southfront--2020-03-18--Surf the Internet Instead: Britannic Herd Immunity and Coronavirus

Epidemiologist William Hanage was more than perplexed by the plan .
“ When I heard about Britain ’ s ‘ herd immunity ’ coronavirus plan , ” he reflected in , “ I thought it was satire.
” Much public policy , foolishly considered and expertly bungled , tends to succumb to satire ; having Prime Minister Boris Johnson leading the show provides an even better chance of that happening .
Herd immunity , as a policy , would involve easing off risk and preventive measures , allowing what would effectively be a mass infection , and focusing on recovery @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Doing so would provide the assurance of immunity to prevent the calamity of another wave come winter .
The result is a true peculiarity in health policy : a reluctance to ban mass gatherings , close spaces of public contact and deploy mass quarantine measures .
This , suggests Hanage , is erroneous ; it presumes the same rationale used in mass vaccination .
On March 12 , Johnson ’ s press statement had a certain dressing of alarm .
All that seemed to evaporate before a sense of fatalism .
Loved ones @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , he had been told by his experts , would not be banned , because doing so “ will have little effect on the spread.
” To close down schools would cause more harm than good .
As for those suffering symptoms that might be coronavirus-related , avoid seeking testing and disturbing the health system .
Surf the internet , instead .
Sir Patrick Vallance , Britain ’ s chief scientific adviser , seemed to more than hint that herd immunity as an idea had taken an infectious hold .
On Radio Four @ @ @ @ @ @ @ he stated that , “ Our aim is to try and reduce the peak , broaden the peak , not suppress it completely ; also , because the vast majority of people get mild illness , to build up some kind of herd immunity so more people are immune to this disease and we reduce the transmission.
” This might have struck those with susceptibility and an assortment of vulnerable conditions as terrifying , though Sir Patrick was insisting that they , too , be protected .
Even with a mortality rate of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ be impressively contained .
That was certainly a scenario entertained by the UK chief medical officer Chris Whitty .
A percent of deaths would equate to a loss of 500,000 people in circumstances where 80 % of the country would contract the virus .
For herd immunity to be achieved , calculated Vallance , “ probably about 60 % ” of people needed infection .
Fuelling this particular approach was a worry shared by Johnson and his advisors that behavioural fatigue might set in .
An early imposition of strict restrictions would see @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Besides , containing the virus initially might work with harsh measures , but not make it go away before the cold spell .
This general view jars with the European response to the outbreak of COVID-19 .
Owen Matthews , writing in , noted that , “ While continental Europeans were closing schools and putting soldiers on the streets to enforce strict quarantine rules , the British government ’ s official advice to its citizens was , essentially , just to keep calm and carry on.
” The Johnson method of governance requires @ @ @ @ @ @ @ contradictory and chaotic .
Health Secretary Matt Hancock did his little bit of mixed signalling by suggesting UK health policy towards COVID-19 was not quite as Sir Patrick had intended it .
Hancock ’ s hurriedly revised position was assisted , in no small part , by a modelling analysis from immunologists based at the Imperial College of London and the London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine , though it was unclear whether he had ever embraced , at least directly , the herd immunity idea .
( There is no mention @ @ @ @ @ @ @ plan . )
The researchers , in the 9th report from the WHO Collaborating Centre for Infectious Diseases and Modelling , took a particular interest in comparing potential impacts of COVID-19 to the devastating flu outbreak of 1918 .
Two strategies were considered by the research team : suppression , which would involve the reduction of case numbers to low levels or their total elimination ; and mitigation , which would not interrupt transmission totally but “ reduce the health impact of an epidemic , akin to the strategy adopted by some US @ @ @ @ @ @ @ world more generally in the 1957 , 1968 , and 2009 influenza pandemics.
” In what is an absorbing , if unnerving study , policy makers would have latched onto the conclusion “ that mitigation is unlikely to be feasible without emergency surge capacity limits of the UK and US healthcare systems being exceeded many times over.
” The predictions were also rightly sobering .
Britain would suffer some 510,000 deaths , and the US 2.2 million were the epidemic to be unmitigated .
Using mitigation strategies would see a rough halving : @ @ @ @ @ @ @ in the US .
“ We therefore conclude that suppression is the only viable strategy at the current time.
” Cue Prime Minister Johnson ’ s appearance for his No .
10 Downing Street press briefing .
In his March 17 statement , he considered COVID-19 to be “ a disease that is so dangerous and so infectious that without drastic measures to check its progress it would overwhelm any health system in the world.
” He insisted on steps to avoid unnecessary contact to protect the vulnerable .
Capacity for the National @ @ @ @ @ @ @ services would be strengthened .
Science and research would be boosted .
Any measures as that of a wartime government should be taken to bolster the economy .
Millions of businesses and tens of millions of families needed to be supported .
But not a word about bans , closures , testing of the public and strict controls .
The COVID-19 reaction formula still remains a Britannia goes it alone approach though closer to that adopted by the Trump administration .
Keep it voluntary ; take measures as a matter of good sense @ @ @ @ @ @ @ determinedly autocratic in an effort to flatten the curve of infection .
French President Emmanuel Macron has resorted to war metaphors , implementing measures akin to that : mandatory registration of intent to leave homes or face a fine of 38 euros .
In Britain , however , Johnson ’ s preference is to prepare for the worst , wash your hands and surf the Internet .
Dr. Binoy Kampmark was a Commonwealth Scholar at Selwyn College , Cambridge .
He lectures at RMIT University , Melbourne .
Email : bkampmark @ gmail.com

Support SouthFront
Submitted by Dr. Binoy Kampmark
Epidemiologist William Hanage was more than perplexed by the plan. “When I heard about Britain’s ‘herd immunity’ coronavirus plan,” he reflected in The Guardian, “I thought it was satire.” Much public policy, foolishly considered and expertly bungled, tends to succumb to satire; having Prime Minister Boris Johnson leading the show provides an even better chance of that happening.
Herd immunity, as a policy, would involve easing off risk and preventive measures, allowing what would effectively be a mass infection, and focusing on recovery from younger members of the populace. Doing so would provide the assurance of immunity to prevent the calamity of another wave come winter. The result is a true peculiarity in health policy: a reluctance to ban mass gatherings, close spaces of public contact and deploy mass quarantine measures.
This, suggests Hanage, is erroneous; it presumes the same rationale used in mass vaccination.
“This is an actual pandemic that will make a very large number of people sick, and some of them will actually die. Even though the mortality rate is quite likely quite low, a small fraction of a very large number is still a large number.”
On March 12, Johnson’s press statement had a certain dressing of alarm. All that seemed to evaporate before a sense of fatalism. Loved ones would be lost. Major public events, he had been told by his experts, would not be banned, because doing so “will have little effect on the spread.” To close down schools would cause more harm than good. As for those suffering symptoms that might be coronavirus-related, avoid seeking testing and disturbing the health system. Surf the internet, instead.
Sir Patrick Vallance, Britain’s chief scientific adviser, seemed to more than hint that herd immunity as an idea had taken an infectious hold. On Radio Four’s Today programme on Friday, he stated that, “Our aim is to try and reduce the peak, broaden the peak, not suppress it completely; also, because the vast majority of people get mild illness, to build up some kind of herd immunity so more people are immune to this disease and we reduce the transmission.” This might have struck those with susceptibility and an assortment of vulnerable conditions as terrifying, though Sir Patrick was insisting that they, too, be protected. Even with a mortality rate of 1%, the death rate would be impressively contained.
That was certainly a scenario entertained by the UK chief medical officer Chris Whitty. A percent of deaths would equate to a loss of 500,000 people in circumstances where 80% of the country would contract the virus. For herd immunity to be achieved, calculated Vallance, “probably about 60%” of people needed infection.
Fuelling this particular approach was a worry shared by Johnson and his advisors that behavioural fatigue might set in. An early imposition of strict restrictions would see a lack of cooperation and caution. Besides, containing the virus initially might work with harsh measures, but not make it go away before the cold spell.
This general view jars with the European response to the outbreak of COVID-19. Owen Matthews, writing in Foreign Policy, noted that, “While continental Europeans were closing schools and putting soldiers on the streets to enforce strict quarantine rules, the British government’s official advice to its citizens was, essentially, just to keep calm and carry on.”
The Johnson method of governance requires constant cross-checking. Signals are mixed, contradictory and chaotic. Health Secretary Matt Hancock did his little bit of mixed signalling by suggesting UK health policy towards COVID-19 was not quite as Sir Patrick had intended it.
“Herd immunity is not part of it,” he wrote in The Sunday Telegraph. “This is a scientific concept, not a goal or a strategy. Our goal is to protect life from this virus, our strategy is to protect the most vulnerable and the protect the NHS through contain, delay, research and mitigate.”
Hancock’s hurriedly revised position was assisted, in no small part, by a modelling analysis from immunologists based at the Imperial College of London and the London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, though it was unclear whether he had ever embraced, at least directly, the herd immunity idea. (There is no mention of the term in the coronavirus action plan.) The researchers, in the 9th report from the WHO Collaborating Centre for Infectious Diseases and Modelling, took a particular interest in comparing potential impacts of COVID-19 to the devastating flu outbreak of 1918.
Two strategies were considered by the research team: suppression, which would involve the reduction of case numbers to low levels or their total elimination; and mitigation, which would not interrupt transmission totally but “reduce the health impact of an epidemic, akin to the strategy adopted by some US cities in 1918, and by the world more generally in the 1957, 1968, and 2009 influenza pandemics.” In what is an absorbing, if unnerving study, policy makers would have latched onto the conclusion “that mitigation is unlikely to be feasible without emergency surge capacity limits of the UK and US healthcare systems being exceeded many times over.”
The predictions were also rightly sobering. Britain would suffer some 510,000 deaths, and the US 2.2 million were the epidemic to be unmitigated. Using mitigation strategies would see a rough halving: 250,000 deaths in Britain; 1.1-1.2 million in the US. “We therefore conclude that suppression is the only viable strategy at the current time.”
Cue Prime Minister Johnson’s appearance for his No. 10 Downing Street press briefing. In his March 17 statement, he considered COVID-19 to be “a disease that is so dangerous and so infectious that without drastic measures to check its progress it would overwhelm any health system in the world.” He insisted on steps to avoid unnecessary contact to protect the vulnerable. Capacity for the National Health Service would be increased; public services would be strengthened. Science and research would be boosted. Any measures as that of a wartime government should be taken to bolster the economy. Millions of businesses and tens of millions of families needed to be supported. But not a word about bans, closures, testing of the public and strict controls.
The COVID-19 reaction formula still remains a Britannia goes it alone approach though closer to that adopted by the Trump administration. Keep it voluntary; take measures as a matter of good sense. Responses on the European continent remain determinedly autocratic in an effort to flatten the curve of infection. French President Emmanuel Macron has resorted to war metaphors, implementing measures akin to that: mandatory registration of intent to leave homes or face a fine of 38 euros. In Britain, however, Johnson’s preference is to prepare for the worst, wash your hands and surf the Internet.
Dr. Binoy Kampmark was a Commonwealth Scholar at Selwyn College, Cambridge. He lectures at RMIT University, Melbourne. Email: bkampmark@gmail.com
Support SouthFront


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southfront--2020-03-18--Europe’s ‘Open Borders’ System Faces Collapse Amid Covid-19 Outbreak

: Leaders of the 26 European countries that are part of what is normally a free-movement zone also agreed Tuesday to shut their external borders to most nonresidents for the first time .
“ We are faced with a serious crisis , an exceptional one in terms of magnitude and nature , ” European Council President Charles Michel said late Tuesday .
“ We want to push back this threat .
We want to slow down the spread of this virus.
” Other leaders phrased it in martial terms : French President Emmanuel Macron said Monday .
Until last week @ @ @ @ @ @ @ move across the continent with ease , even as the virus slowly spread across its population .
Just as a resident of Maryland can easily pack bags and head to Virginia , so , too , could a Pole cross into Germany .
But no more .
As The Gatestone Institute ’ s Soeren Kern detailed earlier , as a growing number of countries close their borders to fight the coronavirus pandemic , the European system of open internal borders – a cornerstone of European integration – is on the brink of collapse @ @ @ @ @ @ @ comprises 26 European countries , entered into effect in 1995 and abolishes the need for passports and other types of control at mutual borders .
It is a key practical and symbolic achievement of European integration and is now falling apart .
In a move packed with political significance , Germany , the largest and most powerful country in the European Union , on March 16 introduced controls on its borders with Austria , Denmark , France , Luxembourg and Switzerland after it registered 1,000 new cases of Coronavirus Disease 2019 ( COVID-19 @ @ @ @ @ @ @ without a valid reason to travel , German Interior Minister Horst Seehofer said , would be turned away at the borders .
Travelers with symptoms of COVID-19 would be refused entry as well .
German citizens and anyone with a residence permit , however , will be allowed to reenter Germany .
The decision to impose border controls represents a major reversal by the German government .
Just a few days earlier , on March 11 , German Chancellor Angela Merkel said , “ In Germany , we believe that border closings are @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of the Covid-19 epidemic.
” Her sentiment was echoed later that day by German Health Minister Jens Spahn , who stated , “ We are not going to get rid of the virus by closing our borders .
The virus is already with us and we have to get used to the idea.
” On March 15 , the German newspaper reported that Merkel was still blocking all attempts by members of her cabinet to impose border controls .
The infighting , however , had cost Germany valuable time in trying to contain @ @ @ @ @ @ @ for the influential German blog , commentator Ferdinand Knauss , explained that Merkel was blocking border controls because the dogma of open borders is an ideological pillar of Merkelism : “ In the face of the corona crisis , there were apparently discussions in the Federal Government about what most of our neighboring countries had long since done : consistent protective measures at the borders .
Several of our neighboring countries — Denmark , Poland , Czech Republic , Austria — have largely closed their borders .
In most countries , people from @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
Not in Germany .
You do not have to guess very long who prevents this .
Only the Chancellor can do that .
But why is she doing it ?
“ In that fateful year of 2015 , the ‘ open borders ’ became a [ indispensable condition ] for the continuation of Merkelism .
That is why the dogma must be maintained .
Merkel knows that the instruction to close the border , in general to take consistent national measures to protect her own citizens , would be tantamount to her @ @ @ @ @ @ @ So , as citizens become aware of the threat and their demand for protection increases , the corona crisis also becomes a crisis of Merkelism .
It already is , as Merkel ’ s rejection of border protection measures shows .
One of the decisive questions will be how the media , which are still largely loyal to Merkel , and the political and social establishment weigh in : The morality of openness to the world versus the protection from threats .
The greater and more painful the risk of corona , the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ need for protection .
“ Merkel is now fighting .
But as always in her chancellorship , she is not fighting for her country and its citizens , for which she is responsible .
She is fighting for her power , for her legacy .
When the citizens come to understand this , the corona crisis will have been Merkel ’ s last fight in the political arena.
” Merkel ’ s stance had left Germany increasingly isolated , as a growing number of Schengen countries have introduced border controls : • Austria @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Kurz announced controls along the border with Italy and a ban on the entry of most travelers from there .
Kurz said , “ The utmost priority is to prevent the spread and thus the importing of the illness into our society .
There is therefore a ban on entry for people from Italy into Austria , with the exception of people who have a doctor ’ s note certifying that they are healthy.
” Interior Minister Karl Nehammer also announced a ban on all air or rail travel to Italy .
• @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Minister Ales Sabeder stated that the government had closed some border crossings with Italy and started making health checks at those remaining open in order to combat the spread of the coronavirus .
He said that citizens would only be able to cross the border in six places while all other roads that crossed the border would be closed .
Normally more than 20 crossings are open .
Passenger train transport between the two countries has also been stopped and most bus companies have canceled routes to Italy .
Sabeder said that foreigners @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to enter Slovenia if they had a certificate that they have tested negative for coronavirus during the previous three days .
• Poland .
On March 13 , Prime Minister Mateusz Morawiecki announced that , as of March 15 , only Polish citizens or people with a Polish residence permit would be allowed to enter the country .
Everyone returning home from abroad would be quarantined for 14 days .
All international inbound passenger flights or trains are banned , but freight transport is not affected .
“ The state will not abandon @ @ @ @ @ @ @ “ In the current situation , however , we can not allow ourselves to keep borders open to foreigners.
” • Switzerland .
On March 13 , the Swiss government reimposed border controls with other European countries .
Switzerland , although not a member of the European Union , is part of the Schengen zone .
Justice Minister Karin Keller-Sutter said that travel restrictions from Italy were aimed at preventing Italian patients from seeking access to Swiss hospitals .
Asylum seekers were also subject to the restrictions .
Swiss citizens , holders of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ workers and people transiting through Switzerland are still allowed to enter the country .
• Denmark .
On March 14 , Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen imposed border controls on all traffic by air , land and sea until at least April 13 .
Danish citizens are allowed to enter but any non-Dane without a valid reason for travel will be denied entry .
“ We stand on uncharted territory , ” Frederiksen said .
“ We are in a situation that looks nothing like what any of us have experienced before .
It @ @ @ @ @ @ @ If we do not do this , we risk that the costs , human , health and financial , will be far , far greater.
” • Hungary .
On March 16 , Prime Minister Viktor Orbán announced that , effective immediately , all passenger traffic into Hungary would be halted and only Hungarian citizens allowed to enter the country .
Previously , the government had imposed controls on the country ’ s borders with Austria and Slovenia .
All train travel was halted between Hungary and Croatia , Slovenia and Ukraine .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ Interior Minister Fernando Grande-Marlaska decreed the reestablishment of controls at all land borders .
Only Spanish citizens , people with Spanish residency and cross-border workers will be allowed to enter national territory by land .
The measure does not affect the transport of goods .
The Czech Republic , Estonia , Greece , Latvia , Lithuania and Slovakia , in a bid to combat the spread of the coronavirus , also imposed border controls .
Other European countries that are not part of the Schengen system , including Albania , Bulgaria , Romania @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Macedonia also introduced border controls .
The Bulgarian Foreign Ministry , which advised its citizens to avoid travelling abroad , described the current state of affairs : The break-down of Europe ’ s system of open borders has been met with anger by those in favor of European integration .
During a March 13 press conference in Brussels , Ursula von der Leyen , head of the European Commission , the administrative arm of the European Union , warned member states not unilaterally to close their borders : In a desperate effort to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Leyen on March 16 proposed a 30-day entry ban into the European Union .
The idea apparently was that if the EU ’ s borders were closed to the outside world , individual member states would not have to close theirs .
Ironically , just a few days earlier , Von der Leyen had condemned the March 11 decision by U.S. President Donald J. Trump to impose a 30-day ban on continental Europeans traveling to the United States .
“ The European Union failed to take the same precautions and restrict travel from @ @ @ @ @ @ @ said .
“ As a result , a large number of new clusters in the United States were seeded by travelers from Europe.
” Von der Leyen now says that she will present the EU heads of state with a proposal to ban “ unnecessary trips ” to the Union .
The entry ban would initially be for 30 days but could be extended if necessary .
“ The fewer trips there are , the more we can contain the virus , ” she said .
Anja Krüger , the pro-EU business editor @ @ @ @ @ @ @ In a March 13 press conference , the president of Italy ’ s hard-hit Veneto region , Luca Zaia , said that Europe ’ s borderless zone was “ disappearing as we speak.
” He noted that the stringent border controls imposed by Austria shows that Schengen “ no longer exists and will be remembered in the history books .
”

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Originally appeared at ZeroHedge
Update (0200ET) : Leaders of the 26 European countries that are part of what is normally a free-movement zone also agreed Tuesday to shut their external borders to most nonresidents for the first time.
“We are faced with a serious crisis, an exceptional one in terms of magnitude and nature,” European Council President Charles Michel said late Tuesday. “We want to push back this threat. We want to slow down the spread of this virus.”
Other leaders phrased it in martial terms: “We are at war,” French President Emmanuel Macron said Monday.
Until last week, citizens of the E.U. could move across the continent with ease, even as the virus slowly spread across its population. Just as a resident of Maryland can easily pack bags and head to Virginia, so, too, could a Pole cross into Germany.
But no more.
* * *
As The Gatestone Institute’s Soeren Kern detailed earlier, as a growing number of countries close their borders to fight the coronavirus pandemic, the European system of open internal borders – a cornerstone of European integration – is on the brink of collapse.
The so-called Schengen Area, which comprises 26 European countries, entered into effect in 1995 and abolishes the need for passports and other types of control at mutual borders. It is a key practical and symbolic achievement of European integration and is now falling apart.
In a move packed with political significance, Germany, the largest and most powerful country in the European Union, on March 16 introduced controls on its borders with Austria, Denmark, France, Luxembourg and Switzerland after it registered 1,000 new cases of Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19) in just one day.
Anyone without a valid reason to travel, German Interior Minister Horst Seehofer said, would be turned away at the borders. Travelers with symptoms of COVID-19 would be refused entry as well. German citizens and anyone with a residence permit, however, will be allowed to reenter Germany.
“Protecting our population also requires measures to reduce the risk of infection from global travel,” Seehofer said. “We are dealing with a very aggressive and fast-spreading virus. We will have to deal with it for months. As long as there is no European solution, you have to act in the interest of your own people.”
The decision to impose border controls represents a major reversal by the German government. Just a few days earlier, on March 11, German Chancellor Angela Merkel said, “In Germany, we believe that border closings are not the answer to fight the spread of the Covid-19 epidemic.” Her sentiment was echoed later that day by German Health Minister Jens Spahn, who stated, “We are not going to get rid of the virus by closing our borders. The virus is already with us and we have to get used to the idea.”
On March 15, the German newspaper Bild reported that Merkel was still blocking all attempts by members of her cabinet to impose border controls. The infighting, however, had cost Germany valuable time in trying to contain the spread of the virus.
Writing for the influential German blog Tichys Einblick, commentator Ferdinand Knauss, explained that Merkel was blocking border controls because the dogma of open borders is an ideological pillar of Merkelism:
“In the face of the corona crisis, there were apparently discussions in the Federal Government about what most of our neighboring countries had long since done: consistent protective measures at the borders. Several of our neighboring countries — Denmark, Poland, Czech Republic, Austria — have largely closed their borders. In most countries, people from at-risk areas are strictly controlled upon entry. Not in Germany. You do not have to guess very long who prevents this. Only the Chancellor can do that. But why is she doing it? “In that fateful year of 2015, the ‘open borders’ became a conditio sine qua non [indispensable condition] for the continuation of Merkelism. That is why the dogma must be maintained. Merkel knows that the instruction to close the border, in general to take consistent national measures to protect her own citizens, would be tantamount to her own declaration of political bankruptcy. “So, as citizens become aware of the threat and their demand for protection increases, the corona crisis also becomes a crisis of Merkelism. It already is, as Merkel’s rejection of border protection measures shows. One of the decisive questions will be how the media, which are still largely loyal to Merkel, and the political and social establishment weigh in: The morality of openness to the world versus the protection from threats. The greater and more painful the risk of corona, the harder it will be to neglect the need for protection. “Merkel is now fighting. But as always in her chancellorship, she is not fighting for her country and its citizens, for which she is responsible. She is fighting for her power, for her legacy. When the citizens come to understand this, the corona crisis will have been Merkel’s last fight in the political arena.”
Merkel’s stance had left Germany increasingly isolated, as a growing number of Schengen countries have introduced border controls:
Austria . On March 10, Chancellor Sebastian Kurz announced controls along the border with Italy and a ban on the entry of most travelers from there. Kurz said, “The utmost priority is to prevent the spread and thus the importing of the illness into our society. There is therefore a ban on entry for people from Italy into Austria, with the exception of people who have a doctor’s note certifying that they are healthy.” Interior Minister Karl Nehammer also announced a ban on all air or rail travel to Italy.
. On March 10, Chancellor Sebastian Kurz announced controls along the border with Italy and a ban on the entry of most travelers from there. Kurz said, “The utmost priority is to prevent the spread and thus the importing of the illness into our society. There is therefore a ban on entry for people from Italy into Austria, with the exception of people who have a doctor’s note certifying that they are healthy.” Interior Minister Karl Nehammer also announced a ban on all air or rail travel to Italy. Slovenia . On March 11, Health Minister Ales Sabeder stated that the government had closed some border crossings with Italy and started making health checks at those remaining open in order to combat the spread of the coronavirus. He said that citizens would only be able to cross the border in six places while all other roads that crossed the border would be closed. Normally more than 20 crossings are open. Passenger train transport between the two countries has also been stopped and most bus companies have canceled routes to Italy. Sabeder said that foreigners with Slovenian residence permits would be allowed to enter Slovenia if they had a certificate that they have tested negative for coronavirus during the previous three days.
. On March 11, Health Minister Ales Sabeder stated that the government had closed some border crossings with Italy and started making health checks at those remaining open in order to combat the spread of the coronavirus. He said that citizens would only be able to cross the border in six places while all other roads that crossed the border would be closed. Normally more than 20 crossings are open. Passenger train transport between the two countries has also been stopped and most bus companies have canceled routes to Italy. Sabeder said that foreigners with Slovenian residence permits would be allowed to enter Slovenia if they had a certificate that they have tested negative for coronavirus during the previous three days. Poland . On March 13, Prime Minister Mateusz Morawiecki announced that, as of March 15, only Polish citizens or people with a Polish residence permit would be allowed to enter the country. Everyone returning home from abroad would be quarantined for 14 days. All international inbound passenger flights or trains are banned, but freight transport is not affected. “The state will not abandon its citizens,” Morawiecki said. “In the current situation, however, we cannot allow ourselves to keep borders open to foreigners.”
. On March 13, Prime Minister Mateusz Morawiecki announced that, as of March 15, only Polish citizens or people with a Polish residence permit would be allowed to enter the country. Everyone returning home from abroad would be quarantined for 14 days. All international inbound passenger flights or trains are banned, but freight transport is not affected. “The state will not abandon its citizens,” Morawiecki said. “In the current situation, however, we cannot allow ourselves to keep borders open to foreigners.” Switzerland . On March 13, the Swiss government reimposed border controls with other European countries. Switzerland, although not a member of the European Union, is part of the Schengen zone. Justice Minister Karin Keller-Sutter said that travel restrictions from Italy were aimed at preventing Italian patients from seeking access to Swiss hospitals. Asylum seekers were also subject to the restrictions. Swiss citizens, holders of a resident permit as well as cross-border workers and people transiting through Switzerland are still allowed to enter the country.
. On March 13, the Swiss government reimposed border controls with other European countries. Switzerland, although not a member of the European Union, is part of the Schengen zone. Justice Minister Karin Keller-Sutter said that travel restrictions from Italy were aimed at preventing Italian patients from seeking access to Swiss hospitals. Asylum seekers were also subject to the restrictions. Swiss citizens, holders of a resident permit as well as cross-border workers and people transiting through Switzerland are still allowed to enter the country. Denmark . On March 14, Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen imposed border controls on all traffic by air, land and sea until at least April 13. Danish citizens are allowed to enter but any non-Dane without a valid reason for travel will be denied entry. “We stand on uncharted territory,” Frederiksen said. “We are in a situation that looks nothing like what any of us have experienced before. It is going to cost us all. If we do not do this, we risk that the costs, human, health and financial, will be far, far greater.”
. On March 14, Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen imposed border controls on all traffic by air, land and sea until at least April 13. Danish citizens are allowed to enter but any non-Dane without a valid reason for travel will be denied entry. “We stand on uncharted territory,” Frederiksen said. “We are in a situation that looks nothing like what any of us have experienced before. It is going to cost us all. If we do not do this, we risk that the costs, human, health and financial, will be far, far greater.” Hungary . On March 16, Prime Minister Viktor Orbán announced that, effective immediately, all passenger traffic into Hungary would be halted and only Hungarian citizens allowed to enter the country. Previously, the government had imposed controls on the country’s borders with Austria and Slovenia. All train travel was halted between Hungary and Croatia, Slovenia and Ukraine.
. On March 16, Prime Minister Viktor Orbán announced that, effective immediately, all passenger traffic into Hungary would be halted and only Hungarian citizens allowed to enter the country. Previously, the government had imposed controls on the country’s borders with Austria and Slovenia. All train travel was halted between Hungary and Croatia, Slovenia and Ukraine. Spain. On March 16, Interior Minister Fernando Grande-Marlaska decreed the reestablishment of controls at all land borders. Only Spanish citizens, people with Spanish residency and cross-border workers will be allowed to enter national territory by land. The measure does not affect the transport of goods.
The Czech Republic, Estonia, Greece, Latvia, Lithuania and Slovakia, in a bid to combat the spread of the coronavirus, also imposed border controls. Other European countries that are not part of the Schengen system, including Albania, Bulgaria, Romania, Serbia and the Republic of North Macedonia also introduced border controls.
The Bulgarian Foreign Ministry, which advised its citizens to avoid travelling abroad, described the current state of affairs:
“The situation at the land borders of European countries is constantly and drastically changing, which makes it impossible to travel to or from Bulgaria with all modes of transport. “With regard to the prevention of the spread of the coronavirus, there is almost no country in Europe that has not at the moment introduced restrictive measures — border closures or separate border crossing points, enhanced border controls, shutdown of flights, closure of airports.”
The break-down of Europe’s system of open borders has been met with anger by those in favor of European integration. During a March 13 press conference in Brussels, Ursula von der Leyen, head of the European Commission, the administrative arm of the European Union, warned member states not unilaterally to close their borders:
“The Single Market has to function. It is not good when Member States take unilateral action. Because it always causes a domino effect. And that prevents the urgently needed equipment from reaching patients, from reaching hospitals and the medical personnel. Ultimately, it amounts to reintroducing internal borders at a time when solidarity between Member States is needed.”
In a desperate effort to save the Schengen system, Von der Leyen on March 16 proposed a 30-day entry ban into the European Union. The idea apparently was that if the EU’s borders were closed to the outside world, individual member states would not have to close theirs.
Ironically, just a few days earlier, Von der Leyen had condemned the March 11 decision by U.S. President Donald J. Trump to impose a 30-day ban on continental Europeans traveling to the United States. “The European Union failed to take the same precautions and restrict travel from China and other hotspots,” Trump said. “As a result, a large number of new clusters in the United States were seeded by travelers from Europe.”
On March 12, Von der Leyen issued an angry statement:
“The Coronavirus is a global crisis, not limited to any continent and it requires cooperation rather than unilateral action. “The European Union disapproves of the fact that the U.S. decision to impose a travel ban was taken unilaterally and without consultation.”
Von der Leyen now says that she will present the EU heads of state with a proposal to ban “unnecessary trips” to the Union. The entry ban would initially be for 30 days but could be extended if necessary. “The fewer trips there are, the more we can contain the virus,” she said.
Anja Krüger, the pro-EU business editor for the German newspaper Tagesspiegel, noted:
“It is breathtaking how the borders in Europe are closed in the wake of the corona crisis, how one country after another seals itself off. The pandemic shows how fragile the European Union is…. “After the pandemic subsides, will everything be the same as before, as if nothing had happened? The question is how far the corona crisis is capable of an ad hoc destruction of a slowly growing European awareness among the people in the EU member countries over the years. “Much will depend on how the crisis is managed. However, the fact that the return to nationalism was carried out quickly and firmly will arouse desires among opponents of European unification. What goes once, goes again and again.”
In a March 13 press conference, the president of Italy’s hard-hit Veneto region, Luca Zaia, said that Europe’s borderless zone was “disappearing as we speak.” He noted that the stringent border controls imposed by Austria shows that Schengen “no longer exists and will be remembered in the history books.”
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southfront--2020-03-18--U.S. Joins Al-Qaeda Efforts To Undermine Russian-Turkish Ceasefire Agreement In Idlib

On March 17th , US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo gave remarks to the press , and expressed Washington ’ s desire to undermine the Idlib ceasefire , agreed between Russia and Turkey .
Thus , he alleged that Russia itself killed “ dozens of Turkish soldiers ” Earlier in the day , Syrian Defense Minister Lieutenant General Ali Abdullah Ayoub was sanctioned by the US , for “ perpetuating the violence and the disastrous humanitarian crisis inside of Syria .
His deliberate actions since December of 2019 have prevented a ceasefire from taking hold inside of Syria .
The @ @ @ @ @ @ @ a million people in dire need of humanitarian aid in the midst of a cold winter in Idlib.
” Of course , the “ bloody Assad regime ” is , also , not the only one to blame – since plenty of guilt lies in its enablers – Russia and Iran .
“ The Assad regime ’ s forces , backed by Russia and Iranian-supported forces , have been responsible for the continued bombardments that destroyed schools and hospitals and killed civilians , including medical professionals and first responders who were risking their @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ” Ayoub has been added to the department ’ s Specially Designated Nationals and Blocked Person List and any of his assets subject to U.S. jurisdiction have been frozen .
Americans are now generally prohibited from conducting business with him .
Earlier , United States Special Representative for Syria James Jeffrey said that if the Idlib ceasefire falls through , Washington and its allies may target Russia with sanctions , since it would be to blame for any such scenario .
“ So our goal is to inventory here in Brussels with our @ @ @ @ @ @ @ military , the diplomatic , the economic , the sanctions , and the media and outreach steps we can take to encourage Russia and Syria not to do what we think they want to do , which is to break the ceasefire , push these 3 million refugees across the border , but rather to think twice .
If they ignore our warnings , if they ignore our preparations and move forward , we will then react as rapidly as possible in consultation with our European and NATO allies on what the package @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ” Thus , the US is actively working to undermine the deal , and at the same time says that if the deal fails , Russia would be to blame and would be sanctioned for it .
It should be reminded that on December 17th , 2019 , US Senate lawmakers , in a bipartisan vote , approved a $ 738 billion Pentagon budget , which included an authorization for punishing new sanctions on the Syrian government .
It also included legislation known as the Caesar Syrian Civilian Protection Act of 2019 , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ six months on Syria government officials , military and civilian leaders .
International energy companies seeking to redevelop Syria ’ s oil sector could be a target as well as any company that provides parts for aircraft , including helicopters .
Even entities that loan money to the Syrian government could be sanctioned .
On March 17th , Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan also held a teleconference with German Chancellor Angela Merkel , French President Emmanuel Macron and British Prime Minister Boris Johnson .
The four discussed various topics , and notably actions @ @ @ @ @ @ @ discussed .
“ We found opportunity to extensively evaluate many topics ranging from fight against coronavirus and the humanitarian situation in [ Syria ’ s ] Idlib , to solutions to Syria crisis , matter of asylum seekers and Turkey-EU relations at the summit , ” Erdogan said on Twitter following the summit .
“ In this difficult process that we pass through at the regional and global level , we will operate diplomacy and cooperation mechanisms more actively , and we will resolutely continue our efforts to resolve problems as soon as @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ON THE TOPIC : • U.S. Increases Pressure On Russia Amid Chaos On Energy Markets • Militants In Idlib Are Not Complying With The Ceasefire : Russian Foreign Ministry • Idlib Ceasefire Appears To Hold As Russian-Turkish Joint Patrols Edge Near • In Video : Idliba Militant Group Dug Giant Trench Across M4 Highway To Sabotage Russian-Turkish Patrols

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On March 17th, US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo gave remarks to the press, and expressed Washington’s desire to undermine the Idlib ceasefire, agreed between Russia and Turkey.
“Additionally, we believe Russia has killed dozens of Turkish military personnel in the course of their military operations, and we stand with our NATO ally Turkey and will continue to consider additional measures to support Turkey and to end the violence in Idlib and in Syria more broadly.”
Thus, he alleged that Russia itself killed “dozens of Turkish soldiers”
Earlier in the day, Syrian Defense Minister Lieutenant General Ali Abdullah Ayoub was sanctioned by the US, for “perpetuating the violence and the disastrous humanitarian crisis inside of Syria. His deliberate actions since December of 2019 have prevented a ceasefire from taking hold inside of Syria. The obstruction resulted in the displacement of almost a million people in dire need of humanitarian aid in the midst of a cold winter in Idlib.”
Of course, the “bloody Assad regime” is, also, not the only one to blame – since plenty of guilt lies in its enablers – Russia and Iran.
“The Assad regime’s forces, backed by Russia and Iranian-supported forces, have been responsible for the continued bombardments that destroyed schools and hospitals and killed civilians, including medical professionals and first responders who were risking their lives to save others inside of Syria.”
Ayoub has been added to the department’s Specially Designated Nationals and Blocked Person List and any of his assets subject to U.S. jurisdiction have been frozen. Americans are now generally prohibited from conducting business with him.
Earlier, United States Special Representative for Syria James Jeffrey said that if the Idlib ceasefire falls through, Washington and its allies may target Russia with sanctions, since it would be to blame for any such scenario.
“So our goal is to inventory here in Brussels with our European and NATO colleagues what are the military, the diplomatic, the economic, the sanctions, and the media and outreach steps we can take to encourage Russia and Syria not to do what we think they want to do, which is to break the ceasefire, push these 3 million refugees across the border, but rather to think twice. If they ignore our warnings, if they ignore our preparations and move forward, we will then react as rapidly as possible in consultation with our European and NATO allies on what the package of sanctions and other reactions will be.”
Thus, the US is actively working to undermine the deal, and at the same time says that if the deal fails, Russia would be to blame and would be sanctioned for it.
It should be reminded that on December 17th, 2019, US Senate lawmakers, in a bipartisan vote, approved a $738 billion Pentagon budget, which included an authorization for punishing new sanctions on the Syrian government.
It also included legislation known as the Caesar Syrian Civilian Protection Act of 2019, the bill includes legislation authorizing sanctions within six months on Syria government officials, military and civilian leaders.
International energy companies seeking to redevelop Syria’s oil sector could be a target as well as any company that provides parts for aircraft, including helicopters. Even entities that loan money to the Syrian government could be sanctioned.
On March 17th, Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan also held a teleconference with German Chancellor Angela Merkel, French President Emmanuel Macron and British Prime Minister Boris Johnson.
The four discussed various topics, and notably actions against the COVID-19 and Idlib was also discussed.
“We found opportunity to extensively evaluate many topics ranging from fight against coronavirus and the humanitarian situation in [Syria’s] Idlib, to solutions to Syria crisis, matter of asylum seekers and Turkey-EU relations at the summit,” Erdogan said on Twitter following the summit. “In this difficult process that we pass through at the regional and global level, we will operate diplomacy and cooperation mechanisms more actively, and we will resolutely continue our efforts to resolve problems as soon as possible,” he added.
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southfront--2020-03-18--Rocket Strike Hits Close To U.S. Embassy In Baghdad’s Green Zone

On March 17th , at least three rockets struck Baghdad ’ s Green Zone , near the US Embassy .
It came one day after an attack on the Besmaya training base south of the capital , where US-led coalition troops and NATO trainers were present , Iraqi security officials said .
Myles Caggins , a spokesman for the US-led coalition , said the rockets fell at least 2km ( 1.2 miles ) from the embassy .
There were reports that a strike also struck camp Taji .
Caggins denied the reports .
Camp Taji was attacked twice in a @ @ @ @ @ @ @ rocket attack killed 3 US marines and a British army nurse .
It prompted American airstrikes on March 13th against what U.S. officials said were mainly weapons facilities belonging to Kata ’ ib Hezbollah , the Iran-backed militia group believed to be responsible .
On the next day , another attack struck camp Taji , wounding 3 US soldiers .
The U.S.-led coalition said at least 25 107mm rockets struck Camp Taji .
Some struck the area where coalition forces are based , while others fell on air defense units , the Iraqi @ @ @ @ @ @ @ five people were wounded in the attack , including three coalition members and two Iraqi soldiers , according to spokesman for the U.S.-led coalition Myles Caggins .
A statement from Iraq ’ s military said the “ brutal aggression ” wounded a number of air defense personnel who remain in critical condition , but did not provide a number .
Jonathan Hoffman , chief Pentagon spokesman , confirmed that three U.S. service members were wounded in the Camp Taji attack .
Two of them were seriously wounded and are hospitalized .
Hoffman also @ @ @ @ @ @ @ s comments , saying , “ You can not attack and wound American service members and get away with it .
We will hold them accountable.
” The March 14th attack was unusual because it occurred during the day .
Previous assaults on military bases housing U.S. troops typically occurred at night .
In total , four attacks have taken place within a week , with the 2 of them being on camp Taji , one on Besmaya , and now on the Green Zone in Baghdad .
The US blamed the attacks @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Hezbollah militia , part of the Popular Mobilization Units that are officially under leadership of the Iraqi military .
No explanation has been forthcoming as to why an Iraqi militia – even one supported by Iran – would be using such outdated weaponry when the Iraqi military was until very recently equipped with US arms , or why it would strike a coalition base housing Iraqi troops .
Meanwhile , a new group – Ausbat al-Thaayirin , who claimed responsibility for the March 11th attack that killed 3 US marines and a British @ @ @ @ @ @ @ attacks , unleashing more than 160 individual rockets , have hit US bases in Iraq since October 2019 .
And the US reportedly plans to withdraw its troops from several positions in Iraq – Qayara Airfield West and Kirkuk .
Qayara was the base used in the US-backed operation to take back Mosul from IS .
Both bases have been hit by rocket attacks in recent months .
A US contractor was killed in a rocket attack at Kirkuk on December 28th .
MORE ON THE TOPIC : • Rocket Strike On Yet @ @ @ @ @ @ @ U.S .
Forces Closing Some Bases In Iraq Following Rocket Attacks On Camp Taji

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On March 17th, at least three rockets struck Baghdad’s Green Zone, near the US Embassy.
It came one day after an attack on the Besmaya training base south of the capital, where US-led coalition troops and NATO trainers were present, Iraqi security officials said.
Myles Caggins, a spokesman for the US-led coalition, said the rockets fell at least 2km (1.2 miles) from the embassy.
The rockets struck the al-Jadriya neighborhood.
سقوط صاروخين نوع كاتيوشا انطلقا من منطقة عرب جبور باتجاه منطقة الجادرية أحدهما سقط على بناية متروكة قرب هيئة الحج والعمرة والاخر سقط في نهر دجلة، دون خسائر تذكر . pic.twitter.com/NHaPxKpot6 — خلية الإعلام الأمني?? (@SecMedCell) March 17, 2020
There were reports that a strike also struck camp Taji. Caggins denied the reports.
As of 11pm (Baghdad Time), no rockets were fired at Camp Taji. In Baghdad no explosions occurred near US/Coalition facilities. ? لحد الساعة11 مساء (بتوقيت بغداد) ، لم تطلق صواريخ على معسكر التاجي. كما لم تحدث انفجارات في بغداد بالقرب من منشآت أمريكية / تابعة لقوات التحالف. — OIR Spokesman Col. Myles B. Caggins III (@OIRSpox) March 17, 2020
Camp Taji was attacked twice in a week. On March 11th, a rocket attack killed 3 US marines and a British army nurse.
It prompted American airstrikes on March 13th against what U.S. officials said were mainly weapons facilities belonging to Kata’ib Hezbollah, the Iran-backed militia group believed to be responsible.
On the next day, another attack struck camp Taji, wounding 3 US soldiers. The U.S.-led coalition said at least 25 107mm rockets struck Camp Taji. Some struck the area where coalition forces are based, while others fell on air defense units, the Iraqi military statement said.
In total, five people were wounded in the attack, including three coalition members and two Iraqi soldiers, according to spokesman for the U.S.-led coalition Myles Caggins.
A statement from Iraq’s military said the “brutal aggression” wounded a number of air defense personnel who remain in critical condition, but did not provide a number.
Jonathan Hoffman, chief Pentagon spokesman, confirmed that three U.S. service members were wounded in the Camp Taji attack. Two of them were seriously wounded and are hospitalized.
Hoffman also repeated US Defense Secretary Mark Esper’s comments, saying, “You cannot attack and wound American service members and get away with it. We will hold them accountable.”
The March 14th attack was unusual because it occurred during the day. Previous assaults on military bases housing U.S. troops typically occurred at night.
In total, four attacks have taken place within a week, with the 2 of them being on camp Taji, one on Besmaya, and now on the Green Zone in Baghdad.
The US blamed the attacks on Iraq’s Kata’ib Hezbollah militia, part of the Popular Mobilization Units that are officially under leadership of the Iraqi military.
No explanation has been forthcoming as to why an Iraqi militia – even one supported by Iran – would be using such outdated weaponry when the Iraqi military was until very recently equipped with US arms, or why it would strike a coalition base housing Iraqi troops.
Meanwhile, a new group – Ausbat al-Thaayirin, who claimed responsibility for the March 11th attack that killed 3 US marines and a British military nurse.
At least 25 rocket attacks, unleashing more than 160 individual rockets, have hit US bases in Iraq since October 2019.
And the US reportedly plans to withdraw its troops from several positions in Iraq – Qayara Airfield West and Kirkuk.
Qayara was the base used in the US-backed operation to take back Mosul from IS. Both bases have been hit by rocket attacks in recent months. A US contractor was killed in a rocket attack at Kirkuk on December 28th.
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southfront--2020-03-18--US Forces Are Withdrawing From Al-Qaim Base On Syrian-Iraqi Border

US forces are withdrawing from al-Qaim , on the Syrian-Iraqi border , and two other key military bases in Iraq @ @ @ @ @ Therefore , the US military will leave 3 of its 8 official bases in the @ @ @ @ @ do so was announced on March 16 under a pretext of the ‘ success ’ @ @ @ @ @ .
However , in fact , it followed a recent increase of rocket attacks on @ @ @ @ @ Al-Qaim is located on the highway between the Iraqi capital of Baghdad and the Syrian @ @ @ @ @ The town of al-Bukamal , which Israeli and US media often label as a stronghold @ @ @ @ @ located on the Syrian side of the border .
Therefore , the US military just @ @ @ @ @ cut off the land link between Syria and Iraq thus preventing a free movement of @ @ @ @ @ suppleis from one country to another .
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US forces are withdrawing from al-Qaim, on the Syrian-Iraqi border, and two other key military bases in Iraq in the coming weeks. Therefore, the US military will leave 3 of its 8 official bases in the country.
The decision to do so was announced on March 16 under a pretext of the ‘success’ in the fight against ISIS. However, in fact, it followed a recent increase of rocket attacks on US facilities across Iraq.
Today, the @coalition transferred Al Qa'im base to #ISF Because of ?? success in the fight against ISIS, in conjunction with partner forces and the Government of Iraq, CJTF-OIR will relocate and consolidate personnel and equipment from several Iraqi bases throughout 2020. pic.twitter.com/FO754mO5yx — Inherent Resolve (@CJTFOIR) March 17, 2020
Al-Qaim is located on the highway between the Iraqi capital of Baghdad and the Syrian city of Deir Ezzor. The town of al-Bukamal, which Israeli and US media often label as a stronghold of Iranian-backed forces, is located on the Syrian side of the border. Therefore, the US military just officially abandoned its attempts to cut off the land link between Syria and Iraq thus preventing a free movement of troops, weapons and other suppleis from one country to another.
The US and the international coalition pull out of al Qaim base near the Iraq-Syria border. pic.twitter.com/MGvEv6Y1oX — Mahyar (@Mahyar01674117) March 17, 2020
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southfront--2020-03-18--Authorities Deny Reports That Moscow Will Be Put On Full Lock-Down Over Coronavirus Threat

On March 17 , local authorities denied reprots that Moscow will be soon put on a full lockdown over the @ @ @ @ @ coronavirus .
Earlier , Russian opposition media reproted that authorities were working on a plan @ @ @ @ @ in the capital .
Reports claimed that the condition for taking such measures is a @ @ @ @ @ increase in the number of coronavirus cases by March 20 .
While Russia remains among @ @ @ @ @ by the coronavirus spread , the media hysteria and the intensity of anti-epidemic measures seem @ @ @ @ @ of a constant growth .
These developments are taking place amid the slow down of @ @ @ @ @ dramatically falling oil prices and the ongoing constituional reform initiated by President Vladimir Putin .
@ @ @ @ @ changes is set to take place in April .
Some Russian sources claim that authorities @ @ @ @ @ to increase securiy measures and prevent expected provocations ahead of the referendum .
MORE ON @ @ @

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On March 17, local authorities denied reprots that Moscow will be soon put on a full lockdown over the situation with the outbreak of coronavirus.
Earlier, Russian opposition media reproted that authorities were working on a plan to introduce a strict quarantine in the capital. Reports claimed that the condition for taking such measures is a supposedly expected “critical” increase in the number of coronavirus cases by March 20.
While Russia remains among the countries mostly not affected by the coronavirus spread, the media hysteria and the intensity of anti-epidemic measures seem to be in the state of a constant growth.
These developments are taking place amid the slow down of the Russian economy over the dramatically falling oil prices and the ongoing constituional reform initiated by President Vladimir Putin. The referendum on the constitutional changes is set to take place in April. Some Russian sources claim that authorities are using the coronavirus crisis to increase securiy measures and prevent expected provocations ahead of the referendum.
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southfront--2020-03-18--Houthis Showcase Their Gains In Capital Of Yemen’s Al-Jawf Province (Video, Photos)

That is quite possible as most of Yemen ’ s population now hate the Saudis and the corrupt Emiratis and @ @ @ @ @ lines and Sunnis and Shia in Yemen were the most integrated in the Arab world @ @ @ @ @ and tribal .
The Ansarallah are now liberating regions that are mostly Sunni and with @ @ @ @ @ new liberated Yemen will be a model for rest of the Arab world and that @ @ @ @ @ Zionists are scared off and getting increasingly militarily involved there .

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The Houthis (Ansar Allah) have released a video and photos from the city of Al Hazm, the capital of Yemen’s al-Jawf province. They have recently recaptured the city from Saudi-backed forces and are now developing momentum in the northern Yemeni region.
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southfront--2020-03-18--Estonia Mobilizes Radicals From Paramilitary Formations Under Pretext Of Coronavirus Threat

Members of the Estonian Defense League ( Kaitseliit ) officailly joined the Police and Border Guard Board on the border of Estonia .
On March 17 , President Kersti Kaljulaid permitted the Minister of the Interior to include up to 150 Kaitseliit members to ‘ border control ’ efforts .
According to the government , the paramilitary group ’ s duties will be primarily to support the Border Guard Board at the southern border , where border crossing have been closed .
The formal reason for the move is a growing threat from the coronavirus outbreak .
The Estonian Defense @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the basis of radical nationalist view .
A notable part of its modern ideology of ‘ combating the Russian threat ’ in 1990 .
During the World War 2 , the Estonian Defense League ( the previous reincarnation of the organization ) proven themselves as useful and loyal supporters of Nazi Germany .
They were actively joining Nazi-formed Omakaitse to partcipate in operations against the Red Army and local population resisting to the Nazi occupation .
The modern variant of the Estonian Defense League is headed by Riho Uhtegi .
He ’ s @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Operations Force and well known for his radical nationalist and anti-Russian views .
It also should be noted that over the past years , the nationalist propaganda and the propaganda of Kaitseliit have been on the rise in Estonia .
If these ‘ defenders of democracy ’ deploy on the border with Russia , it ’ s easy to expect provocations ( planned or not planned ) by Kaitseliit members .
Taking into account that Estonia has territorial claims to Russia , this situation may lead to a rapid growth of tensions between @ @ @ @ @ @ @ TOPIC :

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Members of the Estonian Defense League (Kaitseliit) officailly joined the Police and Border Guard Board on the border of Estonia. On March 17, President Kersti Kaljulaid permitted the Minister of the Interior to include up to 150 Kaitseliit members to ‘border control’ efforts.
According to the government, the paramilitary group’s duties will be primarily to support the Border Guard Board at the southern border, where border crossing have been closed. The formal reason for the move is a growing threat from the coronavirus outbreak.
The Estonian Defense League is a paramilitary group recreated on the basis of radical nationalist view. A notable part of its modern ideology of ‘combating the Russian threat’ in 1990. During the World War 2, the Estonian Defense League (the previous reincarnation of the organization) proven themselves as useful and loyal supporters of Nazi Germany. They were actively joining Nazi-formed Omakaitse to partcipate in operations against the Red Army and local population resisting to the Nazi occupation.
The modern variant of the Estonian Defense League is headed by Riho Uhtegi. He’s the former commander of the Estonian Special Operations Force and well known for his radical nationalist and anti-Russian views.
It also should be noted that over the past years, the nationalist propaganda and the propaganda of Kaitseliit have been on the rise in Estonia. If these ‘defenders of democracy’ deploy on the border with Russia, it’s easy to expect provocations (planned or not planned) by Kaitseliit members. Taking into account that Estonia has territorial claims to Russia, this situation may lead to a rapid growth of tensions between the two countries.
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southfront--2020-03-18--U.S. Evacuates ‘Smaller’ Bases In Iraq Amid Increasing Rocket Attacks On Its Forces

The Russian-Turkish de-escalation agreement on Idlib is once again shrinking due to actions of Turkish proxies and its allies .
The security zone along the M4 has not been created and the Russian-Turkish patrols initiative turned to be a formality because any such patrols that would enter the militant-held area will immediately become a target of terrorist attacks .
While mainstream media outlets prefer to report about some ‘ moderate protesters ’ blocking the M4 highway , in fact , most of the persons involved are directly or indirectly linked to radical organizations operating in Idlib .
On March 16 @ @ @ @ @ @ @ that large Idlib armed groups refuse to recognize the de-escalation agreement and use the ceasefire to rearm and resupply their forces preparing for offensive operations in the region .
The Russian side noted that there are many former ISIS members in the ranks of Idlib radicals and emphasized that Hayat Tahrir al-Sham and similar groups still receive foreign support .
It is hard to imagine how it would be possible to neutralize these factions without another military operation in the region .
Despite this , the ceasefire still mostly remains in place along @ @ @ @ @ @ @ opted to leave some of its smaller bases in Iraq following the recent series of rocket attacks on its forces .
According to the US military , troops will be redeployed to larger facilities , and this will not affect the military mission in the country .
The official explanation claims that the reason is the ‘ success ’ in the fight against ISIS , but recent casualties from two attacks on Camp Taji seem to be a more realistic version .
A new Iraqi armed group , Ausbat al-Thaayirin , already claimed @ @ @ @ @ @ @ that killed three US-led coalition personnel .
The group said that the attacks were delivered in response to the US assassination of Deputy-Commander of the Iraqi Popular Mobilization Units Abu Mahdi al-Muhandis and Commander of the Iranian Quds Force Maj. Gen. Qassam Soleimani .
It also vowed to continue military actions against US forces .
Earlier , Kata ’ ib Hezbollah declared its full support to such attacks , but rejected responsibility for the recent rocket strikes on Camp Taji .
Kataib Hezbollah is a part of the Popular Mobilization Units , an @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
The US considers Kataib Hezbollah to be a terrorist organization .
With the start of the ceasefire in Idlib , the main point of tensions in the region is moving from Syria to Iraq .
Over the past year , the country has become a battleground of the standoff between the US-Israeli-led block and Iranian-led forces .
Since the start of 2020 , the standoff has become especially acute and it does not seem to be moving towards de-escalation .

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The Russian-Turkish de-escalation agreement on Idlib is once again shrinking due to actions of Turkish proxies and its allies. The security zone along the M4 has not been created and the Russian-Turkish patrols initiative turned to be a formality because any such patrols that would enter the militant-held area will immediately become a target of terrorist attacks.
While mainstream media outlets prefer to report about some ‘moderate protesters’ blocking the M4 highway, in fact, most of the persons involved are directly or indirectly linked to radical organizations operating in Idlib.
On March 16, the Russian Foreign Ministry officially declared that large Idlib armed groups refuse to recognize the de-escalation agreement and use the ceasefire to rearm and resupply their forces preparing for offensive operations in the region. The Russian side noted that there are many former ISIS members in the ranks of Idlib radicals and emphasized that Hayat Tahrir al-Sham and similar groups still receive foreign support.
It is hard to imagine how it would be possible to neutralize these factions without another military operation in the region. Despite this, the ceasefire still mostly remains in place along the frontline.
The US-led coalition has opted to leave some of its smaller bases in Iraq following the recent series of rocket attacks on its forces. According to the US military, troops will be redeployed to larger facilities, and this will not affect the military mission in the country. The official explanation claims that the reason is the ‘success’ in the fight against ISIS, but recent casualties from two attacks on Camp Taji seem to be a more realistic version.
A new Iraqi armed group, Ausbat al-Thaayirin, already claimed responsibility for the March 11 rocket attack that killed three US-led coalition personnel. The group said that the attacks were delivered in response to the US assassination of Deputy-Commander of the Iraqi Popular Mobilization Units Abu Mahdi al-Muhandis and Commander of the Iranian Quds Force Maj. Gen. Qassam Soleimani. It also vowed to continue military actions against US forces.
Earlier, Kata’ib Hezbollah declared its full support to such attacks, but rejected responsibility for the recent rocket strikes on Camp Taji. Kataib Hezbollah is a part of the Popular Mobilization Units, an official branch of the Iraqi Armed Forces. The US considers Kataib Hezbollah to be a terrorist organization.
With the start of the ceasefire in Idlib, the main point of tensions in the region is moving from Syria to Iraq. Over the past year, the country has become a battleground of the standoff between the US-Israeli-led block and Iranian-led forces. Since the start of 2020, the standoff has become especially acute and it does not seem to be moving towards de-escalation.
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southfront--2020-03-18--Ka-31 Airborne Early Warning Helicopter (Infographics)

Crews of The Russian Navy ’ s Black Sea Fleet have started training to fly Kamov Ka-31R airborne early warning and control helicopters .
“ As part of the training of crews to control the Ka-31R , the pilot-instructor conducts training flights together with the trainees at the first stage – at the helm , and then on the Navigator ’ s seat , giving the trainee the opportunity to acquire independent piloting skills .
During the flights , helicopter pilots practice taxiing , takeoff , helicopter control , use of radar , and landing of the Ka-31R .
The @ @ @ @ @ @ @ be performing training flights with takeoffs and landings on the helicopter deck of a ship performing tasks at sea , both anchored and on the move .
Due to the significant differences between the Ka-31R and Ka-27 and Ka-29 , the Black Sea Fleet has developed a program for retraining existing crews of naval aviation helicopters for a new type of aircraft , and training activity for pilots is included in the fleet ’ s combat training plan .
In addition to the flight crew , the new equipment is also mastered by @ @ @ @ @ @ @ training of the helicopter before departure , ” the Russian Defense Ministry said in a statement on its website .

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Crews of The Russian Navy’s Black Sea Fleet have started training to fly Kamov Ka-31R airborne early warning and control helicopters.
“As part of the training of crews to control the Ka-31R, the pilot-instructor conducts training flights together with the trainees at the first stage – at the helm, and then on the Navigator’s seat, giving the trainee the opportunity to acquire independent piloting skills.
During the flights, helicopter pilots practice taxiing, takeoff, helicopter control, use of radar, and landing of the Ka-31R.
The next stage of flight crew training will be performing training flights with takeoffs and landings on the helicopter deck of a ship performing tasks at sea, both anchored and on the move.
Due to the significant differences between the Ka-31R and Ka-27 and Ka-29, the Black Sea Fleet has developed a program for retraining existing crews of naval aviation helicopters for a new type of aircraft, and training activity for pilots is included in the fleet’s combat training plan.
In addition to the flight crew, the new equipment is also mastered by the technical staff, which conducts pre-flight training of the helicopter before departure,” the Russian Defense Ministry said in a statement on its website.


southfront--2020-03-18--Turkish-backed Militants Protest In Tell Abyad Because Of Salary Delays (Video)

Turkish-backed miltiants have been protesting in the area of Tell Abyad , northern Syria , because of a regular salary @ @ @ @ @ believes that Turkish-backed ‘ moderate rebels ’ are motivated by the ideology of democracy ( @ @ @ @ @ , there is an inside into the real situation on the ground .
In 2019 @ @ @ @ @ times in the Turkish-occupied part of Aleppo province .
However , the situation there was @ @ @ @ @ Aleppo province allows Turkish proxies to participate in a variety of criminal activities ( weapon @ @ @ @ @ ) .
So , they have a constant source of income .
At the same @ @ @ @ @ Tell Abyad face apparent difficulties with such things because there is little to loot and @ @ @ @ @ The situation is so tense that the Turkish Army has been forced to intervene in @ @ @ @ @ escalation .
MORE ON THE TOPIC : • New Syrian Army Offensive In Idlib Becoming @ @ @ @ @ Turkish-Russian Patrols

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Turkish-backed miltiants have been protesting in the area of Tell Abyad, northern Syria, because of a regular salary delays. If somebody still believes that Turkish-backed ‘moderate rebels’ are motivated by the ideology of democracy (or at least Neo-Ottomanism), there is an inside into the real situation on the ground.
Groups of Turkish-backed factions continue their strike in Tal Abyad city because of the delay in paying their salaries and lack of leave entitlements. pic.twitter.com/YP7hw5LM01 — VdC-NsY Northeastern Syria (@vdcnsy) March 17, 2020
In 2019, similar protests erupted several times in the Turkish-occupied part of Aleppo province. However, the situation there was de-escalated because the deployment in Aleppo province allows Turkish proxies to participate in a variety of criminal activities (weapon, drug and oil smuggling). So, they have a constant source of income.
At the same time, Turkish-backed forces in Tell Abyad face apparent difficulties with such things because there is little to loot and smuggle in the area. The situation is so tense that the Turkish Army has been forced to intervene in order to prevent a further escalation.
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southfront--2020-03-18--Russia’s Defense Companies Predominantly Use Counterfeit Materials: Russian Prosecutor General

Yeah , the problem is unversial , witch means it incl Russia , and not a surprice at all .
Some things first , quality control , a word that means jack shit , I know about that because I have been there and worked with that my self , in various ways , but the main thing is , QC dont work , because its confined to the QC system localy , and with that , the QC system can with ease be manipulated , faked and/or even lied about , the system depends on been honest , implimenting @ @ @ @ @ @ @ honest , with out it the QC simply are not working .
The second , usualy the workers are either pushed hard thru work hours , limited time to conduct the QC or its been ordered to be neglected/covered up , its to often an combo of this two above mentioned causes .
They can wave an pice of paper and drool something about what QC system they have , this changes nothing , it stil requires an personel that can do the job , because faking this papers are way to easy @ @ @ @ @ @ @ it , like saying something about , ups….. we are truuuly sorry and will have to look and rewise the system , since it have been riddleled with flaws , the same lame exuse medical systems use when they kill an patient , again , sorry we will go thru the procedyres , we swear , this will not happen again it was the procedyres , like blaming Santa claus for the cockup and not the people in charge , witch means the top of the chain/corp .
The truth is , QC @ @ @ @ @ @ @ people who is implementing this QCs , corruption from welders to the head of the company , is not something new , its sometimes something they all know about , ordering lower quality steel to put the excess in their own pockets is the “ law of the nature ” .
Cracks are ignored due to loos of time because it means they have to do the job over again , and then comes the head and says that is not going to happen and both parts knows that the best way to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , etc , etc .
I think you get the drift , and again , the QC isnt better than the people doing it , just take Boeing as an briliant ex .
on the same , an systemic corruption that everybody knew about , because it pays to go with the flow or you simply are kicked out of the job , unless you do something about That , nothing will change , do you get it , the wistle blowers needs protection , otherwise you can kiss the entire system good @ @ @ @ @ @ @ another briliant ex .
on faking papers for decades , the reason some cars rust so fast you can place your ears to the car body and hear it rust , like ants in the wall , and I am not even exagerating , shit in , shit out .
Solution , dragg the f… .
in charge and shoot them in the neck and dump their bodys in the ditch , and tell the next one coming that if this corrution dont change , you will wack em all .
But you @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , etc are better protected , otherwise the corruption will never end , since the QC system must be baked into the work , when they aply for the prodjects , etc , if they dont , then the QC is wurthless , this dont only confins to Russia , its everywhere , incl Chines cheep shit .
Belive me , nothing else works , and to make it better is not easy , but that requres much strickter control .

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Russian companies in the military-industrial complex are predominantly using counterfeit materials and components, according to the Russian Prosecutor General Igor Krasnov.
“Of particular concern is the massive use by the defense industry enterprises of counterfeit materials and components. Given the strategic nature of this problem, it is necessary to bring all the planned supervisory measures to a logical end,” said the prosecutor general at an extended board of the supervisory agency on March 17th.
According to him, “the legal situation dictates the need to increase the supervisory component in strengthening financial discipline, reducing the debt of the defense industry enterprises on unfulfilled obligations and improving the quality of military products.”
At the same time, Krasnov noted that over the past year, military prosecutors have identified more than 44,000 violations of the law in the field of the military-industrial complex.
He emphasized at the same time that “prosecutors in this area ensured the legality of spending budget funds allocated for defense orders and the creation of new types of military equipment.”
The prosecutor general added that in cooperation with the tax authorities, prosecutors should seek to clear the sphere of state defense orders from “one-day companies”.
He also instructed the military prosecutors to enforce the laws of the military acceptance bodies of the Ministry of Defense and their proper organization of control over the execution of work on state defense orders.
It appears that the Russian authorities are somewhat capable in detecting the crimes, specifically of corruption, after the fact, while they’re not that adept at preventing any such crime.
It should be reminded that just days ago it was reported that a company repaired four nuclear submarines from the Russian Northern Fleet, without having the necessary licenses to do so, and according to the lawsuits against the company’s director and the company itself, all of the funds allocated from the government need to be returned.
The authorities are also not capable in preventing, nor detecting another type of crime – cybercrime. Which is surprising, judging by the constant accusations by the Western establishment that Russia has astoundingly skilled hackers on its payroll that carry out various cyber-attacks.
Separately, Krasnov noted that Russian law enforcement agencies have not yet been able to effectively counter cybercrime. According to him, only 9% of such crimes are revealed.
Earlier, Russian President Vladimir Putin, speaking at the Prosecutor General’s Office, instructed the supervisor to work together with the Ministry of Internal Affairs and other interested bodies to evaluate the effectiveness of measures to combat cybercrime, and also to develop a system to reduce the number of such crimes.
In addition, Putin called on the Prosecutor General to increase efficiency in ensuring the rights and freedoms of citizens. The department should identify and suppress any offenses, the head of state noted.
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southfront--2020-03-18--In Photos: Heavily Armed Turkish ‘Observation’ Post In Northwest Hama Is Surrounded By Syrian Army

The “ observation ” post , located near the town of Shir Mughar , is currently besieged by the Syrian Arab Army ( SAA ) .
The photos , likely taken by a Russian drone , show several battle tanks , armored vehicles and self-propelled howitzers inside the post .
These posts , which were originally established to observe ceasefire violations in Greater Idlib , became heavily armed military positions in the last few months .
From its “ observation ” posts , the Turkish military provided Greater Idlib militants , including al-Qaeda-affiliated Hay ’ at Tahrir al-Sham ( HTS @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Dozens of Turkish howitzers and rocket launchers shelled SAA positions from these posts .
The posts also served as a cover for HTS and many other terrorist groups , which positioned their own artillery in nearby areas .
The activities of these “ observation ” posts were not limited to fire support .
In Greater Idlib recent confrontation , Turkish service members launched anti-aircraft missiles from these posts at Russian and Syrian warplanes .
The Turkish military is not only still reinforcing its old “ observation ” posts in Greater Idlib , but @ @ @ @ @ @ @ newest post was established in the morning , near the town of Ram Hamdan in northern Idlib .
This military buildup in Greater Idlib indicates that the Turkish military is preparing for a lasting deployment in the Syrian region as well as for another confrontation with the SAA .
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On March 18, Russian journalist Oleg Blokhin released photos showing a heavily armed Turkish “observation” post in northwestern Hama
The “observation” post, located near the town of Shir Mughar, is currently besieged by the Syrian Arab Army (SAA). The photos, likely taken by a Russian drone, show several battle tanks, armored vehicles and self-propelled howitzers inside the post.
These posts, which were originally established to observe ceasefire violations in Greater Idlib, became heavily armed military positions in the last few months.
From its “observation” posts, the Turkish military provided Greater Idlib militants, including al-Qaeda-affiliated Hay’at Tahrir al-Sham (HTS), with direct fire support. Dozens of Turkish howitzers and rocket launchers shelled SAA positions from these posts.
The posts also served as a cover for HTS and many other terrorist groups, which positioned their own artillery in nearby areas.
The activities of these “observation” posts were not limited to fire support. In Greater Idlib recent confrontation, Turkish service members launched anti-aircraft missiles from these posts at Russian and Syrian warplanes.
The Turkish military is not only still reinforcing its old “observation” posts in Greater Idlib, but also working to establish more. The newest post was established in the morning, near the town of Ram Hamdan in northern Idlib.
This military buildup in Greater Idlib indicates that the Turkish military is preparing for a lasting deployment in the Syrian region as well as for another confrontation with the SAA.
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southfront--2020-03-18--Wreckage Of Turkish Combat Drone Uncovered In Southeast Idlib (Photos)

On March 18 , the Abkhazian Network News Agency ( ANNA ) released photos showing the wreckage of a Turkish unmanned combat aerial vehicle ( UCAV ) that was shot down by the Syrian Arab Air Defense Forces ( SyAADF ) over southeast Idlib last month .
The wreckage was found near Saraqib city , 100 meters away from the area where Russian pilot Maj. Roman Filipov lost his life on February 3 of 2018 .
The pilot blew himself up with a grenade after resisting radical militants , who attempted to capture him .
The militants had shot down @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , with a missile .
The downed Turkish UCAV was a Bayraktar TB2 .
UCAVs of this type provided militants in Greater Idlib with air support during the recent confrontation , inflicting heavy losses on the Syrian Arab Army ( SAA ) .
Despite being effective , many Bayraktar TB2s and even more advanced ANKA UCAVs were shot down by the SyAADF .
The total number of downed Turkish drones is reportedly between 13 and 20 .
Turkey didn ’ t admit all of its losses in Greater Idlib .
Ankara even carried @ @ @ @ @ @ @ s Russian-made air-defense systems .
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On March 18, the Abkhazian Network News Agency (ANNA) released photos showing the wreckage of a Turkish unmanned combat aerial vehicle (UCAV) that was shot down by the Syrian Arab Air Defense Forces (SyAADF) over southeast Idlib last month.
The wreckage was found near Saraqib city, 100 meters away from the area where Russian pilot Maj. Roman Filipov lost his life on February 3 of 2018. The pilot blew himself up with a grenade after resisting radical militants, who attempted to capture him. The militants had shot down Filiposv’s warplane, a Su-25, with a missile.
The downed Turkish UCAV was a Bayraktar TB2. UCAVs of this type provided militants in Greater Idlib with air support during the recent confrontation, inflicting heavy losses on the Syrian Arab Army (SAA).
Despite being effective, many Bayraktar TB2s and even more advanced ANKA UCAVs were shot down by the SyAADF. The total number of downed Turkish drones is reportedly between 13 and 20.
Turkey didn’t admit all of its losses in Greater Idlib. Ankara even carried out a smear campaign against Syria’s Russian-made air-defense systems.
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southfront--2020-03-18--Infamous TOW Operator Survives Assassination Attempt In Idlib City

On March 18 , an infamous tank hunter of Syrian opposition forces survived an assassination attempt in the so-called Greater Idlib region .
The militant , Suheil al-Hammoud , was reportedly returning from a protest in idlib city when he was shot multiple times by an unknown assailant .
According to opposition sources , al-Hammoud sustained an injury in his left leg .
However , he is now recovering .
Al-Hammoud , who is known by his nom de guerre “ Abu Tow , ” is a supposedly the “ best ” TOW anti-tank guided missile ( ATGM ) operator @ @ @ @ @ @ @ more than 100 kills against Syrian government armors , vehicles and even warplanes .
Originally , Abu Tow was a senior commander in the so-called Hazzm Movement , a U.S.-backed group that was active in Idlib and Aleppo .
The group was dissolved in 2015 after a confrontation with the al-Nusra Front , now branded as Hay ’ at Tahrir al-Sham ( HTS ) .
In the last two years , al-Hammoud was arrested at least twice by HTS ’ security forces .
He later fled to Turkish-occupied areas in northern Aleppo , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ fight against the Syrian Arab Army ( SAA ) in the ranks of the Syrian National Army ( SNA ) .
According to some activists , HTS was behind the attempt on al-Hammoud ’ s life .
The assailant was allegedly Abu Omar Binnish , an operative of the terrorist group .
This is yet to be confirmed , however .
Earlier today , a commander of the Turkish-backed Ahrar al-Sham Movement known as Abu Ahmad was assassinated in northwest Greater Idlib .
Some activists also hinted that HTS may have plotted the @ @ @ @ @ @ @

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On March 18, an infamous tank hunter of Syrian opposition forces survived an assassination attempt in the so-called Greater Idlib region.
The militant, Suheil al-Hammoud, was reportedly returning from a protest in idlib city when he was shot multiple times by an unknown assailant. According to opposition sources, al-Hammoud sustained an injury in his left leg. However, he is now recovering.
نجاة رامي صواريخ التاو سهيل الحمود “أبو تاو” من محاولة اغتيال، إثر استهدافه بالرصاص بعد مشاركته في مظاهرة في مدينة ادلب، وإصابته بعدة طلقات في القدم. pic.twitter.com/eKrgu3Ace3 — Mohammed Hassan محمد (@mohamad202054) March 18, 2020
Al-Hammoud, who is known by his nom de guerre “Abu Tow,” is a supposedly the “best” TOW anti-tank guided missile (ATGM) operator in Syria. He alleges to have more than 100 kills against Syrian government armors, vehicles and even warplanes.
Originally, Abu Tow was a senior commander in the so-called Hazzm Movement, a U.S.-backed group that was active in Idlib and Aleppo. The group was dissolved in 2015 after a confrontation with the al-Nusra Front, now branded as Hay’at Tahrir al-Sham (HTS).
In the last two years, al-Hammoud was arrested at least twice by HTS’ security forces. He later fled to Turkish-occupied areas in northern Aleppo, before returning a few months ago to fight against the Syrian Arab Army (SAA) in the ranks of the Syrian National Army (SNA).
According to some activists, HTS was behind the attempt on al-Hammoud’s life. The assailant was allegedly Abu Omar Binnish, an operative of the terrorist group. This is yet to be confirmed, however.
Earlier today, a commander of the Turkish-backed Ahrar al-Sham Movement known as Abu Ahmad was assassinated in northwest Greater Idlib. Some activists also hinted that HTS may have plotted the attack.
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southfront--2020-03-18--Fanatic Jihadists Vow To Behead Russian Soldiers On Syria’s M4 Highway (Video)

A group of fanatic Jihadists have released a video message threatening Russian soldiers if they approach the M4 highway in Greater Idlib .
In the message , that was shared by Syrian activists on March 17 , the Jihadists vow to behead Russian soldiers on the highway as well as in the Syrian capital , Damascus , after “ overthrowing ” the regime .
“ Here we are , the Mujahedeen , from here , from the M4 highway we say to the Turks before the Russians and the Majus [ Iranians ] , here we are steady , waiting @ @ @ @ @ @ @ if they came we will behead them , God willing , ” the commander of the Jihadists says in the video .
The M4 highway , which links the coastal city of Lattakia with Aleppo city , is currently blocked by crowds of opposition supporters and Jihadists .
This sit-in is being promoted as a civil , peaceful protest against the recent Russian-Turkish agreement on Greater Idlib .
However , the truth is very clear in Jihadists ’ message .
Hand by hand , the opposition supporters and Jihadists prevented Russian and Turkish @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the M4 last week .
Reopening the highway is a keystone of the recent agreement on Greater Idlib .
The Jihadists ’ threats are nothing new .
Last week , opposition activists placed a bounty for killing Russian journalists who attempted to cover joint Russian-Turkish patrols on the M4 .
These provocations and threats could sabotage the Russian-Turkish agreement on Greater Idlib .
This would force the Syrian Arab Army ( SAA ) and its allies to resume military operations in the region .
Some sane voices in the opposition are already warning @ @ @ @ @ @ @ TOPIC : • Five Killed In Rare Rocket Attack On Turkish-Occupied Afrin City ( Video )

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A group of fanatic Jihadists have released a video message threatening Russian soldiers if they approach the M4 highway in Greater Idlib.
In the message, that was shared by Syrian activists on March 17, the Jihadists vow to behead Russian soldiers on the highway as well as in the Syrian capital, Damascus, after “overthrowing” the regime.
“Here we are, the Mujahedeen, from here, from the M4 highway we say to the Turks before the Russians and the Majus [Iranians], here we are steady, waiting for the Russians and the Majus, if they came we will behead them, God willing,” the commander of the Jihadists says in the video.
The M4 highway, which links the coastal city of Lattakia with Aleppo city, is currently blocked by crowds of opposition supporters and Jihadists. This sit-in is being promoted as a civil, peaceful protest against the recent Russian-Turkish agreement on Greater Idlib. However, the truth is very clear in Jihadists’ message.
Hand by hand, the opposition supporters and Jihadists prevented Russian and Turkish forces from conducting a joint patrol on the M4 last week. Reopening the highway is a keystone of the recent agreement on Greater Idlib.
The Jihadists’ threats are nothing new. Last week, opposition activists placed a bounty for killing Russian journalists who attempted to cover joint Russian-Turkish patrols on the M4.
These provocations and threats could sabotage the Russian-Turkish agreement on Greater Idlib. This would force the Syrian Arab Army (SAA) and its allies to resume military operations in the region. Some sane voices in the opposition are already warning from such outcome.
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