allow Navalny to seek emergency medical treatment in another country.
Over 1,000 Navalny Supporters Detained As Protests Roll Across Russia RFE/RL 21 Apr 2021 -- Russian police have detained more than 1,000 people across the country as they took part in protests demanding the release of jailed opposition leader Aleksei Navalny amid reports his health is failing as he enters the third week of a hunger strike.
Russia: Rights experts call for immediate medical evacuation of Alexei Navalny UN News 21 Apr 2021 -- Experts appointed by the UN Human Rights Council called on Wednesday for the urgent medical evacuation of detained Russian opposition figure Alexei Navalny, fearing he is in "serious danger" due to deteriorating health and harsh prison conditions.
U.S. Report Says Russia Among 'Worst Violators' Of Religious Freedom RFE/RL 21 Apr 2021 -- An independent, bipartisan advisory body has reiterated its call for the U.S. State Department to add Russia to its register of the world's "worst violators" of religious freedom, a blacklist that already includes Iran, Pakistan, Tajikistan, Turkmenistan, and six other countries.
Prague Gives Moscow Ultimatum As Diplomatic Spat Escalates RFE/RL 21 Apr 2021 -- The Czech Republic has warned Moscow that it will expel more Russian diplomats unless Czech Embassy staff ejected from Russia are allowed to return to work by noon on April 22.
Moscow Court Upholds Lengthy Prison Sentences Of Couple Convicted Over Wedding Photo RFE/RL 21 Apr 2021 -- A court in Russia has upheld lengthy prison sentences handed down to a couple convicted on high treason charges that stemmed from a wedding photo that included an officer of the Federal Security Service (FSB).
Russia reports 8,164 new COVID-19 cases, 379 deaths SPA 20 Apr 2021 -- Russia reported 8,164 new COVID-19 cases on Tuesday, including 1,996 in Moscow, taking the official national tally since the pandemic began to 4,718,854, according to Reuters.
Argentina Starts Production of Sputnik V, Will Be Able to Export It in Region, RDIF Says Sputnik 20 Apr 2021 -- Argentina became the first Latin American country to start production of the Russian coronavirus vaccine Sputnik V, which can be exported to countries in Central and Latin America in the future, the Russian Direct Investment Fund (RDIF) said in a statement.
Telephone conversation with President of Cuba Miguel Diaz-Canel Bermudez President of Russia 20 Apr 2021
Ukraine Calls For 'Painful' Sanctions On Russia In Response To Military Buildup RFE/RL 20 Apr 2021 -- Ukrainian Foreign Minister Dmytro Kuleba has called for a new round of economic sanctions on Moscow to make it clear that there will be "dire consequences" if it continues its buildup of Russian troops near the border with Ukraine and in Crimea.
Russian airstrikes destroy terrorist base in Syria People's Daily 20 Apr 2021 -- The Russian Aerospace Forces launched airstrikes against a terrorist training base near Syria's Palmyra, killing up to 200 militants, the Russian military said Monday.
Russian jets hit terror base near Syria's Palmyra, kill 200 terrorists Press TV 20 Apr 2021 -- Russian aircraft target a terrorist stronghold near the western Syrian city of Palmyra, killing up to 200 terrorists and afflicting considerable material damages on them.
Russian fighter intercepts U.S., Norwegian military planes over Barents Sea People's Daily 20 Apr 2021 -- A Russian MiG-31 fighter intercepted U.S. and Norwegian patrol planes above the Barents Sea on Monday, the Russian Defense Ministry said.
Danish, German, Finnish Fighters Escorted Russian Missile Carriers Tu-160s Over Baltic Sea Sputnik 20 Apr 2021 -- Germany, Denmark and Finland scrambled their fighters to escort two Russian missile carriers Tu-160, nicknamed "White Swans," over the Baltic Sea, the Russian Defense Ministry said on Tuesday.
Putin-Biden meeting depends on 'US behavior': Russian diplomat Press TV 20 Apr 2021 -- A senior Russian diplomat says the time and venue for a possible meeting between Russia's President Vladimir Putin and his US counterpart, Joe Biden, remains unclear and largely hinges on Washington's behavior.
US ambassador to Russia 'to return to Washington for consultations' amid tensions Press TV 20 Apr 2021 -- US ambassador to Moscow John Sullivan has said he would travel to Washington this week for consultations, after the Kremlin suggested that he do so amid a diplomatic crisis between the two countries.
U.S. Ambassador To Moscow Returning To Washington 'For Consultations' Amid Rising Tensions RFE/RL 20 Apr 2021 -- U.S. Ambassador to Russia John Sullivan says he will be returning to the United States for consultations this week amid rising tensions between Washington and Moscow.
In Urging A 'Final Battle' With The Kremlin, Navalny's Team Bets Against Apathy RFE/RL 20 Apr 2021 -- Allies of ailing, imprisoned Kremlin critic Aleksei Navalny have not held back in delineating the stakes of their latest standoff with the Russian state. A wave of protests planned for April 21, they say, represents the "final battle between good and neutrality."
Doctors Turned Away From Russian Prison Without Seeing 'Skeleton' Navalny RFE/RL 20 Apr 2021 -- A team of doctors seeking to examine Russian opposition leader Aleksei Navalny has again been turned away from the prison where he is being treated at an infirmary, amid concerns his health is failing badly as he ends the third week of a hunger strike.
Doctors Say They Were Denied Access to Kremlin Critic Navalny VOA 20 Apr 2021 -- Doctors associated with jailed Kremlin critic Alexey Navalny say they have been barred from seeing him, despite reports he is seriously ill from an ongoing hunger strike.
Russian Prosecutor Blasted For Calling Navalny Organizations 'Extremist' RFE/RL 20 Apr 2021 -- Human Rights Watch (HRW) has sharply criticized a "scandalous" request by Russian prosecutors to have the Anti-Corruption Foundation of imprisoned opposition politician Aleksei Navalny banned as an "extremist" organization.
Russia brushes off US threats of repercussions over Navalny health Press TV 20 Apr 2021 -- Russia has brushed off US threats of "consequences" over the health condition of opposition figure Alexei Navalny, warning the West against making "provocative" calls for street rallies in his support.
Russia expels two Bulgarian diplomats in tit-for-tat move over spying allegations Press TV 20 Apr 2021 -- Russia has expelled two Bulgarian diplomats in retaliation for Sofia's recent call on two Russian diplomats to leave the country over alleged espionage activities.
Russia Expels Two Bulgarian Diplomats In Spy Dispute RFE/RL 20 Apr 2021 -- Russia on April 20 declared two Bulgarian diplomats "personae non gratae" in a tit-for-tat response to Sofia's expulsion of two Russian diplomats last month over suspected espionage.
Czech Media Reveals Third Russian 'Suspect' in Ammo Depot Blast Probe Sputnik 20 Apr 2021 -- Czech investigators have identified a third man suspected of being involved in the 2014 ammunition depot blasts in Vrbetice, along with Alexander Petrov and Ruslan Boshirov, the Seznam media outlet reported, citing a source close to the probe.
Czech Republic Urges EU, NATO Allies to Retaliate Against Russia Over 2014 Explosion VOA 20 Apr 2021 -- The Czech Republic is urging European and NATO allies to take joint retaliatory action against Russia following accusations that Russian spies were behind a huge explosion at a Czech arms depot in 2014. They claim the spies were also part of a special unit that tried to assassinate a double agent in Britain.
Prague Asks Allies For 'Solidarity Expulsions' In Diplomatic Dispute With Moscow Over Depot Blast RFE/RL 20 Apr 2021 -- The Czech Republic has called on fellow European Union and NATO members for "solidarity" action to support it amid a diplomatic spat between Prague and Moscow over Czech claims that Russian military agents were behind a deadly 2014 explosion at a Czech arms depot.
Czech PM's Remarks On 2014 Blasts Trigger Outrage, Underscore Split Over Russia Ties RFE/RL 20 Apr 2021 -- Revelations that two Russian spies accused of a nerve-agent poisoning in Britain in 2018 may have been behind earlier explosions at a Czech ammunition depot that killed two people sparked outrage and anger in the Czech Republic.
Russia reports 8,589 New Coronavirus Cases, 346 deaths SPA 19 Apr 2021 -- Russia reported 8,589 new coronavirus cases in the last 24 hours on Monday, including 2,279 in the capital Moscow, taking the national tally to 4,710,690.
RDIF: Sputnik V's Efficacy at 97.6% Based on Data Analysis of 3.8 Mln Vaccinated Russians Sputnik 19 Apr 2021 -- The efficacy of the Russian coronavirus vaccine Sputnik V reached 97.6 percent, based on the analysis of data pertaining to post-vaccination infection percentage among vaccinated Russians, the Gamaleya National Research Centre of Epidemiology and Microbiology and the Russian Direct Investment Fund (RDIF) announced on Monday.
EU: Russian Troop Buildup Along Ukraine, Crimea Highest Ever VOA 19 Apr 2021 -- The European Union says roughly 150,000 Russian troops are massed along the border of Ukraine and in Crimea — calling it the highest such military deployment.
Ukraine Tensions Reignite Russian-Turkish Battle over Waterway VOA 19 Apr 2021 -- Russia is continuing to build up its naval presence in the Black Sea, and The Sunday Times newspaper, quoting British naval sources, said Britain is also deploying two warships to beef up NATO's presence, as tensions over Ukraine escalate.
Ukraine, France, Germany, And Russia Meet To Discuss Leaders Summit RFE/RL 19 Apr 2021 -- Top advisers to the leaders of Ukraine, Russia, France, and Germany will hold consultations on April 19 to chart a path for a possible summit aimed at easing tensions in eastern Ukraine.
Russia's Intention to Restrict Navigation in parts of the Black Sea US Dept. of State 19 Apr 2021 -- The United States expresses its deep concern over Russia's plans to block foreign naval ships and state vessels in parts of the Black Sea, including near occupied Crimea and the Kerch Strait.
Bigger Than 2014: US Calls Out Russian Military Buildup Along Ukraine Border VOA 19 Apr 2021 -- The United States renewed concerns about Russian military maneuvers along its border with Ukraine, charging that Moscow has now massed more troops in the area than when it invaded and seized Crimea seven years ago.
Russian Forces Destroyed Terrorists' Shelters Northeast of Syria's Palmyra, Up to 200 Militants Dead Sputnik 19 Apr 2021 -- Militants created a camouflaged base northeast of Syria's Palmyra, where groups were formed for terrorist attacks and explosive devices were made. Russian Aerospace Forces planes have hit these targets, Rear Adm. Alexander Karpov, deputy head of the Russian Center for Reconciliation of Warring Parties in Syria, said on Monday.
US-Backed Syrian Forces Hand Over 34 Children of IS Fighters to Russia VOA 19 Apr 2021 -- Authorities in northeast Syria handed over 34 children of Islamic State fighters in Syria to the Russian government, Kurdish officials said Sunday.
Russia Ready to Attract Foreign Partners to Project of New Space Station, Deputy Prime Minister Says Sputnik 19 Apr 2021 -- Russia is ready to involve other countries in the project to create a new space station, but is ready to finance it on its own, Deputy Prime Minister Yury Borisov said on Monday.
Navalny Transferred From Prison to Hospital for Inmates, Russian Detention Authority Says Sputnik 19 Apr 2021 -- A medical panel has made a decision to transfer Russian opposition figure Alexei Navalny from the prison where he is serving his sentence on financial misconduct charges to a local hospital for convicts, the Russian Federal Penitentiary Service announced on Monday.
Hunger-Striking Russian Opposition Leader Navalny Moved to Prison Hospital VOA 19 Apr 2021 -- Russian prison officials said Monday that hunger-striking, jailed opposition politician Alexey Navalny has been transferred to a prison hospital.
Lawyer Sees Navalny At Prison Hospital, Warns He Looks 'Bad' RFE/RL 19 Apr 2021 -- A lawyer for jailed opposition politician Aleksei Navalny, who is in the third week of a hunger strike, says his client looks "bad," raising further concerns over the Kremlin critic's health after he was transferred to a correctional facility hospital amid intensifying pressure from the West.
Public Banned From Court In Case Against Navalny's Foundation RFE/RL 19 Apr 2021 -- A Moscow court has banned the public from a hearing in a case brought by Russian prosecutors to label jailed Kremlin critic Aleksei Navalny's anti-corruption organization and its regional offices as "extremist" organizations.
Former Navalny Coordinator In St. Petersburg Detained Ahead Of Rallies RFE/RL 19 Apr 2021 -- The former coordinator of opposition leader Aleksei Navalny's team in Russia's second-largest city, St. Petersburg, has been detained two days before announced rallies to demand the Kremlin critic's release from prison amid reports his health is rapidly deteriorating.
Statement by NSC Spokesperson Emily Horne on National Security Advisor Jake Sullivan's Call with Nikolay Patrushev, Secretary of the Russian Security Council The White House 19 Apr 2021
Top U.S., Russian Officials Discuss Possible Biden-Putin Summit Amid Heightened Tensions RFE/RL 19 Apr 2021 -- Amid heightened tensions between Washington and Moscow, U.S. national-security adviser Jake Sullivan has discussed with his Russian counterpart bilateral issues, "regional and global matters of concern," as well as "the prospect of a presidential summit" between the two countries' presidents.
Moscow Says US is Behind Expulsion of Russian Diplomats From Czech Republic Sputnik 19 Apr 2021 -- The United States is behind the expulsion of Russian diplomats from the Czech Republic, and this is related to the thwarted conspiracy to stage a coup in Belarus, Russian Foreign Ministry spokeswoman Maria Zakharova said on Monday.
Moscow sees U.S. influence behind Czech expulsion of Russian diplomats People's Daily 19 Apr 2021 -- Russia says U.S. influence is evident in the Czech Republic's decision to expel 18 Russian diplomats from Prague.
Russia expels 20 Czech diplomats in retaliation People's Daily 19 Apr 2021 -- The Russian Foreign Ministry said Sunday that it is expelling 20 staffers of the Czech embassy in Moscow in response to the expulsion of 18 Russian diplomats from the Czech Republic.
Kremlin says Czech expulsion of its diplomats 'provocative and unfriendly' Press TV 19 Apr 2021 -- The Kremlin has denounced as "provocative and unfriendly" the Czech Republic's expulsion of 18 Russian diplomats for alleged espionage activity.
EU Holds Talks Over Czech Claim That Russia Behind Arms Depot Blast RFE/RL 19 Apr 2021 -- European Union foreign ministers are holding talks over Czech claims that Russian military agents linked to the 2018 Skripal nerve-agent poisoning in Britain were behind an earlier explosion at a Czech arms depot explosion that killed two people.
Russia Did Not Attack Czech Republic in Vrbetice, Prime Minister Babis Says Sputnik 19 Apr 2021 -- The explosion at the ammunition depot in the village of Vrbetice is not about Russia's attack on the Czech Republic, it was an attack by Russian intelligence officers on the goods of a Bulgarian arms dealer, Czech Prime Minister Andrej Babis said on Monday.
Russia Reports 8,632 New Coronavirus Cases SPA 18 Apr 2021 -- Russia reported 8,632 new coronavirus cases in the last 24 hours on Sunday, including 2,252 in the capital Moscow, taking the national tally to 4,702,101, according to Reuters.
Russia Plans to Withdraw From ISS, Deploy Its Own National Space Station Sputnik 18 Apr 2021 -- Russia will exit the International Space Station (ISS) initiative in 2025 and will inform its international partners about that decision, Deputy Prime Minister Yury Borisov told broadcaster Rossiya 1 on Sunday.
Russia is examining the ISS and will decide to withdraw from the project from 2025 TASS 18 Apr 2021 -- Russia will conduct a technical survey of the International Space Station (ISS) and decide to withdraw from the project from 2025, and will warn foreign partners about this.
'Aleksei Is Being Killed': Navalny's Team Calls April 21 Protests Amid Grave Concern Over His Health RFE/RL 18 Apr 2021 -- Washington has threatened "consequences" if hunger-striking jailed opposition leader Aleksei Navalny dies behind prison bars as his allies called for massive protests to pressure Russian officials to relent and allow the Kremlin critic to see an independent doctor after a group of physicians warned over his deteriorating health.
France Not Ruling Out New EU Sanctions Against Russia Over Navalny Sputnik 18 Apr 2021 -- French Foreign Minister Jean-Yves Le Drian said Sunday that the European Union may impose new sanctions against Russia over the situation with Russian jailed opposition activist Alexey Navalny.
Russian Opposition Calls for Protests as Navalny's Health Worsens VOA 18 Apr 2021 -- Allies of jailed Russian opposition politician Alexey Navalny announced nationwide protests for this Wednesday — after the opposition figure's family and personal doctors released blood analysis results that suggested Navalny was at high risk of cardiac arrest or kidney failure barring immediate care.
EU To Meet Over Alleged Russian Links To 2014 Czech Depot Blast, As Russia Warns Of Retaliation RFE/RL 18 Apr 2021 -- The Czech Republic says it has informed NATO and the European Union about Russia's alleged involvement in a deadly ammunition depot explosion in 2014, an accusation Russia called "absurd" and a sign of Washington's influence on Prague.
A Czech Explosion, Russian Agents, A Bulgarian Arms Dealer: The Recipe For A Major Spy Scandal In Central Europe RFE/RL 18 Apr 2021 -- The explosion was massive, blowing out windows of houses kilometers away, leaving a smoldering crater in the eastern Czech forest, not far from the border with Slovakia.
Prague Says Two Suspects in 2014 Vrbetice Explosions Caught on CCTV Sputnik 18 Apr 2021 -- The Czech police caught two men allegedly responsible for the 2014 Vrbetice ammunition depot explosion on CCTV and their identities became clear after the Salisbury incident in 2018, the Czech first deputy prime minister, Jan Hamacek, who is also serving as the foreign minister, said on Saturday.
Moscow Expels 20 Czech Diplomats, Tells Them to Leave by End of 19 April Sputnik 18 Apr 2021 -- The spat between Russia and the Czech Republic became tense after Prague accused Moscow of involvement in an explosion at an ammunition depot in Vrbetice in 2014, where two Czech nationals were killed.
UK supports Czech efforts to expose Russian malign activity UK FCDO 18 Apr 2021 -- The Foreign Secretary condemns the reckless and dangerous actions of the Russian intelligence services in Czech Republic.
UK escalates tensions with Russia as crisis intensifies on the edge of Europe Press TV 18 Apr 2021 -- The UK has seen fit to dramatically escalate tensions with Russia at a time of mounting crisis on the edge of Europe, as demonstrated by the mobilization of Ukrainian and Russian forces.
Moscow says will retaliate hard against expulsion of Russian diplomats from Czech Republic Press TV 18 Apr 2021 -- Moscow says it will retaliate hard against expulsion of Russian diplomats in the Czech Republic, strongly rejecting accusations that Russian intelligence services were behind deadly blasts in the country in 2014.
Czech Republic expels 18 Russian embassy staff, linking 'intel officers' to 2014 depot blast Press TV 18 Apr 2021 -- The Czech Republic has announced the expulsion of 18 Russian embassy staff, alleging that Russian intelligence services were involved in an ammunition depot blast in 2014.
UK warships to sail for Black Sea in May as Ukraine-Russia tensions rise: Sunday Times Press TV 18 Apr 2021 -- The UK's Navy warships will sail for the Black Sea next month amid rising tensions between Ukrainian and Russian forces, the Sunday Times newspaper reported, citing senior naval sources.
UK Warships to Sail for Black Sea in May to 'Show Solidarity' With Kiev, NATO Allies - Report Sputnik 18 Apr 2021 -- Warships from the UK Royal Navy will sail for the Black Sea in May in solidarity with Kiev amid an escalation in the Ukraine crisis, The Sunday Times reports.
Russia reports 9,321 new coronavirus cases, 398 deaths SPA 17 Apr 2021 -- Russia on Saturday reported 9,321 new coronavirus cases over the past 24 hours, including 2,822 in Moscow, taking the national tally to 4,693,469.
Russia summons Ukraine's envoy over 'unlawful activity' of consul Press TV 17 Apr 2021 -- Russia has summoned Ukraine's chargé d'affaires to inform the diplomat about of the expulsion by April 22 of a Ukrainian consul detained on the grounds that he 'obtained classified data' from the databases of Russian law-enforcement agencies and the Federal Security Service (FSB).
Russia Expels Ukrainian Diplomat; Ukraine Responds In Kind RFE/RL 17 Apr 2021 -- Russia has announced that it has expelled a Ukrainian consul in St. Petersburg, Oleksandr Sosoniuk, after detaining the diplomat on suspicion of trying to obtain classified information.
Russian Military Buildup Raises Tensions, Increases Risk Of Broader Conflict Over Ukraine RFE/RL 17 Apr 2021 -- The pieces for a major surge of fighting in the Donbas continue to fall into place, highlighting an escalation of tensions between Russia and Ukraine that could potentially play out on the battlefield.
Czech Republic Expels 18 Russian Diplomats Over Depot Blast; Searches For Skripal Poisoning Suspects RFE/RL 17 Apr 2021 -- The Czech Republic has announced that it is expelling 18 Russian diplomats it considers spies after intelligence agencies concluded that Russian military agents were involved in a massive ammunition depot explosion on Czech soil in 2014.
Ukrainian Consul Detained in St. Petersburg Trying to Obtain Classified Data Sputnik 17 Apr 2021 -- A Ukrainian consul was caught red-handed in St. Petersburg while trying to obtain classified information from a Russian citizen, the Russian Federal Security Service (FSB) said on Saturday.
Russia unveils array of countermeasures to U.S. sanctions People's Daily 17 Apr 2021 -- The Russian Foreign Ministry on Friday announced a series of retaliatory measures, including expulsions of diplomats and entry bans, in response to the recent "hostile actions" of the United States.
Two Russian warships on route to Black Sea amid Ukraine tension Press TV 17 Apr 2021 -- Two Russian warships are on their way to the Black Sea in line with Moscow's military buildup along the border with Ukraine.
In retaliation, Moscow asks 10 American diplomats to leave Russia, advises US envoy to return home Press TV 17 Apr 2021 -- Russia has ordered 10 American diplomats to leave the country after the United States expelled the same number of Russian diplomats over what Washington alleged as malign actions, saying that the US ambassador should also go back home for some consultations.
Doctors Warn That Jailed Russian Opposition Leader Navalny Is In Immediate Risk Of Cardiac Arrest RFE/RL 17 Apr 2021 -- Jailed Russian opposition leader Aleksei Navalny's health has rapidly deteriorated and he could suffer cardiac arrest "any minute," according to doctors demanding immediate access to the prominent Kremlin critic.
Amnesty International Decries Russian Prosecutor's Call To Label Navalny Organizations As 'Extremist' RFE/RL 17 Apr 2021 -- Amnesty International has sharply criticized a request by Russian prosecutors to have the Anti-Corruption Foundation of imprisoned opposition politician Aleksei Navalny banned as an "extremist" organization.
US Reportedly Reserves Option to Expand Sanctions Against Russian Debt, Monitors Moscow's Reaction Sputnik 17 Apr 2021 -- Moscow already added eight former and current American officials to the no-travel list over their involvement in developing the anti-Russian policy in the US. Kremlin also took retaliatory measures against the US diplomatic mission in Russia in response to the latest set of American sanctions.
Comment by Foreign Ministry Spokeswoman Maria Zakharova on Washington's charges that Russia is complicit in the death of US soldiers in Afghanistan Russia Ministry of Foreign Affairs 16 Apr 2021 -- "We noted the charges brought yet again against Russia during a briefing by the White House Press Secretary alleging that Russia had paid remuneration to the Taliban for killing American soldiers in Afghanistan. These charges are based on information that they say has a low to moderate degree of credibility."
NATO, EU Condemn Russia's Plans To Close Parts Of Black Sea For Six Months RFE/RL 16 Apr 2021 -- Russia's reported plans to restrict maritime traffic in parts of the Black Sea for six months as it holds military maneuvers would be "unjustified" and "destabilizing," NATO said on April 16, demanding Moscow allow Ukraine freedom of navigation.
U.S. Sanctions On Russian Debt Still 'More Bark Than Bite,' Analysts Say RFE/RL 16 Apr 2021 -- Campaigning last year, U.S. President Joe Biden promised to be tougher on Russia than his predecessor, and so far he has been taking steps to live up to his words: Since he took office on January 20, the United States has hit the Kremlin with two rounds of sanctions over "harmful" acts carried out by Moscow during Donald Trump's presidential term.
Hunger-Striking Navalny Says Prison Staff Threatened To Force-Feed Him RFE/RL 16 Apr 2021 -- Jailed Russian opposition leader Aleksei Navalny said on April 16 that prison authorities have threatened to put him in a straitjacket to force-feed him unless he halts his hunger strike.
Russian Prosecutors Ask Court To Designate Navalny's Anti-Corruption Network As 'Extremist' RFE/RL 16 Apr 2021 -- Russian prosecutors have asked a Moscow court to label jailed Kremlin critic Aleksei Navalny's anti-corruption organization and its regional offices as "extremist" organizations.
Press release on a ban on entry of certain US citizens into the Russian Federation Russia Ministry of Foreign Affairs 16 Apr 2021 -- In response to the sanctions against Russian officials imposed by the US administration on March 2 of this year, the following incumbent and former US high-ranking officials and figures complicit in pursuing the anti-Russia policy, are denied entry to the Russian Federation:
Foreign Ministry statement on measures in response to hostile US actions Russia Ministry of Foreign Affairs 16 Apr 2021 -- "The latest attack by the Biden administration against our country cannot go unanswered. It seems Washington is unwilling to accept that there is no room for unilateral dictates in the new geopolitical reality. Meanwhile, the bankrupt scenarios for deterring Moscow that the US myopically continues to pursue only promise to further degrade Russian-US relations."
Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov's statement and answers to media questions at a joint news conference with Foreign Minister of the Republic of Serbia Nikola Selakovic, Moscow, April 16, 2021 Russia Ministry of Foreign Affairs 16 Apr 2021
Prosecutor In Moscow Seeks 11 Years In Prison For Former FSB Officer RFE/RL 16 Apr 2021 -- Prosecutors have asked a Moscow military court to sentence a former senior officer of Russia's Federal Security Service to 11 years in prison after he and two others were caught with millions of dollars worth of cash in 2019.
Finland Set to Discuss Sputnik V Purchase After EMA Approval Sputnik 16 Apr 2021 -- The Finnish Health Ministry said on Friday that it is ready to start negotiations with Russia on imports of the Sputnik V COVID-19 vaccine and its production in Finland once it receives approval from the European Medicines Agency (EMA).
Russia reports 8,995 new coronavirus cases, 397 deaths SPA 16 Apr 2021 -- Russia on Friday reported 8,995 new coronavirus cases in the last 24 hours, including 2,476 in Moscow, taking the national tally to 4,684,148.
US, NATO Slam Russian Plan to Block Parts of Black Sea VOA 16 Apr 2021 -- The United States and NATO accused Russia of again ramping up tensions, criticizing Moscow's plans to limit access to the Black Sea and the Kerch Strait for most of the next six months due to military exercises.
NATO Urges Russia to Allow Access to Ukrainian Ports on Sea of Azov Sputnik 16 Apr 2021 -- NATO is concerned about Russia's plans to restrict access to a number of areas of the Black Sea, calls for free access to Ukrainian ports on the Sea of Azov, as well as freedom of navigation, NATO spokesperson Oana Lungescu said on Friday.
Russia urges leaders of France, Germany to help ease Ukraine tensions Press TV 16 Apr 2021 -- Russia has urged the leaders of France and Germany to help stop Ukraine's "provocative" actions in the restive east of the country and to encourage Kiev to observe ceasefire agreements in its long-running conflict with ethnic Russians there.
Ukraine To Consult With France, Germany On Russian Military Buildup RFE/RL 16 Apr 2021 -- French President Emmanuel Macron and German Chancellor Angela Merkel were to hold talks with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy on April 16 in a show of support for Kyiv amid concerns about a buildup of Russian troops along the border with Ukraine and in occupied Crimea.
British spy jet deployed to Black Sea amid tensions with Russia Press TV 16 Apr 2021 -- A British spy aircraft has been dispatched to the Black Sea region to monitor Russian forces on the Ukrainian border, amid simmering tensions between Western countries and Russia over the Ukrainian conflict.
Russian jet fighter intercepts another US spy plane over Pacific Ocean Press TV 16 Apr 2021 -- Russia says a MIG-31 jet fighter has intercepted a US RC-135 strategic reconnaissance plane over the Pacific Ocean while approaching Russia's territorial waters, forcing the spy aircraft to veer off course.
Russia says U.S. has to pay for new sanctions People's Daily 16 Apr 2021 -- Washington must realize that it will "pay a price" for the degradation of U.S.-Russian relations, Russian Foreign Ministry spokesperson Maria Zakharova said Thursday in response to new anti-Russian sanctions and the expulsion of diplomats.
Kremlin says Putin agrees with Biden on need for dialog Press TV 16 Apr 2021 -- The Kremlin says Russian President Vladimir Putin agrees with US President Joe Biden on the importance of dialog, following a proposal by Biden to hold a meeting with his Russian counterpart and as tensions between the United States and Russia ratchet up over a range of issues.
Russia Expels 5 Polish Diplomats in Response to Warsaw's Steps Sputnik 16 Apr 2021 -- In response to Warsaw's actions, Russia will expel five Polish diplomats from the country, the Russian Foreign Ministry said on Friday.
Matching US Sanctions, Russia Expels 10 American Diplomats VOA 16 Apr 2021 -- Russia announced late Friday it will expel 10 U.S. diplomats from Moscow in a tit-for-tat response to Washington's decision to send 10 Russian diplomats packing under a wide-ranging U.S. sanctions package levied against Moscow earlier this week.
Russia To Expel 10 U.S. Diplomats In Tit-For-Tat Response RFE/RL 16 Apr 2021 -- Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov said on April 16 that Moscow will ask 10 U.S. diplomats to leave the country in retaliation for Washington's expulsion of 10 Russian diplomats over alleged election interference, cyberattacks, and other malign actions.
Russia Announces Response Measures to New US Sanctions Sputnik 16 Apr 2021 -- Earlier, Washington slapped new sanctions on Russian individuals, companies, and sovereign bonds on the primary market in response to Moscow's alleged involvement in the SolarWinds hack and purported meddling in the 2020 election.
Biden calls for de-escalation following sanctioning Russia People's Daily 16 Apr 2021 -- U.S. President Joe Biden on Thursday called for de-escalating the tension with Moscow after authorizing multiple sanctions against Russia.
U.S. sanctions Russia, expels diplomats over alleged election interference, cyber hack People's Daily 16 Apr 2021 -- The United States on Thursday imposed sanctions against Russia and expelled 10 diplomats in response to Moscow's alleged election interference and cyber activities.
Russia hits back at UK over 'malign activity' accusation Press TV 16 Apr 2021 -- The UK is attempting to project itself as an "important" global actor in the wake of Brexit by accusing Russia of involvement in "malign activity," the Russian Embassy in London says.
Navalny Exposé Reveals Putin's Hidden Luxuries Ahead Of Protests RFE/RL 16 Apr 2021 -- The team of imprisoned Kremlin critic Aleksei Navalny has published details of what it alleges is a lavish residence belonging to President Vladimir Putin and kept from public view, the latest salvo in the opposition's push to boost expected turnout for planned protests and maintain pressure on the Kremlin ahead of parliamentary elections expected this fall.
The Week In Russia: Just One Minute (Of Freedom) RFE/RL 16 Apr 2021 -- The team of imprisoned Kremlin critic Aleksei Navalny has published details of what it alleges is a lavish residence belonging to President Vladimir Putin and kept from public view, the latest salvo in the opposition's push to boost expected turnout for planned protests and maintain pressure on the Kremlin ahead of parliamentary elections expected this fall.
Briefing by Foreign Ministry Spokeswoman Maria Zakharova, Moscow, April 15, 2021 Russia Ministry of Foreign Affairs 15 Apr 2021
Iran buys 60 million doses Sputnik V COVID-19 vaccine IRNA 15 Apr 2021 -- Iranian Ambassador in Moscow Kazem Jalali said on Thursday that Iran bought 60 million doses of the Sputnik V COVID-19 vaccine from Russia.
Iran Signs Deal To Buy 60 Million Sputnik Vaccine Doses From Russia RFE/RL 15 Apr 2021 -- Iran's ambassador to Moscow says Tehran has signed a contract with Russia to purchase 60 million doses of the Sputnik V COVID-19 vaccine.
Good Science, Bad Marketing? Russia's Sputnik Vaccine Is Plagued By Controversy, Missteps RFE/RL 15 Apr 2021 -- In January, Vasily Vlassov, 67, got sick with COVID-19. He was lucky, the Moscow academic said. His symptoms weren't bad, and he's had no lingering aftereffects.
Russia: Foreign Office summons Russian ambassador UK FCDO 15 Apr 2021 -- The Foreign Office has summoned the Russian ambassador over the SolarWinds cyber attack and its recent malign activity.
Treasury Escalates Sanctions Against the Russian Government's Attempts to Influence U.S. Elections US Treasury 15 Apr 2021 -- Today, the U.S. Department of the Treasury's Office of Foreign Assets Control (OFAC) took sweeping action against 16 entities and 16 individuals who attempted to influence the 2020 U.S. presidential election at the direction of the leadership of the Russian Government.
Russia: UK and US expose global campaign of malign activity by Russian intelligence services UK FCDO 15 Apr 2021 -- The UK and US share US concerns about malign activity by Russia and have attributed a cyber attack to the Russian intelligence service.
Russia: UK exposes Russian involvement in SolarWinds cyber compromise UK FCDO 15 Apr 2021 -- The UK government has for the first time today exposed details of the SVR's cyber programme.
Treasury Sanctions Russian Persons in the Crimea Region of Ukraine US Treasury 15 Apr 2021 -- Today, the U.S. Department of the Treasury's Office of Foreign Assets Control (OFAC) designated five individuals and three entities related to Russia's occupation of the Crimea region of Ukraine and its severe human rights abuses against the local population.
US General Sees 'Low to Medium' Risk of Russian Move on Ukraine VOA 15 Apr 2021 -- The U.S. military commander keeping close watch on Russia's massing of military forces in Crimea and along the border of Ukraine says there is only a "low to medium" likelihood that Moscow's forces will invade.
Ukraine Wants NATO's Action to Match Words on Russia VOA 15 Apr 2021 -- Brussels has been the focus this week of a full court diplomatic offensive by U.S. Secretary of State Tony Blinken who arrived earlier this week and Secretary of Defense Lloyd Austin who landed in Belgium Wednesday for his first in-person meeting since the coronavirus pandemic began with NATO Secretary-General Jens Stoltenberg.
Russia stresses solution to Ukraine crisis should be peaceful Press TV 15 Apr 2021 -- Russia has stressed that the crisis in Ukraine should be resolved peacefully, as the United States and other NATO countries deploy military personnel and equipment to the country, where government forces are fighting ethnic Russians in the east.
Russia will give 'inevitable' response to new US sanctions: Moscow Press TV 15 Apr 2021 -- The Kremlin says there will be an "inevitable" response to a fresh round of sanctions imposed by the United States against Russia, as a result of which Moscow has summoned the American ambassador in protest at the provocative move.
North Atlantic Council Statement following the announcement by the United States of actions with regard to Russia NATO 15 Apr 2021 -- NATO Allies support and stand in solidarity with the United States, following its 15 April announcement of actions to respond to Russia's destabilising activities. Allies are taking actions individually and collectively to enhance the Alliance's collective security.
Remarks by President Biden on Russia The White House 15 Apr 2021
Holding Russia To Account US Dept. of State 15 Apr 2021 -- "Today, we announced actions to hold the Russian Government to account for the SolarWinds intrusion, reports of bounties on U.S. soldiers in Afghanistan, and attempts to interfere in the 2020 U.S. elections."
Treasury Sanctions Russia with Sweeping New Sanctions Authority US Treasury 15 Apr 2021 -- Today, the U.S. Department of the Treasury took multiple sanctions actions under a new Executive Order (E.O.) targeting aggressive and harmful activities by the Government of the Russian Federation. Treasury's actions include the implementation of new prohibitions on certain dealings in Russian sovereign debt, as well as targeted sanctions on technology companies that support the Russian Intelligence Services' efforts to carry out malicious cyber activities against the United States.
Background Press Call by Senior Administration Officials on Russia The White House 15 Apr 2021
A Letter on Blocking Property with Respect to Specified Harmful Foreign Activities of the Government of the Russian Federation The White House 15 Apr 2021
Executive Order on Blocking Property with Respect to Specified Harmful Foreign Activities of the Government of the Russian Federation The White House 15 Apr 2021
FACT SHEET: Imposing Costs for Harmful Foreign Activities by the Russian Government The White House 15 Apr 2021
US Further Punishes Russia for Cyberattacks, Election Meddling VOA 15 Apr 2021 -- The United States cannot allow a foreign power to intervene with impunity in American elections, President Joe Biden said Thursday, after he took action to punish Russia for that and a major cyberattack.
U.S. To Expel 10 Russian Intel Officers, Target Debt With Sanctions RFE/RL 15 Apr 2021 -- U.S. media reports say sanctions looming against Russia in retaliation for alleged election interference and hacking will include the expulsion of 10 intelligence officers from the United States as well as targeting all Russian debt issued after April 14.
U.S. Expels Russian Diplomats, Targets Debt Market As Kremlin Vows Retaliation RFE/RL 15 Apr 2021 -- The United States has imposed wide-ranging sanctions on Russia in retaliation for election interference, cyberattacks, and what Washington described as Moscow's other "harmful" foreign activities.
Poland Expels Three Russian Diplomats In 'Solidarity' With U.S. RFE/RL 15 Apr 2021 -- Poland has ordered three Russian diplomats to leave the embassy in Warsaw in what it said was an act of solidarity with the United States.
Poland Expels Three Employees of Russian Embassy in Warsaw Sputnik 15 Apr 2021 -- Three employees of the Russian Embassy in Poland were declared personae non-gratae, the Polish Foreign Ministry said.
Biden administration imposes sweeping sanctions on Russia Press TV 15 Apr 2021 -- The administration of US President Joe Biden has announced sweeping sanctions against Russia accusing it of being involved in a recent major cyber espionage operation against the United States.
Navalny Ally Sobol Handed One-Year Suspended Sentence For Trespassing RFE/RL 15 Apr 2021 -- Lyubov Sobol, a lawyer for jailed opposition politician Aleksei Navalny's Anti-Corruption Foundation (FBK), has been handed a one-year suspended sentence of correctional labor for trespassing in what she described as a decision designed to silence her.
'Criminal In A Cassock': Russian Clergy Quarrel Over Navalny After A Priest Speaks Out In His Support RFE/RL 15 Apr 2021 -- Since his return to Russia and subsequent jailing in January, opposition politician Aleksei Navalny has been the subject of heated debates amid a wave of criminal cases and harassment against those who publicly endorse him.
Meeting of Russian Geographical Society Board of Trustees Kremlin.ru 14 Apr 2021 -- Vladimir Putin: " Indeed, even during World War II our soldiers, as we know from Soviet literature and films, called American canned meat 'the Second Front.' Speaking of canned meat, lend-lease supplies met 80 percent of our needs. We must give credit where credit is due, it was quite a bit."
Bipartisan U.S. Task Force Highlights Strategy To Counter Russia, Other 'Autocratic Regimes' RFE/RL 14 Apr 2021 -- A bipartisan U.S. task force has published a road map for a foreign policy and national-security strategy prioritizing the advancement of democracy and the fight against authoritarianism in China, Russia, and elsewhere.
Postponement of US troop withdrawal violates Washington-Taliban deal: Russia Press TV 14 Apr 2021 -- A recent decision by Washington to reschedule the withdrawal of US troops from Afghanistan will hinder the peace process and violate the deal with the Taliban, a senior Russian official says.
Biden calls on Russia to de-escalate on Ukraine in call with Putin People's Daily 14 Apr 2021 -- U.S. President Joe Biden on Tuesday called on Russia to de-escalate its tensions with Ukraine in his phone call with Russian President Vladimir Putin, the White House said.
Germany Says Russia Seeking To 'Provoke' With Troop Buildup At Ukraine's Border RFE/RL 14 Apr 2021 -- Germany has accused Russia of seeking provocation with its troop buildup in the occupied Crimean Peninsula and along the border with Ukraine, while rejecting Moscow's claim that it was responding to threats from NATO.
US Committed to 'Assisting Ukraine With Its Self-Defense Needs', Pentagon Chief Says Sputnik 14 Apr 2021 -- The United States is committed to assisting Ukraine with its defense needs, US Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin said on Wednesday.
Members Of Navalny's Team Detained In Southern Russian City Of Krasnodar RFE/RL 14 Apr 2021 -- Police in the Russian city of Krasnodar have detained several members of the local team of jailed opposition politician Aleksei Navalny for unclear reasons amid ongoing crackdown on the network of Navalny's teams across the country.
Russian Investigative Journalist Says Raids, Interrogation Intended To Find 'Something Else' RFE/RL 14 Apr 2021 -- Prominent investigative journalist Roman Anin believes that the newfound attention paid by Russian authorities to him and his media organization differs from the official line, and that recent raids on his home and office -- and his subsequent interrogation -- were in response to recent critical coverage of high-profile business and security figures.
Aide Of Former Putin Envoy Gets More Than 12 Years In Prison On High Treason Charge RFE/RL 14 Apr 2021 -- Aleksandr Vorobyov, who worked as an assistant to President Vladimir Putin's envoy to the Urals region, has been sentenced to 12 1/2 years in prison on a charge of high treason.
Russian FM says all U.S. sanctions against Iran must be removed People's Daily 14 Apr 2021 -- Visiting Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov said here on Tuesday that all the U.S. sanctions against Iran should be removed unconditionally, according to official IRNA news agency.
Statement by the Co-Chairs of the OSCE Minsk Group OSCE 13 Apr 2021 -- The Co-Chairs of the OSCE Minsk Group (Igor Popov of the Russian Federation, Stephane Visconti of France, and Andrew Schofer of the United States of America) released the following statement today:
The National Regulator grants Permission for Restricted Use in Emergency Situations to Sputnik-V vaccine India PIB 13 Apr 2021 -- The Union Government has been leading the fight against COVID-19 with a proactive and 'Whole of Government' approach, with focus on containment, surveillance, testing, COVID Appropriate Behaviour and vaccination.
India Approves Russian Vaccine While Battling Devastating COVID Surge VOA 13 Apr 2021 -- India has approved Russia's Sputnik V vaccine for emergency use against COVID-19 as the country battles a devastating second wave of the pandemic.
India Approves Russia's Sputnik COVID Vaccine RFE/RL 13 Apr 2021 -- India has granted emergency use authorization for Russia's Sputnik V COVID-19 vaccine, giving the nation of 1.3 billion people a third shot as it faces vaccine shortages and an intensifying second wave of the virus.
Russia says US, NATO turning Ukraine into 'powder keg' Press TV 13 Apr 2021 -- Russia says the United States and other NATO countries are deliberately turning Ukraine into a "powder keg" by increasing arms supplies to Kiev and inflaming tensions in the country's volatile east.
Russia warns Turkey, other states against fueling militarization in Ukraine Press TV 13 Apr 2021 -- Russia has warned Turkey against fueling the Ukrainian government's "never-ending militarization sentiments," amid speculation that Kiev may be planning to launch a new offensive against the Russian-speaking Donbass region in Ukraine.
Biden Warns Putin on Russian Troop Buildup Near Ukraine VOA 13 Apr 2021 -- U.S. President Joe Biden told Russian President Vladimir Putin in a phone call Tuesday that the United States is concerned about Moscow's "sudden … military buildup" along Ukraine's border and in occupied Crimea. He called on Russia to "deescalate tensions," the White House said in a summary of the conversation.
Readout of President Joseph R. Biden, Jr. Call with President Vladimir Putin of Russia The White House 13 Apr 2021
In Call With Putin, Biden Urges De-Escalation At Ukrainian Border, Proposes Summit RFE/RL 13 Apr 2021 -- U.S. President Joe Biden has urged his Russian counterpart to take measures to ease mounting tensions with Ukraine and proposed a summit between the two leaders in a third country as Washington and NATO reaffirmed their support for Kyiv.
Navalny's Wife Says Growing More Concerned For Russian Opposition Leader On Hunger Strike RFE/RL 13 Apr 2021 -- The wife of jailed Russian opposition politician Aleksei Navalny says she is growing more concerned over his health as the toll of prison life and a hunger strike mounts.
Navalny's Health Deteriorating From Hunger Strike VOA 13 Apr 2021 -- Alexey Navalny, a critic of Russian President Vladimir Putin who has been jailed for several months, is reportedly suffering the effects of his hunger strike, according to his wife, who visited him Tuesday.
Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov's statement and answers to media questions at a joint news conference following talks with Foreign Minister of the Islamic Republic of Iran Mohammad Javad Zarif, Tehran, April 13, 2021 Russia Ministry of Foreign Affairs 13 Apr 2021
Russia says all sanctions on Iran should remove quickly IRNA 13 Apr 2021 -- Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov said here on Tuesday that all sanctions on Iran have to be lifted with no waste of time.
Moscow, Tehran cooperating closely to ensure JCPOA fully implemented: Lavrov Press TV 13 Apr 2021 -- Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov says Moscow is closely cooperating with Tehran in order to ensure that the 2015 Iran nuclear deal will get back on track and be fully implemented.
US Intelligence Warns China, Russia Determined to Erode Washington's Influence VOA 13 Apr 2021 -- The global coronavirus pandemic has done little to stop adversaries, especially China, from targeting the United States and making gains at the country's expense, according to a newly unveiled U.S. intelligence assessment.
Russia records 8,702 new COVID-19 cases People's Daily 12 Apr 2021 -- Russia confirmed 8,702 new coronavirus infections over the past 24 hours, taking the nationwide tally to 4,641,390, the official monitoring and response center said Sunday.
G7 Foreign Ministers' Statement on the Situation Along Ukraine's Borders US Dept. of State 12 Apr 2021 -- The text of the following statement was released by the G7 foreign ministers of Canada, France, Germany, Italy, Japan, the United Kingdom and the United States of America and the High Representative of the European Union.
Two Ukrainian soldiers killed in fresh clashes in troubled east amid rising Kiev-Moscow tensions Press TV 12 Apr 2021 -- Two Ukrainian soldiers have been killed during fresh clashes with pro-Russia forces in the restive eastern part of the country amid rising tensions between Kiev and Moscow over the latter's military build-up on the border.
Ukraine Says Russia Ignoring Calls For Dialogue Amid Rising Tensions RFE/RL 12 Apr 2021 -- Ukraine says it has requested talks with Russia to discuss escalating tensions in eastern Ukraine but has yet to receive an answer, prompting warnings from the West, including calls by Washington for Moscow to explain its actions at an upcoming security meeting.
What Russia Wants from Ukraine VOA 12 Apr 2021 -- Two US warships are expected to arrive in the Black Sea this week as a demonstration of the Biden administration's support for Ukraine as fears mount that Russian President Vladimir Putin is contemplating an assault on his neighbor.
One Day After Navalny's Team Established In Daghestan, Whereabouts Of Coordinator Unknown RFE/RL 12 Apr 2021 -- The coordinator of a team of Daghestani activists associated with imprisoned Russian opposition politician Aleksei Navalny went incommunicado in the North Caucasus region on April 12, a day after he announced the inception of the group.
Lavrov: Iran, Russia work closely to ensure full implementation of JCPOA IRNA 12 Apr 2021 -- Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov on Monday said that Moscow and Tehran cooperate closely to make sure that the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action aka JCPOA be implemented fully.
EU, Russia, Germany warn against efforts to undermine nuclear talks after Natanz incident Press TV 12 Apr 2021 -- The European Union has warned against attempts to derail talks aimed at reviving a landmark 2015 nuclear deal signed between Iran and major world powers after a terrorist attack by Israel on Iran's Natanz nuclear site.
Russia Reports 8,702 New COVID-19 Cases SPA 11 Apr 2021 -- Russia reported on Sunday 8,702 new COVID-19 cases, including 2,090 in Moscow, taking the national infection tally to 4,641,390 since the pandemic began, according to Reuters.
Russian fighter intercepts U.S. reconnaissance plane over Pacific Global Times 11 Apr 2021 -- A Russian MiG-31 fighter intercepted a U.S. reconnaissance plane above the Pacific Ocean on Saturday, the Russian Defense Ministry said.
U.S. Warns Of 'Consequences' If Russia 'Acts Recklessly' In Ukraine RFE/RL 11 Apr 2021 -- The United States has warned of "consequences" if Russia "acts recklessly or aggressively" toward Ukraine amid concerns over Moscow's troop buildup near Ukraine's borders.
Turkey's Erdogan vows 'all forms of support' to Ukraine amid tensions with Russia Press TV 11 Apr 2021 -- Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan has said his country, a NATO member, is ready to provide "all forms of support" for Ukraine amid rising tensions between Moscow and Kiev over the long-running conflict in Donbass.
Erdogan Calls For End To 'Worrying' Developments In East Ukraine After Meeting Zelenskiy RFE/RL 10 Apr 2021 -- Turkish President Tayyip Erdogan called for an end to what he described as "worrying" developments in eastern Ukraine's Donbas region after meeting with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy on April 10.
Russia warns of full-scale war in Ukraine's east amid tensions with Kiev Press TV 10 Apr 2021 -- Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov has warned of a full-scale war in eastern Ukraine amid heightened tensions with Kiev.
Russia intercepts US spy aircraft near eastern border Press TV 10 Apr 2021 -- Russia says it has dispatched a fighter jet to intercept a US spy aircraft which was violating the country's airspace, as reports said Washington was considering a military buildup in the Black Sea.
U.K. Coroner Rules Exiled Russian Critic Of Putin Was Strangled RFE/RL 10 Apr 2021 -- A British coroner has determined that an exiled Russian critic of President Vladimir Putin was strangled to death by "a third party" at his home in a southwest suburb of London.
Navalny's Treatment Amounts To 'Targeted Torture,' Say German Lawmakers RFE/RL 10 Apr 2021 -- Members of the German Bundestag have described the treatment of Russian opposition leader Aleksei Navalny as "targeted torture" and demanded the European Committee for the Prevention of Torture review the conditions of his detention.
Russia Seen Advancing SE Asian Ambitions Through Myanmar Generals VOA 10 Apr 2021 -- Analysts say Russia is increasing arms sales to Myanmar's military and steadfastly standing by Myanmar's coup leader, General Min Aung Hlaing, an alliance they say will further Moscow's foreign policy ambitions across Southeast Asia through future weapons sales.
Russia Needs to Answer Questions Regarding Military Buildup Near Ukraine DoD News 09 Apr 2021 -- After numerous questions about a Russian buildup in Crimea and along the eastern border of Russia with Ukraine, Pentagon Press Secretary John F. Kirby finally got a bit exasperated and told Pentagon reporters that "these are great questions to put to [Defense Minister Sergey] Shoygu in Moscow."
US, Allies Question Moscow's Motives Near Ukraine VOA 09 Apr 2021 -- The United States is accusing Russia of hiding the true intent of its military buildup along the border with Ukraine following consultations with allies about heightening tensions in the region.
Watchdog Calls On Russia To End Information 'Black Hole' In Nagorno-Karabakh RFE/RL 09 Apr 2021 -- Reporters Without Borders (RSF) is calling on Russia to stop denying entry to foreign reporters in the South Caucasus disputed region of Nagorno-Karabakh, and is urging the United Nations and Council of Europe to ensure respect for the right to the freedom to inform.
U.S. "increasingly concerned" by Russian military buildup along Ukraine border People's Daily 09 Apr 2021 -- The White House said on Thursday that the United States is "increasingly concerned" by Russian troop movements on its border with Ukraine, noting Russia now has more troops along the border than any time since 2014.
Kyiv's Western Backers Call On Russia To Calm Tensions In Eastern Ukraine RFE/RL 09 Apr 2021 -- U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken discussed with the French and German foreign ministers the need for Russia to stop its military buildup in the occupied Crimean Peninsula and near Ukraine's borders, its "provocations" in eastern Ukraine, and its "inflammatory rhetoric," according to the State Department.
Russians, American Reach ISS Aboard Spacecraft 'Gagarin' RFE/RL 09 Apr 2021 -- A Russian spacecraft carrying two Russians and an American has docked with the International Space Station (ISS) after a flight honoring the anniversary of Soviet cosmonaut Yuri Gagarin becoming the first human to reach space 60 years ago next week.
Russia: US military provoking tensions in Arctic Press TV 09 Apr 2021 -- Russia says its activities in the Arctic do not pose a threat to any country, and that the United States military is escalating tensions in the resource-rich region by conducting provocations.
Russia sends warships to Black Sea amid US buildup in Ukraine Press TV 09 Apr 2021 -- Russia is sending more than 10 navy vessels, including landing boats and artillery warships, from the Caspian Sea to the Black Sea to take part in naval drills near the country's borders with Ukraine, Interfax reports.
The Week In Russia: The Sound Of Rattling Sabers RFE/RL 09 Apr 2021 -- Military movements and bellicose talk on state TV raise concerns about the Kremlin's intentions regarding Ukraine again, seven years after the seizure of Crimea and the start of a war in the Donbas. Meanwhile, the condition of Russia's most prominent prisoner, Aleksei Navalny, causes growing concern.
'No Medical Help': Navalny's Plight Spotlights 'Very Serious Problem' Of Health Care In Russia's Prisons RFE/RL 09 Apr 2021 -- "I have trouble breathing. I can't catch my breath and have trouble understanding things," said businessman Boris Shpigel, who is suspected of bribing the former governor of Russia's Penza region, at a court hearing on April 6. "I'm in great pain…. My stomach hurts and I can't catch my breath."
Pro-Navalny Rally Participant Gets Over Three Years In Russian Prison RFE/RL 09 Apr 2021 -- A court in Moscow has sentenced a man to 3 1/2 years in prison on a criminal charge of attacking a police officer during January 31 rallies in support of opposition politician Aleksei Navalny.
Telephone conversation with President of Turkey Recep Tayyip Erdogan President of Russia 09 Apr 2021 -- President of the Russian Federation Vladimir Putin had a telephone conversation with President of the Republic of Turkey Recep Tayyip Erdogan.
U.S. Intel Report Predicts Russia Will Be Declining But 'Disruptive Power' Over Next Two Decades RFE/RL 09 Apr 2021 -- Russia will likely remain a “disruptive power” for the next two decades, but its global influence may decline in the face of numerous political, economic, and societal headwinds, according to a U.S. intelligence report released on April 8.
Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov's statement and answers to media questions at a joint news conference with Deputy Prime Minister – Foreign Minister of Kazakhstan Mukhtar Tleuberdi, Nur-Sultan, April 8, 2021 Russia Ministry of Foreign Affairs 08 Apr 2021
German State Signs Agreement For Sputnik Purchase Pending Regulatory Approval RFE/RL 08 Apr 2021 -- The German state of Bavaria has signed an agreement to buy 2.5 million doses of Russia's Sputnik V coronavirus vaccine once it is approved by European regulators.
Russia Demands Slovakia Return Sputnik Vaccine After Regulator Cites Discrepancies RFE/RL 08 Apr 2021 -- The backer of Russia's Sputnik V vaccine has demanded that Slovakia return thousands of doses after the country's drug regulator said the doses received differed from those being reviewed by the European Union's drug overseer.
Putin accuses Ukraine of provocation, 'purposefully exacerbating' situation in Donbass Press TV 08 Apr 2021 -- Russian President Vladimir Putin says the Ukrainian government is "purposefully exacerbating" the situation in the southeastern parts of its own territory through provocative actions.
Russia Received No Official Notification From US Regarding Open Skies Treaty, FM Lavrov Says Sputnik 08 Apr 2021 -- Russia has not received any official notifications from the United States regarding its position on the Open Skies Treaty, Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov said on Thursday.
Navalny Has Two Herniated Disks, Numbness In His Hands, Attorney Says RFE/RL 08 Apr 2021 -- An attorney for jailed Russian opposition politician Aleksei Navalny says the Kremlin critic has two herniated disks in his back and has started to lose feeling in his hands.
Russian Opposition Leader's Spokeswoman, Others Placed Under House Arrest RFE/RL 08 Apr 2021 -- The Moscow City Court has remanded Kira Yarmysh, spokeswoman of jailed opposition politician Aleksei Navalny, under house arrest.
Former Siberian Mayor Rejects All Charges As Corruption Trial Starts RFE/RL 08 Apr 2021 -- TOMSK, Russia -- The former mayor of the Siberian city of Tomsk, Ivan Klyain, has rejected charges of abuse of office and illegal business activities at the start of his trial.
US pres. eyes Russia retaliation after review of 'hacking, meddling' Press TV 08 Apr 2021 -- US President Joe Biden is considering "retaliatory actions" against Russia as his administration officials have completed an intelligence review of alleged Russian election interference and hacking, a US media report says.
Russian, Belarusian Currencies Fall As Political, Diplomatic Tensions Rise RFE/RL 08 Apr 2021 -- The closely linked Russian and Belarusian currencies have weakened sharply amid an ongoing slew of seemingly unrelated political and diplomatic challenges for the two post-Soviet neighbors.
The Guns Of April: Six Questions About The New Russia-Ukraine Tensions RFE/RL 07 Apr 2021 -- Train convoys of heavy Russian military equipment, seen on multiple videos on social media, reportedly shipping from Siberia to the border regions of Ukraine.
Report: EU Drug Regulator To Probe Russian Clinical Trials Of Sputnik V Vaccine RFE/RL 07 Apr 2021 -- The European Union's drug regulator will investigate the Russia's clinical trials of the Sputnik V vaccine and whether those tests followed "good clinical practices," the Financial Times reported.
NATO membership would exacerbate Ukraine's crisis, Russia warns Press TV 07 Apr 2021 -- Russia has warned that Ukraine's potential accession to the Western military alliance of NATO would exacerbate the ongoing conflict in the Russian-speaking east of the country.
NATO membership would exacerbate Ukraine's crisis, Russia warns Press TV 07 Apr 2021 -- Russia has warned that Ukraine's potential accession to the Western military alliance of NATO would exacerbate the ongoing conflict in the Russian-speaking east of the country.
Navalny Tests Negative For COVID, Losing Weight From Hunger Strike, Says Lawyer RFE/RL 07 Apr 2021 -- Jailed Russian opposition politician Aleksei Navalny is losing about 1 kilogram a day, his lawyer said, as he continues his hunger strike amid growing concerns about his overall health after he reported a severe cough and high temperature.
Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov's remarks and answers to media questions at a joint news conference with Foreign Minister of the Islamic Republic of Pakistan Makhdoom Shah Mahmood Qureshi, Islamabad, April 7, 2021 Russia Ministry of Foreign Affairs 07 Apr 2021
Russia, Pakistan Agree to Boost Military Cooperation Against Terror, Sea Piracy VOA 07 Apr 2021 -- Russia reaffirmed Wednesday it will enhance security cooperation with Pakistan by strengthening the South Asian nation's "potential" to fight terrorism, which is to include supplying Islamabad with the "relevant military" hardware.
In Pakistan, Russia's Lavrov Pledges Bilateral Boost To Combat Terrorism RFE/RL Gandhara 07 Apr 2021 -- Visiting Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov said in Islamabad on April 7 that Russia will provide unspecified military equipment to Pakistan as the two countries increase cooperation to fight terrorism.
Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov's statement and answers to media questions at a joint news conference following talks with Minister of External Affairs of India Subrahmanyam Jaishankar, New Delhi, April 6, 2021 Russia Ministry of Foreign Affairs 06 Apr 2021
Russia Reports 8,328 New COVID-19 cases SPA 06 Apr 2021 -- Russia reported 8,328 new COVID-19 cases on Tuesday, including 1,747 in Moscow, taking the official national tally to 4,597,868.
US military claims to be monitoring Russian activities in Arctic Press TV 06 Apr 2021 -- The Pentagon says it is closely monitoring Russian activities and infrastructure build-ups in the Arctic, indicating that the United States is anxious about increasing Russian presence in the region.
U.S. Military Says It's Watching Russia's Arctic Moves 'Very Closely' RFE/RL 06 Apr 2021 -- The Pentagon says it is watching Russia's military activities in the Arctic "very closely" as signs mount of Moscow's ongoing efforts to boost its presence in and around its northernmost territories.
U.S. Calling on Russia to Lower Tensions With Ukraine, DOD Official Says DoD News 06 Apr 2021 -- The United States is calling on Russia to respect the territorial integrity and sovereignty of Ukraine and not provoke or increase tensions, said the Pentagon press secretary.
Western Public Support For Ukraine Mounts Amid Russian Buildup Near Border RFE/RL 06 Apr 2021 -- Western expressions of support for Ukraine are growing amid an uptick in violence and an increased Russian troop presence across the border that have heightened concerns of a widening conflict.
UK pledges to support Kiev in face of 'destabilizing' Russian actions Press TV 06 Apr 2021 -- In a telephone call with Ukrainian President, Volodymyr Zelensky, British Prime Minister, Boris Johnson, has affirmed his government's "unwavering support" for "Ukraine's sovereignty and territorial integrity" in the face of alleged Russian military movements in the Crimea and on the Russia-Ukrainian border.
Russia holds emergency talks with US over Ukraine's Donbass region Press TV 06 Apr 2021 -- Russian and US diplomats have held unscheduled bilateral talks to discuss ways of averting any potential clashes in eastern Ukraine, where a military buildup has occurred.
Head Of Russian Doctors' Alliance Detained While Seeking To Examine Ailing Navalny RFE/RL 06 Apr 2021 -- Police have detained the head of the Russian Alliance of Doctors outside a prison after she attempted to seek permission to examine jailed opposition politician Aleksei Navalny after he was moved to a sick ward with a severe cough and temperature amid reports of a possible tuberculosis outbreak in the facility.
Report: Jailed Russian Opposition Leader Navalny Hospitalized VOA 06 Apr 2021 -- Jailed Russian opposition politician Alexey Navalny has been moved to a prison hospital and tested for the coronavirus, Russian media reported. His hospitalization came Monday, just hours after he released a statement on social media in which he alleged a tuberculosis outbreak in the prison and complained of a heavy cough and high fever.
Russia's Top Diplomat In Pakistan To Discuss Afghan Peace Process RFE/RL Gandhara 06 Apr 2021 -- Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov arrived in Pakistan on April 6 for a two-day trip expected to focus on efforts to bring peace to neighboring Afghanistan.
Russia's Lavrov in Pakistan to Discuss Bilateral Ties, Afghan Peace VOA 06 Apr 2021 -- Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov began a two-day official visit Tuesday to Pakistan amid growing diplomatic, economic, and military ties between the two countries.
Russia Fines TikTok In Latest Challenge To Global Social Media Over Protests RFE/RL 06 Apr 2021 -- A Russian court has ordered a fine against the popular video-sharing application TikTok in the country's latest major dispute with a global social platform over content allegedly related to political protests.
Putin signs law allowing him to run for 2 more terms People's Daily 06 Apr 2021 -- Russian President Vladimir Putin on Monday signed a bill into law enabling the incumbent head of state to run for two more terms starting 2024.
Russia warns sanctions against Myanmar's junta could spark civil war Press TV 06 Apr 2021 -- Russia has warned against imposing sanctions on Myanmar's military, saying punitive measures could spark a full-blown civil war in the Southeast Asian country following the recent coup there.
RDIF, India's Panacea Biotec Agree to Produce 100Mln Sputnik V Doses in India per Year Sputnik 05 Apr 2021 -- The Russian Direct Investment Fund (RDIF) announced on Monday that it agreed with India's Panacea Biotec to produce 100 million doses of Russia's Sputnik V vaccine against the coronavirus in India annually.
Risk to Contract COVID-19 Remains for 3 Weeks After 2nd Sputnik V Shot, Developer Says Sputnik 05 Apr 2021 -- The possibility of getting infected with the coronavirus remains 3 weeks after receiving second shot of Sputnik V vaccine, however, the disease manifests itself only with mild symptoms in such cases, Alexander Gintsburg, the head of the Russian Gamaleya Research Institute, which developed vaccine, said.
DOD Closely Monitoring Russian Activities in Arctic DoD News 05 Apr 2021 -- Russian military activities and infrastructure build-ups in the Arctic are not going unnoticed, the Pentagon press secretary said.
Comment by Foreign Ministry Spokeswoman Maria Zakharova on US and British plans to deploy land-based intermediate- and shorter-range missiles Russia Ministry of Foreign Affairs 05 Apr 2021 -- "Pentagon officials have been making increasingly more statements during the past few weeks on practical actions to create and deploy land-based intermediate- and shorter-range missiles, which were previously prohibited under the INF Treaty which Washington has destroyed, around the world as soon as possible."
Moscow warns US, UK against missile deployment, vows military response Press TV 05 Apr 2021 -- Moscow has warned that plans by the United States and Britain to deploy ground-based short and intermediate-range missiles in the Indo-Pacific region are making the prevention of "serious escalation" difficult.
Moscow Not Ruling Out Military Measures in Response to Missile Threats Arising from the West Sputnik 05 Apr 2021 -- The Russian Foreign Ministry's statement comes amid reported plans by the Pentagon to deploy intermediate-range missiles.
Russia's military moves pose no threat to Ukraine, any other country: Moscow Press TV 05 Apr 2021 -- Russia says its military activities in the vicinity of the common border with Ukraine pose no threat whatsoever to Ukraine or any other country, stressing, however, that Moscow is always mindful of its own security.
Putin signs law allowing him to hold office for two more terms Press TV 05 Apr 2021 -- Russian President Vladimir Putin has signed a law that would allow him to stay in office for two more terms until the year 2036.
Putin Signs Constitutional Changes That Allow Him To Rule Until 2036 RFE/RL 05 Apr 2021 -- Russian President Vladimir Putin has signed into law a controversial bill that opens the door for him to potentially remain in power until 2036.
Navalny Says Third Cellmate Hospitalized With Suspected Tuberculosis RFE/RL 05 Apr 2021 -- Jailed Kremlin critic Aleksei Navalny says a third prisoner in his quarters has been sent to the hospital with suspected tuberculosis since his arrival last month.
Russia Backs Down From Threat To Ban Twitter, But Will Slow It Until Mid-May RFE/RL 05 Apr 2021 -- Russia's state communications regulator has backed down from banning Twitter amid a dispute over content on its platform.
Russia Backs Off Plan to Block Twitter, Extends Slowdown VOA 05 Apr 2021 -- Russia Monday backed off a threat to block Twitter inside the country but said it will continue to slow down the social media site until mid-May.
Russia to Respond to Ukrainian Sanctions in Line With National Interests, Kremlin Says Sputnik 05 Apr 2021 -- Russia will respond to Ukraine's new sanctions in a manner that best suits the nation's interests, Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov said on Monday.
Russia's Sputnik V ensures quick recovery if COVID-19 confirmed: Developer Press TV 04 Apr 2021 -- The developer of Russia's Sputnik V coronavirus vaccine has ensured speedy recovery without severe symptoms in case of infection with COVID-19 after news broke out that the Argentine president tested positive for the contagious disease a few months after receiving the Russian jab.
Sputnik V Light Vaccine Halves Chance of COVID-19 Infection, Gamaleya Institute Head Says Sputnik 04 Apr 2021 -- The single-shot Sputnik V Light version of the Russian vaccine against coronavirus decreases the chance of infection by 50-60 percent, Alexander Gintsburg, director of the Gamaleya research institute behind the vaccine, said on Sunday.
Sputnik V Developer Says Getting COVID Possible After Jab, But Rules Out Severe Outcomes Sputnik 03 Apr 2021 -- Symptoms reported by Argentine President Alberto Fernandez are a flu-like syndrome, and those vaccinated with the coronavirus vaccine Sputnik V can still develop it, but are protected from severe consequences, Gamaleya research institute director Alexander Gintsburg told Sputnik.
Russia Extends Space Cooperation With U.S. Until 2030 RFE/RL 03 Apr 2021 -- Russia's government has extended a space cooperation agreement with the United States until 2030, one of the few remaining partnerships between Moscow and Washington amid spiraling relations.
Russian Military Satellite Breaks Up Over Pacific, US Air Force Reports Sputnik 03 Apr 2021 -- Russian military satellite Kosmos 2525, which was launched in 2018, has descended from orbit and broken up over the Pacific Ocean, according to US Air Force data, published at space-track.org.
U.S. Adds Russian To FBI Most-Wanted List For Alleged Theft Of Industrial Secrets RFE/RL 03 Apr 2021 -- A Russian defense industry executive and alleged intelligence officer has been added to the FBI's most-wanted list for his alleged involvement in the theft of trade secrets from a U.S. aviation company.
German Defence Minister Cites 'Russia's Behaviour' to Justify Boosting Military Spending Sputnik 03 Apr 2021 -- Germany should invest in its own security to effectively confront challenges, including those coming from Russia, Defence Minister Annegret Kramp-Karrenbauer told the RND media group.
Russia's COVID-19 Death Toll Tops 225,000, Putting It Third-Highest Globally RFE/RL 02 Apr 2021 -- The number of Russians who have died from the coronavirus has surpassed 225,000, the nation's statistics agency reported on April 2.
Russia Optimistic About Rising Demand As OPEC+ Agrees To Increase Oil Output RFE/RL 02 Apr 2021 -- The OPEC+ group of oil producing countries, led by Saudi Arabia and Russia, has agreed to increase oil output gradually over the next months.
Kremlin warns of escalation if more NATO troops deployed to Ukraine Press TV 02 Apr 2021 -- The Kremlin has warned NATO that any plan to deploy more troops to Ukraine to buttress its ally would further escalate tensions near Russia's borders.
US-led attempts to start new war in Donbass could destroy Ukraine: Russia Press TV 02 Apr 2021 -- Russia has warned that that any attempts spearheaded by the West to start a new military conflict in Ukraine's war-torn east would culminate in the destruction of Ukraine.
Biden Holds First Call With Ukrainian President Amid Concerns Over Russian Military Buildup RFE/RL 02 Apr 2021 -- U.S. President Joe Biden spoke with his Ukrainian counterpart for the first time since taking office more than two months ago amid worrying reports of a Russian military buildup on the border with eastern Ukraine.
Russia to Build Airport, Train Armed Forces in Sign of Strengthening Military Ties With Laos Radio Free Asia 02 Apr 2021 -- Russian troops have been clearing an area of around 500 hectares (1,240 acres) of unexploded ordnance (UXO) in Laos's Xieng Khouang province with plans to build a new airport and military facility as part of an expansion of military aid to the impoverished Southeast Asian nation, according to Lao officials.
Russian Rights Groups Condemn Moscow's Role In Abuses In Syria RFE/RL 02 Apr 2021 -- Leading human rights groups in Russia have condemned the country's role in abuses in Syria, including its participation in the bombing of civilian targets.
China, Russia Back Calls for ASEAN Special Summit on Crisis in Post-Coup Myanmar Radio Free Asia 02 Apr 2021 -- China and Russia have backed calls for an ASEAN leaders' meeting to discuss the turmoil in post-coup Myanmar, where military and security forces unleashed their guns and killed more than 500 pro-democracy protesters during the past two months.
Relations with Washington have 'hit the bottom', says Russian FM Press TV 02 Apr 2021 -- Moscow's relations with Washington have "hit the bottom" and no decision has been taken so far to send back the country's envoy to the US, Russia's top diplomat said Thursday.
The Week In Russia: A Junta, A Hunger Strike, And Rumblings In The Donbas RFE/RL 02 Apr 2021 -- Aleksei Navalny started a hunger strike in prison, while the father of a top ally of the Kremlin opponent was arrested in a move that one political analyst said echoed the Stalin era. The war in Syria passed the 10-year mark, the Kremlin tried damage control following a full-throated expression of support for Burma's junta as it massacred protesters, and tensions rose amid fresh questions about Russia's intentions in the Donbas.
Russian Opposition Leader Navalny Had Lost Weight In Prison, Even Before Hunger Strike RFE/RL 02 Apr 2021 -- Russian opposition leader Aleksei Navalny has lost significant weight in prison, his allies said, even before the Kremlin critic launched a hunger strike this week.
Briefing by Foreign Ministry Spokeswoman Maria Zakharova, Moscow, April 1, 2021 Russia Ministry of Foreign Affairs 01 Apr 2021
Russia adds 8,275 COVID-19 cases People's Daily 01 Apr 2021 -- Russia registered 8,275 new COVID-19 cases over the past 24 hours, bringing the national tally to 4,545,095, the country's COVID-19 response center said Wednesday.
Russia Reports 9,169 New COVID-19 Cases SPA 01 Apr 2021 -- Russia reported 9,169 new COVID-19 cases on Thursday, including 2,151 in Moscow, pushing the infection tally in the country to 4,554,264 since the pandemic began.
Russia's RDIF Says Agreement Reached to Produce 100Mln Doses of Sputnik V Vaccine in China Sputnik 01 Apr 2021 -- The Russian Direct Investment Fund (RDIF) announced on Thursday that it agreed with China's TopRidge Pharma pharmaceutical company to produce over 100 million doses of Russia's Sputnik V coronavirus vaccine annually in China.
Top U.S. general speaks with Ukrainian, Russian counterparts amid tensions People's Daily 01 Apr 2021 -- Gen. Mark Milley, chairman of the U.S. Joint Chiefs of Staff, spoke with his Ukrainian and Russian counterparts on Wednesday amid escalating tensions in eastern Ukraine.
New Russia Threat Amid Rising Tensions With Ukraine RFE/RL 01 Apr 2021 -- Amid allegations from Ukraine that Russia has been massing troops at their shared border, Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov has warned that any attempts at a "new war" in eastern Ukraine would end up destroying that country.
EU Accuses Russia Of Launching 'Conscription Campaign' In Crimea RFE/RL 01 Apr 2021 -- The European Union has accused Moscow of launching a "conscription campaign" in the Russia-controlled Ukrainian region of Crimea, in a move that the bloc said violated international law.
Russian parliament greenlights bill allowing Putin to run for two more terms People's Daily 01 Apr 2021 -- Russia's upper house of parliament, the Federation Council, passed a bill on Wednesday enabling incumbent President Vladimir Putin to run for two more terms starting 2024.
Lavrov: Russia's response to EU hostile measures not necessarily symmetrical Press TV 01 Apr 2021 -- Russia's foreign minister says his country will respond to any hostile actions from member states of the European Union (EU) in a manner similar to that of China.
Russian Prison Service Denies That Navalny Is Being Mistreated RFE/RL 01 Apr 2021 -- Russia's prison authority on April 1 rejected accusations of mistreatment of opposition leader Aleksei Navalny, one day after the anti-corruption campaigner and frequent Kremlin critic announced a hunger strike to protest alleged abuses in custody.
Russian Spies Augment Effort to Grab NATO Secrets, Say Western Officials VOA 01 Apr 2021 -- Russia's espionage agencies are redoubling efforts to penetrate NATO, Western intelligence officials say, and are focusing on recruiting moles in the defense ministries of the pact's member states.

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April 2021 - Russia Special Weapons News