December 2021 - Russia Special Weapons News

Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov's interview with Rossiya Segodnya, December 31, 2021 Russia Ministry of Foreign Affairs 31 Dec 2021
Russia Sets Another Monthly Record For COVID-Related Deaths RFE/RL 31 Dec 2021 -- Russia recorded its highest monthly death toll from COVID-19 in November, the state statistics agency Rosstat reported on December 30.
Russia Allows Domestic Pharmaceutical To Continue Producing U.S. Company's COVID-19 Drug RFE/RL 31 Dec 2021 -- The Russian government has extended a decree to allow a domestic pharmaceutical company to produce a generic version of a U.S. biotech company's COVID-19 drug without consent.
Kosovo Expels Russian Official Due To 'Harmful Activity' RFE/RL 31 Dec 2021 -- Kosovo has ordered the expulsion of a Russian diplomat and member of the United Nations mission in the Balkan country on national security grounds
Biden threatens Putin with 'severe sanctions' over Ukraine Press TV 31 Dec 2021 -- US President Joe Biden has threatened Russian President Vladimir Putin with "severe sanctions" if Russia launches any military action in neighboring Ukraine, despite the fact that Moscow has rejected Washington's allegations of preparing to invade the neighboring country.
Russia may be forced to 'eliminate unacceptable threats': Lavrov on Ukraine issue Press TV 31 Dec 2021 -- The Russian foreign minister says Moscow may be forced to "eliminate unacceptable threats" to national security, as US President Joe Biden reiterated threats against Russia during a 50-minute phone conversation with his counterpart, Vladimir Putin.
US flies 2nd spy plane over Ukraine 'to gather intel' amid tensions Press TV 31 Dec 2021 -- Amid heightened tensions, the US Air Force flew a second spy aircraft over eastern Ukraine hours before the telephonic conversation between Russian President Vladimir Putin and his US counterpart Joe Biden on Thursday.
NATO is Transforming Ukraine Into Military Foothold Against Russia, Lavrov Tells Sputnik Sputnik 31 Dec 2021 -- The Russian foreign minister criticised the alliance for backing Kiev's militaristic aspirations and stressed that there will be an "adequate response" to any possible military provocations carried out by Ukraine.
Putin, Biden discuss Moscow's security proposals in year-end telephone call People's Daily 31 Dec 2021 -- Russian President Vladimir Putin and his U.S. counterpart Joe Biden discussed Russia's recent security proposals during their telephone call, the Kremlin said Friday.
Biden, Putin hold phone call amid heightened tensions over Ukraine People's Daily 31 Dec 2021 -- U.S. President Joe Biden spoke with his Russian counterpart Vladimir Putin via phone on Thursday amid heightened tensions over Ukraine.
Putin warns Biden about 'complete breakdown' in Russo-American ties Press TV 31 Dec 2021 -- Russia's President Vladimir Putin warns his American counterpart Joe Biden that any new sanctions against Moscow could totally upset the Russo-American relations.
'Serious, Substantive': Biden, Putin Agree To Intensify Diplomacy Amid Ukraine Tensions RFE/RL 31 Dec 2021 -- U.S. President Joe Biden has urged his Russian counterpart, Vladimir Putin, to de-escalate simmering tensions in a phone call aimed at intensifying diplomacy amid a buildup of Russian troops near the border with Ukraine and the Kremlin's demands for sweeping security guarantees.
In New Year's Greetings, Putin Praises Russian Solidarity, As Navalny Urges Optimism RFE/RL 31 Dec 2021 -- In his traditional televised New Year's greeting, Russian President Vladimir Putin noted that Russians had "encountered colossal challenges" in 2021 but had overcome them through "solidarity."
Russia test-launches new hypersonic cruise missiles from frigate, submarine: Report Press TV 31 Dec 2021 -- Russia has reportedly test-fired around 10 new Zircon hypersonic cruise missiles from a frigate and two more from a submarine as tensions between Moscow and the West escalate over Ukraine.
The Week In Russia: The Shifting Shape Of The Past RFE/RL 31 Dec 2021 -- Thirty years after the U.S.S.R.'s collapse, courts ordered the closure of the human rights and historical research group Memorial, making what observers said was a big move to whitewash the past and the present. Meanwhile, Moscow pressed ahead with an effort to roll back some of the results of the Soviet breakup.
Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov's interview with TASS News Agency, December 31, 2021 Russia Ministry of Foreign Affairs 31 Dec 2021
Joint Statement on Russian Court Decisions to Liquidate Memorial US Dept. of State 31 Dec 2021 -- The following joint statement was issued by the United States of America, Australia, Canada, the European Union, and the United Kingdom.
Briefing by Foreign Ministry Spokeswoman Maria Zakharova, Moscow, December 30, 2021 Russia Ministry of Foreign Affairs 30 Dec 2021
Philippines Sets Aside Budget for Acquisition of BrahMos Supersonic Cruise Missile Sputnik 30 Dec 2021 -- BrahMos Aerospace, a joint venture by India and Russia, has stated that customers from Southeast Asia and the Middle East have taken an interest in its supersonic cruise missiles.
Statement by Press Secretary Jen Psaki on President Biden's Phone Call with President Vladimir Putin of Russia The White House 30 Dec 2021
Background Press Call by a Senior Administration Official on President Biden's Call with President Putin of the Russian Federation The White House 30 Dec 2021
Russia to seek firm guarantees of NATO not moving eastward: Foreign Ministry spox Press TV 30 Dec 2021 -- The Russian Foreign Ministry says Moscow seeks firm security guarantees from the West in the upcoming talks between Russia and NATO member states amid rising tensions over Ukraine.
Russia Needs Legally Binding Agreements on Security Guarantees, Kremlin Says After Putin-Biden Call Sputnik 30 Dec 2021 -- The two leaders were expected to discuss security and strategic issues, including escalating tensions over NATO expansion and Ukraine. Russian and NATO negotiators are set to meet in Brussels for security talks on January 12, following a strategic stability dialogue between senior Russian and US diplomats in Geneva.
Germany Doesn't Rule Out New Sanctions Against Nord Stream 2 Sputnik 30 Dec 2021 -- The now-completed Nord Stream 2 gas pipeline, which is prepared to start pumping gas from Russia to Germany under the Baltic Sea, still needs the approval of German and European regulators, who threatened to put off certification until mid-2022.
Europe's bid to reduce reliance on Russia complicates gas crisis People's Daily 30 Dec 2021 -- As the single largest supplier of natural gas in Europe, Russia has found itself on the receiving end of many a verbal outburst for soaring gas prices and a looming energy crisis.
Russia's 'Gas Pivot' to China Poses Challenge for Europe VOA 30 Dec 2021 -- Gazprom, Russia's giant state-owned energy company, is slated to finalize an agreement in 2022 for a second huge natural gas pipeline running from Siberia to China, marking yet another stage in what energy analysts and Western diplomats say is a fast-evolving gas pivot to Asia by Moscow.
Russia: US, Iran's partners in 2015 deal satisfied with 'positive trends' in Vienna Press TV 30 Dec 2021 -- A senior Russian diplomat says the participants in a meeting in Vienna between the US and Iran's five partners in the 2015 agreement have voiced satisfaction with the "positive trends" in the ongoing discussions aimed at securing a removal of American sanctions against Iran.
Putin says Russia, Belarus plan to conduct joint military drills early next year Press TV 30 Dec 2021 -- Russian President Vladimir Putin says Russia and Belarus plan to hold another round of joint military drills early next year, amid rising tensions between Moscow and the West.
Russia, Belarus Announce Plans For More Joint Military Drills RFE/RL 30 Dec 2021 -- Russian President Vladimir Putin has welcomed Belarusian strongman Alyaksandr Lukashenka's proposal to hold another round of joint military drills.
Memorial Shutdown Seen As Portentous Point Of No Return For Putin's Russia RFE/RL 29 Dec 2021 -- The year in Russia is winding down with a spate of events that have alarmed many observers about the intentions of President Vladimir Putin and his government.
Deputy Foreign Minister Andrey Rudenko's interview with Rossiya Segodnya International Information Agency, December 29, 2021 Russia Ministry of Foreign Affairs 29 Dec 2021
Deputy Foreign Minister Andrey Rudenko's interview with Sputnik News Agency, December 27, 2021 Russia Ministry of Foreign Affairs 29 Dec 2021
Biden Vows Diplomacy Ahead of Call With Putin Over Ukraine Tensions VOA 29 Dec 2021 -- U.S. President Joe Biden will speak by phone Thursday with his Russian counterpart, a senior administration official said Wednesday, adding the American leader will seek a diplomatic solution to escalating tension along Russia's border with Ukraine.
Exclusive: China, Russia to sign new 5-year space cooperation program, build intl lunar station by 2035: Roscosmos Global Times 29 Dec 2021 -- China and Russia will sign a new space Cooperation Program for 2023-2027 next year, which will include a plan to create an open and inclusive International Lunar Research Station (ILRS) by 2035, Russia's national space agency Roscosmos told the Global Times in an exclusive interview.
Statement by NSC Spokesperson Emily Horne on President Biden's Upcoming Phone Call with President Vladimir Putin of Russia The White House 29 Dec 2021
Background Press Call by a Senior Administration Official on President Biden's Upcoming Call with President Putin of the Russian Federation The White House 29 Dec 2021
Biden, Putin To Hold Call This Week As U.S. Seeks Common Approach With European Allies RFE/RL 29 Dec 2021 -- U.S. President Joe Biden will speak with Russian President Vladimir Putin on December 30 as bilateral tensions rise over a buildup of Russian troops near the border with Ukraine and Moscow's demands for sweeping security guarantees from Washington.
'Unacceptable:' EU rejects Russia's security demands Press TV 29 Dec 2021 -- The European Union (EU) has rejected Russia's security demands for stopping NATO's eastward expansion as "unacceptable."
Russia Conducts Tests of S-500 Anti-Missile Defence Systems in Arctic Region, Source Says Sputnik 29 Dec 2021 -- Russia has recently conducted routine tests of S-500 anti-missile defence systems in it's Arctic region, but prototypes of the S-550 have yet to be developed, a source told Sputnik on Wednesday.
Cold War Resentment Has Been Building for Decades in Kremlin VOA 29 Dec 2021 -- A few days after Vladimir Putin was reelected his country's president in 2018, a former top Kremlin official outlined to VOA how perilous relations had become between the West and Russia. In a wide-ranging conversation, almost foretelling the high-stakes clash developing now between the Kremlin and NATO over Ukraine, he said Putin believed the fracture between Russia and Western powers was irreparable.
Russia will face no failure in Nord Stream 2 certification, senior Russian diplomat says Press TV 29 Dec 2021 -- Russia believes that it won't face any failure regarding the certifications for the Nord Stream 2 gas pipeline and the project will eventually be launched, a top Russian official has told RBC media.
Nord Stream 2 Operator, Gazprom Say New Pipeline Ready To Deliver Gas RFE/RL 29 Dec 2021 -- The operator of the controversial Nord Stream 2 pipeline from Russia to Germany said it has filled the new pipeline with natural gas and is ready to begin deliveries.
Putin: Russia Will Start Gas Supplies Via Nord Stream 2 as Soon as Europe Decides Sputnik 29 Dec 2021 -- Russia will be ready to immediately start gas supplies to Europe if the European countries decide to launch Nord Stream 2, Russian President Vladimir Putin said.
Three Navalny Associates Released After Questioning, Fate Of Two Others Unknown RFE/RL 29 Dec 2021 -- Three of the five associates of imprisoned Russian opposition politician Aleksei Navalny who were detained by police in raids across the country on December 28 have been released.
In Latest Blow To Russian Civil Society, Court Orders Closure Of Memorial Rights Center RFE/RL 29 Dec 2021 -- A Moscow court has ordered the closure of the Memorial Human Rights Center, one day after another court shut down the group's main parent organization, capping a year of administrative moves by the state to throttle civil society across the country.
US orders warships to stay in Mediterranean amid tensions with Russia Press TV 29 Dec 2021 -- US Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin has ordered a fleet of warships to remain in the Mediterranean Sea amid rising tensions between the West and Moscow over Ukraine.
Austin Directs US Nuclear Aircraft Carrier Truman Stay in Mediterranean to Reassure Allies Sputnik 28 Dec 2021 -- The United States is retaining a nuclear aircraft carrier in the Mediterranean instead of sending it on to the Middle East in order to reassure allies as tensions remain high over Ukraine, Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin said, according to a US Navy report on Tuesday.
Sputnik V Developers to Putin: Trials Show the Russian Vaccine Neutralises Omicron Strain Sputnik 28 Dec 2021 -- The new variant, discovered in South Africa last month, proved to be highly contagious and has become the dominant COVID-19 strain in many countries across the world.
Mali's Military Government: Russia Sends Trainers, Not Mercenaries VOA 28 Dec 2021 -- Mali's military government has denied hiring Russian mercenaries from the controversial Wagner Group, which has been sanctioned by the European Union for rights abuses. France and 15 other Western nations last week condemned what they said was Russia's deployment of Wagner fighters to Mali. Mali's transitional government says it is only engaged with official Russian military trainers. Analysts weigh in on Russia's military involvement in Mali as French troops are drawing down.
Russia Considers Mali Gov't. as Legitimate, Cooperation as Positive, Diplomat Says Sputnik 28 Dec 2021 -- Russia considers the current government in Mali to be legitimate and views cooperation with it as positive, Deputy Permanent Representative to the United Nations Dmitry Polyanskiy said on Tuesday.
Russia warns against NATO's eastward expansion, large-scale military confrontation Press TV 28 Dec 2021 -- NATO is preparing itself for a large-scale armed confrontation with Moscow, says Russia's deputy defense minister, warning against the US-led alliance's eastward expansion.
U.S., Russia To Hold Ukraine Talks In Geneva On January 10 RFE/RL 28 Dec 2021 -- U.S. and Russian officials will hold security talks on January 10 amid mounting tensions over Ukraine.
US, Russia to Discuss Ukraine During January Talks VOA 28 Dec 2021 -- The United States and Russia will hold talks in January about nuclear arms control and tensions along the Russia-Ukraine border.
US 'looks forward to engaging with Russia' on Ukraine: Washington Press TV 28 Dec 2021 -- Russian officials have agreed to sit with American officials next month among US accusations against Moscow of preparing to invade neighboring Ukraine, the US National Security Council (NSC) has said.
US, Russia expected to hold talks on Jan 10 over Ukraine Press TV 28 Dec 2021 -- American and Russian officials are expected hold talks on January 10 to discuss European security and simmering tensions over the Ukraine conflict, according to officials.
Russia's 'Flying Laboratory' Reportedly Scrambled to Shadow US Spy Plane Over Black Sea Sputnik 28 Dec 2021 -- Russia has repeatedly expressed concern over the US and NATO's escalating activity in the Black Sea, warning that it may result in unwanted incidents.
Russia to Take Hardline Approach in Defending National Interests at Talks With US, FM Lavrov Says Sputnik 28 Dec 2021 -- Russia will firmly defend its national interests at the upcoming security talks with the United States and NATO in January, Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov said on Tuesday, vowing not to make any unilateral concessions without taking the balance of interest into account.
Russia vows to firmly defend national interests at talks with US, NATO Press TV 28 Dec 2021 -- Russia say it will firmly defend its national interests at upcoming talks with the United States and NATO, amid rising tensions between Moscow and the West.
Dissolution of International Memorial US Dept. of State 28 Dec 2021 -- "The United States condemns today's decision by the Russian Supreme Court to forcibly close International Memorial, one of Russia's oldest and most respected scholarly and human rights organizations. For three decades, International Memorial's researchers have worked tirelessly to recover the names and stories of the millions of victims of Soviet repression, promoting historical justice."
Russia Lurches Toward 'Total Repression' As Supreme Court Rules To Shut Memorial RFE/RL 28 Dec 2021 -- Russia's Supreme Court has ordered the closure of Memorial International, one of the country's oldest and most respected human rights organizations, capping a year of what critics called the state's systematic dismantling of the country's civil society.
Historians Lament Dissolution of Russia's Memorial Historical Rights Group VOA 28 Dec 2021 -- Prominent historians and human rights activists were shocked by a Russian Supreme Court ruling Tuesday to close Memorial International, which chronicled historical abuses of the former Soviet Union and identified victims of former Soviet dictator Josef Stalin's purges.
'Huge Disaster': Russian Police Detain Three Former Navalny Coordinators RFE/RL 28 Dec 2021 -- Russian police have taken three former regional coordinators of Aleksei Navalny's campaign team in for questioning amid continued pressure against the imprisoned opposition leader's associates.
Iran's Raeisi set to visit Russia in early 2022 for talks on ways to enhance ties Press TV 28 Dec 2021 -- Iran's President Ebrahim Raeisi is set to make an official visit to Moscow in early 2022 to hold talks with senior Russian officials on ways to promote strategic relations between the two sides.
Iran's Hard-Line President To Visit Russia 'Early' Next Year RFE/RL 28 Dec 2021 -- Iranian President Ebrahim Raisi will Russia after receiving an invitation from Russian counterpart Vladimir Putin, an Iranian government spokesman said on December 28.
Russia Offers India to Develop New Tank Based on Armata, Military Agency Says Sputnik 28 Dec 2021 -- Moscow has offered New Delhi to develop a new Indian combat tank on the basis of the Russian Armata platform, the spokeswoman for Russia's Federal Service for Military-Technical Cooperation, Valeria Reshetnikova, told Sputnik.
Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov's interview with Solovyov Live YouTube channel, Moscow, December 27, 2021 Russia Ministry of Foreign Affairs 27 Dec 2021
Russia Confirms 23,210 New COVID-19 Cases over Past 24 Hours SPA 27 Dec 2021 -- Russia has confirmed 23,210 new COVID-19 cases over the past 24 hours, bringing the cumulative total to 10,415,230, Sputnik quoted the federal response center as said on Monday.
Russia Lays Down More Conditions for Peace Talks VOA 27 Dec 2021 -- The announcement by Russia's Defense Ministry Saturday that 10,000 troops deployed along the border with Ukraine are to return to their permanent bases isn't easing the alarm of Western officials, who see the risks mounting of Russian military action.
Russia-US talks on security guarantees to be held next month: Lavrov Press TV 27 Dec 2021 -- Russia's foreign minister says talks on a list of security guarantees Moscow wants from Washington regarding the rubbing points in relations with NATO over Ukraine are scheduled to be held between Russian and American officials next month.
Lavrov Says Security Talks With Washington To Take Place After Russian Holidays RFE/RL 27 Dec 2021 -- Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov says talks between Washington and Moscow to discuss security issues will take place after Russia's holiday season is over and that Russia wants military officials involved in its negotiations with NATO.
Russian Defence Ministry: NATO Preparing for Large-Scale High-Intensity Conflict With Moscow Sputnik 27 Dec 2021 -- Moscow has expressed concerns about the concentration of Western alliance missile systems, troops, warships, and aircraft near Russia's borders, and NATO's decades' long eastward expansion. This month, the Russian Foreign Ministry formally signalled that it considers Ukraine to be a "red line" for Moscow that NATO is strongly advised not to cross.
Russia Demands NATO to Cancel Its Decision That Ukraine, Georgia Can Someday Join Alliance Sputnik 27 Dec 2021 -- Earlier, Russian presidential spokesman Dmitry Peskov said that Russia sees NATO's expansion to Ukraine, Georgia and Moldova as a matter of life and death.
Russia holds military drill near Ukraine to brace up for potential confrontation with West Press TV 27 Dec 2021 -- Russian military forces have staged a military exercise to practice repelling airstrikes by adversaries amid Moscow's worsening standoff with the West.
Norwegian Intelligence Service Boss Blames Russia for Digital Attacks Sputnik 27 Dec 2021 -- In response, the Russian embassy called the spying allegations "a set of worn-out clichés", stressing that in recent years, only one example of espionage between Norway and Russia has been proven in court, and the person in question had Norwegian citizenship.
Report: UK sends navy ship to North Sea to monitor Russian subs Press TV 26 Dec 2021 -- A British Royal Navy ship has reportedly been deployed in the North Sea to monitor Russian submarines and vessels in the area amid rising tensions between the West and Moscow over Ukraine.
British Navy Frigate On Hand to Track Russian Ships in North Sea - Reports Sputnik 26 Dec 2021 -- The HMS Westminster frigate of the UK Royal Navy is currently in the North Sea, ready to watch for Russian submarines, The Telegraph reports.
Russia's Missile Launch May Make Notes to West 'More Convincing', Kremlin Spokesman Says Sputnik 26 Dec 2021 -- A recent launch of the Russian Zircon hypersonic missile may make Russia's diplomatic notes to the West "more convincing," Russian presidential spokesman Dmitry Peskov said on Sunday.
Moscow considering NATO proposal to begin talks on Russia's security concerns: Foreign Ministry Press TV 26 Dec 2021 -- Moscow is reportedly "considering" a proposal by the North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO) to begin talks on Russia's security concerns on January 12 after the Kremlin said it needs an "immediate" response from the US and its allies to the Kremlin's demands for security guarantees.
Putin To Mull Options If West Doesn't Meet 'Security Guarantees' RFE/RL 26 Dec 2021 -- President Vladimir Putin has said he would ponder various options if the West fails to meet Moscow's demands for security guarantees, amid heightened tensions involving a massive deployment of Russian troops near Ukraine.
Putin on 'Red Lines': West Has Pinned Russia Into a Position Where It Has Nowhere to Fall Back To Sputnik 26 Dec 2021 -- At his annual year-end press conference on Thursday, the Russian president slammed Washington and its NATO allies for talking about "Russian aggression" while surrounding Moscow with offensive missile systems and carrying out several waves of expansion toward Russia's borders. "You cheated us shamelessly," Putin said.
Putin Says Russia Has Different Options in Response to NATO Eastward Expansion Sputnik 26 Dec 2021 -- The Russian response to NATO's eastward expansion can vary, depending on recommendations of the country's military experts, Russian President Vladimir Putin said on Sunday.
'Zone Of Repression': Watchdog Says Russia's Internet Crackdown 'Redoubled' In 2021 RFE/RL 26 Dec 2021 -- Human Rights Watch (HRW) says Russian authorities have "redoubled their efforts" over the past year to repress online freedoms, citing the blocking of tools used to circumvent censorship, expanding "oppressive" Internet laws, and pressure on tech companies to comply with "increasingly stifling regulations."
Comment by Foreign Ministry Spokeswoman Maria Zakharova on the distortion of Russia's approach to security guarantees Russia Ministry of Foreign Affairs 25 Dec 2021
Mali denies Western claims on deployment of Russian mercenaries Press TV 25 Dec 2021 -- Mali's government has denied the presence of Russian mercenaries from the Wagner group in the West African country.
Mali Denies Deployment Of Russian Mercenaries After Condemnation By EU Countries RFE/RL 25 Dec 2021 -- Mali's government has denied any deployment of Russian mercenaries from the Vagner group following charges earlier this week by more than a dozen European countries as well as Canada.
Russia: 10,000 troops returning to bases after drills near Ukraine Press TV 25 Dec 2021 -- The Russian army says more than 10,000 Russian troops are returning to their permanent bases after month-long drills near Ukraine.
Russia to Prioritise NATO's Non-Expansion at Security Talks With US, Moscow Says Sputnik 25 Dec 2021 -- NATO's non-expansion and non-deployment of weapons posing threat to Russia's security near its borders will be the issues of utmost importance for Moscow at the upcoming talks on security guarantees with the United States, Russian Foreign Ministry spokeswoman Maria Zakharova said on Saturday.
Gazprom Says It's Ready to Send More Gas to Europe Under Cheaper Long-term Contracts Sputnik 25 Dec 2021 -- Many European nations' gas reserves plummeted to potentially dangerous lows this year thanks to a combination of environmental factors and shortsighted decisions by policymakers. Some officials and media in the US and Europe have blamed Russia for the supply crunch. Moscow has dismissed these claims.
Central Asia: Getting Pulled From All Directions At The Crossroads Of Eurasia RFE/RL 24 Dec 2021 -- Not long after Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan, Turkmenistan, and Uzbekistan gained independence in late 1991, they started reminding the world that they were located in the heart of the Eurasian continent, the crossroads of civilizations for centuries.
Estonian President Opposes Discussions on Russia's Security Proposals Sputnik 24 Dec 2021 -- Estonian President Alar Karis said that the possible discussions on Russia's proposals on security guarantees at the moment are "out of the question."
Russia Carried Out Successful Test Launch of Zircon Hypersonic Missile on Friday, Putin Announces Sputnik 24 Dec 2021 -- Zircon is the world's first hypersonic cruise missile capable of carrying out long aerodynamic flights with manoeuvring in dense layers of the atmosphere using exclusively its own propulsion power.
NATO Accession of Sweden and Finland Would Lead to 'Adequate Response' From Russia Sputnik 24 Dec 2021 -- In the words of Russian Foreign Ministry spokeswoman Maria Zakharova, while Moscow views the non-alignment of Finland and Sweden as an important factor in ensuring stability in Northern Europe, NATO is purposefully working to draw the both countries into its orbit through drills and military cooperation.
Russia Will Respond With 'Adequate Military Measures' to Hostile Actions by the West, Moscow Warns Sputnik 24 Dec 2021 -- At his annual end-of-year press conference Thursday, President Vladimir Putin warned that Russia's future policy would depend "on the unconditional guarantees of Russian national security", and stressed that Moscow has "made it clear that NATO's expansion to the east is unacceptable".
Drawing Ukraine Into NATO, Missiles Placing Near Russia Creates Military Risks, Lavrov Says Sputnik 24 Dec 2021 -- The policy to draw Ukraine into NATO and deploy missiles near Russia's borders provokes serious military risks, up to a large-scale conflict in Europe, Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov told Bosnia and Herzegovina's Oslobodenje newspaper.
Putin says EU only has its policies to blame for soaring gas prices Press TV 24 Dec 2021 -- Russia's President Vladimir Putin says the European Union should only blame its own policies for soaring gas prices, stressing that transporting Russian gas to Europe via the new Nord Stream 2 pipeline would lower the costs.
Putin Says Efforts to Block Nord Stream 2 Foolish, Since Project Would Lower Gas Prices Sputnik 24 Dec 2021 -- Nord Stream 2, the $10.5 billion, 1,230km gas pipeline running from Russia to north-eastern Germany along the bottom of the Baltic Sea, is technically complete and ready for operation. However, the project has yet to receive German and European Union regulatory approval, with that process threatening to drag out until next spring.
Russia Hopes Nord Stream 2 Operator Certification Process to Complete in 2022 Sputnik 24 Dec 2021 -- Russia hopes that the certification process of the Nord Stream 2 operator will be completed next year, Deputy Prime Minister Alexander Novak said on Friday.
Russia Doubled Imports Of Natural Gas From Turkmenistan In 2021, Envoy Says RFE/RL 24 Dec 2021 -- Russia has doubled the imports of natural gas from Turkmenistan this year, Moscow's ambassador in Ashgabat told reporters on December 24.
Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov's interview with the newspaper Oslobodjenje on the 25th anniversary of diplomatic relations established between the Russian Federation and Bosnia and Herzegovina on December 26, 1996, published on December 24, 2021 Russia Ministry of Foreign Affairs 24 Dec 2021
Dragging Ukraine into NATO poses unacceptable threats to Russia: Lavrov Press TV 24 Dec 2021 -- Moscow says the United States' efforts to "drag" Ukraine into NATO, poses "unacceptable threats" to Russia, citing the prospect of the alliance's strike missile systems appearing near the Russian border.
U.S., Ukraine Deny Putin's Assertion That They Are Aggressor In Border Escalation RFE/RL 24 Dec 2021 -- The United States and Ukraine deny that Kyiv is preparing a military offensive in its eastern region, an assertion made by Russian President Vladimir Putin during his news conference on December 23.
Russian Soldier Arrested on Suspicion of Treason and Working for Ukraine Sputnik 24 Dec 2021 -- A serviceman of the Russian Armed Forces was arrested in Russia's southwestern region of Voronezh on suspicion of treason and working for Ukrainian intelligence, the Russian Federal Security Service (FSB) said on Friday.
Vladimir Putin's annual news conference President of Russia 23 Dec 2021 -- The President's annual news conference was broadcast live by Rossiya 1, Channel One, NTV and Rossiya 24 television channels, as well as Mayak, Vesti FM and Radio Rossii radio stations.
Western Powers Assail Moscow For Aiding Vagner Mercenary Group In Mali RFE/RL 23 Dec 2021 -- Western powers condemned Moscow for providing "material support" for the Russia-backed Vagner Group that has deployed mercenary fighters in the troubled West African nation of Mali.
UK and international partners condemn Wagner Group's plan to deploy mercenaries in Mali UK FCDO 23 Dec 2021 -- The UK and international partners have issued a statement condemning the decision to deploy mercenary troops from the Wagner Group in Mali.
U.S. Says Kremlin Aggression Against Ukraine Will Lead To More NATO Forces Near Russia RFE/RL 23 Dec 2021 -- The United States has sought to deter Russia from invading Ukraine, saying such an action would lead to punishing Western sanctions while forcing NATO to increase military aid to Kyiv and put more forces closer to Moscow.
Putin: Reunification of Crimea With Russia Was Not on Agenda Before Coup in Ukraine Sputnik 23 Dec 2021 -- In 2013, protests broke out in Ukraine due to the authorities' decision to halt a policy aimed at integration with the European Union, leading to a coup and the ousting of President Viktor Yanukovych.
Russia: US Attempts to Use Security Guarantee Talks as Cover to Arm Ukraine Will Worsen Situation Sputnik 23 Dec 2021 -- On Wednesday, Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov revealed that the first round of Moscow-Washington talks on security guarantees is due to be held in early 2022.
Welcoming the Ceasefire in Donbas US Dept. of State 23 Dec 2021 -- The United States welcomes yesterday's OSCE announcement regarding the "strong determination" of Ukrainian government forces and Russia-led forces in eastern Ukraine to fully adhere to the Measures to Strengthen the Ceasefire agreement of July 22, 2020.
Ukraine border tensions: Foreign Secretary's statement UK FCDO 23 Dec 2021 -- Foreign Secretary Liz Truss has issued a statement on the current situation on the Ukraine border.
Deal reached to restore truce between Ukraine forces, ethnic Russians: OSCE Press TV 23 Dec 2021 -- The Organization for Security and Cooperation in Europe (OSCE) says negotiators from Ukraine, Russia, and the intergovernmental organization have agreed on a deal to restore a full ceasefire between Ukrainian government troops and ethnic Russians in eastern Ukraine.
Statement by NSC Spokesperson Emily Horne on National Security Advisor Jake Sullivan's Call with Head of Presidential Office Andriy Yermak of Ukraine The White House 23 Dec 2021
Background Press Call by Senior Administration Officials on Russia The White House 23 Dec 2021
White House Vows Diplomacy as Russia's Putin Ratchets Up Rhetoric VOA 23 Dec 2021 -- The White House said Thursday that Washington is keeping a keen eye on Moscow and remains committed to diplomacy during upcoming high-level talks. This comes amid increasingly heated rhetoric from Russia's leader, who on Thursday accused U.S. and NATO allies of undermining his country as he continues to mass troops near Russia's border with Ukraine.
Putin: Russia wants to avoid conflict with West over Ukraine, but demands immediate security guarantees Press TV 23 Dec 2021 -- Russian President Vladimir Putin says his country wants to avoid conflict with the West, but it needs an "immediate" response from the US and its allies to the Kremlin's demands for security guarantees.
Russian Envoy To EU Says Russia Not Planning Attack As Groundwork Is Laid For Talks In January RFE/RL 23 Dec 2021 -- Russia is not preparing a military invasion of Ukraine, its ambassador to the European Union was quoted as saying on December 23 as Russia's top diplomat said talks will be held early next year on Moscow's security proposals.
Tough Talk And Tough Talks: At Annual News Conference, Putin Sends Signals On Ukraine And NATO RFE/RL 23 Dec 2021 -- Russian President Vladimir Putin's message to the United States, NATO, and Kyiv at his annual press conference could arguably be summed up like this:
Putin Demands That West Provide Russia With Security Guarantees 'Immediately' RFE/RL 23 Dec 2021 -- President Vladimir Putin has demanded that the West provide Russia with security guarantees "immediately" amid spiraling tensions involving a massive deployment of Russian troops toward Ukraine.
Putin Warns NATO Expansion Eastward is Unacceptable: 'US Has Come to Our Doorstep With Its Missiles' Sputnik 23 Dec 2021 -- The Russian president stressed that national security is Moscow's number one priority, and that Western countries misled Russia by expanding NATO in Eastern Europe despite previous promises.
Russia, China Jointly Developing High-Tech Weapons, Putin Says Sputnik 23 Dec 2021 -- Speaking at an annual press conference on Thursday, Russian President Vladimir Putin touted the strategic relationship between Russia and China as "a stabilising factor on the global stage".
Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov's interview with RT television channel, Moscow, December 22, 2021 Russia Ministry of Foreign Affairs 22 Dec 2021
As Putin Hints At War In Ukraine, State TV Amplifies The Threat RFE/RL 22 Dec 2021 -- When presenter Olga Skabeyeva entered the studio of the popular Russian talk show 60 Minutes this week, she began the program the way she usually does: by slamming the Ukrainian government and pouring vitriol on its backers in the West.
Western Nations at UN Warn Russia of 'Severe Cost' in Case of Aggression Against Ukraine Sputnik 22 Dec 2021 -- The United States, the European Union, France, Germany, the United Kingdom and a number of other countries at the United Nations on Wednesday warned Russia of "severe cost" in case the latter advances on Ukraine.
Dutch Prosecutors Seek Life Sentences For MH17 Suspects RFE/RL 22 Dec 2021 -- Dutch prosecutors have requested life sentences for three Russians and a Ukrainian on trial in absentia on charges of playing a role in downing a passenger jet over Ukraine in 2014, killing 298 people.
Iran, Russia, Turkey reject any military solution to Syrian conflict IRNA 22 Dec 2021 -- Representatives of Iran, Russia and Turkey - as guarantors of the Astana format - issued a statement in the end of the 17th International Meeting on Syria in the Astana Format on Wednesday noting that there could be no military solution to the Syrian conflict.
Joint Statement by the Representatives of Iran, Russia and Turkey on the 17th International Meeting on Syria in the Astana Format, Nur-Sultan, 21-22 December 2021 Russia Ministry of Foreign Affairs 22 Dec 2021
First Round of Russia-US Talks on Security Guarantees Set for Early 2022, Lavrov Says Sputnik 22 Dec 2021 -- Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov earlier confirmed that the White House had signalled its readiness to engage in negotiations with Russia on its security proposals.
US, Russia to Hold Talks in Bid to Ease Ukraine Standoff VOA 22 Dec 2021 -- Russian and U.S. negotiators will hold talks in January to discuss Moscow's demand that NATO halt its eastward expansion into the countries of the former Soviet Union, including Ukraine, Russia's top diplomat, Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov, said Wednesday.
Putin vows response to Western "aggressive" policy People's Daily 22 Dec 2021 -- Russian President Vladimir Putin said Tuesday that his country will take countermeasures if the West continues its "aggressive" policy, but remains ready for negotiations.
Russia warns of harsh response to any provocation Press TV 22 Dec 2021 -- Russia says it does not seek an armed conflict with Ukraine but will harshly respond to any provocations.
Russia Says 'Provocative Activity' by US, NATO in Black Sea Aims to Hamper Nord Stream 2 Sputnik 22 Dec 2021 -- Russia has repeatedly warned against politicising the Nord Stream 2 gas pipeline project, which was completed in September and is currently undergoing certification by European and German regulators.
What To Watch For When Putin Meets The Press RFE/RL 22 Dec 2021 -- Russian President Vladimir Putin's end-of-the-year press conference, on December 23, comes at a time of intense tensions between Moscow and the West, with Russia massing forces near its border with Ukraine and calling for "security guarantees" that would block NATO enlargement and drastically restrict the alliance's activity across the former Soviet Union and Eastern Europe, rolling back the results of the U.S.S.R.'s collapse 30 years ago this month.
Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov's statement and answers to media questions during a joint news conference following talks with Deputy Chairperson of the Council of Ministers and Foreign Minister of Bosnia and Herzegovina Bisera Turkovic, Sochi, December 21, 2021 Russia Ministry of Foreign Affairs 21 Dec 2021
Russia Confirms 25,907 New COVID-19 Cases over Past 24 Hours SPA 21 Dec 2021 -- Russia has confirmed 25,907 new COVID-19 cases over the past 24 hours, bringing the cumulative total to 10,267,719, Sputnik quoted the federal response center as saying on Tuesday.
Pentagon Says Russia's Statement on US Preparing Provocation in Ukraine 'False' Sputnik 22 Dec 2021 -- Defense Department spokesperson John Kirby called "false" the statement made by Russian Defense Minister Sergei Shoigu that US private military companies located in the Donetsk region are preparing a provocation with chemical components in eastern Ukraine.
Sullivan Tells Russian Counterpart That U.S. Is Ready For Dialogue On Troop Buildup RFE/RL 21 Dec 2021 -- U.S. national-security adviser Jake Sullivan has told his Russian counterpart that Washington is ready to engage in diplomacy over Russia's buildup of troops near Ukraine, but that any dialogue must take place in coordination with its allies and partners in Europe.
Only Buk Missile System Could Have Downed Flight MH17, Dutch Prosecutor Says Sputnik 21 Dec 2021 -- The prosecution previously insisted that the plane was targeted by a missile from the Pervomayskoye settlement.
Putin: Russia to 'respond toughly' to further eastward expansion by NATO Press TV 21 Dec 2021 -- Russian President Vladimir Putin has warned of military-technical measures and a tough response if NATO expands further toward Russia's borders as tensions escalate between Washington and Moscow over the situation in Ukraine.
Russia Introduces Regulations To Expedite Mass Burials Of Those Killed During Military Conflicts RFE/RL 21 Dec 2021 -- Russian authorities have published new regulations on the expedited mass burial of humans and animals who die as a result of military conflicts or noncombatant emergencies, stoking already heightened tensions that the country may be preparing to invade Ukraine.
Russia Reportedly Tests Cruise Missile From Sea Of Japan RFE/RL 21 Dec 2021 -- A Russian submarine has successfully launched a Kalibr cruise missile from the Sea of Japan at a land target more than 1,000 kilometers away, Russian news agencies reported on December 21.
U.S. Sees Talks With Russia On Security In January As Putin Ramps Up Rhetoric RFE/RL 21 Dec 2021 -- The United States and Russia will likely hold bilateral talks to discuss Moscow's security proposals next month as the Kremlin ramped up is rhetoric by again warning it was prepared to take military measures if the West launched "unfriendly" actions with regard to Ukraine.
Russia Considers NATO's Further Expansion to Its Borders a 'Red Line', Foreign Minister Says Sputnik 21 Dec 2021 -- Any further movement of NATO toward Russian borders would be a "red line" in dialogue with Moscow, Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov said on Tuesday.
Russian Army is Global Leader in Modernity, Defence Minister Shoigu Says Sputnik 21 Dec 2021 -- Russia's national security spending envisaged for 2021 was estimated at 3.1 trillion rubles (some $41 billion). When it comes to the country with the largest military budget in the world, it remains the United States with some $778 billion in defence spending.
US Ready to Work on Russia's Security Proposal, Despite Some 'Unacceptable' Items, Top Diplomat Says Sputnik 21 Dec 2021 -- The United States is willing to work on some things outlined in Russia's security proposals, but there are other items in them that are unacceptable, Assistant Secretary for the Bureau of European and Eurasian Affairs Karen Donfried said on Tuesday.
Moscow on Nukes in Belarus: All Options on Table if NATO Refuses to Discuss Security Proposals Sputnik 21 Dec 2021 -- Earlier in the month, Russia rolled out a set of security proposals to the West in order to de-escalate the situation near the Ukrainian border. Among these proposals are guarantees from NATO not to deploy offensive weapons in Eastern Europe and especially Ukraine.
Under No Circumstances Will Russia Allow NATO Infrastructure in Ukraine and Georgia, Diplomat Says Sputnik 21 Dec 2021 -- Moscow previously warned Washington that it is waiting for an urgent answer, because the situation between the two sides continues to deteriorate.
Sanctions on Russia Still Being Debated as Europeans Fear Costs VOA 21 Dec 2021 -- Poland and Lithuania have backed Ukraine in urging Western powers to immediately impose sanctions on Russia over its military buildup along the Ukrainian border.
US: Talks with Russia Could Occur in January VOA 21 Dec 2021 -- The United States believes bilateral talks with Russia over its massive troop buildup along the Ukrainian border could start in January, said the State Department's top diplomats, even as Russian President Vladimir Putin blamed the U.S. and its allies for tensions in the region.
Deputy Foreign Minister Sergey Ryabkov's interview with Interfax News Agency, December 18, 2021 Russia Ministry of Foreign Affairs 20 Dec 2021
Deputy Foreign Minister Alexander Grushko's interview published in Rossiyskaya Gazeta on December 20, 2021 Russia Ministry of Foreign Affairs 20 Dec 2021
U.S. Charges Extradited Kremlin-Linked Russian Businessman With Cybercrimes, Names Four Other Russian Suspects RFE/RL 20 Dec 2021 -- U.S. authorities have unveiled the formal charges against Kremlin-linked Russian businessman Vladislav Klyushin, who was extradited from Switzerland to the United States last week over his alleged involvement in a global scheme to trade on hacked confidential information.
No Signs of Russia Deescalating on Ukraine Border VOA 20 Dec 2021 -- Russia has not let up with a military build-up along the border with Ukraine since U.S. President Joe Biden and his Russian counterpart Vladimir Putin held a two-hour video conference earlier this month, say Western security sources.
Dutch Prosecutors Insist MH17 Was Downed by Buk Missile From Donbass Sputnik 20 Dec 2021 -- The Dutch prosecutor's office insists that Malaysia Airlines Flight MH17 in 2014 was downed by a Buk missile from the Pervomayskoye settlement controlled by the Donbass militia, Prosecutor Thijs Berger said on Monday.
MH17 Trial: Dutch Prosecutors Start Closing Arguments, Say Victims 'Didn't Stand A Chance' RFE/RL 20 Dec 2021 -- Dutch prosecutors said on December 20 that the 298 victims of the 2014 downing of Malaysia Airlines flight MH17 over eastern Ukraine "didn't stand a chance" once a rocket hit the aircraft, as they began their closing arguments in the closely watched trial.
US Says It Is Ready to Start Talks With Russia VOA 20 Dec 2021 -- The White House said Monday the United States is ready to start diplomatic talks with Russia through multiple channels, but it made clear that Moscow must address Western concerns about its military buildup along the Ukrainian border.
Statement by NSC Spokesperson Emily Horne on National Security Advisor Jake Sullivan's Call with Yuriy Ushakov, Foreign Policy Advisor to the President of Russia The White House 20 Dec 2021
Russia pushes US on security guarantees, says military option on Ukraine still likely Press TV 20 Dec 2021 -- Russia says it is primarily important for the United States to respond on security guarantees regarding the situation around Ukraine, warning of a possible military action if NATO fails to come up with a political solution to ease Moscow's concerns.
Polish, Lithuanian Leaders Back Kyiv And Call For No 'Concessions' To Russia RFE/RL 20 Dec 2021 -- Poland and Lithuania have joined Ukraine in calling for stronger sanctions against Russia, with Polish President Andrzej Duda saying that "everything must be done" to prevent potential Russian military aggression against Ukraine.
Russia to React Proportionately If NATO Deploys Strike Weapons, Deputy FM Says Sputnik 20 Dec 2021 -- Moscow will respond proportionately if NATO countries deploy strike weapons on their territory, Russian Deputy Foreign Minister Alexander Grushko said.
White House: US Ready to Engage in Diplomacy With Russia, Says Dialogue Must Be Based on Reciprocity Sputnik 20 Dec 2021 -- Earlier, Russia called for a resumption of the NATO-Russia channel of communication along the military line amid simmering tensions near the Ukrainian border.
Kremlin: Deployment of Weapons Near Russia to Require Measures to Balance Situation Sputnik 20 Dec 2021 -- The deployment of various types of weapons near Russian territory will require steps to balance the situation, according to the Kremlin.
NATO Should Stop Escalation to Prevent Possible Military Response From Russia, Diplomat Says Sputnik 20 Dec 2021 -- NATO understands that it is impossible to constantly hit Russia's weak spots, dialogue is necessary, otherwise Moscow will have to give a military response, Konstantin Gavrilov, who heads the Russian delegation at the arms control negotiations in Vienna, said on Monday.
Norwegian Foreign Minister Calls Russia's Security Proposals to US, NATO 'Completely Unrealistic' Sputnik 20 Dec 2021 -- In draft security proposals presented by Russia last week, the Western alliance is asked to discard its military activities in Ukraine and other former Soviet republics, while both NATO and Russia are required not to deploy intermediate and short-range missiles in areas from where they can hit each other.
Russia Expels Two German Diplomats In Growing Spat Over Murder Verdict RFE/RL 20 Dec 2021 -- Russia says it is expelling two German diplomats from Moscow in a tit-for-tat move following Germany's expulsion of two Russian diplomats after a court in Berlin convicted a Russian man last week of fatally shooting a former Chechen militant in Berlin on the Kremlin's orders in 2019. Berlin had expelled two Russian diplomats in response.
Russia Expels Two German Diplomats Sputnik 20 Dec 2021 -- German ambassador in Moscow Geza Andreas von Geyr has been summoned to the Russian Foreign Ministry and informed about the expulsion of two German diplomats over Berlin's similar move, the ministry said on Monday.
Russia Expels 2 German Diplomats in Retaliatory Move VOA 20 Dec 2021 -- Russia expelled two German diplomats on Monday in response to Germany's expulsion of two Russian diplomats last week.
Defence Agreement with Russia on Assault Rifles India PIB 20 Dec 2021 -- A contract for procurement of quantity 6,01,427 Assault Rifles AK-203 was signed on December 06, 2021 between Ministry of Defence and M/s Indo-Russian Rifles Private Limited (IRRPL)- a Joint Venture established between India, represented by the Defence PSUs-Advanced Weapons & Equipment India Limited (AWEIL) & Munitions India Limited (MIL) and Russia, represented by Rosoboronexport (RoE) & Concern Kalashnikov (CK), in the share holding of 50
China-Russia ties withstand tests and blossom with vitality, setting example of mutual trust: FM Wang Yi Global Times 20 Dec 2021 -- Chinese State Councilor and Foreign Minister Wang Yi on Monday spoke highly of China-Russia strategic coordination, saying the two countries have set an example of strategic mutual trust and injected more stability into an uncertain world.
Russia confirms 27,434 daily COVID-19 cases People's Daily 19 Dec 2021 -- Russia registered 27,434 new coronavirus cases over the past 24 hours, taking the nationwide tally to 10,186,823, the official monitoring and response center said Saturday.
Russia Confirms 27,967 New COVID-19 Cases over Past 24 Hours SPA 19 Dec 2021 -- Russia has confirmed 27,967 new COVID-19 cases over the past 24 hours, bringing the cumulative total to 10,214,790, Sputnik quoted the federal response center as saying on Sunday.
German Defense Minister Calls For Harsher Sanctions Against Russia Over Troop Deployment RFE/RL 19 Dec 2021 -- German Defense Minister Christine Lambrecht has called for harsher sanctions against Russia over its troop deployment on the Ukrainian border, saying those responsible for any aggression must face "personal consequences."
Germany Warns Russia That Costs Would Be High If Moscow Invades Ukraine RFE/RL 19 Dec 2021 -- German ministers have reiterated EU warnings that Russia would face harsher sanctions in the event of military aggression against Ukraine, which they said could also prompt Berlin to rethink its cooperation with Moscow on the Nord Stream 2 natural gas pipeline.
Lithuania Ready to Send Lethal Weapons to Ukraine Sputnik 19 Dec 2021 -- Lithuania is ready to provide all kinds of support to Ukraine, including supplying Kiev with lethal weapons, Lithuanian Defence Minister Arvydas Anusauskas said on Sunday.
London 'Highly Unlikely' to Deploy Troops in Ukraine, UK Defence Secretary Says Sputnik 19 Dec 2021 -- The United Kingdom is "highly unlikely" to send troops to Ukraine in the event of Russia starting implementing its alleged plans for escalation of the situation around Ukraine, UK Defence Secretary Ben Wallace said.
Showdown over Ukraine looms as Russia, NATO unlikely to reach deal Global Times 19 Dec 2021 -- The intense situation around Ukraine between Russia and NATO is unlikely to ease, as it is almost impossible that NATO will accept the security guarantee proposed by Moscow due to entrenched hostility to Russia, Chinese analysts said, adding that the US-led bloc will not give up expansion to the east, and Russia will definitely take action to retaliate.
U.S. Senator: Russia Trying To Create 'Pretext For War' By Making Impossible-To-Accept Demands From U.S., NATO RFE/RL 19 Dec 2021 -- The top Republican on the U.S. Senate Foreign Relations Committee says the security proposals that Moscow has put forth in response to Western alarm over a Russian troop buildup near Ukraine are a clear sign that Russia is "trying to create a pretext for war."
NATO Countries to Discuss Russia's Security Proposals Next Week, German Defence Minister Says Sputnik 19 Dec 2021 -- NATO will discuss Russia's proposals on security guarantees next week, while being resolute about not allowing Moscow to "dictate" the alliance how to act, German Defence Minister Christine Lambrecht said on Sunday.
Russia Testing New Radar Drone for Reconnaissance of Ground Targets - Source Sputnik 19 Dec 2021 -- Russia has started testing a new drone with an onboard radar system for reconnaissance of ground targets, a defense industry source told Sputnik.
Moldova Calls Russian Envoy's Presence At Transdniester Inauguration 'Unfriendly Action' RFE/RL 18 Dec 2021 -- The government of Moldova has criticized Russia's ambassador for attending the inauguration ceremony of the de facto president of the breakaway Moldovan region of Transdniester.
Russian Strategic Bombers Patrol Over Belarus Amid High Regional Tensions RFE/RL 18 Dec 2021 -- Russia has sent two nuclear-capable strategic bombers to patrol the western borders of ally Belarus, the authorities in Minsk say, amid heightened tensions across Eastern Europe.
Russia formally quits Open Skies Treaty after US withdrawal Press TV 18 Dec 2021 -- Russia has officially left the Open Skies arms control treaty following the United States' unilateral exit from the pact last year, saying Washington bears "full responsibility" for the post-Cold War accord's demise.
Russia Officially Completes Withdrawal From Open Skies Treaty RFE/RL 18 Dec 2021 -- Russia has officially completed its obligations under the 2002 Open Skies Treaty and finalized its withdrawal from the agreement.
Moscow: If US, NATO Reject Security Proposals, Russia Will Be Forced to Create Counterthreats Sputnik 18 Dec 2021 -- Moscow handed US diplomats a pair of detailed security proposals for security between Russia, the US and NATO on 15 December, with the details of the proposed agreements published on the Foreign Ministry's website on Friday. US and NATO officials have confirmed that they are studying the documents.
Putin, Biden disagree on key issues: Kremlin People's Daily 18 Dec 2021 -- Russian President Vladimir Putin and U.S. President Joe Biden have strong disagreements on important issues, Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov said on Friday.
Relations with US not at lowest point yet, Russia says Press TV 18 Dec 2021 -- Russia says its diplomatic relations with the United States have not hit the lowest yet, despite rising tensions between the two sides over the thorny issue of Ukraine.
Russia bars entry to British citizens in tit-for-tat move Press TV 18 Dec 2021 -- Moscow has barred entry into Russia of seven British citizens involved in anti-Russian activities in retaliation for a similar move by London against the same number of Russians back in August.
Comment by Foreign Ministry Spokeswoman Maria Zakharova on Russia's reciprocal list of British citizens denied entry to the Russian Federation Russia Ministry of Foreign Affairs 17 Dec 2021
Russian Lawmakers Fight To Approve First Reading Of Bill On COVID QR Codes RFE/RL 17 Dec 2021 -- Russian lawmakers have approved the first reading of a bill on the introduction of QR codes for citizens to help prevent the spread of COVID-19, though not without a fight. Literally.
Senior Administration Official on U.S. Diplomatic Engagement Regarding Our Ongoing Commitment to Ukraine's Sovereignty, Territorial Integrity, and Independence US Dept. of State 17 Dec 2021
White House: Putin giving 'serious consideration' to invade Ukraine Press TV 17 Dec 2021 -- White House National Security Adviser Jake Sullivan has said that American intelligence agencies have concluded that Russian President Vladimir Putin still hasn't made up his mind on whether to invade Ukraine but he is giving "serious consideration" to doing so.
How Long Could Ukraine Hold Out Against A New Russian Invasion? RFE/RL 17 Dec 2021 -- It was a large-scale Russian military invasion of Ukraine involving around 130,000 military personnel, mainly from the 20th and 8th Combined Arms Armies.
Ukraine Says Soldier Killed Fighting Separatists As Tensions With Moscow Soar RFE/RL 17 Dec 2021 -- A Ukrainian soldier has been killed during the latest clashes with Kremlin-backed separatists in the country's east, ratcheting up already heightened tensions between Kyiv and Moscow.
France Plans to Seek Progress Within Normandy Format on Ukrainian Issue, Macron Says Sputnik 17 Dec 2021 -- France hopes to make progress within the Normandy format on the Ukrainian issue in the coming weeks and expects Russia to return to discussions, French President Emmanuel Macron said.
Press release on Russian draft documents on legal security guarantees from the United States and NATO Russia Ministry of Foreign Affairs 17 Dec 2021
TREATY BETWEEN THE UNITED STATES OF AMERICA AND THE RUSSIAN FEDERATION ON SECURITY GUARANTEES Russia Ministry of Foreign Affairs 17 Dec 2021
AGREEMENT ON MEASURES TO ENSURE THE SECURITY OF THE RUSSIAN FEDERATION AND MEMBER STATES OF THE NORTH ATLANTIC TREATY ORGANIZATION Russia Ministry of Foreign Affairs 17 Dec 2021
Russian Foreign Ministry Lays Out Detailed Proposals for New Russia-US-NATO Security Agreements Sputnik 17 Dec 2021 -- The proposal comes amid the virtual collapse of Russia-NATO ties in recent months, and weeks of claims by the US and its European allies that Moscow may be 'preparing to invade' Ukraine. Russian officials and the military have dismissed the claims, accusing the West of artificially ratcheting up tensions and spreading fake news.
Russia Publishes Details of Security Proposal With West VOA 17 Dec 2021 -- Russia published draft details Friday of a security package it has sent the United States and NATO allies, which calls for restrictions on western military activity in Europe, as well as a halt to expansion by the alliance into eastern Europe.
Russia publishes security demands from NATO amid Ukraine escalation Press TV 17 Dec 2021 -- Russia has for the first time spelled out an array of security guarantees that it wants the United States and its NATO allies to commit to, in an attempt to defuse the escalation of a dangerous security situation near its border.
Russia Proposals For Security Guarantees Seen As Largely Unacceptable, Analysts Say RFE/RL 17 Dec 2021 -- Russia has published a wish list of security conditions that it wants to negotiate with the United States and NATO, including an end to the alliance's eastward expansion and military cooperation with countries such as Ukraine and Georgia, terms that analysts say will be nearly impossible for Washington to accept.
Russia tests hypersonic missile, holds naval drill amid tensions with West Press TV 17 Dec 2021 -- The Russian military has successfully test-fired a hypersonic cruise missile against a target in the country's north as Moscow is engaged in naval drills in the Black Sea region amid tensions with the West and the US-led military alliance of NATO over the situation around Ukraine.
German Regulator Says Nord Stream 2 Pipeline Approval Months Away RFE/RL 17 Dec 2021 -- Final approval for the controversial Nord Stream 2 gas pipeline from Russia to Germany is not expected to come in the first half of 2022, Germany's energy regulator has said.
The Week In Russia: Demonizing A Decade RFE/RL 17 Dec 2021 -- Imprisoned Kremlin opponent Aleksei Navalny's daughter accepted the Sakharov Prize for Freedom of Thought on behalf of her father, while the government's push to close the prominent human rights group Memorial headed toward a late-December denouement amid condemnation from the West.
China-Russia Collaboration in Space Poses Challenge for West VOA 17 Dec 2021 -- China and Russia have begun collaborating on technology to rival the United States' GPS and European Galileo satellite navigation systems, as the two countries pursue closer military and strategic ties.
Russia Issues Travel Ban To Seven Britons In Response To U.K. Sanctions RFE/RL 17 Dec 2021 -- Russia has imposed a travel ban on seven unnamed British citizens in a tit-for-tat response to London's sanctions connected to the August 2020 poisoning of Russian opposition politician Aleksei Navalny.
Leaders' Chat Moves Russia, China Toward Stronger Anti-US Unity, Analysts Say VOA 17 Dec 2021 -- A video chat between Chinese President Xi Jinping and his Russian counterpart Vladimir Putin this week consolidates efforts by the two Eurasian powers to face down their mutual rival the United States in 2022, analysts say.
China and Russia to establish independent financial systems: Russian media Global Times 17 Dec 2021 -- Russia and China have agreed to develop shared financial structures to deepen economic ties in a way that will not be affected by pressure of third countries following talks between the top leaders, Russian media outlet RT reported on Wednesday.
Foreign Ministry Spokeswoman Maria Zakharova's comment on the draft law on sanctions on Belarus under consideration in Lithuania Russia Ministry of Foreign Affairs 16 Dec 2021
NATO Says Ready to Take 'Confidence-Building Measures' if Russia Makes De-Escalation Steps Sputnik 16 Dec 2021 -- The North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO) alliance said on Thursday evening that it had received security proposals from Russia intended to reduce tensions with the bloc, but that NATO has its own security concerns as well, which Moscow must respect.
EU leaders accuse Russia of seeking to 'invade' Ukraine, threaten sanctions Press TV 17 Dec 2021 -- European Union leaders have accused Russia of planning to "invade" Ukraine, threatening Moscow with further sanctions if this was to happen.
Russian Court Verdict Indicates Russian Troop Presence In Ukraine, Contradicting Kremlin Narrative RFE/RL 17 Dec 2021 -- A bribery case in southern Russia indicates the country had troops stationed in eastern Ukraine, contradicting a long-held Kremlin position that it has never been a party to the conflict in the region.
Foreign Ministry Spokeswoman Maria Zakharova's comment on important advances in IAEA-Iran interaction Russia Ministry of Foreign Affairs 16 Dec 2021
Statement by the North Atlantic Council on the situation in and around Ukraine NATO 16 Dec 2021 -- "We are gravely concerned by the substantial, unprovoked, and unjustified Russian military build-up on the borders of Ukraine in recent months, and reject the false Russian claims of Ukrainian and NATO provocations. We call on Russia to immediately de-escalate, pursue diplomatic channels, and abide by its international commitments on transparency of military activities."
EU Leaders Warn Russia Of 'Massive Consequences' If Its Forces Invade Ukraine RFE/RL 16 Dec 2021 -- EU leaders have again warned Russia that it will face "massive consequences and severe costs" if it invades Ukraine and urged Moscow to return to French- and German-mediated talks to defuse tensions over a Russian military buildup on the Russia-Ukraine border.
Russians Split on Responsibility for Worsening Tensions Over Ukraine VOA 16 Dec 2021 -- Older Russians blame NATO for rising tensions between the Kremlin and Western powers over Ukraine, according to a public survey conducted this week by an independent Moscow-based pollster.
Russia Developing New Hypersonic Strategic Systems, Strategic Missile Forces Announce Sputnik 16 Dec 2021 -- Russia is developing new hypersonic strategic systems that will replace the Avangard glide vehicles when the United States finds an antidote for them, Col. Gen. Sergei Karakaev, the commander of the Strategic Missile Forces, said.
Do Russian Military Officers Have A Morale Problem? Some Say Yes. RFE/RL 16 Dec 2021 -- For Pavel Petrakov, a 23-year-old lieutenant in a military unit that monitors Russian aerospace defenses, the fact that the door to his officer-assigned dormitory room fell off its hinges was bad enough.
German Regulator Reportedly Says Decision on Nord Stream 2 Not Expected in First Half of 2022 Sputnik 16 Dec 2021 -- The German energy regulator has said that the decision on the Nord Stream 2 certification will not be made in the first half of 2022, Bloomberg reported on Thursday.
Former Defense Contractor Arrested for Attempted Espionage US Dept. of Justice 16 Dec 2021 -- South Dakota Man Emailed Classified Information to FBI Undercover Posing as Russian Agent
Moscow Dismisses German Court's Murder Verdict, Scholz Backs Expulsions RFE/RL 16 Dec 2021 -- Russia has rejected a Berlin court's ruling that Moscow was behind the shooting death of a former Chechen militant in Berlin more than two years ago, calling it "completely divorced from reality" and warned of retaliation over the issue, which Germany's new chancellor defended.
Foreign Ministry Statement Russia Ministry of Foreign Affairs 16 Dec 2021
Russia Not Involved in Khangoshvili's Murder, Believes Sokolov Innocent, Foreign Ministry Says Sputnik 16 Dec 2021 -- Russian state structures are not involved in the murder of Georgian citizen Zelimkhan Khangoshvili in Berlin, and Moscow believes that Russian citizen Vadim Sokolov, who was sentenced to life imprisonment, is innocent, the Foreign Ministry said on Thursday.
Russia: German court's state terrorism verdict in murder trial 'divorced from reality' Press TV 16 Dec 2021 -- Russia has blasted as "completely divorced from reality" a German court ruling that Moscow was behind the murder of a former rebel commander from Chechnya in the capital, Berlin, in 2019.
Moscow Court Rejects Release Request Of Cybersecurity Company Chief Arrested On Treason Charge RFE/RL 16 Dec 2021 -- A court in Moscow has rejected a request to release from pretrial detention the chief executive of a leading Russian cybersecurity company who was arrested in September on charges of state treason.
Xi, Putin hail "model" bilateral ties, vow to uphold int'l fairness People's Daily 16 Dec 2021 -- Chinese President Xi Jinping and Russian President Vladimir Putin held a video meeting on Wednesday, as they praised "model" China-Russia relations and pledged to cooperate more on safeguarding the two countries' core interests and upholding international fairness and justice.
Briefing by Foreign Ministry Spokeswoman Maria Zakharova, Moscow, December 15, 2021 Russia Ministry of Foreign Affairs 15 Dec 2021
Potential Deployment of the Wagner Group in Mali US Dept. of State 15 Dec 2021 -- We are alarmed by a potential deployment of Russia-backed Wagner Group forces in Mali. We understand that the reported deal - costing $10 million per month - diverts money that could be used to support the Malian Armed Forces and public services to pay for the deployment of Yevgeniy Prigozhin's Wagner Group forces to Mali. Wagner forces - which are known for their destabilizing activities and human rights abuses - will not bring peace to Mali, but rather will destabilize the country further.
U.S. Warns Mali Against Accepting Deal To Deploy Russian Mercenaries RFE/RL 15 Dec 2021 -- The United States has warned Mali against deploying Russia-backed Vagner Group forces, saying a reported deal between the country and the private military contractor would divert money away from efforts to fight terrorism and could ultimately destabilize the region.
Russia vows 'adequate response' in expulsion of diplomats from Germany Press TV 15 Dec 2021 -- Russia says it will adequately respond to the expulsion of two of its diplomats from Berlin, amid tensions between Moscow and the West.
Kremlin Says Moscow Handed Security-Guarantee Proposals To U.S. RFE/RL 15 Dec 2021 -- Russia has presented the United States with a set of proposals for binding Western security guarantees during a meeting with U.S. Assistant Secretary of State Karen Donfried in Moscow on December 15, the Kremlin said.
Chinese President Xi, Russia's Putin, Hold Video Meeting VOA 15 Dec 2021 -- Russian President Vladimir Putin and his Chinese counterpart Xi Jinping met Wednesday via video conference, stressing their strong alliance amid both countries' deteriorating relations with the west.
Putin, Xi hail Russia-China relations as 'better than alliance' Press TV 15 Dec 2021 -- Presidents of Russia and China have hailed the relationship between their countries as better than "alliance," at a time of high tensions with the West.
Russia, China Present Unified Front Amid Rising Tensions With West RFE/RL 15 Dec 2021 -- The leaders of Russia and China sought to display a unified front in the face of both countries' increasingly tense relations with the West, hailing their "model" relations during a video call on December 15.
EU threatens Russia with 'unprecedented measures' over Ukraine Press TV 15 Dec 2021 -- The European Union (EU) has threatened Russia with "unprecedented measures" and "serious consequences" in response to "further aggression" against Ukraine.
European Leaders Favor Use Of Normandy Format To Resolve Conflict Between Russia, Ukraine RFE/RL 15 Dec 2021 -- Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy has told European Union leaders that Ukraine is ready for talks with Russia in any format but urged Western countries to keep pressure on Moscow through sanctions.
EU Warns Russia of 'Unprecedented Measures' for Ukraine Aggression VOA 15 Dec 2021 -- European Commission President Ursula Von der Leyen Wednesday warned Russia it could face "unprecedented measures" if it does not de-escalate its aggressive posture against Ukraine.
Fundamental freedoms squeezed in Ukraine, Human Rights Council hears UN News 15 Dec 2021 -- The UN Human Rights Council heard on Wednesday that fundamental freedoms in Ukraine have been squeezed in Government-controlled areas, as well as across the contact line in eastern territories, held by mainly pro-Russian separatists.
Criticism of Russia Military Build-up Dominates UN Session on Rights in Ukraine VOA 15 Dec 2021 -- A U.N. Human Rights Council debate on Ukraine Wednesday drifted into criticism of Russia's large-scale military buildup along the Ukrainian border. U.S. and British representatives voiced support for Ukraine, while a Russian diplomat completely ignored the issue.
Press release on Deputy Foreign Minister Sergey Ryabkov's meeting with US Assistant Secretary of State for European and Eurasian Affairs Karen Donfried Russia Ministry of Foreign Affairs 15 Dec 2021
Statement by NSC Spokesperson Emily Horne on National Security Advisor Jake Sullivan's Call with Russian Presidential Foreign Policy Advisor Yuriy Ushakov The White House 15 Dec 2021
Navalny's Daughter Urges Europe To Confront 'Dictators' As She Accepts Sakharov Prize On Behalf Of Imprisoned Father RFE/RL 15 Dec 2021 -- The daughter of jailed Russian opposition politician Aleksei Navalny has urged European Union governments to stand up to Russian President Vladimir Putin, as she collected the Sakharov Prize on his behalf during a ceremony in the French city of Strasbourg.
Germany Expels Two Russian Diplomats After Court Finds Man Guilty Of Killing Ordered By Moscow RFE/RL 15 Dec 2021 -- Germany has expelled two Russian diplomats after a court in Berlin convicted a Russian man of fatally shooting a former Chechen militant in 2019 in Berlin on Moscow's orders.
Germany Expels 2 Russian Diplomats Over 2019 Killing VOA 15 Dec 2021 -- Germany is expelling two Russian diplomats over what a German court said was a Russian-ordered killing of a German citizen of Chechen origin in Berlin in 2019.
Russia says monitoring French warship in Black Sea Press TV 14 Dec 2021 -- Russian naval forces are monitoring a French warship near Russia's borders in the Black Sea, amid growing concerns over the risk of a major military confrontation.
NATO military expansion to Ukraine 'direct threat' to Russia's security: Putin Press TV 14 Dec 2021 -- Russian President Vladimir Putin has warned that expansion of NATO military activity to Ukraine constitutes a "direct threat" to the security of his country.
Putin Reiterates Need For 'Immediate' Talks With NATO On Security Guarantees RFE/RL 14 Dec 2021 -- Russian President Vladimir Putin has again called for "immediate" talks with the United States and NATO over security guarantees as tensions mount over Ukraine.
Russia denounces EU sanctions on private security firm Wagner Press TV 14 Dec 2021 -- Russia has denounced European Union (EU) sanctions against private Russian security company Wagner, saying the bloc ignores the sovereignty of the nations where contractors from the group are present.
Russian Duma OKs Bill That Would Abolish The Title Of 'President' In Tatarstan RFE/RL 14 Dec 2021 -- A bill that would allow Russia's regional leaders to serve more than two consecutive terms in office and abolish the title of president in the autonomous Russian republic of Tatarstan has been approved after two final readings by the lower chamber of the Russian parliament.
Russia Vetoes UN Resolution Linking Climate Change To Global Security RFE/RL 14 Dec 2021 -- Russia has vetoed a United Nations Security Council resolution that sought to formally link climate change and global security.
Press release on Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov's telephone conversation with German Federal Minister for Foreign Affairs Annalena Baerbock Russia Ministry of Foreign Affairs 14 Dec 2021
Foreign Ministry Spokeswoman Maria Zakharova's comments in response to the EU imposing another round of unilateral restrictive measures on Russian citizens and organisations Russia Ministry of Foreign Affairs 14 Dec 2021
Nord Stream pipeline to be suspended if Russia escalates in Ukraine, warns Germany Press TV 13 Dec 2021 -- Berlin has warned Moscow that any new "escalation" of tensions in Ukraine can directly impact the much-anticipated Nord Stream 2 gas pipeline project.
British PM Warns Kremlin Invading Ukraine Would Be 'Strategic Mistake' RFE/RL 13 Dec 2021 -- British Prime Minister Boris Johnson has warned Russian President Vladimir Putin that any "destabilizing action" by Moscow against Ukraine would be a "strategic mistake" with "significant consequences," a spokesman said.
Putin Laments Soviet Breakup As Demise Of 'Historical Russia,' Amid Ukraine Fears RFE/RL 13 Dec 2021 -- Russian President Vladimir Putin has described the fall of the Soviet Union in 1991 as the demise of "historical Russia," a comment that could fuel speculation about his foreign policy intentions amid a buildup of tens of thousands of Russian troops in regions bordering Ukraine.
Russia may be forced to deploy intermediate-range nuclear missiles in Europe: Ryabkov Press TV 13 Dec 2021 -- Russia has raised the possibility of deploying intermediate-range nuclear missiles in Europe in response to a similar plan by the North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO), against the backdrop of the thorny issue of Ukraine.
Russia says lack of NATO security guarantees would lead to confrontation Press TV 13 Dec 2021 -- Russia's Deputy Foreign Minister Sergei Ryabkov has reportedly warned of a potential face-off if Washington and the US-led NATO military alliance fail to give Moscow security guarantees regarding its eastern expansion.
Swiss Court Approves Kremlin-Linked Russian Businessman's Extradition To U.S. RFE/RL 13 Dec 2021 -- A Swiss court has published its decision to allow the extradition of a Kremlin-linked Russian businessman to the United States.
EU Says It's In 'Deterrent Mode' With Russia, Adopts Sanctions On Vagner Group RFE/RL 13 Dec 2021 -- European Union foreign ministers have met in Brussels to coordinate a sanctions response against Moscow if it launches a new military invasion of Ukraine amid a buildup of tens of thousands of Russian troops near the border.
Statement by Vladimir Yermakov, Head of the Delegation of the Russian Federation, Director of the Department for Nonproliferation and Arms Control of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Russian Federation, at the Sixth Review Conference of States Parties to the Convention on Certain Conventional Weapons on Agenda Item 11 "General Exchange of Views", Geneva, 13 December 2021 Russia Ministry of Foreign Affairs 13 Dec 2021
Iran, Russia reaffirm determination to restore nuclear deal in its original version Press TV 13 Dec 2021 -- The foreign ministers of Iran and Russia have reaffirmed their respective countries' commitment to the restoration of the 2015 nuclear deal, officially known as the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA), in its original version.
Press release on Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov's telephone conversation with Minister of Foreign Affairs of the Islamic Republic of Iran Hossein Amir-Abdollahian Russia Ministry of Foreign Affairs 13 Dec 2021
Putin: Russia Maintains Nuclear Parity With US But Leads in New Armaments Sputnik 12 Dec 2021 -- Moscow and Washington maintain nuclear parity, but when it comes to new armaments, Russia is the world leader, Russian President Vladimir Putin said on Sunday.
How China Became A Force In The Former Soviet Space After The Fall Of The U.S.S.R. RFE/RL 12 Dec 2021 -- For three days in May 1989, Soviet General Secretary Mikhail Gorbachev visited Beijing amid great fanfare.
Kremlin Concerned by Concentration of US Troops in Greece Sputnik 11 Dec 2021 -- The United States has a major military presence at the Souda Naval Base on the Greek island of Crete. In October, Athens granted the Pentagon access to additional bases in the country as the two countries expanded their bilateral military cooperation agreement. On Friday, the State Department approved a new $9.4 billion naval equipment deal.
Moscow Calls Out US Hypocrisy Amid Reports CIA is Planning Pivot to Focus on Russia, China Sputnik 11 Dec 2021 -- On Friday, informed sources told CNN that the Central Intelligence Agency was looking to overhaul the training and management of its spy network and operations to pivot away from 'counterterrorism' to focus more on its traditional and complex state adversaries China and Russia.
Foreign Ministry statement on dialogue with the United States and other Western countries regarding security guarantees Russia Ministry of Foreign Affairs 10 Dec 2021
Amid Pandemic, Russian Disinformation With Chinese Characteristics VOA 10 Dec 2021 -- The Kremlin and Chinese Communist Party are learning from each other in shaping and conducting information warfare aimed at exacerbating political divisions in the West and undermining trust in democracy, according to a new study.
Russia warns NATO over violation of Montreux Convention Press TV 10 Dec 2021 -- The Russian government says it has witnessed some violations of the Montreux Convention by NATO members, amid soaring tensions between Moscow and the West, and emphasizes that such a situation is "unacceptable."
Putin says war on ethnic Russians in Ukraine's east 'certainly looks like genocide' Press TV 10 Dec 2021 -- Russian President Vladimir Putin has denounced the oppression against ethnic Russians in Ukraine's east as "certainly looking like genocide."
Europe Pushes For Ukraine Peace Talks Amid Warnings To Russia RFE/RL 10 Dec 2021 -- The European Union has warned Russia it would face consequences if it invaded Ukraine, as Germany and France called for talks to ease tensions amid growing concerns over Russia's troop buildup near the border with its southwestern neighbor.
Has Biden Thrown Ukraine Under The Bus, Or Averted War -- Or Both? Or Neither? RFE/RL 10 Dec 2021 -- As White House phone calls go, the one that Ukraine's Volodymyr Zelenskiy had this week may end up being among the most consequential of his presidency.
Russian fighter jet escorts US spy plane away over Black Sea Press TV 10 Dec 2021 -- Russia has scrambled a fighter jet to escort away a US spy aircraft flying over the Black Sea, amid growing concerns over the risk of a major military confrontation with the Western forces near the Russian border.
The Week In Russia: Trying Talks RFE/RL 10 Dec 2021 -- As tensions persisted over Russia's military buildup on its western flank and its designs on Ukraine, U.S. President Joe Biden held talks with Vladimir Putin, Volodymyr Zelenskiy, and the leaders of nine NATO nations as he sought "de-escalation of the current crisis through deterrence, defense, and dialogue."
CIA overhauling its network of spies with focus on China and Russia: Report Press TV 10 Dec 2021 -- The US Central Intelligence Agency (CIA) is overhauling how it trains and manages its network of spies to focus more closely on adversaries like China and Russia, according to a report.
Telephone conversation with President of South Africa Cyril Ramaphosa President of Russia 09 Dec 2021 -- Vladimir Putin had a telephone conversation with President of the Republic of South Africa Cyril Ramaphosa.
U.S. Sentences Russian For Malware 'Crypting' Services RFE/RL 10 Dec 2021 -- Russian national Oleg Koshkin has been sentenced to four years in prison for operating a "crypting" service that helped hackers infect computers around the world with malware, the U.S. Justice Department announced on December 9.
Briefing by Foreign Ministry Spokeswoman Maria Zakharova, Moscow, December 9, 2021 Russia Ministry of Foreign Affairs 09 Dec 2021
Ukrainian Navy Ship Heading Toward Kerch, Ignores Demands to Change Course, FSB Says Sputnik 09 Dec 2021 -- The Ukrainian Navy's command ship Donbass later turned back, but did not respond to requests, Russia's Federal Security Service (FSB) said.
Biden vows US 'unwavering' commitment to Ukraine's sovereignty Press TV 09 Dec 2021 -- US President Joe Biden has reaffirmed the United States' "unwavering" commitment to Ukraine's sovereignty and territorial integrity in a phone call with his Ukrainian counterpart Volodymyr Zelenskiy on Thursday.
Biden Seeks to Allay Ukraine's Concerns of Possible Russian Invasion VOA 09 Dec 2021 -- The United States is seeking to reassure Kyiv that Washington's strategy to prevent a Russian military invasion will work, despite Washington's refusal to send ground troops to help defend Ukrainian soil.
Readout of President Biden's Call with President Zelenskyy of Ukraine The White House 09 Dec 2021
Biden Says Further Meetings Planned To Lower Temperature Along Ukraine-Russia Border RFE/RL 09 Dec 2021 -- U.S. President Joe Biden says he hopes to announce a meeting soon between the United States, its major allies in Europe, and Russia for talks on Moscow's concerns about NATO expansion.
Russia Ratchets Up Pressure On Ukraine As Biden Consults Zelenskiy RFE/RL 09 Dec 2021 -- Russia continued to ramp up rhetoric against Kyiv as U.S. President Joe Biden held talks with Ukraine's leader and was to offer security reassurances nine eastern European NATO allies amid a Russian military buildup near the Ukrainian border.
Kiev Deploys Heavy Weapons Near Donbass Contact Line, Moscow Says Sputnik 09 Dec 2021 -- Kiev is deploying heavy weapons near the contact line in Donbass, and the Organisation for Security and Co-operation in Europe (OSCE) confirms it, Maria Zakharova, the Russian Foreign Ministry's spokeswoman, said on Thursday.
Russian Fighters Escort 5 US, French Military Aircraft Over Black Sea - Video Sputnik 09 Dec 2021 -- Russian fighters on Thursday escorted the US and French warplanes over the Black Sea as they tried to approach the Russian borders, the Russian Defence Ministry's National Defence Control Centre (NDCC) told reporters.
Russian Chief of General Staff Slams Reports About 'Imminent Invasion of Ukraine' as Fake Sputnik 09 Dec 2021 -- Weeks before Presidents Putin and Biden had a video call on 7 December to discuss the most pressing bilateral and international issues, speculation appeared in the Western media alleging Russia has been building up military forces near Ukraine to "invade".
Rifts continue to dominate ties following Putin-Biden summit People's Daily 09 Dec 2021 -- No breakthrough was achieved after Russian President Vladimir Putin and his U.S. counterpart, Joe Biden, met via video link on Tuesday, which touched upon such topics as the situation in Ukraine, the Iran nuclear deal, and bilateral ties between the two countries.
Russia: Tensions with US over Ukraine risk repeat of Cuba missile crisis Press TV 09 Dec 2021 -- Russian Deputy Foreign Minister Sergei Ryabkov says the escalation of tensions between Moscow and Washington over the situation around Ukraine could culminate in a repeat of the 1962 Cuban missile crisis that pushed the world to the brink of a full-scale nuclear war.
The 'Nuclear Option': What Is SWIFT And What Happens If Russia Is Cut Off From It? RFE/RL 09 Dec 2021 -- Some call it the "nuclear option." It doesn't involve weapons though.
Russia Warns US-Israeli Exercises Against Iran Would Destabilize Situation in 'Explosive Region' Sputnik 09 Dec 2021 -- On Wednesday, Reuters reported that US and Israeli officials planned to discuss possible joint military exercises in preparation for a 'worst-case scenario' to destroy Iran's peaceful nuclear facilities if diplomatic efforts to salvage the Iran nuclear deal fell through.
Latvian Parliament Allows Probe Against Lawmaker Suspected Of Spying For Moscow RFE/RL 09 Dec 2021 -- Latvia's parliament has voted to allow a probe against Janis Adamsons, a former interior minister and a lawmaker from the opposition Social Democratic Saskana (Harmony) party, who is accused of spying for Russia.
French Military Reports Second 'Interaction' Between Russian Jets & French Aircraft Over Black Sea Sputnik 09 Dec 2021 -- The Russian Ministry of Defence reported a day earlier that Sukhoi Su-27 fighters had been scrambled to intercept and accompany French Rafale and Mirage-2000 jets, as well as a French Air Force C-135 refuelling aircraft, as they flew over the Black Sea.
Telephone conversation with Angela Merkel President of Russia 09 Dec 2021 -- Vladimir Putin had a telephone conversation with Angela Merkel, who completed her term of office as Federal Chancellor of the Federal Republic of Germany on December 8.
Message to Angela Merkel on end of tenure as Federal Chancellor of Germany President of Russia 08 Dec 2021 -- Vladimir Putin sent a message to Angela Merkel on the end of her tenure as the Federal Chancellor of the Federal Republic of Germany, in which he expressed his sincere gratitude for their fruitful cooperation and readiness for a mutually respectful dialogue.
Congratulations to Olaf Scholz on taking office as Federal Chancellor of Germany President of Russia 08 Dec 2021 -- Vladimir Putin sent a message to Olaf Scholz congratulating him on taking office as Federal Chancellor of the Federal Republic of Germany.
Russia Confirms 30,752 New COVID-19 Cases over Past 24 Hours SPA 08 Dec 2021 -- Russia has confirmed 30,752 new COVID-19 cases over the past 24 hours, bringing the cumulative total to 9,895,597, the federal response center said on Wednesday according to Sputnik.
US, Russia clashes to continue after 'candid, tough-toned' Putin-Biden meeting Global Times 09 Dec 2021 -- In what analysts described as a "candidate and tough-toned" video meeting between Russian President Vladimir Putin and US President Joe Biden, it ended with a US caveat of Russia on the Ukraine issue. Analysts warned that the US should be cautious of turning those threats into action, as Russia is unlikely to concede over this core-interest issue that threatens its national security, and that any provocative move from Washington and its NATO allies will eventually backfire.
Biden, Putin hold video call on bilateral ties, Ukrainian crisis, Iran nuclear deal People's Daily 08 Dec 2021 -- U.S. President Joe Biden and Russian President Vladimir Putin Tuesday held a video call on a range of bilateral issues as well as the Ukrainian crisis and the Iran nuclear deal.
Foreign Ministry Spokeswoman Maria Zakharova's comment on air incidents above the Black Sea Russia Ministry of Foreign Affairs 08 Dec 2021
Russian jets turn French warplanes away over Black Sea Press TV 08 Dec 2021 -- Russia has scrambled military aircraft to escort French fighter jets flying over the Black Sea.
Russian Fighters Scrambled to Escort French Rafale, Mirage Jets Over Black Sea Sputnik 08 Dec 2021 -- The Black Sea region has become a major hot spot for tensions between Russia and NATO in recent months, with the alliance deploying warships in the body of water for drills, and sending fighters, bombers and reconnaissance aircraft and drones to probe Russia's maritime defences. Moscow has responded with drills of its own.
Russia Keeps Door Ajar for Further US Talks VOA 08 Dec 2021 -- Russian President Vladimir Putin said his aides are preparing a discussion document outlining the Kremlin's views on what is needed for strategic stability and security on the continent of Europe, which will also further detail Moscow's objections to Ukraine joining NATO.
Putin: Sanctions Under Pretext of US Security Attempt to Contain Russia's Development Sputnik 08 Dec 2021 -- Restrictions and sanctions are introduced under the pretext of US security, this is complete nonsense, an attempt to restrain the development of Russia, Russian President Vladimir Putin said.
In virtual summit: Biden warns Russia of sanctions; Putin demands guarantees against NATO expansion Press TV 08 Dec 2021 -- US President Joe Biden has warned his Russian counterpart, Vladimir Putin, that the West would impose "strong economic and other measures" on Russia if it invaded Ukraine, while the Russian leader has demanded guarantees that NATO would not expand farther eastward.
Putin: NATO's Policy Towards Russia 'Confrontational' Sputnik 08 Dec 2021 -- Moscow has repeatedly objected NATO's eastward expansion, and the issue was among the topics discussed by Russian President Putin and his US counterpart Biden during a virtual meeting on 7 December.
He Said, He Said: Russian, U.S. Statements On Biden-Putin Call Differ Starkly RFE/RL 08 Dec 2021 -- Amid a big Russian military buildup near Ukraine and on the Russian-controlled Crimean Peninsula, the Kremlin has kept a lot of people guessing about its plans and intentions.
Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov's video address to mark the 30th anniversary of the Commonwealth of Independent States, Moscow, December 8, 2021 Russia Ministry of Foreign Affairs 08 Dec 2021
Russia Blocks Privacy Service Tor In Latest Move To Control Internet RFE/RL 08 Dec 2021 -- Russia's media regulator has blocked the online anonymity service Tor in what is seen as the latest move by Moscow to bring the Internet in Russia under its control.
Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov's remarks and answers to media questions at a joint news conference following talks with Foreign Minister of the Republic of Chad Mahamat Zene Cherif, Moscow, December 7, 2021 Russia Ministry of Foreign Affairs 07 Dec 2021
Meeting with US President Joseph Biden President of Russia 07 Dec 2021 -- Vladimir Putin had a lengthy conversation with President of the United States of America Joseph Biden.
Biden Warns Of Sanctions If Russia Invades Ukraine; Putin Calls For 'Guarantees' Against NATO Expansion RFE/RL 07 Dec 2021 -- U.S. President Joe Biden warned Russian President Vladimir Putin that Russia would be hit with "strong economic and other measures" as punishment should Moscow launch an offensive against Ukraine, the White House said.
Biden Warns Putin of Economic Sanctions and Other Measures in Event of Ukraine Military Escalation Sputnik 07 Dec 2021 -- During a phone conversation with Russian President Vladimir Putin on Tuesday, US President Joe Biden said Washington supports Ukraine's territorial integrity and called for de-escalation.
Biden Warns Putin Against Possible Ukraine Invasion VOA 07 Dec 2021 -- In a virtual summit Tuesday, U.S. President Joe Biden laid out to his Russian counterpart, Vladimir Putin, the steps the U.S. will take should Moscow decide to invade Ukraine.
Pentagon Confirms Presence of US Forces in Ukraine, Declines to Disclose Number Sputnik 07 Dec 2021 -- An undisclosed number of US forces are present in Ukraine as part of a training mission and routine special operations forces exercises, Defense Department spokesperson Anton Semelroth said on Tuesday.
US Sen. Menendez Preparing 'Mother of All Sanctions' on Russia in Case of Ukraine Invasion Sputnik 07 Dec 2021 -- US Senate Foreign Relations Committee Chair Robert Menendez said on Tuesday that he is preparing the most severe sanctions ever imposed on Russia if the latter invades Ukraine.
US Allegedly Mulls Limiting Russia's Ability to Convert Currency to Deter It From 'Invading' Ukraine Sputnik 07 Dec 2021 -- Media reports earlier claimed that US President Joe Biden will use the upcoming video conference with Vladimir Putin to lay out a "pretty damn aggressive package" of sanctions that would be implemented should Russia decide to attack Ukraine. The Kremlin has repeatedly rejected claims that it harbours such plans.
CIA director: We don't know what Putin has decided on Ukraine Press TV 07 Dec 2021 -- US Central Intelligence Agency (CIA) Director William Burns has said that American intelligence agencies have yet to conclude decisively that Russia will invade Ukraine, adding that they do not know what Russian President Vladimir Putin has decided.
Putin-Biden Call: Key Points Discussed by US, Russian Presidents During Video Meeting Sputnik 07 Dec 2021 -- Tuesday's "secure" video call constitutes the second meeting between Vladimir Putin and Joe Biden since their June tete-a-tete in Geneva. The summer summit was a starting point for the two countries to begin talks in the fields of strategic stability, cybersecurity and other key issues.
Readout of President Biden's Video Call with President Vladimir Putin of Russia The White House 07 Dec 2021
US vows military buildup in eastern Europe ahead of Biden-Putin talks Press TV 07 Dec 2021 -- The United States has warned that it would bolster its military presence on NATO's "eastern flank" and inflict "severe economic harm" on Moscow, "should Russia invade Ukraine."
Kremlin expects 'no breakthroughs' in Putin-Biden summit Press TV 07 Dec 2021 -- The Kremlin says no "breakthroughs" are expected in the upcoming virtual meeting between Russian President Vladimir Putin and his American counterpart, Joe Biden, during which the two leaders are set to discuss rising tensions around Ukraine.
Life Sentence Sought For Russian Accused Of 'State-Ordered' Killing Of Georgian In Berlin RFE/RL 07 Dec 2021 -- German federal prosecutors have demanded life in prison without parole for a Russian man accused of murdering a former Chechen commander in Berlin more than two years ago - allegedly on the orders of Moscow.
Amid Fears Of New War In Ukraine, Putin And Biden To Hold Tense Talks RFE/RL 07 Dec 2021 -- U.S. President Joe Biden and his Russian counterpart Vladimir Putin are set to hold a tense round of talks amid rising tensions over Russia's troop buildup on the Ukrainian border, NATO's future in the region, and Russia's security demands.
Austin Discusses China, Russia, American Public Survey on Military at Defense One Forum DoD News 07 Dec 2021 -- As the United States' pacing challenge, China is moving rapidly to modernize its military, navy, ground forces and space, and Secretary of Defense Lloyd J. Austin III said he remains focused on all of their capabilities.
Russia, India eye finalizing S-400 deal as Putin visits Modi Global Times 07 Dec 2021 -- India is expected to move forward with the delivery of a Russian S-400 missile defense system despite possible US sanctions as Russian President Vladimir Putin and Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi met on Monday in New Delhi. According to Chinese observers, this reflects India's growing uncertainty and confusion over its pro-US policy while highlighting the unbridgeable gap between India and the US, as the latter wishfully attempts to force India to completely cut off its tradition of non-alignment on national security and turn it into a vassal of its China policy in the Indo-Pacific region.
Russia Records First Confirmed Cases Of Omicron Variant RFE/RL 06 Dec 2021 -- Russia has recorded its first cases of the Omicron variant of COVID-19 as the country continues to struggle under a wave of new coronavirus infections.
Russia, Egypt Start Naval Phase of 'Bridge of Friendship-2021' Drills in Mediterranean Sputnik 06 Dec 2021 -- Russia and Egypt have commenced to the maritime phase of naval drills taking place in the Gulf of Alexandria under the leadership of the joint exercise headquarters, the Russian Ministry of Defense said on Monday.
Diplomacy, Leadership Can Prevent Conflict Between Russia, Ukraine DoD News 06 Dec 2021 -- There is space for diplomacy and leadership with Russia to prevent conflict with Ukraine, DOD officials said today.
NATO Should Put Troops In Ukraine On Rotational Basis To Deter Russia, Bolton Says RFE/RL 06 Dec 2021 -- The United States and other members of NATO should rotate troops through Ukraine to deter Russia from pursuing military action against its smaller neighbor, former national-security adviser John Bolton said.
Secretary Blinken's Call with Ukrainian President Zelenskyy US Dept. of State 06 Dec 2021
Blinken To Call Zelenskiy Before Biden-Putin Video Conference RFE/RL 06 Dec 2021 -- U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken will speak with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy before U.S. President Biden's call with Russian President Vladimir Putin, and Biden will make a follow-up call to Zelenskiy after he speaks with Putin, a senior White House official said December 6.
Kremlin describes bilateral ties with US as 'deplorable' ahead of Biden-Putin summit Press TV 06 Dec 2021 -- The Kremlin says the state of relations between the United States and Russia is "deplorable" prior to an online meeting during which Russian President Vladimir Putin and his American counterpart, Joe Biden, are set to discuss escalating tensions around Ukraine.
Background Press Call by Senior Administration Officials on President Biden's Upcoming Call with President Putin of the Russian Federation The White House 06 Dec 2021
Another Navalny Associate Flees Russia, Asks U.S. For Political Asylum RFE/RL 06 Dec 2021 -- Another associate of jailed Russian opposition politician Aleksei Navalny has left Russia amid an ongoing crackdown against the defunct organizations associated with the Kremlin critic that were labeled as extremist earlier this year.
Press release on Russia's response to a new attack by a group of 45 states concerning the incident with Alexey Navalny posted on the official Foreign Ministry website Russia Ministry of Foreign Affairs 06 Dec 2021
Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov's opening remarks during a meeting with Minister of External Affairs of the Republic of India Subrahmanyam Jaishankar, New Delhi, December 6, 2021 Russia Ministry of Foreign Affairs 06 Dec 2021
Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov's opening remarks during the 2+2 talks between Russian and Indian foreign and defence ministers, New Delhi, December 6, 2021 Russia Ministry of Foreign Affairs 06 Dec 2021
Russia, India Extend Military Cooperation Deal During Putin-Modi Summit RFE/RL 06 Dec 2021 -- Russia and India extended a program for military and technical cooperation lasting until 2031 and signed a slew of bilateral defense agreements, including a deal for the production of assault rifles, during President Vladimir Putin's visit to New Delhi on December 6.
Putin in Meeting With Modi, Discusses Drug-Trafficking, Terrorism and Situation in Afghanistan Sputnik 06 Dec 2021 -- Concerns about terrorist groups becoming entrenched and drug trafficking expanding in Afghanistan emerged this summer after the US and NATO decided to withdraw their military presence and to quit the country after completion of a 20-year war.
Russia, India Sign Military Cooperation Agreement for Next Decade Sputnik 06 Dec 2021 -- The agreement was signed in the presence of the Russian and Indian defence ministers, Sergei Shoigu and Rajnath Singh.
India and Russia Sign Number of Military Agreements and Contracts Sputnik 06 Dec 2021 -- India and Russia have signed a number of agreements, contracts, and protocols regarding small arms and military cooperation, Indian Defence Minister Rajnath Singh said on Monday, following a meeting with Russian Defence Minister Sergei Shoigu in New Delhi.
Putin, Modi Reaffirm 'Time-Tested' Ties at New Delhi Summit VOA 06 Dec 2021 -- Russian President Vladimir Putin and Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi reaffirmed their ties at a New Delhi summit that aimed to reboot a relationship that has stagnated in recent years as India moves closer to the United States and Russia to China.
Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov's answer to a question of the "Moscow. Kremlin. Putin" programme, Moscow, December 5, 2021 Russia Ministry of Foreign Affairs 05 Dec 2021
Russia Renews Push For WHO Approval Of Sputnik V COVID-19 Vaccine RFE/RL 05 Dec 2021 -- Russian President Vladimir Putin is hoping for World Health Organization (WHO) approval soon for Russia's Sputnik V coronavirus vaccine so that it can be used more broadly around the world.
Putin: People Vaccinated With Sputnik V Should Not Be Deprived of Right to Travel Sputnik 05 Dec 2021 -- People vaccinated with Russia's coronavirus vaccines Sputnik V should not be deprived of the right to travel around the world, Russian President Vladimir Putin said on Sunday.
Putin to Visit New Delhi Amid Spotlight on Indian Defense Purchase VOA 05 Dec 2021 -- Russian President Vladimir Putin arrives in India Monday for a summit as Moscow begins the delivery of air defense missile systems to India that could spur U.S. sanctions.
Biden-Putin video call draws world attention as Ukraine tensions grow Global Times 05 Dec 2021 -- US President Joe Biden and Russian President Vladimir Putin are scheduled to speak in a video call Tuesday as tensions between the US and Russia escalate, and observers noted that while the main focus would be Ukraine, it would be hard for Russia and the US to reach a consensus on one occasion.
EU's Borrell Says Brussels Working to Forestall Conflict Between Russia and Ukraine Sputnik 05 Dec 2021 -- The European Union is making a diplomatic effort to prevent an escalation of tensions on the border between Russia and Ukraine, EU High Representative for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy Josep Borrell has said.
Russian planes change course to avoid collision with NATO spy jet over Black Sea Press TV 05 Dec 2021 -- Russia's state aviation authority says its air traffic control personnel have been forced to divert the course of two aircraft to avoid collision with a NATO spy plane in the Black Sea region.
Telephone conversation with President of South Africa Cyril Ramaphosa President of Russia 04 Dec 2021 -- Vladimir Putin had a telephone conversation with President of the Republic of South Africa Cyril Ramaphosa.
US accuses Russia, China of planning invasion; warns them of consequences Press TV 04 Dec 2021 -- The Biden administration has accused Russia and China of planning invasions of the US allies, warning them of consequences if Moscow and Beijing launched any offensives.
Biden to talk with Putin amid US accusations against Russia Press TV 04 Dec 2021 -- US President Joe Biden will talk with Russian President Vladimir Putin next week amid American accusations against Russia of a military buildup on the border with Ukraine.
Biden to talk with Putin amid US accusations against Russia Press TV 04 Dec 2021 -- US President Joe Biden will talk with Russian President Vladimir Putin next week amid American accusations against Russia of a military buildup on the border with Ukraine.
Russian Ruling Party Sticks With Medvedev As Chairman, Other Familiar Faces RFE/RL 04 Dec 2021 -- Dmitry Medvedev, the former president and longtime sidekick to Vladimir Putin, has won a new five-year term as chairman of the ruling United Russia party.
Biden, Putin Set Video Call For Next Week To Discuss Ukraine, Other Issues RFE/RL 04 Dec 2021 -- U.S. President Joe Biden and Russian leader Vladimir Putin will hold a secure video call on December 7 to discuss Ukraine and other topics, the White House and Kremlin have confirmed.
'Bathed In Light': Glowing Bio Of Strongman Kadyrov's Father Now Required Reading In Chechen Schools RFE/RL 04 Dec 2021 -- In March 2019, strongman Chechen leader Ramzan Kadyrov's speech marking Constitution Day in the North Caucasus region took an unusual turn: He compared the region's turbulent history in the 1990s and early 2000s to the popular television series Game Of Thrones.
Statement by Press Secretary Jen Psaki on President Biden's Upcoming Call with President Vladimir Putin of Russia The White House 04 Dec 2021
Vladimir Putin addressed participants in third phase of United Russia party 20th congress President of Russia 04 Dec 2021
Р5 Conference Paris, 2-3 December, 2021 FINAL Joint communique Russia Ministry of Foreign Affairs 04 Dec 2021
Russia dismisses US media reports about potential invasion of Ukraine Press TV 04 Dec 2021 -- Russia has dismissed new allegations by the media in the United States that it is planning a large-scale attack on Ukraine, accusing Washington of seeking to aggravate the situation through blaming Moscow at a time of tensions between the two neighbors.
Biden Says He'll Make It 'Very Difficult' For Russia To Attack Ukraine RFE/RL 04 Dec 2021 -- U.S. President Joe Biden has said that he is prepared to "make it very, very difficult" for Russia to launch an attack against Ukraine, amid growing Western concerns over Moscow's intentions in the face of a Russian military buildup near the Ukrainian border.
US Intel Accuses Russia of Planning 'Multi-Front Offensive' Against Ukraine as Early as 2022 Sputnik 04 Dec 2021 -- Over the last several weeks, tensions have remained high between the US and Russia as American authorities have accused Moscow of laying the groundwork for a potential invasion of neighbouring Ukraine. The Kremlin has repeatedly rejected the unsubstantiated claims.
Kremlin Says Biden and Putin to Discuss Ukraine Crisis Next Week VOA 04 Dec 2021 -- U.S. President Joe Biden and Russian President Vladimir Putin are set to discuss rising tensions Tuesday along the Russian-Ukranian border, where a Russian troop buildup is seen by the West as a sign of a potential invasion.
Telephone conversation with President of Turkey Recep Tayyip Erdogan President of Russia 03 Dec 2021 -- Vladimir Putin had a telephone conversation with President of the Republic of Turkey Recep Tayyip Erdogan at the latter's initiative.
Telephone conversation with President of Kyrgyzstan Sadyr Japarov President of Russia 03 Dec 2021 -- Vladimir Putin had a telephone conversation with President of the Kyrgyz Republic Sadyr Japarov.
Russia Hits Record 75,000 Monthly COVID-19 Deaths In October RFE/RL 03 Dec 2021 -- Russia's state statistics agency Rosstat tallied 74,893 deaths from COVID-19 in October, the highest monthly number since the pandemic began.
Russia deploys combat-alert missile systems near Kuril islands claimed by Japan Press TV 03 Dec 2021 -- The Russian military has for the first time deployed coastal missile defense systems near its eastern territory of Kuril Islands, which is also claimed by Japan, a move that is intended to underline Moscow’s assertive stance in the decades-long dispute.
Norway calls on NATO to stay away from its border with Russia Press TV 03 Dec 2021 -- Norway, a NATO member, has called on the US-led military alliance to stay away from its border area near Russia, saying the country’s own armed forces will take care of the strategic region.
New Norwegian Government to Restrict NATO Traffic Near Russia Sputnik 03 Dec 2021 -- In the words of the country's Foreign Minister Anniken Huitfeldt, it is in Norway's best interests to take care of its northernmost areas using its own armed forces, as a means of balancing deterrence with reassurance.
Biden Says He has a Plan to Protect Ukraine from Russia VOA 03 Dec 2021 -- U.S. President Joe Biden told reporters Friday he has been developing a set of initiatives that will make it “very, very difficult” for Russia to escalate the situation at its border with Ukraine, where Moscow has been building up troops and equipment for weeks.
U.S. Says It Wants To Be Prepared In Case Russia Invades Ukraine, Hopes To Make Aggression 'Very, Very Difficult' RFE/RL 03 Dec 2021 -- U.S. President Joe Biden's administration says it wants to be prepared in case Russia invades Ukraine and the onus is on Moscow to change its behavior toward its neighbor, as warnings over a buildup of Russian troops near the border intensified on December 3.
Blinken: US and European allies ‘stand resolutely against’ Russia Press TV 03 Dec 2021 -- US Secretary of State Antony Blinken has again threatened Russia with "serious consequences" if it launches any military action in neighboring Ukraine and said that the United States and European allies are determined to “stand resolutely against” Russia, despite the fact that Moscow has rejected Washington’s allegations of preparing to invade the eastern European country.
U.S. Calls Russian Military Activity Near Ukraine Cause For 'A Lot Of Concern,' As Kyiv Warns Moscow It Will 'Fight Back' RFE/RL 03 Dec 2021 -- The United States is tracking enough indicators surrounding Russian military activity near Ukraine to trigger "a lot of concern," the top U.S. military officer said on December 2, while Ukraine's defense minister warned of a possible large-scale military offensive by Moscow next month.
The Week In Russia: A Mine Disaster And A 'Destabilizing Fixation' RFE/RL 03 Dec 2021 -- As the COVID-19 crisis persisted and tragedy struck at a Siberian coal mine, President Vladimir Putin fixed his gaze on Ukraine and the West, making a new play for a NATO pledge that would turn neighboring nations that are outside the Western alliance into buffer states with limited sovereignty.
Kremlin Says Preliminary Date Set For Putin-Biden Video Call RFE/RL 03 Dec 2021 -- An aide to Vladimir Putin told reporters on December 3 that a video call would be held between the Russian leader and U.S. President Joe Biden after the former's trip to India next week.
Russian Fighters Scrambled to Escort US Spy Planes Over Black Sea Sputnik 03 Dec 2021 -- Russian fighters Su-27 and Su-30 were scrambled to escort US reconnaissance aircraft over the Black Sea, no border breach was allowed, the Russian Defence Ministry's National Defence Control Centre (NDCC) said on Friday.
Modi Gov't Reveals Why India Bought Russia’s S-400 'Triumf' Despite Threat of US Sanctions Sputnik 03 Dec 2021 -- The US State Department said in November that the Biden administration has yet to decide what to do once India takes delivery of the Russian S-400 air defence system. The first batch of the air missile defence system is expected to arrive in India in the second part of this month.
S-400 Triumf Missile System India PIB 03 Dec 2021 -- A contract has been signed on 05 October 2018 for delivery of S-400 system from Russia. Government is aware of all developments that may impact procurement of Defence Equipment.
Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov's remarks at the 28th OSCE Ministerial Council meeting, Stockholm, December 2, 2021 Russia Ministry of Foreign Affairs 02 Dec 2021
Russia Records 33,389 New Cases of COVID-19, 1,221 Deaths SPA 02 Dec 2021 -- Russia recorded 33,389 new coronavirus (COVID-19) cases and 1,221 deaths in the last 24 hours.
Study Shows How Russian, Chinese Disinformation About COVID-19 Evolved During The Pandemic RFE/RL 02 Dec 2021 -- China and Russia have pushed disinformation and propaganda about the origins of COVID-19, unproven cures for the disease, and the efficacy of vaccines aimed at winning over foreign audiences and sowing distrust toward Western governments since the emergence of the deadly virus in the Chinese city of Wuhan two years ago, a new study shows.
NATO chief says military bloc intends to prevent conflict with Russia over Ukraine Press TV 02 Dec 2021 -- US-led NATO says it intends to prevent a conflict with Russia, as Moscow has already warned that it will act if the military alliance crosses its red lines in Ukraine while refuting claims by Washington and Kiev that Russia could be preparing to invade its crisis-hit neighbor.
Russia to respond to US 'geopolitical games' in Ukraine, Lavrov warns Press TV 02 Dec 2021 -- Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov has warned that Moscow will respond to any provocative moves by the United States to drag Ukraine into "geopolitical games" as tensions between the two sides escalate over Russia's neighbor.
U.S. Would 'Consult Internationally' Before Any Response To Russian Moves On Ukraine RFE/RL 02 Dec 2021 -- Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin has suggested that any U.S. response to Russia's actions toward Ukraine would be carried out in conjunction with the international community.
Blinken Warns Russia Of 'Significant Costs' In Case Of Aggression Against Ukraine RFE/RL 02 Dec 2021 -- U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken has urged Russia to withdraw its troops deployed near Ukraine and seek a diplomatic solution to escalating tensions in the region, warning Moscow of "severe costs" in case of an aggression against its neighbor.
US Calls on Russia to Cool Tensions with Ukraine VOA 02 Dec 2021 -- A top U.S. defense official says Washington will not be alone if it needs to take action in response to Russia's massive troop buildup along its border with Ukraine.
OSCE Ministerial Council 2021: Foreign Secretary's meeting with Russian Foreign Minister Lavrov UK FCDO 02 Dec 2021 -- UK Foreign Secretary Liz Truss met the Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov in Stockholm and discussed Ukraine, Belarus, Iran and Afghanistan.
Russia Accuses Three Ukrainians Of Spying, Kyiv Rejects Charges RFE/RL 02 Dec 2021 -- Russia's Federal Security Service (FSB) says it has apprehended three Ukrainian nationals suspected of working for Ukraine's intelligence agencies, a claim Kyiv immediately rejected.
Russian FM: 'Nightmare scenario' of military confrontation returning to Europe Press TV 02 Dec 2021 -- Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov has warned that the "nightmare scenario of a military confrontation" is returning to Europe as tensions escalate over Ukraine.
Navalny Associate Sobol's Suspended Sentence Replaced With Prison Term RFE/RL 02 Dec 2021 -- A court in Moscow has switched the one-year suspended sentence handed to opposition politician Lyubov Sobol, a close associate of jailed anti-corruption campaigner Aleksei Navalny, to actual prison time.
Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov's opening remarks during a meeting with US Secretary of State Antony Blinken on the sidelines of the OSCE Ministerial Council meeting, Stockholm, December 2, 2021 Russia Ministry of Foreign Affairs 02 Dec 2021
Secretary Antony J. Blinken and Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov Remarks to the Press Before Their Meeting US Dept. of State 02 Dec 2021
Secretary Blinken's Meeting with Russian Foreign Minister Lavrov US Dept. of State 02 Dec 2021
Russia Records 32,837 New Cases of COVID-19, 1,226 Deaths SPA 01 Dec 2021 -- Russia recorded 32,837 new coronavirus (COVID-19) cases and 1,226 deaths in the last 24 hours.
Briefing by Foreign Ministry Spokeswoman Maria Zakharova, Moscow, December 1, 2021 Russia Ministry of Foreign Affairs 01 Dec 2021
Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov's comment for the media following Government Hour, Moscow, December 1, 2021 Russia Ministry of Foreign Affairs 01 Dec 2021
Russian Man Sentenced for Providing 'Bulletproof Hosting' for Cybercriminals US Dept. of Justice 01 Dec 2021 -- A Russian man was sentenced today for providing "bulletproof hosting" services, which were used by cybercriminals between 2009 to 2015 to distribute malware and attack financial institutions and victims throughout the United States.
NATO Warns Russia of 'Serious Consequences' for Ukraine Actions DoD News 01 Dec 2021 -- NATO allies are concerned about Russia's military build-up along the border with Ukraine, and Secretary General Jens Stoltenberg said Russia will face serious consequences if it once again invades the country.
U.S. 'Deeply Concerned' Over Russian Military Moves As Kyiv Calls For NATO 'Deterrence Package' RFE/RL 01 Dec 2021 -- Ukraine says it will ask NATO to boost military cooperation with Kyiv and prepare economic sanctions as part of a "deterrence package" to prevent Russia from attacking it as U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken said Washington has serious concerns that Russia could be planning an invasion.
Blinken: Russia Apparently Planning to Invade Ukraine, Has Been Warned of Consequences VOA 01 Dec 2021 -- U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken said Wednesday that Russia appears to be planning to take military action against neighboring Ukraine and warned Moscow of consequences if it moved forward with acts of aggression.
US, Poland Talk Russian Military Build-Up Near Ukraine VOA 01 Dec 2021 -- The United States is reaching out to allies in response to Russia's military build-up along its border with Ukraine.
Russia accuses Ukraine of deploying half its army to Donbass Press TV 01 Dec 2021 -- Russia says Ukraine has deployed half of its army, or 125,000 troops, to the ethnic Russian region of Donbass, amid an escalation between Kiev and separatists in the volatile zone.
Russia satisfied with high-level relations with China: Putin People's Daily 01 Dec 2021 -- Russia enjoys an unprecedentedly high level of interstate relations with China, Russian President Vladimir Putin said Tuesday.
Naval drills signal Russia interest in SE Asia, not a strategic sea change Radio Free Asia 01 Dec 2021 -- Naval ships from Russia and countries in the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) are holding their first-ever joint exercise, signalling Moscow's intent to engage the region though not heralding a major shift in its geopolitical strategy, analysts say.
Russia Orders U.S. Diplomats To Leave In Tit-For-Tat Response RFE/RL 01 Dec 2021 -- Russia has ordered a number of U.S. Embassy staff in Moscow to leave by January 31 in the latest tit-for-tat response between Washington and Moscow amid deteriorating relations.
Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov's remarks at the international interparty forum, Global Challenges of the 21st Century: Interparty Dimension, Moscow, December 1, 2021 Russia Ministry of Foreign Affairs 01 Dec 2021
Foreign Ministry statement on the planned US "summit for democracy" Russia Ministry of Foreign Affairs 01 Dec 2021
Kremlin Downplays Lukashenka's Gas Threat As Poland Summons Belarus Attaché RFE/RL 01 Dec 2021 -- The Kremlin has downplayed a renewed threat by Belarusian strongman Alyaksandr Lukashenka to cut Russian gas supplies to the European Union in response to Poland's possible move to shut down its border with Belarus over an ongoing migrant crisis.
Belarus to halt Russian energy flow to Europe amid tensions with Poland Press TV 01 Dec 2021 -- Belarus' President Alexander Lukashenko says his government will suspend Russian energy flows to Europe in response to Poland's closure of the border with his country amid a migrant crisis.
Telephone conversation with Nursultan Nazarbayev President of Russia 01 Dec 2021

NEWSLETTER

Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list

Weapons of Mass Destruction (WMD)

December 2021 - Russia Special Weapons News