July 2021 - Russia Special Weapons News

Telephone conversation with President of Turkey Recep Tayyip Erdogan President of Russia 31 Jul 2021 -- Vladimir Putin had a telephone conversation with President of the Republic of Turkey Recep Tayyip Erdogan.
Russian Sukhoi Su-35 jet crashes into sea, pilot survives Press TV 31 Jul 2021 -- A Russian fighter jet that was on a training flight has crashed into the Sea of Okhotsk, after the pilot managed to eject safely.
Advanced Project 885M nuclear-powered submarine Krasnoyarsk launched to serve Russian Navy Press TV 30 Jul 2021 -- A fourth-generation advanced Project 885M nuclear-powered submarine has joined the Russian Navy's fleet.
Russia calls on Britain, France to join wider nuclear talks with US Press TV 30 Jul 2021 -- Russia has called on Britain and France to join wider nuclear arms control talks with the United States even as Washington wants China to be included in the negotiations.
Belarus will not hesitate to invite Russian troops if needed: Lukashenko Press TV 30 Jul 2021 -- Belarusian President Alexander Lukashenko says he would not hesitate to invite Russian troops to the country in the event of an extraordinary foreign threat.
NATO Baltic Air Policing fighters intercept russian aircraft over the Baltic sea NATO 30 Jul 2021 -- NATO scrambled Spanish Eurofighters and Italian F-35s on Thursday 29 July 2021 to intercept Russian military aircraft over the Baltic Sea.
Local Staff At U.S. Embassy, Consulates In Russia Dismissed To Meet Kremlin Deadline RFE/RL 30 Jul 2021 -- The United States says it has laid off nearly 200 local employees from its diplomatic missions in Russia ahead of an August 1 deadline set by the Kremlin to do so -- a move made by Moscow in response to U.S. sanctions and the expulsion of Russian diplomats from the United States.
Russian Government Actions Impacting U.S. Mission Russia US Dept. of State 30 Jul 2021 -- The United States is immensely grateful for the tireless dedication and commitment of our locally employed staff and contractors at U.S. Mission Russia.
More COVID Protesters From Russia's North Ossetia Receive Prison Terms RFE/RL 29 Jul 2021 -- A Russian court in the southwestern city of Rostov-on-Don has handed lengthy prison terms to a second group of individuals from the North Caucasus region of North Ossetia for taking part in a massive rally in April 2020 to protest against coronavirus restrictions.
Russian Module's Engines Fire Unexpectedly After Docking With ISS RFE/RL 29 Jul 2021 -- A Russian space-laboratory module unexpectedly fired its engines on July 29 after successfully docking with the International Space Station (ISS), changing the position of the ISS until another set of thrusters could be fired.
New Russian ISS Module Nauka Successfully Docked to Station Sputnik 29 Jul 2021 -- Russian multifunctional laboratory module (MLM) Nauka docked to the International Space Station (ISS) on Thursday, after 14 years of waiting on the Earth and eight days of orbital flight, according to the docking broadcast, which is being conducted by Roscosmos.
Russia to join military drill in China, 'displays mutual trust, eyes Central Asian security' Global Times 29 Jul 2021 -- Russia is set to join a military exercise in Northwest China with the theme of jointly safeguarding regional security and stability in August. It will be the first joint drill to be held in China since the COVID-19 outbreak in 2020, displaying a high level of mutual trust between the two militaries while also eyeing security and stability in Central Asia as the US irresponsibly withdraws troops from Afghanistan, experts said.
Russian Su-25 Aircraft Deployed to Tajikistan for Exercises Near Afghan Border Sputnik 29 Jul 2021 -- Russian Su-25 aircraft have been deployed from Kyrgyzstan to Tajikistan to participate in military drills near the border with Afghanistan, Russia's Central Military District said on Thursday.
Russia, US hold 'substantive' nuclear talks after Putin-Biden summit in June Press TV 29 Jul 2021 -- Senior Russian and American officials have restarted talks on nuclear arms control and other strategic issues in an attempt to normalize fraught bilateral relations between the world's largest nuclear weapons powers with a focus on risk reduction.
Russia Wants Britain, France To Join Wider Nuclear Talks With U.S. RFE/RL 29 Jul 2021 -- Russia says it wants Britain and France to become part of wider nuclear arms control talks with the United States as Washington continues to seek China's inclusion in the negotiations.
US trying to take root in Central Asia after Afghanistan fiasco: Russia Press TV 29 Jul 2021 -- Russia has denounced the United States' ongoing talks with Afghanistan's neighboring countries to create military bases as well as centers for refugees, saying Washington is seeking to take root in Central Asia following its withdrawal from the war-ravaged country, where it has faced a complete failure.
Moscow Court Fines Google For Refusal To Place Its Users' Data In Russia RFE/RL 29 Jul 2021 -- A court in Moscow has fined Google 3 million rubles ($40,750) for the U.S. technology giant's refusal to localize the personal data of its users in Russia.
Last Member Of Group That Organized 1991 Coup Attempt In Moscow Dies RFE/RL 29 Jul 2021 -- The last living member of the so-called Gang of Eight that tried to take over the collapsing Soviet Union in 1991 has died at the age of 89.
Biden Warns That Cyberattacks Could Lead To 'A Real Shooting War' RFE/RL 28 Jul 2021 -- President Joe Biden warned that a major cyberattack on the United States could lead to an actual "shooting war," in comments that mentioned Russia and China as threats to U.S. national security.
Kremlin Refutes Biden's Claims About Russia's Plan to Interfere in Elections Sputnik 28 Jul 2021 -- Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov refutes US President Joe Biden's claims about Russia's alleged intention to interfere in the 2022 Congress elections via spreading disinformation.
Russian, Armenian Nationals Jailed For Selling Missile Complex Parts To Ukraine RFE/RL 28 Jul 2021 -- A court in Russia's southwestern city of Rostov-on-Don has sentenced to lengthy prison terms two men for the illegal sale of parts of a S-300 missile complex to Ukraine.
Nuclear Talks Between U.S., Russia, Kick Off In Geneva RFE/RL 28 Jul 2021 -- U.S. and Russian diplomats have started talks on strategic nuclear stability in the Swiss city of Geneva as the two sides look to agree on reductions to their nuclear arsenals.
Russian-US Strategic Stability Talks Open in Geneva Month After Putin-Biden Summit Sputnik 28 Jul 2021 -- Roughly a month after Vladimir Putin and Joe Biden agreed on strategic dialogue during the landmark summit in Geneva, the US and Russian delegations are set to meet in the Swiss city to discuss strategic stability on 28 July.
Deputy Secretary Sherman's Participation in Strategic Stability Dialogue with Russian Deputy Foreign Minister Sergey Ryabkov US Dept. of State 28 Jul 2021
The Russian State Takes Ominous Steps To Bolster 'Foreign Agents' Law RFE/RL 28 Jul 2021 -- Earlier this month, the Federal Security Service (FSB) published a draft instruction listing military and technical topics that Russian citizens could be deemed "foreign agents" for discussing, making them subject to restrictions and possible administrative or criminal punishment.
China, Russia vow to cement cooperation as defense ministers meet in Dushanbe PLA Daily 28 Jul 2021 -- On July 28, Chinese State Councilor and Defense Minister Wei Fenghe held talks with Russian Defense Minister Sergei Shoigu in Dushanbe, Tajikistan. Both of them are attending the Defense Ministers' Meeting of the SCO Member States.
Russia, two other states to hold joint drills near Afghanistan Press TV 27 Jul 2021 -- The Russian military has announced that more than 1,500 troops from Russia, Tajikistan, and Uzbekistan are scheduled to take part in joint drills next month near the border with Afghanistan, where the Taliban militant group has over the past month ramped up offensives against Afghan government forces to seize further territory.
Ex-Leader Of Navalny's St. Petersburg Group Says She's Been Barred From Elections RFE/RL 27 Jul 2021 -- The former leader of jailed Russian opposition politician Aleksei Navalny's team in St. Petersburg, Irina Fatyanova, says she has been barred from taking part in upcoming elections because of her ties to the Kremlin critic.
Remarks by President Biden at the Office of the Director of National Intelligence The White House 27 Jul 2021
Biden Accuses Russia of Already Interfering in 2022 Election VOA 27 Jul 2021 -- Russia is already interfering in next year's midterm U.S. elections, President Joe Biden said Tuesday in a speech at the Office of the Director of National Intelligence (ODNI).
Lithuanian Court Sends Politician To Six Years In Prison For Spying For Russia RFE/RL 27 Jul 2021 -- A Lithuanian court has sentenced politician Algirdas Paleckis to six years in prison after finding him guilty of spying for Russia.
Putin Oversees Crowded Russian Naval Parade Despite Pandemic RFE/RL 25 Jul 2021 -- President Vladimir Putin praised Russia's naval capabilities during a large warship parade in the port city of St. Petersburg, which drew throngs of spectators despite high infection rates and record deaths from the coronavirus.
Russia Bars Leading Communist Politician From Upcoming Elections RFE/RL 24 Jul 2021 -- Russian electoral authorities have disqualified a top Communist Party candidate from running in September's parliamentary elections, the latest opposition figure to be barred ahead of the vote.
Foreign Ministry Spokesperson Maria Zakharova's comment regarding the Report on the implementation of the Chemical Weapons Convention (CWC) in 2020, issued by the Organisation for the Prohibition of Chemical Weapons (OPCW) Russia Ministry of Foreign Affairs 23 Jul 2021
The Week In Russia: A Crackdown Changes The Landscape RFE/RL 23 Jul 2021 -- The crackdown that intensified upon opposition leader Aleksei Navalny's return to Russia six months ago appears to be expanding ahead of parliamentary elections at summer's end, with increasingly broad swaths of society in the crosshairs. The latest victims include a legal-aid organization and an independent media outlet whose investigations have irked the Kremlin.
Russia Adds News Outlet The Insider, Five Journalists To 'Foreign Agents' List RFE/RL 23 Jul 2021 -- Russia's Justice Ministry has added the independent Latvia-based media outlet The Insider to its list of "foreign agents," along with five individual journalists including a freelance contributor to Radio Free Europe/Radio Liberty.
EU Condemns Russia's 'Unabated Crackdown' On Independent Media, NGOs RFE/RL 23 Jul 2021 -- The European Union has urged Russia to stop its "unabated crackdown" on independent media outlets, journalists, and civil-society organizations, calling the clampdown ahead of parliamentary elections in September "particularly worrisome."
Briefing by Foreign Ministry Spokeswoman Maria Zakharova, Moscow, July 22, 2021 Russia Ministry of Foreign Affairs 22 Jul 2021
Russian Jailed For Fighting Azerbaijani Forces In Nagorno-Karabakh RFE/RL 22 Jul 2021 -- A court in Baku has sentenced a Russian citizen to 10 years in prison on charges of fighting on the Armenian side against Azerbaijan's armed forces in the breakaway Nagorno-Karabakh region last year.
Foreign Ministry Statement on the interstate claim brought by Russia against Ukraine with the European Court of Human Rights Russia Ministry of Foreign Affairs 22 Jul 2021
Russia Files Case Against Ukraine At European Court Over MH17, Alleged Rights Abuses RFE/RL 22 Jul 2021 -- Russia has filed a complaint against Ukraine with the European Court of Human Rights (ECHR) saying Kyiv is responsible for the 2014 crash of a Malaysian airliner and civilian deaths and human rights abuses in Russia and Ukraine.
Merkel Defends Russian Gas Pipeline Deal Without More US Sanctions VOA 22 Jul 2021 -- German Chancellor Angela Merkel on Thursday defended a compromise agreement with the United States to permit completion of the Nord Stream 2 natural gas pipeline to transport fuel from Russia to Germany without the further imposition of American sanctions.
Defense Ministry: Russia's Su-27 Escorts Germany's FGR.4 Typhoon Over Baltic Sea Sputnik 22 Jul 2021 -- Russian fighter Su-27 was scrambled to intercept the FGR.4 Typhoon fighter of the German Air Force and to escorted over the Baltic Sea, preventing it from reaching the Russian border, the Russian Defense Ministry's National Defense Control Center (NDCC) said on Thursday.
US, Germany strike deal on Russian Nord Stream 2 pipeline Press TV 22 Jul 2021 -- The United States and Germany have reached an agreement on the Nord Stream 2 gas pipeline which will allow completion of the $11 billion project.
Russian Court Fines Facebook, Twitter, Telegram For Not Deleting 'Banned' Content RFE/RL 22 Jul 2021 -- A Russian court has fined U.S. social-media giants Facebook and Twitter and messaging app Telegram again for failing to delete content Moscow deems illegal.
Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov's opening remarks during a meeting with UN Special Envoy for Syria Geir O. Pedersen, Moscow, July 22, 2021 Russia Ministry of Foreign Affairs 22 Jul 2021
Moscow Paves Way For Russian Passport Holders In Eastern Ukraine To Vote In September Elections RFE/RL 21 Jul 2021 -- Moscow says Russian passport holders in parts of eastern Ukraine that are controlled by Russia-backed separatists will be able to vote online in upcoming Russian parliamentary elections.
Ukraine's Naftogaz Chief Claims Russia Won't Renew Gas Transit Deal After 2024 Sputnik 21 Jul 2021 -- Yuriy Vitrenko, head of Ukraine's state-owned gas company Naftogaz, said Wednesday that Russia intended to stop pumping gas through pipelines that pass through Ukraine after 2024, when the present contract expires.
Could Russia's newly unveiled Checkmate rival China's FC-31 in global market? Global Times 21 Jul 2021 -- Russia's newly unveiled Checkmate stealth fighter jet seems to have good prospects, and it is expected to be competitive against the US F-35 in the international arms market. It may also affect the export of warplanes made by China like the FC-31, though Chinese military observers say the FC-31 still holds an advantage.
From Su-57 to 'Checkmate': New Russian Fifth-Generation Fighter Makes a Splash in Aerospace Industry Sputnik 21 Jul 2021 -- On 20 July, Russian President Vladimir Putin inspected a prototype of Sukhoi's new fifth-generation single-engine light tactical aircraft "Checkmate" – the staple of the MAKS-2021 air show. The newly unveiled fighter jet combines innovative solutions and technologies, including artificial intelligence (AI) assistance for pilots.
New Russian Fighter Checkmate May Be in Demand in Middle East and North Africa Sputnik 21 Jul 2021 -- Russia's new single-engine fighter Checkmate, the prototype of which was presented at the MAKS-2021 air show in the Moscow region, may be in demand in the Middle East, North Africa and Southeast Asia, Russian Federal Service for Military-Technical Cooperation Director Dmitry Shugayev said.
Russia developing hypersonic arms to confront US, NATO threats: Kremlin Press TV 21 Jul 2021 -- Russia says it has been developing hypersonic missiles to counter actions taken by the United States and NATO that damage military "parity" with Moscow.
Russia in Preliminary Negotiations With Foreign Partners on Su-57 Deliveries Sputnik 21 Jul 2021 -- Russia has started preliminary negotiations with foreign customers on possible deliveries of the Su-57 fighter, Russian Federal Service for Military-Technical Cooperation Director Dmitry Shugayev said.
Russia, Germany 'satisfied' as Nord Stream-2 pipeline nears completion Press TV 21 Jul 2021 -- Russia and Germany have expressed joint "satisfaction" with the near completion of a gas pipeline project favoring both sides that has been heavily frowned upon by the United States.
U.S., Germany Reach Deal On Nord Steam Pipeline As Congress Voices Opposition RFE/RL 21 Jul 2021 -- The United States and Germany say they have reached an agreement to allow the completion of Nord Stream 2, the controversial Russian gas pipeline to Europe that opponents say undermines the energy security of Ukraine and other Eastern and Central European countries.
US Threatens Sanctions if Russia Engages in 'Malign Activities' Over Nord Stream 2 Sputnik 21 Jul 2021 -- The United States will use sanctions against Russia if Moscow engages in malign activity concerning the Nord Stream 2 project, a senior administration official told reporters on Friday.
Two Former Members Of Navalny's Team Detained In Moscow As Pressure Continues RFE/RL 21 Jul 2021 -- Police in Moscow have detained two former members of jailed opposition politician Aleksei Navalny's team and extended the house arrest of his spokeswoman as a state pressure campaign against civil society groups continues.
Photos: Meet 'Checkmate', Sukhoi's Sleek New Fifth-Gen Fighter Jet for Half the Cost of an F-35 Sputnik 20 Jul 2021 -- On Tuesday, Russia's Sukhoi aircraft design bureau unveiled a sleek new fighter jet intended to rival Lockheed Martin's F-35 Joint Strike Fighter. Based on technology from its Su-57 fighter, Sukhoi has dubbed the new fighter "Checkmate."
A Cosmonaut Is Demoted And Russia's Star-Crossed Space Agency Lurches. Again. RFE/RL 20 Jul 2021 -- There was the mysterious man-made hole that appeared in a Russian-built module of the International Space Station. There was the satellite-carrying rocket that failed because it was mistakenly programmed as if it were blasting off 6,200 kilometers to the west. There was the emergency landing following the unsuccessful launch of a rocket carrying a Russian and an American aboard a Soyuz capsule. There was the report that $400 million went missing last year.
Roscosmos Says US Greenlit Import of Russia's New Space Rocket Engines Sputnik 20 Jul 2021 -- The United States has approved the purchase of a new batch of the Russian-made RD-181M space rocket engines, a spokesman for the Russian space agency Roscosmos, Vladimir Ustimenko, said on Tuesday.
Russia successfully test-fires S-500 missile system Press TV 20 Jul 2021 -- Russia says it has successfully test-fired its new S-500 air defense missile system in a training exercise at a training range and struck a fast-moving ballistic target with accuracy.
Russia Test-Fires S-500 Missile System to Hit High-Speed Ballistic Target, Ministry Says Sputnik 20 Jul 2021 -- Russia's new S-500 missile system has tested combat firing at a high-speed ballistic target at a training ground in the Astrakhan Region, the defense ministry said on Tuesday.
Russian Tanks Deploy Near Tajik-Afghan Border Ahead Of Drills RFE/RL Gandhara 20 Jul 2021 -- Russian tanks have deployed near the Afghan-Tajik border ahead of military exercises next month, while Moscow announced more maneuvers in neighboring Uzbekistan amid increasing security concerns in Central Asia over the Taliban's territorial gains in northern Afghanistan.
US, Germany Threaten Retaliatory Action Against Russia in Draft Nord Stream 2 Accord - Report Sputnik 20 Jul 2021 -- An undisclosed senior US official told media that the phrasing of the draft accords is purposefully unclear since the administration did not want to provide Russia a road map for responding to any harmful action against it.
Drug Deaths In Russia Spike 60 Percent During Pandemic RFE/RL 19 Jul 2021 -- Deaths in Russia from drug-related causes jumped 60 percent in 2020 compared to a year earlier, mirroring trends elsewhere in the world during the coronavirus pandemic.
Russia, Uzbekistan, Tajikistan to hold drills near Afghan border amid Taliban offensive Press TV 19 Jul 2021 -- Russia, Uzbekistan and Tajikistan are set to hold military drills next month near the border with Afghanistan where the Taliban militant group has over the past weeks ramped up attacks against government forces.
Russia, Tajikistan, Uzbekistan To Hold Military Maneuvers Near Afghan Border In August RFE/RL 19 Jul 2021 -- Russia, Tajikistan, and Uzbekistan will hold joint military maneuvers near the Tajik-Afghan border in early August amid increasing security concerns in Central Asian nations over Taliban offensives against government troops in northern Afghanistan.
Russia successfully tests Zircon ship-based hypersonic cruise missile Press TV 19 Jul 2021 -- Russia has successfully tested another Tsirkon (Zircon) hypersonic cruise missile, a new addition to a series of Russian weapons called "invincible" by President Vladimir Putin.
Pentagon Aware of Russia's Zircon Missile Test, Considers It Destabilizing, Spokesperson Says Sputnik 19 Jul 2021 -- The US Defense Department is aware of the Russian test of its supersonic Zircon missile that took place earlier in the day and considers it a destabilizing activity, Pentagon spokesperson John Kirby said on Monday.
Latest Version of Su-57 Fighter Equipped With New Combat Capabilities Sputnik 19 Jul 2021 -- The upgraded version of the Su-57 fighter will acquire new combat capabilities through the use of a wider range of weapons, Sergei Smirnov, a member of the Military-Industrial Commission board, told Sputnik ahead of the International Aviation and Space Salon MAKS-2021.
'A Planned Assault Along Many Fronts': Russia's Komanda 29 Shutters, Saying It's Too 'Dangerous' To Continue RFE/RL 19 Jul 2021 -- Just one month shy of its seventh birthday, the prominent legal-aid nongovernmental organization Komanda 29 has ceased its activities following a long pressure campaign against it by the Russian authorities.
NATO launches new US command for 'battle of the Atlantic' citing China, Russia Press TV 18 Jul 2021 -- The US-led NATO military alliance has celebrated the official launch of Joint Force Command-Norfolk, the first such command to be located in the US, joining similar NATO commands in Brunssum, Netherlands and Naples, Italy.
Pentagon's Top General Warns of 'Great Power War' as NATO Launches New Anti-Russia Atlantic Command Sputnik 18 Jul 2021 -- Biden's administration has continued his predecessors' strategy of pushing Russia and China closer together via a hostile US sanctions policy and military manoeuvres near the two countries' borders.
OPEC+ Reaches Agreement On Oil Output Increase; Russia To Boost Production RFE/RL 18 Jul 2021 -- Major oil-producing nations have reached an agreement on an increase in output, ending a dispute that sent prices to a six-year high earlier this month.
Putin, Biden discussed use of Russian bases to 'coordinate actions' in Afghanistan: Report Press TV 18 Jul 2021 -- A Russian media source has alleged that Russia's President Vladimir Putin and his American counterpart, Joe Biden, have discussed the possibility of exchanging information on the conflict in Afghanistan and the use of Russian military bases to monitor the situation in the war-ravaged country.
Russian Foreign Ministry Says Moscow's Contacts With Taliban in Line With UNSC Resolution Sputnik 18 Jul 2021 -- By maintaining its contacts with the Taliban movement (outlawed in Russia) and trying to convince them to negotiate with the Afghan government, Moscow is implementing a relevant UNSC resolution, Russian Foreign Ministry spokeswoman Maria Zakharova said on Sunday.
Russian Human Rights Association Shuts Down Amid Fears Of Criminal Investigations RFE/RL 18 Jul 2021 -- An association of Russian human rights lawyers linked to jailed Kremlin critic Aleksei Navalny's group says it has suspended its work to protect its members and supporters from criminal prosecution amid a government pressure campaign.
Thousands March In Russian Religious Procession Despite Coronavirus Restrictions RFE/RL 17 Jul 2021 -- Several thousand Russian Orthodox believers participated in a religious procession in Yekaterinburg on the night of July 16-17 even though local authorities had denied permission to hold the event because of the coronavirus pandemic.
In Welcoming The Taliban, Kremlin Opens Door To A Host Of Criticisms, Diplomatic Uncertainties RFE/RL Gandhara 17 Jul 2021 -- The Taliban is officially considered to be a terrorist organization by Russia - a fact media in the country are obliged to note at any mention of the Islamist group.
Russia, China advocate polycentrism; believe world should not be unipolar: Duma Press TV 17 Jul 2021 -- A senior Russian official says Moscow and Beijing support polycentrism and believe that the world should not be unipolar while the West thinks quite the opposite and tries to hamper the development of the two major world powers.
A Suspected Super-Spreader Event In St. Petersburg Prompts Fresh Scrutiny Of Russia's COVID Figures RFE/RL 16 Jul 2021 -- Standing onstage before 39,000 cheering teenagers in June, the governor of St. Petersburg opened the city's annual high school graduation ceremony with a message of defiance to those who warned against mass gatherings in the face of a surging coronavirus epidemic.
Joint statement following the fourth meeting of Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Russia, Tajikistan, Turkmenistan and Uzbekistan foreign ministers on the developments in Afghanistan Russia Ministry of Foreign Affairs 16 Jul 2021 -- The fourth foreign minister meeting of Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Russia, Tajikistan, Turkmenistan and Uzbekistan took place in Tashkent on July 16, 2021.
Merkel, Biden United On Preventing Russia From Using Energy Against Neighbors RFE/RL 16 Jul 2021 -- U.S. President Joe Biden and German Chancellor Angela Merkel vowed to stand together in opposing Russia using energy as a "weapon" against its neighbors as the Nord Stream 2 gas pipeline from Russia to Germany nears completion.
Biden raises concerns about Nord Stream 2 to Merkel, warning Russia not to weaponize energy People's Daily 16 Jul 2021 -- U.S. President Joe Biden on Thursday raised his concerns to German Chancellor Angela Merkel over the Nord Stream 2 gas pipeline project, warning Russia not to weaponize the energy.
The Week In Russia: Putin, Ukraine, And 'Phantom Pain' RFE/RL 16 Jul 2021 -- With a deadly COVID wave setting grim new records almost daily, President Vladimir Putin continued to devote a great deal of attention to the past and future of Russia's ties with Ukraine, self-publishing a startling article that drew a mixture of derision and deep concern about Moscow's intentions.
Russia Investigative News Group Starts Liquidation Process Following 'Undesirable' Designation RFE/RL 16 Jul 2021 -- The Russian investigative news outlet The Project has announced the "liquidation" of its U.S.-registered company a day after being declared an "undesirable" organization by the Prosecutor-General's Office in Moscow.
Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov's replies to media questions following participation in the international conference Central and South Asia: Regional Connectivity. Challenges and Opportunities, Tashkent, July 16, 2021 Russia Ministry of Foreign Affairs 16 Jul 2021
Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov's remarks at a plenary session of the international conference Central and South Asia: Regional Connectivity. Challenges and Opportunities, Tashkent, July 16, 2021 Russia Ministry of Foreign Affairs 16 Jul 2021
Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov's article on the occasion of the 20th anniversary of the signing of the Treaty of Good-Neighbourliness, Friendship and Cooperation between China and Russia, published by the newspapers Rossiyskaya Gazeta (Russia) and Renmin Ribao (China), July 16, 2021 Russia Ministry of Foreign Affairs 16 Jul 2021
Russia Effectively Bans Investigative News Outlet By Declaring It 'Undesirable' RFE/RL 15 Jul 2021 -- Authorities in Russia have effectively banned investigative news outlet The Project after declaring it an "undesirable" organization in a major escalation of the Kremlin's clampdown on independent media.
Estonia Expels Russian Diplomat After Moscow Accuses Consul Of Spying RFE/RL 15 Jul 2021 -- Estonia's Foreign Ministry has expelled a Russian diplomat in a tit-for-tat move against Moscow.
U.S.-Russia Joint Statement Addressing the Climate Challenge US Dept. of State 15 Jul 2021 -- Joint Statement on the Climate Challenge between John Kerry, U.S. Special Presidential Envoy for Climate, and Ruslan Edelgeriyev, Russian Special Presidential Representative on Climate Issues and Adviser to the President of Russia.
Russian-Based Ransomware Group's Websites Offline, Researchers Say RFE/RL 14 Jul 2021 -- A Russian-based hacker group blamed for a massive ransomware attack earlier this month has gone offline, sparking speculation about whether the move was the result of a government-led action.
Latest Elections Highlight Moscow's Shifting Strategies In Moldova RFE/RL 14 Jul 2021 -- "The legislative elections in Moldova were well-organized," said Russian lawmaker Yaroslav Nilov, who headed the election-monitoring mission of the Commonwealth of Independent State (CIS) during Moldova's July 11 vote. "From the point of view of voting procedures, the observers had no doubt about the legitimacy of the results."
COVID-19 Deaths In Russia Hit Another Daily Record Amid Surge In Cases RFE/RL 13 Jul 2021 -- Russia says 780 people died from coronavirus-related causes over the past 24 hours, the highest number of fatalities confirmed in a single day since the beginning of the pandemic.
Zelenskiy Trolls Putin After Russian President Publishes Article On Ukraine RFE/RL 13 Jul 2021 -- Ukraine President Volodymyr Zelenskiy has trolled his Russian counterpart, saying he was "envious" that Vladimir Putin has enough free time on his hands to research the history of their peoples.
Russian Ombudsman Ends Campaign To Repatriate Foreign-Based Businesspeople RFE/RL 13 Jul 2021 -- Russian business ombudsman Boris Titov says he has stopped his campaign to repatriate foreign-based Russian businesspeople over concerns they may face arrest upon arrival.
Outspoken Kremlin Critic Leaves Russia For 'Foreseeable Future' RFE/RL 13 Jul 2021 -- Fyodor Krasheninnikov, an outspoken Kremlin critic and noted political observer, says he has left Russia for Lithuania for the "foreseeable future" after coming under pressure from authorities for his work.
U.S., Russia Say Cooperation On Climate Change Positive For Relations RFE/RL 13 Jul 2021 -- U.S. climate change envoy John Kerry told Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov on July 12 that Washington wants to work with Moscow ahead of the UN climate change conference later this year.
Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov's remarks and answers to media questions at a joint news conference with Foreign Minister of Sudan Mariam Al-Sadiq Al-Mahdi following talks, Moscow, July 12, 2021 Russia Ministry of Foreign Affairs 12 Jul 2021
Article by Vladimir Putin "On the Historical Unity of Russians and Ukrainians" Kremlin.ru 12 Jul 2021 -- "During the recent Direct Line, when I was asked about Russian-Ukrainian relations, I said that Russians and Ukrainians were one people – a single whole. These words were not driven by some short-term considerations or prompted by the current political context. It is what I have said on numerous occasions and what I firmly believe. I therefore feel it necessary to explain my position in detail and share my assessments of today's situation."
Merkel Says Gas Will Transit Ukraine Even After Nord Stream 2 Finished RFE/RL 12 Jul 2021 -- German Chancellor Angela Merkel has sought to assure Kyiv that Ukraine will remain a transit route for natural gas even after completion of the Nord Stream 2 pipeline linking Russia to Germany.
Russian Rights Activist Convicted Of Violating Controversial 'Foreign Agents' Law RFE/RL 12 Jul 2021 -- Noted human rights defender Semyon Simonov has been convicted on criminal charges related to Russia's controversial "foreign agents" law.
Citing Pressure, Russian Opposition Politician Quits As Head Of Moscow District RFE/RL 12 Jul 2021 -- Russian opposition politician Ilya Yashin has announced he is quitting as head of Moscow's Krasnoselsky district amid ongoing pressure on him and his team after saying he would run in upcoming parliamentary elections.
UN Report: Human Rights Violations Permeate Conflict in Eastern Ukraine VOA 11 Jul 2021 -- The Office of the United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights is condemning pervasive arbitrary detention and torture by both government and Russian-backed separatists in the seven-year eastern Ukraine conflict. The condemnation comes in a report submitted Friday to the U.N. Human Rights Council.
UN Says Torture, Ill-Treatment Of Detainees Continues 'Systematically' In Eastern Ukraine RFE/RL 10 Jul 2021 -- The United Nations said torture and ill-treatment of detainees in territory controlled by Russia-backed separatists in eastern Ukraine is happening every day.
Russian Navy Tracking Greek Missile Boat HS Daniolos in Black Sea, Defense Ministry Says Sputnik 10 Jul 2021 -- This comes as provocations in the Black Sea have increased on the part of NATO states, with Russia stating that the West's attempts to test its Black Sea borders are "doomed to failure".
Putin, Biden discuss cybersecurity, Syria over phone People's Daily 10 Jul 2021 -- Russian President Vladimir Putin held a telephone conversation with U.S. President Joe Biden on Friday, during which the leaders discussed cybersecurity issues and the situation in Syria.
Moscow, Taliban Cite Militant Gains In Afghanistan Amid International Concerns RFE/RL Gandhara 09 Jul 2021 -- Russia and Taliban representatives have asserted that the fundamentalist group's fighters control a growing amount of territory in Afghanistan, including large stretches of the border, while insisting that Taliban gains don't threaten international security.
Telephone conversation with US President Joseph Biden President of Russia 09 Jul 2021
The Week In Russia: Strategy And Tactics -- Putin's 'Bleak' New Security Blueprint RFE/RL 09 Jul 2021 -- President Vladimir Putin has signed a National Security Strategy that takes criticism of the West to a new level, claiming that Russia's "cultural sovereignty" is at risk and that its "traditional values" are "under active attack by the United States and its allies." Analysts say the Kremlin's main motive may be self-preservation, not the security of the nation.
Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov's statement and answers to media questions at a joint news conference following talks with Indian Foreign Minister Subrahmanyam Jaishankar, Moscow, July 9, 2021 Russia Ministry of Foreign Affairs 09 Jul 2021
U.S. Will 'Take Any Necessary Action' After Latest Massive Ransomware Attack, Biden Tells Putin RFE/RL 09 Jul 2021 -- U.S. President Joe Biden has urged Russian counterpart Vladimir Putin in a phone call to "take action" against ransomware groups operating in Russia, the White House said.
Putin, Biden Discuss Ransomware Attacks During Phone Call, White House Says Sputnik 09 Jul 2021 -- According to the White House, US President Joe Biden highlighted the need for Moscow to take action in a bid to disrupt ransomware groups allegedly operating in Russia. The Kremlin has repeatedly denied any role in the latest cyberattack
Biden, Putin Discuss Ransomware Attacks From Russia VOA 09 Jul 2021 -- U.S. President Joe Biden said he discussed recent ransomware attacks on the U.S. from Russia in a phone call Friday with Russian President Vladimir Putin.
Ukraine Blames Russian Hackers For Attack On Navy Website RFE/RL 09 Jul 2021 -- Ukraine's Defense Ministry said Russian government hackers attacked the website of the Ukrainian Navy to spread disinformation about the ongoing multinational Sea Breeze military exercises in the Black Sea.
Briefing by Foreign Ministry Spokeswoman Maria Zakharova, Moscow, July 9, 2021 Russia Ministry of Foreign Affairs 09 Jul 2021
Russia's Continuing Repression of Members of Religious Minority Groups US Dept. of State 09 Jul 2021 -- "We are deeply concerned by a Russian court's decision to uphold the designation of the Khakassia regional branch of Falun Gong as "extremist" and criminalize the peaceful practice of their spiritual beliefs."
Continued crackdown on civil society in Russia: UK statement UK FCDO 09 Jul 2021 -- Ambassador Neil Bush expresses UK concerns about the shrinking space for independent civil society in Russia.
Readout of President Joseph R. Biden, Jr. Call with President Vladimir Putin of Russia The White House 09 Jul 2021
Background Press Call By Senior Administration Officials On President Biden's Call With President Putin of Russia The White House 09 Jul 2021
Iran, Russia, Turkey to cooperate to eradicate terrorism in Syria IRNA 08 Jul 2021 -- At the end of the 16th round of talks on Syria, known as the Astana Process, the Islamic Republic of Iran, Russia, and Turkey announced in a joint statement that they will continue their cooperation until the complete eradication of the ISIS and other terrorist groups in Syria.
EU Proposes Discussing With Russia Possibility of Connecting to COVID Certificate System Sputnik 08 Jul 2021 -- The European Union made a proposal to the Russian Health Ministry to discuss the possibility of connecting Russia to the system of COVID certificates, EU Ambassador to Russia Markus Ederer said on Thursday, adding that such a decision will expand opportunities to facilitate travelling.
EU Has Reportedly Approached Russia About Mutual Recognition Of COVID Certificates RFE/RL 08 Jul 2021 -- The European Union's envoy in Moscow was quoted on July 8 as saying that the bloc has proposed discussing possible joint recognition with Russia of their respective COVID-19 certificates.
Argentine Health Ministry Study Confirms Safety of Russia's Sputnik V COVID Vaccine Sputnik 08 Jul 2021 -- A study by Argentina's Health Ministry confirms the safety of Russia's Sputnik V coronavirus vaccine, a spokesman for the Russian Direct Investment Fund (RDIF) said.
Chile Plans to Purchase Russia's Sputnik V Vaccine, President Says Sputnik 08 Jul 2021 -- Chile intends to purchase Russia's Sputnik V coronavirus vaccine in order to support the country's re-vaccination efforts, Chilean President Sebastian Pinera announced Thursday.
Lithuanian, Spanish Leaders Interrupted by Jets Scrambling to Intercept Russian Planes VOA 08 Jul 2021 -- A news conference with Lithuanian President Gitanas Nauseda and Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez at a NATO airbase in Lithuania was interrupted Thursday when fighter jets were scrambled to intercept two Russian jets.
Russian Envoy, Taliban Delegation Discuss Prospects for Launching Intra-Afghan Talks Sputnik 08 Jul 2021 -- The Russian president's special envoy for Afghanistan, Zamir Kabulov, at a meeting with a delegation from the political office of the Taliban movement* discussed the prospects of launching intra-Afghan negotiations, the Russian Foreign Ministry said on Thursday.
Joint Statement by the Representatives of Iran, Russia and Turkey on the 16th International Meeting on Syria in the Astana Format, Nur-Sultan, 7-8 July 2021 Russia Ministry of Foreign Affairs 08 Jul 2021
Russia Will Not Support 1-Year Extension of Cross-Border Aid into Syria, Amsassador to UN Says Sputnik 08 Jul 2021 -- Russia will not support the extension for 12 months of the cross-border humanitarian aid delivery mechanism into Syria as the UN Security Council prepares to vote on the issue on Friday, Russian Permanent Representative to the United Nations Vassily Nebenzia told reporters on Thursday.
Leading Activist Groups Call On UN To Push Russia On Rights RFE/RL 08 Jul 2021 -- A group of leading rights organizations has urged the United Nations to condemn the deterioration of civil rights in Russia, which has "constructed a legal landscape that is inconsistent" with international standards.
Russian Fighter Su-27 Escorts French Spy Plane Over Baltic Sea, Military Says Sputnik 08 Jul 2021 -- Remarkably, since 2014, the US and its allies have intensified reconnaissance activities close to the Russian borders, particularly, over Baltic Sea airspace (near Kaliningrad) and the Black Sea.
Russian Fleet Monitoring US Navy Ship Yuma in Black Sea Sputnik 08 Jul 2021 -- The US Sixth Fleet said earlier in the day that its expeditionary fast transport the USNS Yuma had been sent to the Black Sea.
Two Russian Su-24 Planes Flying Over Baltic Sea Didn't Enter Foreign Airspace, Military Says Sputnik 08 Jul 2021 -- Two Russian Su-24 bombers performed a planned flight over neutrals waters of the Baltic Sea on Thursday, and they did not enter the airspace of foreign countries, the Russian Defence Ministry said.
Meeting with Acting Prime Minister of Armenia Nikol Pashinyan President of Russia 07 Jul 2021
Russian Fleet Monitoring Spanish Navy Ship in Black Sea Sputnik 07 Jul 2021 -- Earlier this month, the Russian Foreign Ministry accused the US and NATO countries of turning the Black Sea into "a zone of military confrontation".
Two Russian Su-30 Fighters Prevent Boeing P-8 Poseidon From Entering Russian Airspace Sputnik 07 Jul 2021 -- Two Su-30 fighters took off to the air to prevent a Boeing P-8 Poseidon aircraft from illegally entering the Russian airspace over the Black Sea on Tuesday, the Russian Defence Ministry said on Wednesday.
COVID-19 Deaths Hit Another Daily Record In Russia; Romania Closes 117 Vaccination Centers RFE/RL 07 Jul 2021 -- Coronavirus deaths in Russia have hit another daily record as many countries are reporting surges in infections caused by the delta variant, prompting additional restrictions or longer lockdowns.
Biden Says He'll 'Deliver' Message To Russia After Security Meeting On Ransomware Attacks RFE/RL 07 Jul 2021 -- President Joe Biden gathered with top U.S. officials at the White House on July 7 to discuss strategy to counter increasingly disruptive ransomware attacks by suspected Russia-based hackers.
Russian 'Foreign Agents' Amendments To Have 'Chilling Effect' On Political Life, European Body Says RFE/RL 07 Jul 2021 -- A Council of Europe legal advisory body has sharply criticized recent Russian amendments to laws regulating so-called ''foreign agents," saying they constitute "serious violations" of basic human rights and will have a "chilling effect" on political life.
Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov's opening remarks and answers to media questions at a joint news conference with Foreign Minister of the Lao People's Democratic Republic Saleumxay Kommasith, Vientiane, July 7, 2021 Russia Ministry of Foreign Affairs 07 Jul 2021
Estonian Consul in St. Petersburg Given 48 Hours to Leave Russia Amid Spying Scandal Sputnik 07 Jul 2021 -- On Tuesday, Russia's Federal Security Service (FSB) detained the Estonian diplomat when he attempted to obtain classified information from a Russian national.
Russia Expels Estonian Consul On Spy Charges Baltic Country Calls 'Provocative' RFE/RL 07 Jul 2021 -- Russia says it has given an Estonian diplomat 48 hours to leave after briefly detaining him for allegedly receiving classified documents in what the Baltic state called a "setup."
Russia, Bangladesh Report One-Day COVID-19 Records VOA 06 Jul 2021 -- As many countries ease pandemic restrictions amid rising vaccination rates, Bangladesh and Russia both broke one-day COVID-19 records.
Raab: UK Ships to Continue to Sail Waters Near Crimea After HMS Defender Incident Sputnik 06 Jul 2021 -- UK Foreign Secretary Dominic Raab said on Tuesday that the country's vessels would keep the route through Crimean waters despite a recent incident involving the UK's HMS Defender destroyer.
Russia Calls on UK to Stop Provocations in Black Sea Sputnik 06 Jul 2021 -- Russia calls on the United Kingdom to stop provocations after the incident with the warship HMS Defender, Russian Deputy Foreign Minister Sergei Ryabkov said, adding that the Black Sea is not a place for "such games".
Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov's statement at a joint news conference following talks with Foreign Minister of the Republic of Indonesia Retno Marsudi, Jakarta, July 6, 2021 Russia Ministry of Foreign Affairs 06 Jul 2021
Moscow Not Excluding Dialogue With US on Russia's Latest Weapons Systems Sputnik 06 Jul 2021 -- Moscow is not ruling out a dialogue with the United States on Russia's latest weapons systems if it also includes talks on American prospective hypersonic weapons and other issues, Deputy Foreign Minister Sergey Ryabkov said.
Russia's National Welfare Fund Ditches US Dollar, Finance Ministry Says Sputnik 06 Jul 2021 -- The Russian Finance Ministry said on Tuesday it had finally brought the share of US dollar in the National Wealth Fund (NWF) to zero, and of the British pound to 5%, increasing euro and yuan shares to 39.7% and 30.4%, respectively.
There is Chance to Normalise Russia-US Relations, Moscow Says Sputnik 06 Jul 2021 -- There is a chance to normalise Russia-US relations and it should not be missed, Russian Deputy Foreign Minister Sergei Ryabkov said, adding that Moscow is ready to make efforts to this end.
Russia Backs ASEAN's Myanmar Efforts, Criticizes US-led Quad in Veiled Jab Radio Free Asia 06 Jul 2021 -- Russia strongly supports diplomatic efforts by the ASEAN regional bloc to end the post-coup crisis in Myanmar, Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov said during talks in Jakarta with his Indonesian counterpart Retno Marsudi on Tuesday.
Russia Supports ASEAN's Approach of Non-Interference in Myanmar Affairs, Lavrov Says Sputnik 06 Jul 2021 -- Moscow supports the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN)'s approach to the settlement in Myanmar, as the parties are unanimous in their rejection of external interference and sanctions, which only deepen the crisis, Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov said.
Estonia Calls Russia's Detention Of Its Consul In St. Petersburg A 'Setup' RFE/RL 06 Jul 2021 -- Estonia says Russia's detention of its consul in St. Petersburg was a "setup" and "provocation."
Full Impact Of Latest Ransomware Attack Linked To Russian Cybercriminals Still Unclear RFE/RL 05 Jul 2021 -- The extent of a major ransomware attack that U.S. cybersecurity experts have attributed to a Russian-speaking gang has yet to be determined as more companies come forward to say their systems have been compromised.
Suspected Russian Cybercriminals Demand $70 Million In Massive Ransomware Attack RFE/RL 05 Jul 2021 -- Suspected Russian-speaking cybercriminals behind what may be the largest ransomware attack to date have demanded $70 million in Bitcoin in exchange for a decryption tool as companies and security experts continued to assess the extent of damage.
Lavrov: US Policy of Engaging Russia From 'Position of Strength' Doomed to Failure Sputnik 05 Jul 2021 -- Lavrov Describes Putin-Biden Summit in Geneva as 'Frank, Businesslike'
Russian Forces Monitor French Reconnaissance Ship in Sea of Japan Sputnik 05 Jul 2021 -- The forces of Russia's Eastern Military District have been monitoring French reconnaissance ship the Dupuy de Lome, which has been operating in the Sea of Japan since 5 July, the Russian Defence Ministry's National Defence Control Centre said on Monday.
JCPOA has no reasonable alternative: Russia ISNA 05 Jul 2021 -- Russian Foreign Ministry Spokeswoman Maria Zakharova emphasized the importance of Iran nuclear deal known as the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA).
Russia's new strategy shows US' failure to split China-Russia ties Global Times 05 Jul 2021 -- Russia's latest updated national security strategy shows that the US attempt to split China-Russia ties has failed again, and this is a clear signal sent by Moscow to the world that it still considers the main threat is from the West rather than the East.
Russia Records Highest Number Of Daily Coronavirus Cases Since Early January RFE/RL 04 Jul 2021 -- Russia on July 4 announced 25,142 new Covid-19 infections, the highest figure since early January as the country battles the surging Delta variant of the virus.
Russia Reports Fifth Straight Day Of Record COVID Deaths RFE/RL 04 Jul 2021 -- Russia reported a fifth straight day of record deaths from COVID-19, as authorities struggle to cope with a new wave of cases that's been exacerbated by low vaccination rates.
U.S. Company Searches For Answers After Suspected Russian-Based Ransomware Attack RFE/RL 04 Jul 2021 -- A U.S. IT provider that was been hit by a major ransomware attack on the eve of a long holiday weekend in the United States is scrambling to help its customers get their systems running again while it works with the U.S. government to determine the extent of the attack.
Ransomware Attack By Suspected Russian Gang May Impact Thousands Of Businesses RFE/RL 03 Jul 2021 -- Businesses scrambled on July 3 to respond to a ransomware attack on an American IT provider that cybersecurity experts believe was carried out by Russian criminal hackers.
RDIF Says Sputnik V Faced Severe Disinformation Campaign in Slovakia Sputnik 03 Jul 2021 -- Sputnik V vaccine against COVID-19 has been subjected to a massive disinformation campaign in Slovakia, the Russian Direct Investment Fund (RDIF) said on Saturday.
Syrian Kurds Transfer 20 Children To Russia For Repatriation From Islamic State Camps RFE/RL 03 Jul 2021 -- The Syrian Kurdish administration has handed over another 20 children languishing in camps for the Islamic State group to a Russian delegation for repatriation.
Telephone conversation with President of France Emmanuel Macron President of Russia 02 Jul 2021 -- Vladimir Putin had a telephone conversation with President of the French Republic Emmanuel Macron at the latter's initiative.
The President approved the National Security Strategy President of Russia 02 Jul 2021 -- Vladimir Putin signed Executive Order On the National Security Strategy of the Russian Federation.
Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov's statement and answers to media questions at a joint news conference following talks with Foreign Minister of the Kingdom of Bahrain Abdullatif bin Rashid Alzayani, Moscow, July 2, 2021 Russia Ministry of Foreign Affairs 02 Jul 2021
Kremlin Urges Vaccinations But Rules Out New Lockdown, Despite Record Virus Deaths RFE/RL 02 Jul 2021 -- The Kremlin says Russia will not impose a new lockdown despite a rising coronavirus death toll that has reached a daily record number for four days straight.
Russia Working on Updated Concept for Security in the Persian Gulf, Lavrov Says Sputnik 02 Jul 2021 -- Russia first unveiled a 'Security Concept for the Persian Gulf Region' in mid-2019, in the aftermath of a series of dangerous and destabilising incidents including tanker seizures, sabotage attacks, and the shoot down of a $200 million US spy drone over Iranian airspace - which nearly prompted Washington to launch strikes into Iran.
The Week In Russia: The 'Make-Believe World' Of President Putin RFE/RL 02 Jul 2021 -- President Vladimir Putin has repeatedly used high-profile appearances to call for a "breakthrough" in Russia. Observers said his remarks at a call-in show on June 30 won't bring a breakthrough on Russia's tough COVID-19 situation and its snail's-pace vaccination drive.
Myanmar's Junta Woos Moscow to Balance Beijing VOA 01 Jul 2021 -- The decision by Myanmar's junta leader Min Aung Hlaing to visit Russia before next-door neighbor China highlights his military's easier relations with Moscow and hopes of drawing the Kremlin closer to avoid relying on Beijing alone, analysts say.
NSA, Partners Release Cybersecurity Advisory on Brute Force Global Cyber Campaign NSA Central Security Service 01 Jul 2021 -- The National Security Agency (NSA), Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency (CISA), Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) and the UK's National Cyber Security Centre (NCSC) released a Cybersecurity Advisory today exposing malicious cyber activities by Russian military intelligence against U.S. and global organizations, starting from mid-2019 and likely ongoing. This advisory is being released as part of NSA's routine and continuing cybersecurity mission to warn network defenders of nation state threats.
U.S., British Security Agencies Expose Russia's Global 'Brute Force' Hacking Campaign RFE/RL 01 Jul 2021 -- U.S. and British security agencies have exposed "brute force" methods they say have been used by the Russian military-intelligence agency known as the GRU to conduct malicious cyberactivities against hundreds of government and private organizations.
US, Britain Warn of Russian 'Brute Force' Cyber Campaign VOA 01 Jul 2021 -- The United States and Britain are sounding another alarm about Russian activity in cyberspace, accusing the Kremlin of repeatedly trying to smash its way into the critical systems of government agencies, defense contractors, universities and even political parties.
South Africa reviewing data of Chinese, Russian vaccines for registration People's Daily 01 Jul 2021 -- South Africa's national health products regulator is reviewing the data relating to Chinese and Russian COVID-19 vaccines including Sinovac, Sinopharm and Sputnik for registration, a necessary procedure before they can be procured, a health official has said.
Moscow Starts Booster Vaccine Campaign Amid Surge In Cases RFE/RL 01 Jul 2021 -- Moscow Mayor Sergei Sobyanin has announced the beginning of a booster vaccine campaign amid efforts to contain a surge in coronavirus cases in Russia blamed on the highly infectious Delta variant.
Russia's Sputnik V Vaccine Effective Against Argentine COVID-19 Strains, Scientists Say Sputnik 01 Jul 2021 -- A study by Argentine scientists showed that the use of the Russian Sputnik V vaccine causes the production of antibodies against the gamma (Brazil), alpha (UK) and lambda (the Andes, South America) variants, which are common in Argentina.
Russian Fleet Monitoring Italian Frigate That Entered Black Sea Sputnik 01 Jul 2021 -- This comes as the Russian Navy has carried out a live fire training exercise in the Black Sea following the Sea Breeze drills, led by Ukraine and the United States.
Moscow Police Search Navalny Associate's Campaign Offices RFE/RL 01 Jul 2021 -- Police in Moscow have searched the election campaign offices of a close associate of jailed opposition politician Aleksei Navalny who is planning to take part in parliamentary elections in September.
Russia Labels Khodorkovsky-Linked Groups 'Undesirable' RFE/RL 01 Jul 2021 -- Russian authorities have taken further action against the network of exiled former tycoon Mikhail Khodorkovsky.
Putin Signs New Law Obliging Foreign IT Giants to Open Branches in Russia Sputnik 01 Jul 2021 -- Foreign social media giants such as Facebook, YouTube and Twitter would not be blocked in Russia, despite the services often failing to comply with the country's law, President Putin said on Wednesday during a traditional Q&A session.
Putin Tightens Internet Control, Signs Law Compelling IT Giants To Establish Local Branches RFE/RL 01 Jul 2021 -- Russian President Vladimir Putin has signed into law a bill that obliges foreign IT companies to set up local units or face penalties including a possible ban as Moscow continues to try and tighten its control over the flow of information on the Internet.
Russia Summons Czech Ambassador Over Ammo Depot Blast Row RFE/RL 01 Jul 2021 -- Russia's Foreign Ministry has summoned the Czech ambassador to Russia, Vitezslav Pivonka, after Prague demanded Moscow pay it compensation for a deadly 2014 ammunition depot blast in the Czech Republic that Prague has blamed on Russian intelligence agents.
8th Forum of Russian and Belarusian Regions President of Russia 01 Jul 2021 -- Vladimir Putin and President of the Republic of Belarus Alexander Lukashenko took part, via videoconference, in a plenary session of the 8th Forum of Russian and Belarusian Regions.
Telephone conversation with President of Belarus Alexander Lukashenko President of Russia 01 Jul 2021 -- Vladimir Putin had a telephone conversation with President of the Republic of Belarus Alexander Lukashenko.
Putin Vows 'Comprehensive Assistance' To Embattled Lukashenka Regime RFE/RL 01 Jul 2021 -- Russian President Vladimir Putin has vowed to continue supporting the regime of Belarus's authoritarian ruler Alyaksandr Lukashenka, which is facing increasing international pressure over its brutal crackdown on dissent in the wake of last year's disputed election.

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July 2021 - Russia Special Weapons News