November 2021 - Russia Special Weapons News

Ambassador-at-Large Gennady Askaldovich's answer to a question from Rossiya Segodnya about US Secretary of State Antony Blinken's statement on the inclusion of Russia in the list of alleged violators of religious freedom Russia Ministry of Foreign Affairs 30 Nov 2021
Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov's remarks and answer to a media question at a joint news conference with Foreign Minister of the Federative Republic of Brazil Carlos Fransa following talks, Moscow, November 30, 2021 Russia Ministry of Foreign Affairs 30 Nov 2021
Russia Records 32,648 New Cases of COVID-19, 1,229 Deaths SPA 30 Nov 2021 -- Russia recorded 32,648 new coronavirus (COVID-19) cases and 1,229 deaths in the last 24 hours.
US threatens Russia with 'serious consequences' over Ukraine Press TV 30 Nov 2021 -- The United States has threatened Russia with "serious consequences" if it launches any military action in neighboring Ukraine, despite the fact that Moscow has rejected Washington's allegations of preparing to invade the country.
Putin warns US, NATO against crossing Russia's red lines in Ukraine Press TV 30 Nov 2021 -- President Vladimir Putin has warned that Russia will act if the US-led NATO military alliance crosses its red lines in Ukraine.
NATO: Any Russian Aggression Against Ukraine To Come At 'High Price' RFE/RL 30 Nov 2021 -- Amid growing concern over a Russian military buildup near the Ukrainian border, NATO allies have warned Russia that it would pay a heavy price for any new military aggression against its neighbor, while Moscow cautioned the Western military alliance against crossing its "red lines."
Foreign Secretary warns a Russian incursion into Ukraine would be strategic mistake UK FCDO 30 Nov 2021 -- Foreign Secretary Liz Truss will underline the UK's ongoing commitment to NATO as an essential defence, at her first meeting of the NATO Foreign Ministers today.
Blinken Warns Russia Against 'Renewed Aggression' in Ukraine VOA 30 Nov 2021 -- U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken warned Russia against taking any "escalatory actions" toward Ukraine, saying Tuesday that "any renewed aggression would trigger serious consequences."
US to reinforce bases in Indo-Pacific with major focus on China, Russia Press TV 30 Nov 2021 -- The Pentagon has announced plans to reinforce military bases and deployments in the Indo-Pacific region to counter what it claims to be threats from China and Russia.
Russia successfully test-fires Tsirkon hypersonic missile People's Daily 30 Nov 2021 -- Russian frigate Admiral Gorshkov has successfully test-launched a Tsirkon hypersonic cruise missile from the White Sea, Russia's Defense Ministry said Monday.
Russia Will Soon Have New Hypersonic Missile With Maximum Speed of Mach 9, Putin Says Sputnik 30 Nov 2021 -- Earlier in November, Russian President Vladimir Putin said that tests of the Zircon hypersonic missiles are almost completed.
Putin Says Yet To Decide On Running In 2024 Amid Constitutional Changes RFE/RL 30 Nov 2021 -- Russian President Vladimir Putin says he has yet to decide whether to run again when his current term ends in 2024-- an option that was opened for him after the Kremlin pushed through controversial constitutional amendments last year.
U.S. Senate Blocks Defense Spending Bill As Republicans Push For Sanctions Over Nord Stream 2 RFE/RL 30 Nov 2021 -- The U.S. Senate blocked an annual defense spending bill on November 29 amid objections from Republicans who said there had not been enough votes on amendments, including one that would have imposed sanctions over Nord Stream 2.
Kremlin: Gas Sale is Primary Issue, Transit via Ukraine is Secondary One Sputnik 30 Nov 2021 -- The topic of gas transportation through Ukraine is a secondary issue, the fuel must first be sold, Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov said on Tuesday.
Lukashenka Says Belarus Willing To Host Russian Nuclear Weapons RFE/RL 30 Nov 2021 -- Belarus's authoritarian leader, Alyaksandr Lukashenka, has said that his country would be willing to host Russian nuclear weapons if NATO moved similar U.S. equipment from Germany to Eastern Europe.
Minsk Ready to Deploy Russian Nuclear Weapons if NATO Systems Appear in Poland, Lukashenko Says Sputnik 30 Nov 2021 -- Minsk will propose to Moscow to deploy nuclear weapons in Belarus if similar NATO systems appear in Poland, Belarusian President Alexander Lukashenko told Sputnik.
Russia Records 33,860 New Cases of COVID-19, 1,209 Deaths SPA 29 Nov 2021 -- Russia recorded 33,860 new coronavirus (COVID-19) cases and 1,209 deaths in the last 24 hours.
Turkey Offers To Mediate Between Ukraine, Russia RFE/RL 29 Nov 2021 -- Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan says his country is ready to act as a mediator between Ukraine and Russia, even with strained relations between Ankara and Moscow over the sale of armed drones to Kyiv earlier this year.
Russia says US must not pressure anyone over certification of Nord Stream 2 gas pipeline Press TV 29 Nov 2021 -- Russia has denounced the United States for its attempts to impede the implementation of the Russian Nord Stream 2 gas pipeline, stressing that Washington must not put pressure on anyone over the certification of the project.
Minsk, Moscow Announce Joint Military Drills As NATO Prepares To Discuss Russian Troop Buildup RFE/RL 29 Nov 2021 -- Belarus has announced joint military exercises with Russia along its southern border as NATO gathers for a meeting to discuss its concerns about the Russian troop buildup near Ukraine.
China, Russia ready to hold joint naval drills with Iran: Top Navy commander Press TV 28 Nov 2021 -- Iran's Navy Commander Rear Admiral Shahram Irani says Russia and China have indicated their readiness to hold joint naval maneuvers with Iran.
Russia Records 33,346 New Cases of COVID-19 SPA 27 Nov 2021 -- Russia recorded 33,946 new coronavirus (COVID-19) cases and 1,239 deaths in the last 24 hours.
Russia, China, India call for immediate foreign aid to Afghanistan Press TV 27 Nov 2021 -- The foreign ministers of Russia, China, and India have called for immediate and unhindered foreign assistance to Afghanistan, warning about the county's deteriorating humanitarian crisis.
Russia refutes US, allies' accusation that it seeks to 'invade Ukraine' Press TV 27 Nov 2021 -- Russia has once again debunked allegations by the United States and its allies that Moscow could be preparing to invade neighboring Ukraine.
NATO chief warns Russia of 'costs' over moves against Ukraine Press TV 27 Nov 2021 -- NATO Secretary General Jens Stoltenberg has warned that Russia will face "consequences" for any attempt to invade Ukraine amid escalating tensions between Moscow and its former Soviet neighbor.
Zelenskiy Says Coup Plot Uncovered, Ukraine Ready For Any Escalation With Russia RFE/RL 27 Nov 2021 -- President Volodymyr Zelenskiy says Ukraine's intelligence service has uncovered plans to stage a coup involving people from Russia that was due to occur next week.
Russia slams US for threatening diplomatic escalation with Iran at IAEA next month Press TV 27 Nov 2021 -- Russia has lambasted the United States for threats to confront Iran at the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) next month unless the Islamic Republic improves what Washington calls cooperation with the UN nuclear watchdog.
Explosions, Fire Rock Major Russian Munitions Plant RFE/RL 27 Nov 2021 -- A large munitions factory in the Russian city of Dzerzhinsk was rocked by several explosions on November 27.
Intervention of the Permanent representative of the Russian Federation to the OPCW H.E. Ambassador Alexander Shulgin "The Navalny Case: Setting the Record Straight" Russia Ministry of Foreign Affairs 27 Nov 2021
Biden Hints At Talks With Russian, Ukrainian Leaders As West Warns Moscow Over Ukraine RFE/RL 26 Nov 2021 -- U.S. and NATO officials have issued fresh warnings of the possible consequences of any new Russian aggression against neighboring Ukraine, with Washington suggesting that "all options are on the table" if the alliance is forced to respond to an escalation by Moscow.
Another Navalny Associate Flees Russia, Fearing Arrest RFE/RL 26 Nov 2021 -- Another associate of jailed Russian opposition politician Aleksei Navalny is going into exile amid an ongoing crackdown against the defunct organizations associated with the Kremlin critic that were labeled extremist earlier this year.
Second Lawyer Working On High Treason Case Flees Russia RFE/RL 26 Nov 2021 -- A second lawyer for jailed Russian journalist Ivan Safronov, who is charged with high treason, has fled the country.
Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov's remarks at a meeting of RIC foreign ministers held via videoconference, Moscow, November 26, 2021 Russia Ministry of Foreign Affairs 26 Nov 2021
Briefing by Foreign Ministry Spokeswoman Maria Zakharova, Moscow, November 25, 2021 Russia Ministry of Foreign Affairs 25 Nov 2021
What's Behind The Russia-Ukraine War Fears -- And What Might Actually Happen? RFE/RL 25 Nov 2021 -- Talk of war is again in the air. When Russia massed thousands of troops along its border with Ukraine last spring, reports and rumors swirled that the Kremlin might launch a big new offensive seven years after it seized control of Crimea and fomented a separatist war in the Donbas region that continues to this day.
Merkel Urges EU Unity On Russia, Assures Poland, Ukraine Amid Border Tensions RFE/RL 25 Nov 2021 -- Outgoing German Chancellor Angela Merkel has warned that the European Union needs to be ready to increase sanctions against Russia if the situation worsens near either the Ukrainian border or the Belarus-Poland border.
Moscow Says It's Ready To Help Armenia, Turkey Normalize Relations RFE/RL 25 Nov 2021 -- Russia says it is prepared to mediate efforts to repair relations between Armenia and Turkey following reports earlier this week of a request by Yerevan to facilitate such a rapprochement.
As Russia's Coronavirus Crisis Persists, Proposals For Mandatory QR Codes Are Meeting Fierce Resistance RFE/RL 24 Nov 2021 -- On November 22, when Tatarstan became the first region in Russia to require passengers on public transportation to produce a QR code affirming their coronavirus-vaccination status, at least one significant fight broke out and hundreds of noncompliant would-be passengers were kicked off buses and trains.
Russian Doctors, Regulator Take On Anti-Vaxxers As Authorities Announce Nasal And Kids' Vaccines RFE/RL 24 Nov 2021 -- Russian doctors and health regulators launched fresh efforts to counter anti-vaxxers on November 24 as Russian authorities announced new versions of the national vaccine, in nasal form and for children, amid a record surge in cases and deaths.
Poland Arrests Suspected Spy For Russia, Cites Link To Previous Case RFE/RL 24 Nov 2021 -- Poland's Internal Security Agency (ABW) says a 66-year-old Polish man who is suspected of spying for Russia has been detained.
Navalny Associate Flees Russia Fearing Arrest RFE/RL 24 Nov 2021 -- Another associate of jailed Russian opposition politician Aleksei Navalny has left the country fearing persecution amid an ongoing crackdown against the defunct organizations associated with the Kremlin critic that were labeled as extremist earlier this year.
Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov's remarks at the 37th meeting of the Foreign Ministry's Council of the Heads of Constituent Entities of the Russian Federation, Moscow, November 24, 2021 Russia Ministry of Foreign Affairs 24 Nov 2021
Biden Vows 'Unwavering Support' For Ukraine Amid Heightened Tensions With Russia RFE/RL 24 Nov 2021 -- U.S. President Joe Biden has reiterated "unwavering support" for Kyiv as Russia and Ukraine both launched military exercises near their border amid rising tensions between the two neighbors.
U.S., Russian Military Chiefs Speak On The Phone Amid Heightened Tensions Over Ukraine RFE/RL 24 Nov 2021 -- The United States' and Russia's top military officers spoke over the phone on November 23, amid heightened Western concerns over Russian military moves near the Ukrainian border.
Russia Confirms 33,996 New COVID-19 Cases over Past 24 Hours SPA 23 Nov 2021 -- Russia has confirmed 33,996 new COVID-19 cases over the past 24 hours, bringing the cumulative total to 9,400,835, the federal response center said on Tuesday, according to Sputnik.
U.S. Imposes Sanctions On Russian-Linked Transadria Over Nord Stream 2 Project RFE/RL 23 Nov 2021 -- The United States has announced further sanctions related to the Nord Stream 2 gas pipeline, citing Russian-linked Transadria Ltd. and its Marlin vessel.
Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov's remarks at the meeting of the Russian Union of Industrialists and Entrepreneurs "International agenda of Russian businesses: Challenges, risks and cooperation strategies with the state," Moscow, November 23, 2021 Russia Ministry of Foreign Affairs 23 Nov 2021
Russia Records 35,681 New COVID-19 Cases, 1,241 Deaths SPA 22 Nov 2021 -- Russia recorded 35,681 new coronavirus (COVID-19) cases and 1,241 deaths in the last 24 hours.
Putin gets booster shot of COVID-19 vaccine People's Daily 22 Nov 2021 -- Russian President Vladimir Putin said on Sunday that he had received a booster shot using the country's one-dose Sputnik Light vaccine.
Russia's Putin Says He Got COVID Booster Shot RFE/RL 22 Nov 2021 -- Russian President Vladimir Putin said on November 21 that he had received a COVID-19 vaccine booster shot.
Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov's remarks and answers to media questions at a joint news conference following talks with Foreign Minister of Lebanon Abdallah Bou Habib, Moscow, November 22, 2021 Russia Ministry of Foreign Affairs 22 Nov 2021
U.S. 'Deeply Concerned' After Bulgarian President Refers To Crimea As 'Russian' RFE/RL 22 Nov 2021 -- The United States has voiced serious "concern" regarding Bulgarian President Rumen Radev's recent statement that Ukraine's Crimean Peninsula, a region forcibly annexed by Moscow in 2014, was currently "Russian."
Imposition of Further Sanctions in Connection with Nord Stream 2 US Dept. of State 22 Nov 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.
Russia Reports 36,970 New COVID-19 Cases, 1,252 Deaths SPA 21 Nov 2021 -- Russia reported 36,970 new coronavirus (COVID-19) cases and 1,252 deaths in the last 24 hours.
Russia's Official Daily COVID Deaths Again Near Record High RFE/RL 21 Nov 2021 -- Russia reported 1,252 COVID-19 fatalities on November 21, the fourth consecutive day of near-record fatalities over the entire pandemic.
Kremlin Raises Rhetoric After U.S. Cites 'Real Concerns' Over Russian Military Buildup Near Ukraine RFE/RL 21 Nov 2021 -- The Kremlin has gone on a verbal offensive amid Western concerns over its military buildup near Ukraine, while stressing the importance of an unconfirmed Russian-U.S. presidential summit Moscow says is in the works.
EU, NATO condemn Russia's anti-satellite missile test People's Daily 20 Nov 2021 -- The European Union (EU) and the North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO) on Friday denounced a recent anti-satellite missile test by Russia.
Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov's statement and answers to media questions at a joint news conference following talks with OSCE Chairperson-in-Office and Swedish Minister for Foreign Affairs Ann Linde, Moscow, November 19, 2021 Russia Ministry of Foreign Affairs 19 Nov 2021
Russia to strengthen cooperation with China despite Western sabotage: Putin People's Daily 19 Nov 2021 -- Relations between Russia and China have reached their highest level in history, and the two countries will step up cooperation further, Russian President Vladimir Putin said Thursday.
Russia hits out at US bid not to recognize Putin's presidency after 2024 Press TV 19 Nov 2021 -- Moscow has denounced a bill drafted by US lawmakers that aims to make it law not to recognize Vladimir Putin as president of Russia should he win another term after 2024, describing the attempt as absurd and provocative.
The Week In Russia: QR Codes, Borders, And A Blast On The Final Frontier RFE/RL 19 Nov 2021 -- As Russia's coronavirus toll reached new levels, new restrictions aimed to stem the spread of COVID-19 ran into resistance from politicians and the public. A Nobel Peace Prize laureate was fined by the government, while concerns about the Kremlin's intentions in Ukraine and Belarus persisted - and a startling missile shot into space drew condemnation.
Expanded meeting of the Foreign Ministry Board President of Russia 18 Nov 2021 -- Vladimir Putin took part in the expanded meeting of the Foreign Ministry Board.
Comment by Foreign Ministry Spokeswoman Maria Zakharova on the granting of dialogue partner status to Russia by the Indian Ocean Rim Association (IORA) Russia Ministry of Foreign Affairs 18 Nov 2021
Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov's remarks at the expanded meeting of the Foreign Ministry Collegium with the participation of President Vladimir Putin, Moscow, November 18, 2021 Russia Ministry of Foreign Affairs 18 Nov 2021
Press release on Deputy Foreign Minister Mikhail Bogdanov's meeting with President of the Republic of South Africa Cyril Ramaphosa Russia Ministry of Foreign Affairs 18 Nov 2021
Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov's remarks and answers to media questions following an expanded meeting of the Foreign Ministry Collegium with the participation of President of Russia Vladimir Putin, Moscow, November 18, 2021 Russia Ministry of Foreign Affairs 18 Nov 2021
Russian Anti-Vaccine Disinformation Campaign Backfires VOA 18 Nov 2021 -- For more than a year, Russian-aligned troll factories overseeing thousands of social media accounts have been accused by Western countries and disinformation experts of spreading anti-vaccine messages in an aggressive campaign to spread conspiracy theories and cast doubt on Western coronavirus vaccines.
Russia Once Again Reports Record Daily COVID-19 Deaths, While Central Europe Ups Restrictions RFE/RL 18 Nov 2021 -- Russia has reported another record daily number of coronavirus-related deaths as cases continue to surge across the country.
NATO Deputy Chief Urges Russia To Agree To 'Honest' Dialogue To Defuse Tensions RFE/RL 18 Nov 2021 -- NATO Deputy Secretary-General Mircea Geoana has called on Russian officials to establish a "solid, transparent, and honest dialogue" with the Western military alliance amid persistent high tensions between Moscow and the West over issues including its seizure of Ukraine's Crimean Peninsula and the ongoing conflict in the eastern Ukrainian regions of Donetsk and Luhansk.
Austin: U.S. Will Work With Ukraine, Allies to Counter Russian Aggression DoD News 18 Nov 2021 -- Secretary of Defense Lloyd J. Austin III welcomed his Ukrainian counterpart, Defense Minister Oleksii Reznikov, to the Pentagon today reaffirming America's unwavering support for Ukraine's sovereignty and territorial integrity.
Putin: West escalating situation in Ukraine, providing Kiev with lethal weapons Press TV 18 Nov 2021 -- Russian President Vladimir Putin has accused the West of escalating the situation in Ukraine by providing Kiev with "lethal modern weapons" and holding drills in the Black Sea region.
France, Germany Accuse Moscow Of Diplomatic Breach For Publishing Ukraine Correspondence RFE/RL 18 Nov 2021 -- France and Germany have accused Moscow of violating diplomatic protocol by publishing confidential correspondence related to efforts to resolve the conflict in parts of eastern Ukraine.
Russia expects US to abandon 'irresponsible' plans to dominate Black Sea Press TV 18 Nov 2021 -- Russia says it expects the United States to abandon its "irresponsible" plans to control the Black Sea, after the US navy's 6th fleet deployed its command ship Mount Whitney to the strategic region to take part in multinational drills, amid escalating tensions over NATO activities near Russia's borders.
Russia test-fires Zircon hypersonic missile amid tensions with West Press TV 18 Nov 2021 -- The Russian military has successfully test-fired a hypersonic cruise missile against a target in the White Sea waters in northern Russia, amid rising tensions between Moscow and the West over NATO drills and the recent migrant crisis in eastern Europe.
Putin Lambasts West, But Says Russia Open To 'Dialogue' RFE/RL 18 Nov 2021 -- Russian President Vladimir Putin has criticized the United States, the European Union, and NATO over their stance on the situation in the territories controlled by Moscow-backed separatists in eastern Ukraine and other issues, but said his country is ready "for contacts and a dialogue."
Britain To Hold Public Inquiry Into Woman's 2018 Novichok Death RFE/RL 18 Nov 2021 -- Britain says it will hold a public inquiry into the death of a woman believed to have died indirectly during the 2018 poisoning of a former Russian double agent.
Ukraine's Zelenskiy Endorses Sanctions On 28 Russian Intelligence Officers RFE/RL 18 Nov 2021 -- Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy has endorsed the imposition of sanctions on 28 members of Russia's intelligence and special services, as well as six other individuals alleged to be responsible for human rights abuses in Crimea.
Danish Court Rejects Appeal Of Russian Sentenced For Espionage RFE/RL 18 Nov 2021 -- A Danish high court has rejected an appeal filed by a Russian citizen sentenced to three years in prison on an espionage charge.
Briefing by Foreign Ministry Spokeswoman Maria Zakharova, Moscow, November 17, 2021 Russia Ministry of Foreign Affairs 17 Nov 2021
Russia calls for Armenia-Azerbaijan border demarcation amid tensions Press TV 17 Nov 2021 -- The Russian Foreign Ministry has called for a demarcation of the border between Armenia and Azerbaijan following renewed deadly clashes between the two countries.
Statement by NSC Spokesperson Emily Horne on National Security Advisor Jake Sullivan's Call with Nikolay Patrushev, Secretary of the Russian Security Council The White House 17 Nov 2021
US Designates China, Russia, 8 Others as Violators of Religious Freedom VOA 17 Nov 2021 -- U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken has designated China, Russia and eight other countries as violators of religious freedom.
Austin Calls Russian Behavior 'Troubling,' Aims to Assure Middle East Allies of U.S. Commitment DoD News 17 Nov 2021 -- Secretary of Defense Lloyd J. Austin III will travel to the Middle East tomorrow to consult with allies and assure them of the United States' unwavering commitment to security in the region.
U.S., U.K. Express Concern Over Russian Military Activity Near Ukraine RFE/RL 17 Nov 2021 -- The United States and United Kingdom once again expressed concern about a large buildup of Russian troops near the border with Ukraine as concerns grow over the Kremlin's endgame.
Cybersleuths Say Zelenskiy's Office Postponed Russian Mercenary Sting Operation After Cease-Fire Pact RFE/RL 17 Nov 2021 -- An alleged plot by Ukrainian intelligence agencies to capture almost three dozen Russian mercenaries fell apart after President Volodymyr Zelenskiy's office requested a postponement, according to an investigation by the open-source research group Bellingcat and the Russia-focused media outlet The Insider.
US has ignored Russia, China call to discuss space arms treaty: Lavrov Press TV 16 Nov 2021 -- Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov says the United States has ignored Russian and Chinese proposals to discuss a possible deal on weapons in space.
US calls Russian anti-satellite missile test 'irresponsible, destructive' Press TV 16 Nov 2021 -- The United States has called a Russian anti-satellite missile test "irresponsible" and "destructive" claiming that it caused a debris field in space that forced astronauts aboard the International Space Station (ISS) to temporarily seek shelter.
European Natural-Gas Prices Jump Again Following German Delay Of Nord Stream 2 RFE/RL 17 Nov 2021 -- European natural-gas prices continued to soar on November 17 after Germany delayed the approval process for Russia's controversial Nord Stream 2 pipeline.
Joint Statement on Political Consultation of the Minister of Foreign Affairs of the Russian Federation Sergey Lavrov and the Chairperson of the African Union Commission Moussa Faki Mahamat, Moscow, 16 November 2021 Russia Ministry of Foreign Affairs 17 Nov 2021
Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov's remarks and answers to media questions during a joint news conference with Chairperson of the African Union Commission Moussa Faki Mahamat following talks, Moscow, November 16, 2021 Russia Ministry of Foreign Affairs 16 Nov 2021
Armenia asks Russia to protect its sovereignty against Azerbaijan: Report Press TV 16 Nov 2021 -- Russian media say Armenia has asked Moscow to help defend its territorial sovereignty against attacks by Azerbaijani forces, amid renewed border clashes between the two sides.
Kyiv Blasts Putin Decree On Trade With Separatists In Eastern Ukraine RFE/RL 16 Nov 2021 -- Kyiv has assailed Moscow over a presidential decree allowing goods produced in areas of eastern Ukraine controlled by Kremlin-backed separatists to be sold more easily in Russia, calling it "gross interference" in the country's internal affairs and a violation of international law.
Debris Clouds, Endangered Astronauts: What The Fallout From A Russian Anti-Satellite Test Means For Space RFE/RL 16 Nov 2021 -- In December 2020, pilots were warned by the Russian authorities: Stay away from a vast swath of airspace in the Laptev Sea off Russia's northern coast during the second week of the month. The reason? "Hazardous operations, rocket launching."
Commentary on a number of aspects of space activities in Russia and other states Russia Ministry of Foreign Affairs 16 Nov 2021 -- In the light of numerous media appeals, it is necessary to give some clarifications in connection with the successful November 15 of this year. The Russian Ministry of Defense by a test, as a result of which the inoperative Russian spacecraft "Celina-D", which had been in orbit since 1982, was struck.
EU Prepares Fresh Sanctions On Russian Mercenary Group RFE/RL 16 Nov 2021 -- The European Union is planning to draw up a list of possible sanctions against a Russian mercenary group involved in multiple global conflicts, EU foreign policy chief Josep Borrell said.
German Agency Suspends Certification Of Nord Stream 2 Pipeline Over Technicality RFE/RL 16 Nov 2021 -- The German federal energy regulator says it is temporarily halting the approval process for the controversial Nord Stream 2 undersea gas pipeline aimed at bringing Russian gas to Germany.
Russian direct-ascent anti-satellite missile test creates significant, long-lasting space debris USSPACECOM 15 Nov 2021 -- Russia tested a direct-ascent anti-satellite (DA-ASAT) missile on Nov. 15, 2021, Moscow Standard Time, that struck a Russian satellite [COSMOS 1408] and created a debris field in low-Earth orbit. The test so far has generated more than 1,500 pieces of trackable orbital debris and will likely generate hundreds of thousands of pieces of smaller orbital debris.
Russia Conducts Destructive Anti-Satellite Missile Test US Dept. of State 15 Nov 2021 -- On November 15, 2021, the Russian Federation recklessly conducted a destructive test of a direct-ascent anti-satellite missile against one of its own satellites.
NATO Warns Russia Over 'Large, Unusual' Troop Build-Up Near Ukraine RFE/RL 15 Nov 2021 -- NATO Secretary-General Jens Stoltenberg called on Russia to be "transparent" about its military activities amid what he called a "large and unusual concentration" of Russian forces close to Ukraine's borders in recent weeks.
Russia says ready to act as 'intermediary' in Belarus migrant crisis Press TV 15 Nov 2021 -- The Kremlin says Moscow is ready to act as an "intermediary" in the migrant crisis between its close ally Belarus and the European Union member Poland on their border.
Russia Reports New Record Daily COVID-19 Deaths RFE/RL 14 Nov 2021 -- Russia has reported a new record one-day death toll from COVID-19, as the weekly number of coronavirus cases in Europe now stands at levels unseen since the start of the pandemic.
Putin: Belarusian move to cut gas flows risks hurting bilateral ties People's Daily 14 Nov 2021 -- Russian President Vladimir Putin said on Saturday that Belarus did not talk with him before raising the chance of cutting Russian natural gas flows to Europe, adding that such a move would risk harming bilateral ties between Moscow and Minsk and destabilizing the European energy market.
Putin: Russia ready to help resolve migrant crisis on Belarus, Poland border Press TV 14 Nov 2021 -- Russian President Vladimir Putin has said his country is fully prepared to help resolve a migrant crisis on the border between Belarus and Poland if necessary.
Belarus to deploy Russian Iskander missile systems amid tensions with West: Lukashenko Press TV 14 Nov 2021 -- Belarusian President Alexander Lukashenko says he plans to deploy Russian nuclear-capable Iskander missile systems in the south and west of the country, amid growing tensions with Brussels over a migrant crisis on the border with Poland.
Russia starts delivery of S-400 missile defense systems to India despite US sanctions risk Press TV 14 Nov 2021 -- In a boost to India's air defense capabilities, Russia says it has started the delivery of S-400 Triumf air defense systems to the South Asian country, defying the risk of possible US sanctions.
Netherlands Detains Russian Sought By U.S. Over 'Ryuk' Ransomware RFE/RL 13 Nov 2021 -- A Russian national sought by the United States for allegedly laundering cryptocurrency tied to a notorious ransomware gang has been detained in the Netherlands, according to his lawyer.
Top British Commander Warns Of Soaring Risk Of Russia-West War RFE/RL 13 Nov 2021 -- Britain's most senior military officer has warned about the changing "character of warfare," saying in an interview that the world faces the greatest risk in decades of a "miscalculation" that could lead to war between Russia and the West.
Putin says Russia 'has nothing to do' with Belarus-Poland border crisis Press TV 13 Nov 2021 -- Russian President Vladimir Putin has denied accusations that Moscow is helping Belarus orchestrate the ongoing migrant crisis at its border with Poland, where hundreds of desperate migrants trying to cross into the European Union are stranded at freezing temperatures.
Putin warns of 'serious challenge', military sees potential theater of war Press TV 13 Nov 2021 -- Russia President Vladimir Putin says the US and other NATO allies are carrying out provocative action by sailing warships in the Black Sea close to its territory.
U.S. Assails Russian Efforts To Close Memorial Rights Group, 'Misuse' Of 'Foreign Agents' Law RFE/RL 13 Nov 2021 -- U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken has accused Russian authorities of attacking freedom of expression by trying to shut down one of Russia's most venerated human rights groups and demanded that they quit using a controversial law on "foreign agents" to persecute and intimidate society.
Putin Says U.S., NATO Moves In Black Sea 'Serious Challenge' For Russia RFE/RL 13 Nov 2021 -- President Vladimir Putin has called U.S. and NATO activities in the Black Sea a "serious challenge" for Russia, which has asserted additional naval rights in the region since seizing Crimea from Ukraine in 2014.
Russia accuses US military of 'aggressive moves' in Black Sea Press TV 12 Nov 2021 -- Russia has accused the United States of making "aggressive moves" in the Black Sea region, warning that Moscow will act to defend its security in the face of any threat in the strategic area.
Russia's Daily COVID-19 Deaths Break 1,200 Mark For Fourth Consecutive Day RFE/RL 12 Nov 2021 -- Daily COVID-19 deaths in Russia have topped 1,200 for a fourth consecutive day as a surge in infections from the coronavirus continues.
New Czech Government Expected to Take Tougher Line on China, Russia VOA 12 Nov 2021 -- The mix of parties now working to form the next Czech government spans the spectrum from conservative to liberal, but all appear to share a commitment to the democratic principles espoused by founding President Vaclav Havel. And that, says a former Havel aide, could be bad news for China and Russia.
Four More Jailed For Corruption At Cosmodrome Project In Russia's Far East RFE/RL 12 Nov 2021 -- A Russian court has sentenced four people to lengthy prison terms after finding them guilty of embezzling 400 million rubles ($5.6 million) during the construction of the country's new Vostochny Cosmodrome in the Far East.
Kremlin Lashes Out At West, Defends Troop Movements, As It Boosts Role In Belarus-EU Border Crisis RFE/RL 12 Nov 2021 -- The Kremlin has vowed to safeguard its borders in the face of actions by countries it accused of trying to "contain" Russia and sought to walk back a Belarusian threat of a cutoff of Russian natural gas to Western markets amid a Belarusian-EU border crisis.
Publication on the Foreign Ministry website of Russia's review of the response from the United Kingdom, Germany, France and Sweden to Russia's inquiry of October 7, 2021, under Article IX clause 2 of the Chemical Weapons Convention regarding the Navalny incident Russia Ministry of Foreign Affairs 12 Nov 2021
The Week In Russia: 'If You're Wondering When This Will Stop...' RFE/RL 12 Nov 2021 -- Military movements raise questions over Russia's intentions toward Ukraine, once again, and the Kremlin's attitude toward the border crisis seething in Belarus adds to tension between Moscow and the West. At home, the state targets the revered human rights group Memorial, diminishing the chances of a reckoning with the past.
'The Sledgehammer Has Come Down': Outrage, Dismay As Russia Moves To Shut Down Its Oldest Human Rights Group RFE/RL 12 Nov 2021 -- Shortly after it received a notice from Russia's Supreme Court saying prosecutors were seeking its closure, Russia's oldest and perhaps most revered human rights group, Memorial, shared the news in a tweet that summed up the reaction of its staff: "We can't believe it."
Russian Move To Close Memorial Sparks Condemnation At Home, Abroad RFE/RL 12 Nov 2021 -- Russia's move to close down the rights group Memorial has sparked widespread condemnation, even from within the country, amid concerns over the government's widening crackdown on civil society.
Declaration of the Paris International Conference for Libya, 12 November 2021 Russia Ministry of Foreign Affairs 12 Nov 2021 -- "On 12 November 2021, the President of the French Republic, the Federal Chancellor of Germany, the President of the Italian Council of Ministers, the President of the interim Presidency Council of Libya, the Prime Minister of the interim Government of National Unity of Libya, and the Secretary-General of the United Nations, co-convened a conference of Heads of State and Government on Libya, in Paris, in support of the implementation of a Libyan-led and owned political process facilitated by the United Nations, leading to a political solution to the Libyan crisis."
Lithuania Jails Two Citizens For Spying For Russia RFE/RL 12 Nov 2021 -- A court in Lithuania has sentenced two of its citizens to prison terms on charges of spying for Russia.
Russia Dispatches Paratroopers to Belarus as Tensions Soar VOA 12 Nov 2021 -- Russia dispatched paratroopers Friday to the Belarus border near Poland, where hundreds of migrants are camped trying to cross into the European Union.
Troika Plus Calls Taliban to Form Inclusive Gov't With Representation of Women at All Levels Sputnik 11 Nov 2021 -- The Taliban took over Kabul on 15 August, and the Troika Plus, consisting of the US, China, Russia, and Pakistan, met for the first time on Thursday, in Islamabad. The meeting was held a day after national security chiefs of eight countries called for "unimpeded" aid to Afghanistan.
Joint Statement on Troika Plus Meeting, 11 November 2021, Islamabad US Dept. of State 11 Nov 2021 -- On 11 November 2021, Islamabad hosted a meeting of the extended Troika, comprising Pakistan, China, Russia, and the United States to discuss the latest situation in Afghanistan. The extended Troika met with senior Taliban representatives on the sidelines of the meeting.
Islamabad Urges Major Powers To Fund, Assist Afghanistan RFE/RL Gandhara 11 Nov 2021 -- Pakistan's foreign minister has pushed the international community to urgently provide funding and humanitarian assistance to Afghanistan, which is teetering on the brink of "economic collapse," as envoys from the United States, Russia, and China met in Islamabad.
Russia scrambles jet to intercept UK spy plane: Defense Ministry Press TV 11 Nov 2021 -- Russia's Defense Ministry says the country has been forced to scramble a fighter jet to intercept a British spy plane operating near Crimea.
Briefing by Foreign Ministry Spokeswoman Maria Zakharova, Moscow, November 10, 2021 Russia Ministry of Foreign Affairs 10 Nov 2021
Top U.S., Ukrainian Diplomats Discuss Russian Troop Buildup RFE/RL 10 Nov 2021 -- U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken warned that Russia would be making a "serious mistake" if it were to try to repeat what it did in 2014 in Ukraine, and he said Washington was concerned by reports of "unusual Russian military activity" near the Ukrainian border.
US Wants Russia to Explain 'Military Buildup' Near Ukraine's Border Sputnik 10 Nov 2021 -- The US wants Moscow to give more information and explain the buildup of military forces near the Russian border with Ukraine, Pentagon spokesperson John Kirby said on Wednesday.
Blinken: US 'Concerned' About Russian Military Activity Near Ukraine VOA 10 Nov 2021 -- U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken said Wednesday that the U.S. was concerned about Russian military movements near Ukraine's border.
Merkel, Putin Hold Talks As Thousands Of Migrants Mass On Polish-Belarusian Border RFE/RL 10 Nov 2021 -- Hundreds of migrants have massed outdoors in freezing temperatures along a razor-wire border between Belarus and Poland, as thousands of Polish border guards sought to block their entry into the European Union member state.
As Belarus Facilitates Migrant Crisis With EU, Putin Could See Chance To Use Clout RFE/RL 10 Nov 2021 -- As thousands of migrants stream into Belarus and toward its borders with Poland, Lithuania, and Latvia, fears are mounting that the former Soviet republic's strongman Alyaksandr Lukashenka is exploiting the desperation of new arrivals from the Middle East and Africa to settle scores with governments that have ostracized his regime.
Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov's opening remarks at a joint meeting of Russian and Belarusian foreign ministry collegiums, Moscow, November 10, 2021 Russia Ministry of Foreign Affairs 10 Nov 2021
Russia sends bombers to overfly Belarus as Poland border crisis escalates Press TV 10 Nov 2021 -- Russia has dispatched strategic bomber planes to fly over Belarus, accusing the European Union (EU) of trying to "strangle" its close ally by shutting Poland's border to hundreds of desperate migrants trying to cross into the trade union.
Russia: US setting up multinational force close to Russian border Press TV 09 Nov 2021 -- The Russian Defense Ministry says the United States is setting up a multinational group of armed forces close to Russia's eastern border in the Black Sea region.
Comment by Foreign Ministry Spokeswoman Maria Zakharova on criticism by American politicians of Russia's participation in international efforts to combat climate change Russia Ministry of Foreign Affairs 09 Nov 2021
Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov's remarks and replies to media questions at a joint news conference following talks with Vatican Secretary for Relations with States Paul Richard Gallagher, Moscow, November 9, 2021 Russia Ministry of Foreign Affairs 09 Nov 2021
Pakistan Set to Host US, China, Russia, Taliban to Discuss Afghan Crisis VOA 09 Nov 2021 -- Pakistan will host the United States, China and Russia this week for talks on Afghanistan under what is known as the "troika plus" process.
Poland Accuses Russia Of Backing Belarusian 'Attack' As Migrant Border Standoff Intensifies RFE/RL 09 Nov 2021 -- Poland has accused Belarus of staging an “attack” on its eastern border and Russian President Vladimir Putin of orchestrating an intensifying migration crisis to destabilize the European Union as hundreds of migrants remained trapped in the open in freezing temperatures at the bloc's eastern frontier.
Russia Posts Another Record Daily COVID Death Toll Amid Scramble For Hospital Beds RFE/RL 09 Nov 2021 -- Russia has posted a new daily record for COVID-19 deaths as health officials scramble to meet the demand for hospital beds to treat patients during the current wave of infections.
Ukrainian Arrested and Charged with Ransomware Attack on Kaseya US Dept. of Justice 08 Nov 2021 -- The Justice Department announced today recent actions taken against two foreign nationals charged with deploying Sodinokibi/REvil ransomware to attack businesses and government entities in the United States.
Attorney General Merrick B. Garland, Deputy Attorney General Lisa O. Monaco and FBI Director Christopher Wray Deliver Remarks on Sodinokibi/REvil Ransomware Arrest US Dept. of Justice 08 Nov 2021
Statement by President Joe Biden on Today's Counter Ransomware Actions The White House 08 Nov 2021
U.S. Charges Ukrainian, Russian For REvil Ransomware Attacks RFE/RL 08 Nov 2021 -- The U.S. Justice Department has charged a Russian and a Ukrainian for their role in a July ransomware attack on the Florida-based software firm Kaseya that impacted up to 1,500 businesses around the world.
Reward Offers for Information to Bring Sodinokibi (REvil) Ransomware Variant Co-Conspirators to Justice US Dept. of State 08 Nov 2021 -- The Department of State is offering a reward of up to $10,000,000 for information leading to the identification or location of any individual holding a key leadership position in the Sodinokibi ransomware variant transnational organized crime group.
Treasury Continues to Counter Ransomware as Part of Whole-of-Government Effort; Sanctions Ransomware Operators and Virtual Currency Exchange US Treasury 08 Nov 2021 -- Continuing the Administration's whole-of-government effort to counter ransomware, the U.S. Department of the Treasury today announced a set of actions focused on disrupting criminal ransomware actors and virtual currency exchanges that launder the proceeds of ransomware.
Ukrainian, Russian Charged in US Ransomware Attacks VOA 08 Nov 2021 -- U.S. prosecutors on Monday said they had charged a Ukrainian man with launching a July ransomware attack on an American firm that had infected 1,500 businesses throughout the world.
Russian Defense Minister Calls 'Constant' U.S. Presence In Black Sea A Provocation RFE/RL 07 Nov 2021 -- Russian Defense Minister Sergei Shoigu called the constant presence of the U.S. Navy in the Black Sea a provocation after another ship entered the strategic waters.
Russia Reports New One-Day High For Coronavirus Infections RFE/RL 06 Nov 2021 -- Russia has reported a new daily record for coronavirus infections despite recent efforts to contain the outbreak with paid work vacations and other measures.
Russian Daily COVID-19 Death Toll Dips Slightly But Remains Near Record High RFE/RL 05 Nov 2021 -- Russia's daily COVID-19 death toll dipped to 1,192 on November 4 as the coronavirus pandemic continues to hit the country hard, with the situation worsening in 10 regions over the course of this week.
Study Shows COVID-19 Slashed Russia's Life Expectancy By Over Two Years RFE/RL 05 Nov 2021 -- Researchers say life expectancy in Russia fell by more than two years in 2020 as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic.
Alleged Russian Hacks of Microsoft Service Providers Highlight Cybersecurity Deficiencies VOA 05 Nov 2021 -- Cybersecurity experts say Microsoft's recent disclosure that alleged Russian hackers successfully attacked several IT service providers this year is a sign that many U.S. IT companies have underinvested in security measures needed to protect themselves and their customers from intrusions.
Russia's Kirov Region Culls Poultry After Avian-Flu Outbreak RFE/RL 05 Nov 2021 -- Russian authorities have ordered the mass culling of poultry in the western Kirov region after an outbreak of highly pathogenic avian influenza.
Russia, OPEC Resist U.S. Pressure For Major Increase In Oil Output RFE/RL 05 Nov 2021 -- Major oil-producing nations agreed to maintain their modest increase in output despite pressure from Washington and other major consuming nations for a larger rise to help put a lid on surging energy prices.
Russian navy 'monitoring' US warship in Black Sea amid rising tensions Press TV 05 Nov 2021 -- The Russian defense ministry says a US naval command ship has entered the Black Sea and the country's navy has started tracking the vessel as tensions escalate over NATO activities near Russia's borders.
Russian Military Maneuvers Near Ukraine 'Unusual,' US Warns VOA 05 Nov 2021 -- The United States is keeping a close watch on Russian troop movements near the country's border with Ukraine, describing the activity as "unusual."
The Week In Russia: On The Offensive RFE/RL 05 Nov 2021 -- The country's COVID-19 crisis raged on during a Kremlin-mandated nonworking week, with daily death tolls reaching new highs. President Vladimir Putin drew vulnerable Belarusian autocrat Alyaksandr Lukashenka into a tighter orbit as a relentless clampdown continued in the smaller nation that is Russia's closest ally against the West. Once again, troop movements and energy supply decisions were watched warily in Kyiv and beyond for signals about Russia's intentions toward Ukraine. Russia expelled a Dutch newspaper correspondent, the second Western journalist to be kicked out in recent months. And amid severely strained U.S.-Russia ties, the CIA director made a rare visit to Moscow for talks with "the hard men of the Kremlin."
Dutch Supreme Court Overturns $50 Billion Ruling Against Russia In Yukos Case, Sends Suit Back To Lower Court RFE/RL 05 Nov 2021 -- The Supreme Court of the Netherlands has overturned a $50 billion award that Russia had been ordered to pay the former majority shareholders of the dismantled oil giant Yukos, sending the case back to a lower appeals court.
Suspected Russian FSB Agent Found Dead In Front Of Berlin Embassy RFE/RL 05 Nov 2021 -- A Russian diplomat suspected of being an undercover agent of the Federal Security Service (FSB) was found dead in front of the Russian Embassy in Berlin last month, German media have reported.
Russian diplomat found dead outside embassy in Berlin last month: German media Press TV 05 Nov 2021 -- German media say a Russian diplomat was found dead outside Russia's embassy in Berlin last month.
Putin, Lukashenko sign Union State integration decree People's Daily 05 Nov 2021 -- Russian President Vladimir Putin and his Belarusian counterpart Alexander Lukashenko has signed an integration decree of the Union State, the Kremlin said on Thursday.
Russia's Virus Deaths, Infections Reach New Record RFE/RL 04 Nov 2021 -- Russia on November 4 registered a new record number of daily COVID-19 deaths for the third day in a row.
Reward Offers for Information to Bring DarkSide Ransomware Variant Co-Conspirators to Justice US Dept. of State 04 Nov 2021 -- The U.S. Department of State announces a reward offer of up to $10,000,000 for information leading to the identification or location of any individual(s) who hold(s) a key leadership position in the DarkSide ransomware variant transnational organized crime group.
U.S. Offers Reward For Information On Russia-Linked DarkSide Cybercrime Group RFE/RL 04 Nov 2021 -- The United States has announced a reward of up to $10 million for information leading to the identification or location of any individual holding a "key leadership" position in DarkSide, a cybercrime group believed to be tied to Russia.
Study Traces Ukrainian Separatists' Arms To Russia RFE/RL 04 Nov 2021 -- Most of the ammunition and nearly all the weapons used by Ukrainian separatist forces was produced in what is today Russia, according to a detailed weapons-tracing study.
Triple Threat? Russia Halts Coal Exports To Ukraine, Cancels Power Auction Amid Gas Crisis RFE/RL 04 Nov 2021 -- For months, critics have accused Russia of withholding additional natural-gas shipments to Europe via Ukraine in order to pressure Brussels to fast-track its new Baltic Sea export pipeline, Nord Stream 2.
UN Security Council Extends Bosnian Peacekeeping Force After Russia, China Appeased RFE/RL 04 Nov 2021 -- The UN Security Council extended a peacekeeping force in Bosnia-Herzegovina in a unanimous vote on November 3 that came after any mention of the office of an international peace envoy was removed from the text of the resolution to win support from Russia and China.
Russia navy to get hypersonic missiles in 2022: Putin Press TV 04 Nov 2021 -- President Vladimir Putin says Russia's navy is to begin taking delivery of the country's trademark Zircon hypersonic missiles, whose tests are nearing completion, in 2022.
Russia Expels Dutch Journalist, Reduces Gas Supplies to Europe VOA 04 Nov 2021 -- Russia has ordered the expulsion of a Dutch journalist - the second deportation of a resident foreign correspondent in the past two months - and has reduced natural gas supplies to energy-starved Europe.
Russia: All participants in Vienna talks seek 'result-oriented' negotiations Press TV 04 Nov 2021 -- Russia's ambassador to international organizations in the Austrian capital, Vienna, says all participants in the talks on the removal of sanctions on Iran want negotiations that would reach a decisive result.
China, Russia urge 'flexible, pragmatic' attitude toward Vienna talks on sanctions removal Press TV 04 Nov 2021 -- Russia and China have called on all parties to the 2015 Iran nuclear deal, officially known as the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA), to adopt a flexible and pragmatic attitude towards talks in Vienna on the removal of anti-Tehran sanctions and implementation of the landmark agreement.
Putin, Lukashenka Agree To 28 Union State 'Programs' RFE/RL 04 Nov 2021 -- The Russian and Belarusian leaders have signed off on a series of road maps aimed at deepening the integration of the two neighbors as part of a decades-old plan to create a "Union State," state media reported on November 4, as Minsk faces growing international pressure following last year's disputed presidential election.
Briefing by Foreign Ministry Spokeswoman Maria Zakharova, November 3, 2021 Russia Ministry of Foreign Affairs 03 Nov 2021
Russia's COVID-19 Death Toll Hits Record High For Second Day In A Row RFE/RL 03 Nov 2021 -- Russia's daily COVID-19 death toll has reached a record high for a second day in a row amid a surge in cases blamed by the authorities on a low vaccination rate that has forced the imposition of a nationwide workplace shutdown.
Ukraine Says 90,000 Russian Troops Stationed Near Border RFE/RL 03 Nov 2021 -- Ukraine says Russia has kept tens of thousands of troops near its border following military exercises, in what Kyiv described as part of Moscow's attempts to exert pressure on its neighbor.
US Not Yet Alarmed by Russian Military Buildup Near Ukraine, Top General Says VOA 03 Nov 2021 -- Russia's military buildup along its border with Ukraine is not yet setting off any alarms in Washington.
Russian aerial, ground forces stage military exercise in Kurdish-held northern Syria: Monitoring group Press TV 03 Nov 2021 -- The Russian army's aerial and ground units have reportedly staged a military exercise in Syria's northern province of Aleppo, where militants affiliated with the US-backed Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF) are in control.
Russian diplomat expresses concern about Moscow-Washington ties Press TV 03 Nov 2021 -- Russia's Deputy Foreign Minister Sergei Ryabkov has expressed grave concern over Moscow-Washington relations.
Kremlin: Russia not minimizing importance of COP26 talks, 'serious' about climate change Press TV 03 Nov 2021 -- The Kremlin has rejected US President Joe Biden's remarks in which he criticized his Russian counterpart Vladimir Putin for failing to attend the UN climate change conference (COP26) in Scotland, stressing Russia is 'serious' about the issue.
On Rare Visit to Moscow, CIA's Burns Holds Talks With SVR Chief Naryshkin RFE/RL 03 Nov 2021 -- CIA Director William Burns has held talks in Moscow with Russian Foreign Intelligence Service (SVR) chief Sergei Naryshkin on bilateral cooperation in fighting international terrorism.
China, Russia Urge UN Security Council to Lift Economic Sanctions on N. Korea VOA 03 Nov 2021 -- China and Russia are set to introduce a joint resolution to the United Nations Security Council calling for an end to a host of economic sanctions on North Korea.
Daily COVID-19 Death Toll Hits Record Highs In Russia, Romania RFE/RL 02 Nov 2021 -- Russia and Romania have reported record COVID-19 death tolls as a surge in infections blamed by the authorities on a low vaccination rate continues to sweep across Eastern Europe.
Russia Grappling With Soaring COVID Cases Amid Vaccine Hesitancy VOA 02 Nov 2021 -- Wealthy Russians didn't delay their escape.
Russia strikes enemy warships in Black Sea drills Press TV 02 Nov 2021 -- The Russian navy has practiced destroying mock enemy targets during drills in the Black Sea amid the presence of US warships and NATO forces in the strategic region.
Russia Says It's Not Weaponizing Its Gas Exports. Really? RFE/RL 02 Nov 2021 -- In characteristically blunt fashion, Russian President Vladimir Putin had this to say when asked last month if Russia was again using its energy resources as a political weapon:
Russia's Gazprom Declines To Book Extra Capacity On Ukraine, Poland Pipelines RFE/RL 02 Nov 2021 -- Russia's state-controlled Gazprom declined to book more pipeline capacity via Ukraine and Poland to ship gas to Europe in the first three quarters of next year, in a sign it may be waiting for approval of the Russian-led Nord Stream 2 pipeline to Germany.
Three Suspected Of Investigating Russian Agents' Role In Navalny Poisoning Detained RFE/RL 02 Nov 2021 -- The Russian authorities have detained three men suspected of illegally obtaining the personal data of Federal Security Service (FSB) agents whom jailed opposition leader Aleksei Navalny has accused of being involved in his poisoning last year.
CIA Chief Meets Head Of Russia's Security Council In Moscow RFE/RL 02 Nov 2021 -- U.S. Central Intelligence Agency Director William Burns has traveled to Moscow for talks with Russian officials amid persistent tensions between the two countries.
China, Russia submit reworked proposal to lift UN sanctions on North Korea Press TV 02 Nov 2021 -- China and Russia have reworked a draft resolution urging the UN Security Council to ease sanctions on North Korean exports with the intent of "enhancing the livelihood of the civilian population" in the east Asian country.
Russia Reports Another Near-Record Daily Death Toll As COVID-19 Continues To Engulf Country RFE/RL 01 Nov 2021 -- Russia has reported another 1,158 coronavirus-related deaths over the past 24 hours, just three fewer that the record set the previous day as the pandemic continues to engulf the country.
Ukraine aims to drag Russia into conflict through Donbass provocations: foreign minister Lavrov Press TV 01 Nov 2021 -- Russia has accused Ukraine of trying to create a "provocative situation" aimed at dragging Moscow into a conflict in the country's eastern region of Donbass, amid an escalation between the Kiev government forces and pro-Russia separatists in the volatile region.
Moldova Says Gas Crisis Over After Deal With Russia's Gazprom RFE/RL 01 Nov 2021 -- Moldovan President Maia Sandu has declared an end to her country's energy crisis after the government and Russia's state-controlled Gazprom agreed to extend a contract for natural-gas supplies for a period of five years.

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Weapons of Mass Destruction (WMD)

November 2021 - Russia Special Weapons News