August 2021 - Russia Special Weapons News

Russia to hold naval drills with Iran, Azerbaijan, Kazakhstan in early September Press TV 31 Aug 2021 -- The Russian Defense Ministry says the country is set to stage joint naval exercises with three other Caspian Sea littoral states, including Iran, early next month.
Kremlin 'Tightening Its Grip' On The Internet Ahead Of Elections, Group Says RFE/RL 31 Aug 2021 -- Reporters Without Borders (RSF) says the Russian state is "tightening its grip" on the Internet, "drastically" restricting freedom of the press and of expression ahead of next month's parliamentary elections.
Marked by the State: Russia Ramps Up 'Foreign Agent' Law Ahead of Election VOA 31 Aug 2021 -- Dozens of Russian independent media have been labeled "foreign agents" in the run-up to parliamentary elections, which are now only three weeks away.
Russian Prosecutor-General's Office Registers Big Jump In Corruption Cases RFE/RL 31 Aug 2021 -- Russia's Prosecutor-General's Office says it has registered a sharp increase in the filing of corruption cases across the country since the start of the year.
Russia Seeks Arms Market, Foothold in SE Asia in Courting Myanmar's Isolated Junta Radio Free Asia 30 Aug 2021 -- Russia is strengthening ties with Myanmar's increasingly isolated junta in a bid to grow its global arms market and expand its influence in Southeast Asian regional affairs, political analysts said Monday, following Moscow's confirmation of plans to deliver military equipment to the nation.
Russia says US must release Afghanistan's blocked reserves, cause no more problems for country Press TV 30 Aug 2021 -- Russia has called on the United States to release blocked reserves of the Afghan central bank and stop making more problems for the Taliban-controlled country.
Hundreds Of Russian Troops Take Part In Military Drills In Tajikistan RFE/RL Gandhara 30 Aug 2021 -- Russia says about 500 of its troops are taking part in military drills in Tajikistan amid fears of instability across its Central Asian allies after the Taliban gained control of much of Afghanistan, including its northern areas.
Estonia Expels Another Russian Diplomat In Latest Tit-For-Tat Move RFE/RL 30 Aug 2021 -- Estonia says it won't issue a visa to a Russian diplomat in response to Moscow's expulsion of one of the Baltic country's diplomats from Russia last month.
Navalny's Spokeswoman Reportedly Leaves Russia RFE/RL 30 Aug 2021 -- The Interfax news agency has quoted two sources as saying that Kira Yarmysh, the spokeswoman for jailed opposition leader Aleksei Navalny, has left Russia after a court restricted her freedom for allegedly violating coronavirus protocols by urging people to rally in support of the Kremlin critic.
Telephone conversation with President of Belarus Alexander Lukashenko President of Russia 30 Aug 2021
In The Teeth Of A Crackdown, Russia's Opposition Candidates Fight To Stay In The Race RFE/RL 28 Aug 2021 -- Andrei Pivovarov is perhaps the most atypical candidate in Russia's already atypical election.
COVID-19 Deaths In Russia Hit New Monthly High In July RFE/RL 28 Aug 2021 -- More than 50,000 people who had been diagnosed with COVID-19 died in Russia during the month of July, setting a new monthly high, Russia's government statistics agency said on August 28.
Kremlin condemns terror attacks in Kabul People's Daily 28 Aug 2021 -- The Kremlin on Friday "strongly condemned" the terrorist attacks in the Afghan capital of Kabul on Thursday that have killed more than 100 people.
Russia-Led CSTO To Hold Military Drills In Central Asia Due To Situation In Afghanistan RFE/RL 27 Aug 2021 -- The Russia-led Collective Security Treaty Organization (CSTO) says it plans to hold military exercises in Kyrgyzstan and Tajikistan due to the ongoing situation in Afghanistan.
Collaboration Between China, Russia Compounds Threat, Stratcom Commander Says DoD News 27 Aug 2021 -- During the Cold War, the U.S. faced one peer competitor, the Soviet Union. Today, Russia and China, both peer competitors, are seen as sometimes collaborating in opportunistic ways, the commander of U.S. Strategic Command said.
China-Russia drill signals new era in joint exercises: spokesperson Global Times 27 Aug 2021 -- A joint military exercise between China and Russia, code-named ZAPAD/INTERACTION-2021, has charted the course for a new high-point in bilateral relations, opened new horizons for military drills between major countries, and explored new models for planning exercises together, a Chinese military spokesperson told a press conference on Thursday.
China-Russia drill signals new era in joint exercises: spokesperson PLA Daily 27 Aug 2021 -- A joint military exercise between China and Russia, code-named ZAPAD/INTERACTION-2021, has charted the course for a new high-point in bilateral relations, opened new horizons for military drills between major countries, and explored new models for planning exercises together, a Chinese military spokesperson told a press conference on Thursday.
Iran, Russia discuss mutual cooperation, re-launch of Vienna talks on JCPOA revival Press TV 27 Aug 2021 -- Iranian Foreign Minister Hossein Amir-Abdollahian and his Russian counterpart Sergei Lavrov have underlined the need for further development of bilateral collaboration in the international arena, particularly with regard to Afghanistan.
Winter Is Coming: Europe's Gas Markets Hit Unusual Turbulence -- And Eyes Turn To Moscow RFE/RL 27 Aug 2021 -- Typically this time of year, energy utilities across Europe are topping off their tanks, replacing old wires, locking in gas contracts, and doing the sort of routine maintenance needed to prepare for the coming winter.
Russian Independent Media Join Forces To Urge Putin To End 'Foreign Agent' Label RFE/RL 27 Aug 2021 -- A number of leading Russian news journals and websites have joined forces to protest against the targeting by authorities of a growing number of independent media outlets and journalists under Russia's controversial "foreign agent" law.
Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov's statement and answers to media questions at a joint news conference with Italian Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation Luigi Di Maio following talks in Rome, August 27, 2021 Russia Ministry of Foreign Affairs 27 Aug 2021
Moscow warns London of consequences if it violates Russian territorial waters again Press TV 26 Aug 2021 -- Moscow has warned London that there will be consequences in the event of a repeat of the incident in June when a British ship crossed into Russian territorial waters near Crimea.
Kremlin Says It Will Watch Taliban Actions Before Taking Position On Afghan Administration RFE/RL Gandhara 26 Aug 2021 -- The Kremlin says it will wait to see how the Taliban acts after taking over Afghanistan before deciding on its position toward the militant group.
Russia Launches Probe Into 'Ecocide' Over Ukraine's Suspension Of Water Deliveries To Annexed Crimea RFE/RL 25 Aug 2021 -- Russia has launched a probe into what it called "ecocide" over Ukraine's decision to suspend water deliveries to Russia-annexed Crimea.
Putin says Russia opposes politicizing COVID-19 origins tracing Global Times 25 Aug 2021 -- Russian President Vladimir Putin said Wednesday that Russia is opposed to the politicization of COVID-19 origins tracing.
Russia starts evacuations from Afghanistan Press TV 25 Aug 2021 -- Russia has started the evacuation of hundreds of people from Afghanistan amid violent chaos at the Kabul international airport and and jitters in the Afghan capital over the takeover of the country by the Taliban militant group.
Russia To Evacuate 500 From Kabul; Hungary Winding Down Afghan Airlifts RFE/RL Gandhara 25 Aug 2021 -- Russia will use four military transport aircraft to evacuate more than 500 citizens from Afghanistan, Russian news agencies reported on August 25, as the Taliban said an August 31 deadline for all foreign evacuations to be completed will not be extended.
Xi holds phone conversation with Putin PLA Daily 25 Aug 2021 -- Chinese President Xi Jinping held a phone conversation on Wednesday with his Russian counterpart, Vladimir Putin.
Russia: Iran's steps away from JCPOA due to halt in Vienna talks, US sanctions Press TV 25 Aug 2021 -- Russia says Iran's decision to take more steps away from the 2015 nuclear deal by producing uranium metal and increasing uranium-enrichment capacities stem from a lack of progress in negotiations on a revival of the agreement as well as the US's refusal to remove its unilateral sanctions against the Islamic Republic, calling for a swift resumption of the talks.
Telephone conversation with Prime Minister of Pakistan Imran Khan President of Russia 25 Aug 2021 -- Vladimir Putin had a telephone conversation with Prime Minister of the Islamic Republic of Pakistan Imran Khan.
Vote Now, Get Bonus Later: Putin Accused Of Bribing Electorate To Save Ruling Party RFE/RL 25 Aug 2021 -- Russian President Vladimir Putin was in a generous and agreeable mood when he attended a congress of the ruling but reeling United Russia party just weeks ahead of nationwide legislative elections.
In First Interview From Jail, Russia's Navalny Describes 'Psychological Violence' RFE/RL 25 Aug 2021 -- In his first media interview from the penal colony where he is being held, Russian opposition politician Aleksei Navalny discussed his life as a political prisoner, saying he was being forced to watch Russian state television and selected propaganda movies for more than eight hours a day.
Answer by Foreign Ministry Spokeswoman Maria Zakharova to media questions about the impossibility of obtaining an entry visa to the United States Russia Ministry of Foreign Affairs 25 Aug 2021
Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov's opening remarks during a meeting with members of the Sochi Dialogue Russian-Austrian Public Forum's core group, Vienna, August 25, 2021 Russia Ministry of Foreign Affairs 25 Aug 2021
Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov's remarks and answers to media questions at a joint news conference following talks with Austrian Federal Minister for Europe, Integration and Foreign Affairs Alexander Schallenberg, Vienna, August 25, 2021 Russia Ministry of Foreign Affairs 25 Aug 2021
NATO Deputy Secretary General: Crimea is Ukraine NATO 24 Aug 2021 -- NATO Deputy Secretary General Mircea Geoana arrived in Kyiv, Ukraine on Monday (23 August 2021) to participate in the inaugural Crimean Platform Summit.
Comment by Foreign Ministry Spokeswoman Maria Zakharova on the meeting of the so-called Crimea Platform in Kiev Russia Ministry of Foreign Affairs 24 Aug 2021
Saudis Sign Military Cooperation Agreement With Russia RFE/RL 24 Aug 2021 -- Saudi Arabia and Russia have signed a military cooperation agreement at an arms expo outside Moscow.
Russia navy overhaul: New warships, nuclear subs under construction Press TV 24 Aug 2021 -- Russia is pushing forward with plans to modernize its navy using cutting-edge technology, with President Vladimir Putin revealing that several new warships and nuclear submarines are in the pipeline.
Who Might Russia Declare A 'Foreign Agent' Journalist? Pretty Much Anyone, Really. RFE/RL 24 Aug 2021 -- As the government of Russian President Vladimir Putin accelerates its campaign against independent journalism, declaring multiple investigative outlets "foreign agents," reporters caught up in the dragnet have long been wondering why some have been targeted while others have not.
Lavrov Says Russia Doesn't Want To See U.S. Troops In Central Asia RFE/RL 24 Aug 2021 -- Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov says Moscow does not want to see U.S. troops in Central Asia because it would make the region a target for attacks.
Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov's opening remarks during talks with Hungarian Deputy Prime Minister Zsolt Semjen, Budapest, August 24, 2021 Russia Ministry of Foreign Affairs 24 Aug 2021
Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov's statement and answers to media questions at a joint news conference with Hungarian Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade Peter Szijjarto, Budapest, August 24, 2021 Russia Ministry of Foreign Affairs 24 Aug 2021
Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov's opening remarks during talks with Hungarian Minister of Foreign Affairs and Trade Peter Szijjarto, Budapest, August 24, 2021 Russia Ministry of Foreign Affairs 24 Aug 2021
Russia slams US plans to deploy forces to Central Asia after Afghanistan pullout Press TV 24 Aug 2021 -- Russia has slammed reported plans by the United States to deploy troops to the Central Asia region following the hasty withdrawal of foreign forces from Afghanistan and the Taliban's takeover of the country.
Russia Casts a Pragmatic Eye on Afghanistan's Taliban VOA 23 Aug 2021 -- In the aftermath of the Taliban's takeover of Afghanistan, Russia is looking south with a wary eye to see how it can benefit from a situation fraught with opportunity and risk.
Russia Accuses Ukrainian Of Espionage RFE/RL 23 Aug 2021 -- Russian authorities have detained a Ukrainian citizen on suspicion of espionage in the city of Tula, some 200 kilometers south of Moscow.
Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov's video address to the participants in the conference The Frontiers of Russia: Geopolitics, Regional Studies and Historical Memory, August 23, 2021 Russia Ministry of Foreign Affairs 23 Aug 2021
Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov's interview with Hungarian newspaper Magyar Nemzet, August 23, 2021 Russia Ministry of Foreign Affairs 23 Aug 2021
Russia Reports Over 20,000 New COVID Cases RFE/RL 22 Aug 2021 -- Russia reported 20,564 new coronavirus cases on August 22, taking the national tally to 6,747,087.
Merkel Says In Kyiv That Natural Gas Should Not Be 'Geopolitical Weapon' RFE/RL 22 Aug 2021 -- German Chancellor Angela Merkel has said natural gas should never be used as a geopolitical weapon and backed extending an energy partnership deal with Ukraine once it expires in 2024.
Thirty Years After Independence From Moscow, Ukraine Struggles To Throw Off Oligarch Yoke RFE/RL 21 Aug 2021 -- When Ukraine's Constitutional Court dismantled much of the nation's anti-corruption legislation in October 2020, dealing a blow to Kyiv's reform agenda and its reputation abroad, many observers discerned what they believe was the influence of powerful local magnates.
CSTO, SCO Turn Attention To Afghan Situation RFE/RL Gandhara 21 Aug 2021 -- International alliances involving Russia have turned their attention to developments in Kabul, with the leaders of the Collective Security Treaty Organization (CSTO) preparing to meet and the Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO) looking for ways to resolve the ongoing conflict in Afghanistan.
Press release on Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov's telephone conversation with Foreign Minister of the Islamic Republic of Pakistan Shah Mahmood Qureshi Russia Ministry of Foreign Affairs 21 Aug 2021
The Week In Russia: 'An Absolutely Bright And Beautiful Future' RFE/RL 20 Aug 2021 -- In August 1991, the collapse of an attempted coup by hard-liners bent on reversing reforms hastened the breakup of the Soviet Union, which was gone by the end of the year -- replaced by 15 independent states. In Russia, how far back will Vladimir Putin turn the clock?
Russian Justice Ministry Declares Dozhd TV A 'Foreign Agent' RFE/RL 20 Aug 2021 -- Russia's Justice Ministry on August 20 declared the Dozhd television channel (TV Rain) a "foreign agent," part of what Kremlin opponents say is a crackdown on critical media before parliamentary elections next month.
On Poisoning Anniversary, Merkel Urges Putin To Release Navalny, Britain Sanctions More Russians RFE/RL 20 Aug 2021 -- On the anniversary of Aleksei Navalny's poisoning, Britain and the United States imposed targeted sanctions on Russian intelligence operatives as German Chancellor Angela Merkel urged Russian President Vladimir Putin to release the jailed opposition politician.
Imposition of Sanctions in Connection with Nord Stream 2 US Dept. of State 20 Aug 2021 -- The Department of State has submitted a report to Congress pursuant to the Protecting Europe's Energy Security Act of 2019 (PEESA), as amended.
U.S. Imposes Additional Costs on Russia for Aleksey Navalny Poisoning US Dept. of State 20 Aug 2021 -- The United States, in concert with the United Kingdom, is imposing additional costs on the Russian Federation on the one-year anniversary of the poisoning of Russian opposition figure Aleksey Navalny with a Novichok nerve agent.
Joint Statement on the Anniversary of Mr. Alexey Navalny's Poisoning US Dept. of State 20 Aug 2021 -- The text of the following statement was released by the Governments of the United States of America and the United Kingdom on the anniversary of Mr. Alexey Navalny's poisoning.
Treasury Sanctions Russian Operatives and Entities Linked to the Poisoning of Aleksey Navalny, Chemical Weapons Program US Treasury 20 Aug 2021 -- Today, the U.S. Department of the Treasury's Office of Foreign Assets Control (OFAC) and the U.S. Department of State joined the United Kingdom in imposing additional sanctions on Russia in response to the state-sponsored poisoning of Russian opposition leader Aleksey Navalny that took place one year ago today.
UK sanctions Russian FSB operatives over poisoning of Alexey Navalny UK FCDO 20 Aug 2021 -- The UK has sanctioned the Russian Federal Security Service (FSB) operatives directly responsible for the Novichok attack on Alexey Navalny.
Letter to the Speaker of the House of Representatives and the President of the Senate on Blocking Property with Respect to Certain Russian Energy Export Pipelines The White House 20 Aug 2021
Executive Order on Blocking Property with Respect to Certain Russian Energy Export Pipelines The White House 20 Aug 2021
Merkel Makes Farewell Trip To Meet Putin Amid 'Deep Disagreements' RFE/RL 20 Aug 2021 -- German Chancellor Angela Merkel and Russian President Vladimir Putin had a long list of contentious topics to discuss during Merkel's last official visit to Russia before retiring from politics after next month's general elections.
Merkel Makes Final Visit to Russia as German Chancellor VOA 20 Aug 2021 -- German Chancellor Angela Merkel, scheduled to leave office later this year after nearly 16 years, is in Moscow for one final meeting with Russian President Vladimir Putin.
Ukrainian Leader Tries To Put Spotlight Back On Russian-Occupied Crimea RFE/RL 19 Aug 2021 -- President Volodymyr Zelenskiy has lamented that the crisis in Crimea has fallen from global attention, and he pledged to "raise from the knees" the fate of the Black Sea peninsula annexed by Russia seven years ago.
Month Before Vote, Jailed Opposition Figure Navalny Urges Russians To Use Voting Scheme RFE/RL 19 Aug 2021 -- Jailed Russian opposition leader Aleksei Navalny has urged Russian voters to use a Smart Voting strategy, a project designed by his team to promote candidates to defeat Kremlin-linked figures, in the September elections.
Why Russia Backs China in Disputes with Third Countries VOA 19 Aug 2021 -- Russia, once a thorn in China's side, is backing Beijing in its disputes with third countries, including a maritime sovereignty flap in Southeast Asia, to counter Washington's influence in Asia, scholars believe.
Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov's statement and answers to media questions at a joint news conference with Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation of the Government of National Unity of Libya, Najla Mangoush, Moscow, August 19, 2021 Russia Ministry of Foreign Affairs 19 Aug 2021
Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov's opening remarks during talks with Najla Mangoush, Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation of the Government of National Unity of Libya, Moscow, August 19, 2021 Russia Ministry of Foreign Affairs 19 Aug 2021
Briefing by Foreign Ministry Spokeswoman Maria Zakharova, Moscow, August 19, 2021 Russia Ministry of Foreign Affairs 19 Aug 2021
Press release on the anniversary of "Alexey Navalny case" Russia Ministry of Foreign Affairs 18 Aug 2021 -- August 20 marks one year since the emergency hospitalisation of Russian blogger Alexey Navalny in Omsk - an incident which, through the purposeful efforts of a group of Western states, was raised to the level of an international event, which led to the bringing of unsubstantiated charges against Russia for allegedly using a "chemical warfare agent" on its territory.
Russia questions West's legacy of crisis left behind in Afghanistan Press TV 18 Aug 2021 -- Russia says the United States and its Western allies left behind a humanitarian and political crisis of a new dimension in Afghanistan as uncertainty reigns in the wake of the Taliban takeover of the war-ravaged country.
Soviet-era president Gorbachev: US must learn from Afghan failure Press TV 18 Aug 2021 -- Mikhail Gorbachev, Russia's last Soviet-era leader, who led the withdrawal of Russian occupation forces from Afghanistan in 1989, has slammed the US military invasion of the war-torn country as doomed from the outset, saying "lessons" should be learned from the conflict.
MiG-29 Fighter Crashes in Russia's Astrakhan Region, Pilot Killed Sputnik 18 Aug 2021 -- According to the Russian Ministry of Defense, the MiG-29 jet fighter crashed in southern Russia's Astrakhan region, near the Ashuluk military training center during a planned flight.
Russian Anti-Submarine Warfare Destroyer Enters Mediterranean Sputnik 18 Aug 2021 -- Russian warships in the Mediterranean have played an instrumental role in Moscow's counter-terrorism operations in Syria, and have also served to counterbalance the large NATO presence in the region.
Russia Labels Independent Election Monitor 'Foreign Agent' Ahead Of September Elections RFE/RL 18 Aug 2021 -- The independent election monitoring group Golos says Russia's Ministry of Justice has designated it a "foreign agent," a move that is likely to hamper the monitor's work during next month's parliamentary and local elections.
Moscow Police Use Leaked Personal Data To Investigate Navalny Supporters RFE/RL 18 Aug 2021 -- Moscow police are using leaked online personal data from projects linked to jailed opposition politician Aleksei Navalny to investigate people who have supported the Kremlin critic.
Gorbachev Says Lessons Of Failed 1991 Coup Still Relevant Today RFE/RL 18 Aug 2021 -- On the 30th anniversary of a coup that failed to stop democratic reforms in the Soviet Union and expedited its collapse, the last Soviet leader, Mikhail Gorbachev, said Russian society must stand against "usurping power," the phrase often used by critics of Russia's current President Vladimir Putin.
Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov's answers to media questions following a visit to the Kaliningrad Region, Kaliningrad, August 17, 2021 Russia Ministry of Foreign Affairs 17 Aug 2021
Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov's remarks and answers to questions during a meeting with the faculty and students at Immanuel Kant Baltic Federal University, Kaliningrad, August 17, 2021 Russia Ministry of Foreign Affairs 17 Aug 2021
North Macedonia Expels Russian Diplomat, Second Since May, No Reason Given RFE/RL 17 Aug 2021 -- North Macedonia has expelled a Russian diplomat, the second since May, without giving an explanation over why the move was taken.
Beneath The Gloating, Taliban Takeover Brings Unwelcome New Uncertainty For Moscow RFE/RL Gandhara 17 Aug 2021 -- Chaos enveloped Kabul's main airport, with thousands of Afghans frantically rushing to flee Taliban fighters while U.S. Marines sought to provide security for American diplomats and allies being evacuated.
Lavrov Says Counterproductive to Impose Any Form of Governance on Afghanistan Sputnik 17 Aug 2021 -- Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov expressed the belief that imposing any form of governance on Afghanistan is counterproductive.
China, Russia should encourage Taliban to build inclusive political structure: Chinese FM Global Times 17 Aug 2021 -- Exchanging views on opposing the politicization of tracing of the origins of the coronavirus, safeguarding the achievements of World War II, and strengthening coordination on current Afghan situation, the phone call between Chinese State Councilor and Foreign Minister Wang Yi and Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov, covering major issues that concern the two countries and the world, shows the high-level mutual trust and solid partnership between China and Russia, and their joint contribution in safeguarding regional stability, analysts said.
China, US, Russia share consensus in Afghanistan, but Washington 'should correct its mistake to exchange cooperation' Global Times 17 Aug 2021 -- The US has discussed the situation in Afghanistan with China, Russia, Pakistan and its European allies on Tuesday to seek cooperation following its hasty retreat. This was not the first time Washington openly expressed to China its request on the issue, which shows a better attitude that is very different from the US hostility against China in other intense areas.
UK Says Scrambled Fighter Jets to Intercept Russia's Su-24 Over Black Sea Sputnik 17 Aug 2021 -- The UK's Royal Air Force (RAF) said on Tuesday that it had intercepted a military aircraft identified as Russia's Su-24 in international airspace over the Black Sea off the coast of Romania.
Iran, Russia envoys discuss resumption of talks in Vienna on nuclear deal Press TV 17 Aug 2021 -- Senior diplomats from Iran and Russia have exchanged views about the resumption of talks in Vienna, Austria, on a potential revival of the 2015 nuclear deal, which was suspended amid a power transition in the Islamic Republic following the June presidential election.
Three Pilots Die After Military Plane Crashes Near Moscow RFE/RL 17 Aug 2021 -- Three crew members have died after a military plane crashed during a test flight near Moscow on August 17.
Video: Il-112V Military Transport Aircraft Crashes Outside Moscow During Training Flight Sputnik 17 Aug 2021 -- Last week, the Russian company United Aircraft reported that the first prototype of the Il-112V military transport aircraft had carried out a flight from the city of Voronezh to the city of Zhukovsky, near Moscow, to prepare for participation in the military forum Army-2021.
Navalny's Request To Cancel His Status Of 'Inclined To Escape' Rejected RFE/RL 17 Aug 2021 -- The Moscow City Court has rejected a request by imprisoned opposition leader Aleksei Navalny to annul his designation as being as a "flight risk," which subjects him to hourly nighttime checks while he is incarcerated at a penal colony.
Attempts to undermine Nord Stream 2 project doomed to failure: Russia's Lavrov Press TV 17 Aug 2021 -- Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov says all future attempts by the US-led Western countries to undermine the Nord Stream 2 project, a sprawling undersea pipeline that will carry Russian gas directly into Germany, are doomed to failure.
Press release on Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov's telephone conversation with Foreign Minister of the People's Republic of China Wang Yi Russia Ministry of Foreign Affairs 16 Aug 2021 -- On August 16, Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov had a telephone conversation with Minister of Foreign Affairs of the People's Republic of China Wang Yi.
Press release on Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov's telephone conversation with US Secretary of State Antony Blinken Russia Ministry of Foreign Affairs 16 Aug 2021 -- On August 16, Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov spoke by telephone with US Secretary of State Antony Blinken at the initiative of the American side.
Press release on developments in Afghanistan Russia Ministry of Foreign Affairs 16 Aug 2021
Russian Ambassador To Kabul To Meet Taliban RFE/RL Gandhara 16 Aug 2021 -- A senior Russian official says the country's ambassador to Afghanistan, Dmitry Zhirnov, will hold talks with Taliban representatives on August 17 to discuss the security of Russian citizens and embassy personnel.
Russia blames US failure for Taliban's seizure of Afghanistan Press TV 16 Aug 2021 -- Russia has taken the United States to task over the unfolding crisis in Afghanistan, saying the Taliban's takeover of the country stems from America's failure two decades after the invasion.
Secretary Blinken's Call with Russian Foreign Minister Lavrov US Dept. of State 16 Aug 2021
Russia Reports Record Daily High For COVID-19 Deaths RFE/RL 14 Aug 2021 -- Russia reported a new daily high of 819 for COVID-19 deaths, a day after Moscow reported the highest number of monthly deaths in the city since the start of the pandemic.
Russia sends ships to Iran's Bandar Anzali for Sea Cup competition Press TV 14 Aug 2021 -- Russia has deployed two vessels to Iran's northern port of Bandar Anzali on the Caspian Sea to participate in the Sea Cup competition of the 2021 International Army Games.
Putin Calls Siberian Wildfires 'Unprecedented,' Calls For Stronger Response RFE/RL 14 Aug 2021 -- Russian President Vladimir Putin has called the wildfires ravaging parts of northern Siberia "absolutely unprecedented" and called for a better response by firefighters.
Russia, China conclude massive anti-terror drills, vow closer alliance Press TV 14 Aug 2021 -- Russia and China have wrapped up their five-day joint strategic military drills in Northwest China involving over 10,000 troops and advanced weaponry as top officials in both countries vowed further collaborations amid rising US-led provocations in eastern Europe and the pacific.
After Near-Disaster With New Russian Space Module, More Murk Over Mysterious Holes RFE/RL 13 Aug 2021 -- When a newly arrived Russian module sent the International Space Station spinning and nearly knocked it off its orbit, experts and longtime space watchers held their breath, and then exhaled when no lasting damage was detected.
The Week In Russia: The Dangerous Summer RFE/RL 13 Aug 2021 -- As September elections approach, COVID-19 takes a mounting toll and wildfires burn across huge swaths of the country, devouring forests, blanketing cities in smoke and diminishing public trust in the authorities. The Kremlin crackdown on dissenters, civil society, and independent media continues.
Russia set to expel BBC journalist in row with Britain Press TV 13 Aug 2021 -- The Russian government has told a BBC journalist working in Moscow to leave the country by the end of this month in retaliation for London's "discrimination" against Russian media in Britain, state TV reported.
BBC Condemns 'Assault On Media Freedom' After Russia Expels Moscow Correspondent RFE/RL 13 Aug 2021 -- Russia has refused to renew a visa for a BBC journalist in Moscow, effectively expelling her from the country.
Russia Labels Belgian Rights NGO 'Undesirable,' Effectively Banning It RFE/RL 13 Aug 2021 -- Russian authorities have effectively banned a Belgian nongovernmental organization after declaring it an "undesirable" organization amid a Kremlin clampdown on civil society.
Russian Prosecutors Seek 'Restricted Freedom' For Yet Another Navalny Aide In 'Sanitary Case' RFE/RL 13 Aug 2021 -- Prosecutors have asked a Moscow court to sentence Kira Yarmysh, the spokeswoman of jailed opposition politician Aleksei Navalny, to two years of so-called "restricted freedom."
Russia Hands Two Rights Activists Stiff Prison Terms On Drug-Trafficking Charges RFE/RL 13 Aug 2021 -- A Russian court has sentenced two activists linked to the banned Open Russia rights group to lengthy prison sentences for drug charges they say are politically motivated.
China, Russia joint drills conclude with live-fire anti-terrorism operation featuring J-20 Global Times 13 Aug 2021 -- China and Russia on Friday wrapped up the five-day Zapad/Interaction-2021 joint strategic exercises in Northwest China with the live-fire phase featuring some of the most advanced weapons in the world and strong, saturation firepower that analysts said would be overwhelming to any enemy.
China-Russia joint exercise ZAPAD/INTERACTION-2021 wraps up PLA Daily 13 Aug 2021 -- The China-Russia joint exercise ZAPAD/INTERACTION-2021 (Xibu Unity-2021) wrapped up at the combined-arms tactical training base of the PLA Army in Qingtongxia City of West China's Ningxia Hui Autonomous Region on Friday. General Wei Fenghe, Chinese State Councilor and Defense Minister, observed the live-fire drill, held a bilateral talk and witnessed the signing of cooperation paper with Russian Defense Minister General Sergei Shoigu .
Russian Defence Minister notes the coordination of actions of the Russian and Chinese military personnel in Sibu/Interaction 2021 exercise PLA Daily 13 Aug 2021 -- Russian Defence Minister General of the Army Sergei Shoigu praised the joint actions of Russian and Chinese military personnel during Sibu/Interaction 2021 exercise, the active phase of which took place today in the PRC at the Qintongxia training ground.
Russia and China increasing the interaction of their armed forces on land, in the air and at sea PLA Daily 13 Aug 2021 -- After the active phase of Sibu/Interaction 2021 exercise at a meeting of the heads of the military departments of Russia and China, the Minister of Defence of the Russian Federation, General of the Army Sergei Shoigu, said that building up cooperation between the Russian and Chinese armed forces on land, in the air and at sea is an important area of military activity. departments of the two countries.
Exercise ZAPAD/INTERACTION-2021: Live-fire drill kicks off PLA Daily 13 Aug 2021 -- The live-fire drill of joint exercise ZAPAD/INTERACTION-2021 kicked off at the combined-arms tactical training base of the PLA Army in Qingtongxia City of West China's Ningxia Hui Autonomous Region, on August 13.
Russian commander: Chinese and Russian militaries reach new height in coordinated operations PLA Daily 13 Aug 2021 -- The first-phase joint planning drill of the exercise ZAPAD/INTERACTION-2021 has been successfully wrapped up. Lieutenant-General Mikhail Nosulev, the deputy commander of Russia's Eastern Military District and deputy commander of the exercise's joint command, said that the Chinese and Russian armed forces have reached a new height in coordinated operations through the exercise, and demonstrated their military professionalism and strong determination in combating international terrorism.
Russian Military Reports Threefold Increase in NATO Reconnaissance Flights Over Black Sea Sputnik 12 Aug 2021 -- NATO reconnaissance aircraft have increased their flights over the Black Sea almost threefold this year, hitting new peaks compared to aerial activities over the previous years, Nikolay Gostev, the commander of the fourth air and air defence forces army of Russia's Southern Military District, said.
China, Russia Pose Strategic Challenges for U.S., Allies, Admiral Says DoD News 12 Aug 2021 -- The U.S. is now navigating through uncharted waters with the possibility of strategic deterrence failing under rapidly growing threats from China and Russia, the commander of U.S. Strategic Command said.
Turkmen, Uzbek, Russian Officials Hold Talks With Taliban Amid Deteriorating Afghan Security RFE/RL Gandhara 12 Aug 2021 -- The Taliban says representatives of Turkmenistan, Uzbekistan, and Russia have held talks with the chief of the group's political office in Qatar amid growing regional concerns over the insurgents' military offensives across Afghanistan.
Russia arrests top hypersonic research scientist suspected of treason Press TV 12 Aug 2021 -- Russia has arrested the head of a research institute specializing in hypersonic technology on suspicion of state treason, Russian media report.
Russia Detains Hypersonic Flight Expert In Treason Case RFE/RL 12 Aug 2021 -- Russian authorities have detained the head of an institute researching hypersonic flight on charges of high treason.
Moscow Court Orders Hypersonic Tech Expert Kuranov Into Custody in Treason Case Sputnik 12 Aug 2021 -- A Moscow district court on Thursday ordered a 73-year-old hypersonic technology scientist to be held in custody on suspicion of state treason.
Disqualified In 2019, Prospective Russian Duma Candidate Pulls Out All The Stops This Time RFE/RL 12 Aug 2021 -- The numbers tell the story of 27-year-old Anastasia Bryukhanova's uphill effort to be registered as an independent candidate for the State Duma in Moscow's 198th single-mandate district.
Peaceful Protests 'Become Almost Impossible' In Russia, Report Says RFE/RL 12 Aug 2021 -- Russian authorities have stifled people's right to peaceful protests to such an extent that is has become almost impossible for Russians to protest in any meaningful way, Amnesty International has said in a report.
Saudi Arabia considers purchasing Russian Abakan air defense system: Report Press TV 12 Aug 2021 -- Saudi Arabian military officials are reportedly mulling over buying the Russian-made Abakan surface-to-air missile defense system to protect the country's oil infrastructure and supply in the wake of retaliatory drone and missile attacks by Yemeni armed forces.
BBC Investigation Exposes Extent Of Russian Mercenary Involvement In Libya RFE/RL 11 Aug 2021 -- A journalistic investigation has brought new insights into the "key" role of a Russian military contractor in the civil war in Libya, including links to war crimes and Russia's military.
Russia's Sputnik V Vaccine 83% Effective Against Delta Coronavirus Strain, Health Minister Says Sputnik 11 Aug 2021 -- Russia's Sputnik V vaccine shows great results against the Delta coronavirus strain, with its effectiveness against it reaching around 83%, Health Minister Mikhail Murashko said on Wednesday.
Ukraine asks for US missile systems, troops; Russia warns of retaliation Press TV 11 Aug 2021 -- Ukraine has called on the United States to send troops and anti-missile systems to the country, in a controversial move that has prompted Russia to warn of retaliation.
Kiev's Statements on Deploying US Air Defence Systems in Ukraine Provocative, Moscow Says Sputnik 11 Aug 2021 -- Kiev's statements about the possibility of deploying US air defence systems in Ukraine are provocative and do not meet the interests of its people, Russian Foreign Ministry spokeswoman Maria Zakharova said on Wednesday.
U.S., Russian Defense Chiefs Talk By Phone About 'Strategic Stability' RFE/RL 11 Aug 2021 -- U.S. Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin and his Russian counterpart, Sergei Shoigu, have spoken by telephone about ongoing "strategic stability" talks launched last month after a recent presidential summit.
Readout of Secretary of Defense Lloyd Austin's Call With Russian Minister of Defense Sergey Shoygu DoD 11 Aug 2021
Russia Wraps Up Drills With Uzbek And Tajik Troops Near Afghan Border RFE/RL Gandhara 11 Aug 2021 -- Russia completed joint military exercises with troops from Tajikistan and Uzbekistan on August 10 as the Taliban gains control of much of northern Afghanistan bordering Moscow's Central Asian allies.
Navalny Could Face More Jail Time As Russia Announces New Criminal Charge RFE/RL 11 Aug 2021 -- Russian authorities have charged Aleksei Navalny with an additional crime, a move that could prolong the jailed opposition politician's stay behind bars if he is convicted.
Russian Investigative Committee Brings New Charges Against Navalny Sputnik 11 Aug 2021 -- The Russian Investigative Committee brought new charges against already convicted opposition figure Alexey Navalny, the committee's spokeswoman, Svetlana Petrenko, said on Wednesday.
U.S. Appoints Energy Adviser To Implement Nord Stream 2 Agreement RFE/RL 11 Aug 2021 -- U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken has appointed former diplomat Amos Hochstein as senior adviser on energy security with a focus on measures to "reduce the risks" posed by the German-Russian Nord Stream 2 pipeline and support energy security in Eastern Europe.
Germany Arrests British Embassy Worker Accused of Spying for Russia VOA 11 Aug 2021 -- German authorities said Wednesday that they had arrested a British citizen and accused him of spying for Russia while working at the British Embassy in Berlin.
Arrest of British embassy worker in Germany draws attention to MI5 failure Press TV 11 Aug 2021 -- The arrest of a British embassy worker in Germany on suspicion of selling secrets to Russia's Foreign Intelligence Service (SVR) is a major embarrassment to the British Security Service (MI5), not least because the drama is unfolding at a delicate time in Anglo-Russian relations.
Germany arrests Briton suspected of 'spying for Russia' Press TV 11 Aug 2021 -- A British embassy worker has been arrested in Germany on suspicion of spying for Russia, following a joint operation by German and British authorities.
UK Citizen Suspected of Spying for Russian Intelligence Detained in Germany Sputnik 11 Aug 2021 -- The arrest was made on 10 August in the German city of Potsdam, with searches having been carried out in the suspect's apartment and workplace.
Facebook Takes Down Anti-Vax Hoax Network 'Primarily Conducted From Russia' RFE/RL 10 Aug 2021 -- Facebook announced on August 10 that it had shut down a network of dozens of Facebook and Instagram accounts from Russia with connections to a marketing group that was trying to enlist social-media "influencers" to push false claims about COVID-19 vaccines.
Commander Offers Strategies for Deterring Aggression From China and Russia DoD News 10 Aug 2021 -- The commander of North American Aerospace Defense Command and U.S. Northern Command described threats from Russia and China and ways to mitigate those threats.
Moscow Court Rejects Navalny's Lawsuit Against Kremlin Spokesman RFE/RL 10 Aug 2021 -- A court in Moscow has dropped a libel lawsuit filed by Aleksei Navalny against Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov over comments he made linking U.S. spies with the jailed opposition politician.
Criminal Case Opened Against Navalny Allies For 'Extremist' Fundraising RFE/RL 10 Aug 2021 -- Russia has opened a criminal investigation into two exiled allies of jailed Kremlin critic Aleksei Navalny for raising funds for organizations deemed by the authorities as "extremist."
'A Dangerous Commission': Russian Historians Alarmed As Putin Creates State Body On 'Historical Education' RFE/RL 10 Aug 2021 -- President Vladimir Putin last month ordered the creation of an interagency commission on historical education, and his reasoning was clear from the preamble to the decree, which said it was "in order to ensure a planned and aggressive approach to the matter of defending the national interests of the Russian Federation.
US military forces have no legal mandate to operate in Syria: Russian Embassy in Washington Press TV 10 Aug 2021 -- The Russian Embassy in Washington says US military forces deployed to the oil-rich northeastern part of Syria have no legal mandate to stay in the Arab country under the allegations of fighting the Takfiri Daesh terrorist group.
New equipment account for 81.6% in Zapad/Interaction-2021: Chinese commander PLA Daily 10 Aug 2021 -- On August 9, the China-Russia joint exercise Zapad/Interaction-2021 officially kicked off. In the next few days, the Chinese and Russian participating troops would conduct mixed grouping, joint planning and implementation of joint field training against the background of jointly safeguarding regional security and stability. Lieutenant General Liu Xiaowu, deputy commander of the PLA Western Theater Command and commanding officer of the Chinese participating troops, introduced the highlights of the exercise in detail in an interview.
Field Air-defense System in action during China-Russia joint exercise PLA Daily 10 Aug 2021 -- The field air-defense system was seen in action during the ongoing China-Russia joint military exercise code-named ZAPAD/INTERACTION-2021 in northwestern China.
China, Russia kick off joint military drills showing combined combat capability PLA Daily 10 Aug 2021 -- A China and Russia joint exercise code-named ZAPAD/INTERACTION-2021 kicked off on Monday in Qingtongxia in northwest China's Ningxia Hui Autonomous Region.
Russian, Chinese forces kick off massive joint military drills in Ningxia Press TV 10 Aug 2021 -- Russia and China are taking part in massive joint military drills in China's north-central region of Ningxia, in what is widely viewed as the two superpowers' intention to boost their operational capabilities vis-a-vis the United States.
Exercise "ZAPAD/INTERACTION-2021" kicks off in China PLA Daily 09 Aug 2021 -- The exercise ZAPAD/INTERACTION-2021 kicked off at a combined arms tactical training base of the PLA Army in Qingtongxia City of West China's Ningxia Hui Autonomous Region. General Li Zuocheng, member of China's Central Military Commission (CMC) and Chief of the CMC Joint Staff Department, attended the launch ceremony as the chief conductor of the exercise and officially announced the commencement.
Chinese troops conduct adaptive training prior to exercise ZAPAD/INTERACTION-2021 PLA Daily 09 Aug 2021 -- The China-Russia joint exercise ZAPAD/INTERACTION - 2021 is to be held from August 9 to 13. Participating troops from both sides have conducted multi-day adaptive training, in which the Chinese participants focused on several events such as airdrop and army aviation coordination in special operations.
Chinese troops help Russian counterpart master made-in-China equipment in Exercise ZAPAD/INTERACTION-2021 PLA Daily 09 Aug 2021 -- On August 5, a live-fire training exercise with authorized weapons and equipment of the Exercise ZAPAD/INTERACTION-2021 was held at the combined arms tactical training base of the PLA Army in Qingtongxia City of West China's Ningxia Hui Autonomous Region. This was the first time for Russian participants to use armored assault vehicles, infantry fighting vehicles (IFVs) and other main battle equipment provided by China on a large scale in the drill. The Chinese side set up a teaching group to help the Russian troops master the equipment as quickly as possible.
Kunduz Not Captured in Taliban Offensive, Russian Foreign Ministry Says Sputnik 09 Aug 2021 -- Russia currently has no confirmation that the Taliban* have captured the strategic city of Kunduz as the militants intensify their offensive across Afghanistan, the special presidential representative for Afghanistan told Sputnik.
Minsk Interested in Russian S-400 Air Defense Systems, Lukashenko Says Sputnik 09 Aug 2021 -- Minsk is interested in Russian S-400 air defence systems, Belarusian President Alexander Lukashenko said on Monday, adding that he is sure that the country will receive the systems.
Russian Opposition Politician Shlosberg Barred From Duma Election RFE/RL 09 Aug 2021 -- Russian opposition politician Lev Shlosberg of the Yabloko party says he has been barred from seeking election to the parliament's lower chamber, the State Duma, next month.
China, Russia Showcase Growing Ties With Joint Military Exercises RFE/RL 09 Aug 2021 -- In the latest display of deepening ties between Beijing and Moscow, Chinese and Russian troops kicked off five days of military exercises in northwestern China on August 9.
Moscow Sanctions Several UK Citizens in Response to Statement on Human Rights in Chechnya Sputnik 09 Aug 2021 -- Moscow has imposed personal sanctions against a number of UK citizens in response to London's statement on the human rights situation in Russia's Chechen Republic, the Russian Foreign Ministry said on Monday.
RAF Lossiemouth claims new intercept of Russian aircraft close to UK air space Press TV 07 Aug 2021 -- In the latest intercept of its kind, the Royal Air Force (RAF) claims it has deterred two Russian military aircraft from getting too close to British air space.
The Week In Russia: A Poisonous August RFE/RL 06 Aug 2021 -- For a year now, since a deeply disputed August 2020 election in Belarus and a near-fatal nerve-agent poisoning in Russia less than two weeks later, crackdowns on government opponents, civil society, and independent media outlets have been broadening in both Russia and Belarus.
Navalny's Brother Gets Suspended Sentence In Latest 'Sanitary' Case RFE/RL 06 Aug 2021 -- The brother of imprisoned Russian opposition politician Aleksei Navalny was given a one-year suspended prison sentence after a court in Moscow found him guilty on August 6 of publicly calling for the violation of anti-pandemic restrictions.
Zelenskiy Says Peace 'Depends On Putin,' Suggests Ukrainians Who Feel Russian 'Seek A Place In Russia' RFE/RL 06 Aug 2021 -- Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy says he is doing "everything" he can to end the war with Russia-backed separatists but that peace and control of territory in the so-called Donbas depends "90 percent" on Russian President Vladimir Putin.
Briefing by Deputy Director of the Foreign Ministry Information and Press Department Alexander Bikantov, Moscow, August 5, 2021 Russia Ministry of Foreign Affairs 05 Aug 2021
Russia's Restrictions Prevent OSCE Observation of Duma Elections US Dept. of State 05 Aug 2021 -- The United States regrets that restrictions imposed by Russian authorities will prevent the OSCE's Office for Democratic Institutions and Human Rights (ODIHR) and the OSCE Parliamentary Assembly from independently observing the Duma elections in September.
Russia: Afghan Taliban offensive running out of steam Press TV 05 Aug 2021 -- A senior Russian foreign ministry official says the Taliban offensive in Afghanistan is "gradually running out of steam" as the militant group lacks resources to seize major cities across the conflict-ridden country.
Russia to Deploy Strategic Bombers for Joint Drills With Uzbekistan Along Afghan Border Sputnik 05 Aug 2021 -- Large swathes of Afghanistan's northern frontiers have fallen into the hands of the Taliban in recent weeks, leading to concerns among its Central Asian neighbours that instability and terrorism may spread beyond the war-torn nation. The Taliban has assured neighbours that its militants would not engage in any fighting beyond Afghanistan's borders.
Moscow Appreciates Ankara's Stand on S-400, Maintains Contact to Boost Defence Cooperation Sputnik 05 Aug 2021 -- Moscow appreciates Turkey's position on the purchase of S-400 anti-aircraft missile systems and sees significant potential for boosting defence cooperation with Ankara, as relevant departments are already in contact on this issue, Russian Foreign Ministry's Fourth European Department Director Yuri Pilipson said.
Russian Opposition Politician Shlosberg Returned To Ballot By Regional Election Commission RFE/RL 05 Aug 2021 -- Russian opposition politician Lev Shlosberg of the Yabloko party and his colleague Nikolai Kuzmin have been returned to the list of candidates running for deputy in the Pskov regional parliament.
Khodorkovsky-Backed Media, Legal Aid Groups Shut Down After Russia Blocks Them RFE/RL 05 Aug 2021 -- Two online publications and a legal aid group backed by exiled Kremlin critic Mikhail Khodorkovsky announced they were ceasing operations on August 5 after the sites were blocked by Russian authorities.
No OSCE observation of Russia's State Duma elections: UK statement UK FCDO 05 Aug 2021 -- Ambassador Neil Bush voices UK dismay that Russia's unwarranted restrictions have prevented ODIHR from effectively observing its elections in September.
Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov's interview with the newspaper Komsomolskaya Pravda, Moscow, August 4, 2021 Russia Ministry of Foreign Affairs 04 Aug 2021
OSCE Will Not Send Election Observers To Russia Following 'Major Limitations' RFE/RL 04 Aug 2021 -- The Organization for Security and Cooperation in Europe (OSCE) will not send observers to Russia's upcoming elections for the first time in nearly three decades due to "major limitations" imposed by Russian authorities.
As Sweeping Crackdown Intensifies, Russians Wonder What Comes Next RFE/RL 04 Aug 2021 -- Few doubt that the administration of Russian President Vladimir Putin is worried about the September 17-19 elections to the State Duma, Russia's lower chamber of parliament.
RUSSIA'S POSITION AT THE SEVENTY-SIXTH SESSION OF THE UN GENERAL ASSEMBLY Russia Ministry of Foreign Affairs 04 Aug 2021
Chinese Media Impressed by Russia's S-500, Says 'Worth Studying' Possible Purchase for PLA Sputnik 04 Aug 2021 -- Russia's Ministry of Defence released the first-ever video footage of the S-500 surface-to-air missile system last month. The first S-500s will be introduced into Moscow region's air defence troops once combat trials are wrapped up.
US asks that 24 Russian diplomats leave by September Press TV 03 Aug 2021 -- The Russian ambassador to the United States says Washington has called for the "expulsion" of 24 Russian diplomats by September.
Poll Says Nearly Half Of Russians See 'Foreign Agent' Law As Pressure Tool RFE/RL 03 Aug 2021 -- Forty percent of Russians consider the country's controversial "foreign agents" law a tool for authorities to pressure nongovernmental organizations, according to new research by the Levada Center, a Moscow-based pollster.
Russian Opposition Politician Lev Shlosberg Barred From Elections RFE/RL 03 Aug 2021 -- Russian opposition politician Lev Shlosberg of the Yabloko party and his colleague Nikolai Kuzmin have been barred from running in upcoming elections for the Pskov regional parliament.
Russia Works on Cutting-Edge Long-Range Hypersonic Missile Kh-95, Military Says Sputnik 03 Aug 2021 -- Russia is developing the latest Kh-95 long-range hypersonic airborne missile, Colonel General Vladimir Zarudnitsky, the chief of the Military Academy of the General Staff of the Russian Armed Forces, said on Tuesday.
Russia expels second Estonian diplomat amid espionage dispute Press TV 03 Aug 2021 -- Russia has expelled a second Estonian diplomat in a tit-for-tat move following the expulsion of a Russian diplomat from the Western-aligned country on spying allegations last month.
Russian Foreign Ministry Expels Estonian Embassy Staffer Sputnik 03 Aug 2021 -- The Russian Foreign Ministry summoned Estonian ambassador Margus Laidre to express protest over the recent expulsion of a Russian diplomat and to announce that a staffer of the Estonian embassy has to leave the country within seven days.
No indication of Iran's involvement in Israeli tanker attack: Russia Press TV 02 Aug 2021 -- A senior Russian foreign ministry official strictly rejects existence of any indications pointing to Iran's likely involvement in a recent attack on an Israeli oil tanker off the Omani coast.
Russian, Uzbek troops begin joint drills near border with Afghanistan Press TV 02 Aug 2021 -- Moscow says troops from Russia and Uzbekistan have begun joint military drills 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.
U.S. Rejects Russian Envoy's Claim Diplomats Were Asked To Leave Country RFE/RL 02 Aug 2021 -- The U.S. State Department has rejected a claim by Russia's ambassador to the United States who said Washington had asked 24 Russian diplomats to leave the country by September 3 after their visas expired.
Russian Court Convicts Ukrainian For Trying To Smuggle Missile-Defense Parts RFE/RL 02 Aug 2021 -- A court in central Russia has sentenced a Ukrainian citizen to more than three years in prison after convicting him of trying to smuggle parts from a Russian missile system to Ukraine.
In Time-Tested Spoiler Tactic, Russian Opposition Candidates Face Rivals With The Same Names RFE/RL 01 Aug 2021 -- Boris Vishnevsky is a known figure in St. Petersburg. An opposition politician who heads the liberal Yabloko party's committee in the local legislature, he is also a man known locally as a defender of the city's cultural heritage and as a columnist in the independent newspaper Novaya gazeta.

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August 2021 - Russia Special Weapons News