southfront--2020-06-03--China Taking Advantage Of Low Oil Prices To Boost Strategic Reserves

China has been buying record volumes of Russian oil over the last couple of months , taking advantage of rock bottom prices for Russia ’ s flagship Urals grade combined with a collapse in demand in Europe .
The volumes make for consecutive monthly records of Urals supply to China after they surpassed 1.2 million tonnes in January .
They also provide a lifeline to Russian firms as they struggle to sell oil in Europe because the coronavirus has led to a deep fall in demand .
At the same time , rival Saudi Arabia had been flooding customers with @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Russia .
The deliveries could also indicate China is using the collapse in oil prices to fill its strategic reserves .
Analysts from Wood Mackenzie estimate China ’ s strategic and commercial petroleum reserves could reach 1.15 billion barrels in 2020 , equivalent to 83 days of oil demand , up from 900 million in 2019 and just 200 million barrels in 2014 .
Three traders in the Urals market said China ’ s Unipec purchased some 800,000 tonnes of Urals loading from Baltic ports in the second half of March and some @ @ @ @ @ @ @ April .
The company will load cargoes into supertankers or very large crude carriers ( VLCCs ) at Denmark ’ s Skaw ship-to-ship terminal and send them to China .
Three VLCCs were scheduled to reach China between mid-May and early June , traders said .
Shell also booked a VLCC to ship 300,000 tonnes of Urals to China for loading in the first half of April , two traders said .
Unipec ’ s parent company Sinopec did not respond to a request for comment .
Royal Dutch Shell said it does @ @ @ @ @ @ @ sources , speaking on condition of anonymity , said several other Chinese refiners have also placed requests for Urals .
They declined to name potential buyers because of confidentiality clauses .
Traders said Urals oil became attractive in Asia after European benchmark Brent fell to its widest discount yet to Dubai of more than $ 4.50 per barrel .
Urals is priced off Brent , while competing Middle Eastern grades in Asia tend to be priced off Dubai .
Two traders also said demand for Urals among Chinese refiners was boosted by resilient @ @ @ @ @ @ @ have been hit less than gasoline and jet kerosene .
China ’ s refiners have purchased a quarter of Russia ’ s Urals oil exports planned for June in the Baltic despite record high premiums for the grade due to the OPEC+ output cuts , traders said and shipping data showed .
Future developments will also depend on how oil firms and other major producers respond to the oil cuts by OPEC+ .
Asian refiners have been affected by Saudi Arabia ’ s decision to slash supplies in June , causing them to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of Urals oil loading in the very end of May and during the first half of June will be shipped to China by Unipec ( the trading arm of Sinopec ) and Shell , according to traders and shipping data in Refinitiv Eikon .
Urals loadings from Russia ’ s Baltic ports of Primorsk and Ust-Luga are planned at 4.4 million tonnes of June .
Unipec will load three very large crude carriers ( VLCCs ) of 270,000 tonnes each for loading from Denmark ’ s Skaw port and while Shell will load @ @ @ @ @ @ @ delivery to China .
In June , Urals oil supplies to China will reach a record 2.2 million tonnes per month , Refinitiv Eikon flows data showed .
MORE ON THE TOPIC • China Moving Towards Ending Phase One Trade Deal Is Trade War Back On The Menu • China Trade War Phase One Deal Reached But Key Issues Are Far From Solved

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China has been buying record volumes of Russian oil over the last couple of months, taking advantage of rock bottom prices for Russia’s flagship Urals grade combined with a collapse in demand in Europe.
The volumes make for consecutive monthly records of Urals supply to China after they surpassed 1.2 million tonnes in January.
They also provide a lifeline to Russian firms as they struggle to sell oil in Europe because the coronavirus has led to a deep fall in demand. At the same time, rival Saudi Arabia had been flooding customers with crude in a market share battle with Russia.
The deliveries could also indicate China is using the collapse in oil prices to fill its strategic reserves.
Analysts from Wood Mackenzie estimate China’s strategic and commercial petroleum reserves could reach 1.15 billion barrels in 2020, equivalent to 83 days of oil demand, up from 900 million in 2019 and just 200 million barrels in 2014.
Three traders in the Urals market said China’s Unipec purchased some 800,000 tonnes of Urals loading from Baltic ports in the second half of March and some 500,000 tonnes of Urals loaded in early April.
The company will load cargoes into supertankers or very large crude carriers (VLCCs) at Denmark’s Skaw ship-to-ship terminal and send them to China. Three VLCCs were scheduled to reach China between mid-May and early June, traders said. Shell also booked a VLCC to ship 300,000 tonnes of Urals to China for loading in the first half of April, two traders said.
Unipec’s parent company Sinopec did not respond to a request for comment. Royal Dutch Shell said it does not comment on trading activity.
The sources, speaking on condition of anonymity, said several other Chinese refiners have also placed requests for Urals. They declined to name potential buyers because of confidentiality clauses.
Traders said Urals oil became attractive in Asia after European benchmark Brent fell to its widest discount yet to Dubai of more than $4.50 per barrel. Urals is priced off Brent, while competing Middle Eastern grades in Asia tend to be priced off Dubai.
“It’s a great deal now even if you have to pay a lot for transport,” a trader in the European market said. Urals cargoes loading from Baltic ports are trading at a discount of $3.50-$4.00 per barrel to dated Brent. Urals’ deliveries to China take up to two months and the long journey is economic when forward prices are higher than prompt prices.
Two traders also said demand for Urals among Chinese refiners was boosted by resilient diesel and fuel oil derivatives, which have been hit less than gasoline and jet kerosene.
China’s refiners have purchased a quarter of Russia’s Urals oil exports planned for June in the Baltic despite record high premiums for the grade due to the OPEC+ output cuts, traders said and shipping data showed. Future developments will also depend on how oil firms and other major producers respond to the oil cuts by OPEC+.
Asian refiners have been affected by Saudi Arabia’s decision to slash supplies in June, causing them to seek replacements.
Some 1.1 million tonnes of Urals oil loading in the very end of May and during the first half of June will be shipped to China by Unipec (the trading arm of Sinopec) and Shell, according to traders and shipping data in Refinitiv Eikon.
Urals loadings from Russia’s Baltic ports of Primorsk and Ust-Luga are planned at 4.4 million tonnes of June.
Unipec will load three very large crude carriers (VLCCs) of 270,000 tonnes each for loading from Denmark’s Skaw port and while Shell will load one shipment of the same size for delivery to China.
In June, Urals oil supplies to China will reach a record 2.2 million tonnes per month, Refinitiv Eikon flows data showed.
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southfront--2020-06-03--Russia Releases New Rules For Using Nuclear Weapons In War

Russia has revised its rules for resorting to nuclear weapons in the event of war as part of its military doctrines and rules of engagement , widening the scope of its available strategies as it struggles to get the United States to return to international agreements and treaties limiting the development , deployment and use of nuclear weapons .
The document , recently approved by Russian President Vladimir Putin , outlines four scenarios in which Moscow would order the use of nuclear weapons .
Two of the scenarios are new and involve potential instances of nuclear first-use , something Russia @ @ @ @ @ @ @ protocols permit use when an enemy uses nuclear or other weapons of mass destruction on Russia or its allies , and in situations when conventional weapons “ threaten the very existence of the country.
” The two new provisions include cases in which the government receives “ reliable information ” that a ballistic missile attack is imminent or if enemies damage the nation ’ s critical and military facilities to the degree that the ability to retaliate with nuclear weapons is disrupted .
The document states that containing and deterring aggressions against Russia @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ” Ultimately , Moscow ’ s nuclear weapons policy is described as being “ defensive in nature ” and designed to safeguard the country ’ s sovereignty against potential adversaries .
The United States has remained ambiguous about the tenets of its own thresholds for using nuclear weapons .
The latest Nuclear Posture Review , published in 2018 , stated the country considers using nuclear weapons “ only in extreme cases when it is forced to defend the U.S. or its allies or partners.
” Unlike Russia , however , for many years @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the first use of nuclear weapons in a conflict , and has even threatened to use them against countries which do not have nuclear weapons and have no way of striking US territory .
How many times have we heard warmongering US politicians bleating ferociously , “ All options are on the table !
!
!
” However , a hastily retracted document disclosed last year by the Joint Chiefs of Staff indicated a more potentially broader application for such weapons of mass destruction .
“ Using nuclear weapons could create conditions for @ @ @ @ @ @ @ stability , ” one passage said .
“ Specifically , the use of a nuclear weapon will fundamentally change the scope of a battle and create conditions that affect how commanders will prevail in conflict.
” The White House recently announced its decision to exit the Open Skies Treaty that allows for the mutual passage of spy planes over U.S. and Russian territory , and in August last year also exited the 1987 Intermediate-range Nuclear Forces ( INF ) Treaty banning land-launched missiles with a range of between 310 and 3,420 miles , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ President Donald Trump also appears set to allow a historic treaty limiting and allowing information-sharing mechanisms of the U.S. and Russia ’ s arsenals expire .
The New Strategic Arms Reduction Treaty ( START ) limits Russian and U.S. deployed intercontinental ballistic missiles , submarine-launched ballistic missiles and heavy bombers to 700 each .
Deployed warheads on either side may not exceed 1,550 and deployed and non-deployed launchers were capped at 800 .
The deal , signed in 2010 as the successor to the original START , expires next February and Washington has @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to renew the New Strategic Arms Reduction Treaty ( START ) , the latest and last remaining non-proliferation agreement between two nations once locked in a nuclear-fueled arms race .
The pact mandates the U.S. and Russia maintain limits , mutual verification and inspection regimes and , perhaps most importantly , channels of communication regarding their nuclear stockpiles and its expiration could lead the pair to once again enter into a dangerous cycle of amassing new , more powerful weapons of war .
The first START was signed in 1991 by U.S. President @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Gorbachev .
It was later followed by the Strategic Offensive Reductions Treaty ( SORT ) in 2003 and New START in 2011 .
All these agreements are designed to restrict the number of warheads and launchers both Washington and Moscow can possess .
As of their last exchange last September , the U.S. possesses 668 deployed intercontinental ballistic missiles ( ICBMs ) , submarine-launched ballistic missiles ( SLBMs ) and heavy bombers and Russia has 513 such deployed platforms out of a limit of 700 .
The introduction of multiple independently targetable reentry @ @ @ @ @ @ @ nuclear-capable missile may carry a number of warheads .
As a result , New START also restricts the number of deployed warheads to 1,550 , with the U.S. currently deploying 1,376 and Russia deploying 1,426 .
Finally , the U.S. meets the cap of deployed and non-deployed launchers of ICBMs , SLBMs and heavy bombers exactly at 800 , while Russia maintains 757 .
Instead , the White House has sought a new agreement involving new , more advanced weapons platforms including highly-maneuverable , hypersonic missiles , as well as other countries , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to subject its much smaller arsenal to such restrictions .
The State Department reiterated this offer for a trilateral arms arrangement on the 50th anniversary of the Non-Proliferation Treaty , but Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson Zhao Lijian rejected it .
Beijing , which has significantly less nuclear warheads than Moscow and Washington , seeks multilateral cooperation , but not limitation .
Russia has also criticized the Trump administration ’ s pursuit and deployment of low-yield nuclear warheads , arguing it may raise the prospects of a nuclear conflict .
At the same time @ @ @ @ @ @ @ its top foe has up to 2,000 such warheads .
Russian Foreign Ministry spokesperson Maria Zakharova on Friday criticized the efforts to revamp the U.S. nuclear warhead arsenal .
Among the weapons being developed and deployed is the W76-2 , a nuclear warhead with lower yields that could make them a more readily-available option in the event of a conflict .
The U.S. and Russia have long accused one another of developing tactical nuclear devices , perhaps less destructive than their larger counterparts but still extremely more powerful than even the most earth-shattering @ @ @ @ @ @ @ in this respect have been used to justify the acknowledged development and deployment of such weapon systems , rather than seeking to negotiate a verification regime to investigate their respective allegations and concerns .
MORE ON THE TOPIC • Apocalypse soon ?
US still scrambling and surging to develop new high tech weapons systems • US Pressures International Criminal Court Prosecutor In Attempt To Sabotage Investigation Of War Crimes In Afghanistan

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Russia has revised its rules for resorting to nuclear weapons in the event of war as part of its military doctrines and rules of engagement, widening the scope of its available strategies as it struggles to get the United States to return to international agreements and treaties limiting the development, deployment and use of nuclear weapons.
The document, recently approved by Russian President Vladimir Putin, outlines four scenarios in which Moscow would order the use of nuclear weapons. Two of the scenarios are new and involve potential instances of nuclear first-use, something Russia had previously categorically rejected.
The established protocols permit use when an enemy uses nuclear or other weapons of mass destruction on Russia or its allies, and in situations when conventional weapons “threaten the very existence of the country.”
The two new provisions include cases in which the government receives “reliable information” that a ballistic missile attack is imminent or if enemies damage the nation’s critical and military facilities to the degree that the ability to retaliate with nuclear weapons is disrupted.
The document states that containing and deterring aggressions against Russia is “among the highest national priorities.” Ultimately, Moscow’s nuclear weapons policy is described as being “defensive in nature” and designed to safeguard the country’s sovereignty against potential adversaries.
The United States has remained ambiguous about the tenets of its own thresholds for using nuclear weapons. The latest Nuclear Posture Review, published in 2018, stated the country considers using nuclear weapons “only in extreme cases when it is forced to defend the U.S. or its allies or partners.” Unlike Russia, however, for many years the US has refused to rule out the first use of nuclear weapons in a conflict, and has even threatened to use them against countries which do not have nuclear weapons and have no way of striking US territory. How many times have we heard warmongering US politicians bleating ferociously, “All options are on the table!!!”
However, a hastily retracted document disclosed last year by the Joint Chiefs of Staff indicated a more potentially broader application for such weapons of mass destruction. “Using nuclear weapons could create conditions for decisive results and the restoration of strategic stability,” one passage said. “Specifically, the use of a nuclear weapon will fundamentally change the scope of a battle and create conditions that affect how commanders will prevail in conflict.”
The White House recently announced its decision to exit the Open Skies Treaty that allows for the mutual passage of spy planes over U.S. and Russian territory, and in August last year also exited the 1987 Intermediate-range Nuclear Forces (INF) Treaty banning land-launched missiles with a range of between 310 and 3,420 miles, and has since tested such weapons.
President Donald Trump also appears set to allow a historic treaty limiting and allowing information-sharing mechanisms of the U.S. and Russia’s arsenals expire. The New Strategic Arms Reduction Treaty (START) limits Russian and U.S. deployed intercontinental ballistic missiles, submarine-launched ballistic missiles and heavy bombers to 700 each. Deployed warheads on either side may not exceed 1,550 and deployed and non-deployed launchers were capped at 800.
The deal, signed in 2010 as the successor to the original START, expires next February and Washington has so far rebuffed Moscow’s call to renew the New Strategic Arms Reduction Treaty (START), the latest and last remaining non-proliferation agreement between two nations once locked in a nuclear-fueled arms race. The pact mandates the U.S. and Russia maintain limits, mutual verification and inspection regimes and, perhaps most importantly, channels of communication regarding their nuclear stockpiles and its expiration could lead the pair to once again enter into a dangerous cycle of amassing new, more powerful weapons of war.
The first START was signed in 1991 by U.S. President Ronald Reagan and his Soviet counterpart Mikhail Gorbachev. It was later followed by the Strategic Offensive Reductions Treaty (SORT) in 2003 and New START in 2011. All these agreements are designed to restrict the number of warheads and launchers both Washington and Moscow can possess.
As of their last exchange last September, the U.S. possesses 668 deployed intercontinental ballistic missiles (ICBMs), submarine-launched ballistic missiles (SLBMs) and heavy bombers and Russia has 513 such deployed platforms out of a limit of 700.
The introduction of multiple independently targetable reentry vehicles (MIRVs) means that each nuclear-capable missile may carry a number of warheads. As a result, New START also restricts the number of deployed warheads to 1,550, with the U.S. currently deploying 1,376 and Russia deploying 1,426. Finally, the U.S. meets the cap of deployed and non-deployed launchers of ICBMs, SLBMs and heavy bombers exactly at 800, while Russia maintains 757.
Instead, the White House has sought a new agreement involving new, more advanced weapons platforms including highly-maneuverable, hypersonic missiles, as well as other countries, in particular China, which has declined to subject its much smaller arsenal to such restrictions.
The State Department reiterated this offer for a trilateral arms arrangement on the 50th anniversary of the Non-Proliferation Treaty, but Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson Zhao Lijian rejected it. Beijing, which has significantly less nuclear warheads than Moscow and Washington, seeks multilateral cooperation, but not limitation.
“China has repeatedly reiterated that it has no intention of participating in the so-called trilateral arms control negotiations with the U.S. and Russia. This position is very clear,” Zhao said Friday. “The pressing issue on nuclear disarmament at the moment is for the United States to respond to Russia’s call to extend the New START Treaty, and further downsize its huge nuclear arsenal. This will create conditions for other nuclear weapon states to join multilateral disarmament talks.”
Russia has also criticized the Trump administration’s pursuit and deployment of low-yield nuclear warheads, arguing it may raise the prospects of a nuclear conflict. At the same time, however, the United States estimates its top foe has up to 2,000 such warheads.
Russian Foreign Ministry spokesperson Maria Zakharova on Friday criticized the efforts to revamp the U.S. nuclear warhead arsenal. Among the weapons being developed and deployed is the W76-2, a nuclear warhead with lower yields that could make them a more readily-available option in the event of a conflict.
“We note that Washington is not just modernizing its nuclear forces, but is striving to give them new capabilities, which significantly expands the likelihood of their use… Of particular concern in this regard are U.S. actions to increase the range of low-power assets in its nuclear arsenal, including the development and deployment of such munitions for strategic carriers. This clearly leads to lowering the ‘threshold’ for the use of nuclear weapons.”
The U.S. and Russia have long accused one another of developing tactical nuclear devices, perhaps less destructive than their larger counterparts but still extremely more powerful than even the most earth-shattering conventional munitions. The US’ accusations in this respect have been used to justify the acknowledged development and deployment of such weapon systems, rather than seeking to negotiate a verification regime to investigate their respective allegations and concerns.
Maria Zakharova told reporters in this respect:
“One gets the impression that in Washington they have decided to purposefully consider nuclear conflict as a viable political option and create the corresponding potential for this.” Instead of blaming Russia and China for the US’ unilateral treaty violations: “A much more effective way to ensure national security is to continue the policy of arms control and establish peaceful interaction with other states, to which we again call on the United States.”
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southfront--2020-06-03--How Contemporary Russia Is Governed And By Whom

An indepth look at the recent coronavirus-related political and social developments in Russia by a regular SouthFront reader from Moscow .
The previous article of this series : “ Russia ’ s Covid Game Of Elites The Corona crisis is continuing to develop in Russia , or , rather , in the capital Moscow .
At summer ’ s start it became clear the Russian Corona phenomenon has nothing in common with the SARS-CoV-2 pandemic , and everything to do with the peculiarities of the Russian political system .
European countries and the rest of the world are removing restrictions @ @ @ @ @ @ @ global scientific community has reached consensus on the danger of the virus , its actual lethality , effective methods of treatment .
Only Moscow continues to increase restrictions , taking them to absurd levels .
For example , recently the Mayor of Moscow allowed Muscovites to run at night while wearing masks .
It ’ s not a joke or exaggeration , but rather easily verifiable information .
They are also allowed to leave homes for walks according to strict schedule , not more than 3 times a week and not further than @ @ @ @ @ @ @ masks must be worn everywhere , even when alone in a forest .
The system of penalties has been expanded .
Also , Moscow residents are forbidden to travel across the city by public and private transport without QR codes that look like concentration camp codes .
All of this is openly , and cynically , called an “ experiment ” .
It ’ s worth reminding it ’ s been continuing in Russia for three months !
In the public sphere , these new measures are called “ relaxing self-isolation ” .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ which took place over a week ago amounted to “ allowing volunteers to visit 12 Moscow animal shelters ” .
Further more , Sobyani said that until Moscow received the vaccine , it would still have to provide a special regime for self-isolation of citizens .
He expects vaccines in the fall and intends to vaccinate all residents of Moscow under pain of administrative fines .
The fact that vaccines will not be able to pass a reality check and all the necessary safety tests does not bother him .
Otherwise , he @ @ @ @ @ @ @ exhibition and his actions are motivated by direct intentions .
A month ago , the so-called draft strategy “ Moscow Smart City – 2030 ” was published on the official website of the Moscow administration .
Things were called by their proper names .
The document declares that “ transhumanism ” is employed as a concept for the development of the city .
The “ draft strategy ” states , for example that “ virtual presence is equivalent to physical presence due to digital technologies ” .
With this document , Russian neoliberals @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of philosopher transhumanist Harari from Israel , who , while continuing to develop the ideas of behaviorists , de-facto refuses modern man free will .
In essence , he equates the models and algorithms of man and animal incentives in a big data world .
As a human individual is considered a “ consuming man ” , a man of modern Western civilization , without faith in God or ideals , but only in his own needs and desires .
Ethics and values are derived internally within each individual , rather than from @ @ @ @ @ @ @ turn , is achieved through the intellectual and spiritual development ( read , degradation ) of the individual and society , which should lead to the emergence of a “ super-man ” ( human-god ) .
Thus , Moscow residents are offered the concept for the city development a model that many call neoliberal fascism .
In this regard , the “ Moscow team ” is ahead of the rest of the world .
By now , no other head of the world metropolis allowed to openly or even implicitly declare the desire @ @ @ @ @ @ @ where the masses will serve as fuel for the new aristocracy of super-men .
No factual data or scientific opinion holds sway over mayor team .
They are simply ignored , or rather used for cheap propaganda .
For example , information that Russia ’ s mortality rate in was lower than last year is presented as Sobyanin ’ s personal victory .
This is despite Moscow ’ s growing mortality from illnesses not related to pneumonia .
This is due to the majority of hospitals not admitting patients for planned operations and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ factor of two .
Hospital wards are empty .
Even those specifically designated for COVID-19 are only half-full .
At the same time Sobyanin is getting increased informational support .
Almost all Russian liberal and official state media either praise him or keep quiet .
The same could be said about foreign MSM .
The only exception is probably a single timid publication in DW where the author rather hesitatingly but nevertheless slightly criticizes Moscow .
Mr. Sobyanin is not Russia ’ s president or prime minister .
Therefore , what is happening @ @ @ @ @ @ @ or is the mayor of Moscow running his own political game ?
One can assume with a high degree of certainty that Sobyanin is not an independent political player .
He is being directed by those forces who direct a good part of the state apparatus in Russia .
And that ’ s probably not Vladimir Putin .
Sobyanin is a man of the system that established itself after USSR .
He ’ s a Yeltsin-era man , a member of the so-called “ family ” .
He became the head of the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ November of 1993 , the head of Khanty-Mansi region Aleksandr Filipenko appointed Sobyanin his first deputy .
In January 1996 he became the governor of Tyumen region .
His entire career consisted of strict adherence to the directives of the system which elevated him .
Let ’ s remember that when the pandemic began , recommendations on combating it came from a single center .
At first that was done in all the countries , but with various degree of alacrity .
But the mayor of Moscow demonstrated yet again he knows how @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
Without neglecting his own interests .
It ’ s enough to say that among the Russian adherents to neo-liberalism , Sobyanin has not been the only one who realized and enthusiastically embraced the possibilities .
The head of Rospotrebnadzor , the consumer rights agency , Ms. Popova , is not lagging far behind , either .
Her professional specialization is hygiene and ecology .
But it ’ s difficult to imagine Sobyanin and Popova personally spend entire days thinking up decrees on coronavirus and self-isolation , or that it ’ s done @ @ @ @ @ @ @ teams .
In order to do it truly effectively , one needs hundreds of specialists in the field , not officials , analyzing the huge volume of statistical and scientific data , making predictions and thinking through the details .
One would require a well-oiled system , an institutional framework , which neither Sobyanin nor Popova has .
There is no system , but there are detailed recommendations .
All of these recommendations , de-facto orders , are not developed by national Russian agencies but rather come from certain supra-national entities .
With @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Naturally at that level one can speak of only broad guidance .
They are turned into details by foreign consulting .
Sobyanin and Popova have McKinsey and Boston Consulting Group , both Anglo-American firms .
They have those hundreds of specialists who work out the details of WHO , IMF guidance .
Looking at their history and activities , it ’ s hard not to conclude they are tightly linked to US and UK intelligence .
Moreover , they also earn massive salaries from unjustifiably huge government contracts from Moscow mayor ’ s @ @ @ @ @ @ @ These include Russia ’ s Central Bank and Sberbank .
On the lower national level , these firms ’ activities are support by the research infrastructure of the Higher School of Economics .
This amounts to government from without .
It affects the entire civil government hierarchy in Russia , from the Government of the Russian Federation , ending with governors and mayors .
Only the national security wing remains independent , chiefly the MOD and partly the defense industry .
They all understand what is happening , but not all are traitors @ @ @ @ @ @ @ also engage in sabotage by openly ignoring recommendations by arguing local conditions or laws make them impossible .
Unlike the great majority of regional leaders , Sobyanin is still trying to do everything “ right ” , and is closely following his neo-liberal comrades .
Therefore it ’ s not surprising that Sobyanin ’ s media support is growing .
One can , “ and should ” criticize Putin , not Sobyanin .
Today he is once again predicted to be the next prime minister .
Does President Putin need Prime Minister Sobyanin @ @ @ @ @ @ @ mean the end of direct leadership by Putin and the destruction of his power vertical which he ’ s been building for the last 20 years to counter the rule from without .
One is left with the impression that the president understands all of that .
But will he have the political force and will to engage the government from without in a decisive battle ?
That remains an open question .
MORE ON THE TOPIC :

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An indepth look at the recent coronavirus-related political and social developments in Russia by a regular SouthFront reader from Moscow. The previous article of this series: “Russia’s Covid Game Of Elites“.
The Corona crisis is continuing to develop in Russia, or, rather, in the capital Moscow. At summer’s start it became clear the Russian Corona phenomenon has nothing in common with the SARS-CoV-2 pandemic, and everything to do with the peculiarities of the Russian political system.
European countries and the rest of the world are removing restrictions and returning to normal life. The global scientific community has reached consensus on the danger of the virus, its actual lethality, effective methods of treatment. Only Moscow continues to increase restrictions, taking them to absurd levels.
For example, recently the Mayor of Moscow allowed Muscovites to run at night while wearing masks. It’s not a joke or exaggeration, but rather easily verifiable information. They are also allowed to leave homes for walks according to strict schedule, not more than 3 times a week and not further than 2km away from home. Gloves and masks must be worn everywhere, even when alone in a forest. The system of penalties has been expanded. Also, Moscow residents are forbidden to travel across the city by public and private transport without QR codes that look like concentration camp codes. All of this is openly, and cynically, called an “experiment”.
It’s worth reminding it’s been continuing in Russia for three months! In the public sphere, these new measures are called “relaxing self-isolation”. The previous sept in “relaxing” which took place over a week ago amounted to “allowing volunteers to visit 12 Moscow animal shelters”.
Further more, Sobyani said that until Moscow received the vaccine, it would still have to provide a special regime for self-isolation of citizens. He expects vaccines in the fall and intends to vaccinate all residents of Moscow under pain of administrative fines. The fact that vaccines will not be able to pass a reality check and all the necessary safety tests does not bother him. Otherwise, he perfectly understands possible results of unreliable vaccines exhibition and his actions are motivated by direct intentions.
A month ago, the so-called draft strategy “Moscow Smart City – 2030” was published on the official website of the Moscow administration. Things were called by their proper names. The document declares that “transhumanism” is employed as a concept for the development of the city. The “draft strategy” states, for example that “virtual presence is equivalent to physical presence due to digital technologies”. With this document, Russian neoliberals declare their literal commitment to the ideas of philosopher transhumanist Harari from Israel, who, while continuing to develop the ideas of behaviorists, de-facto refuses modern man free will. In essence, he equates the models and algorithms of man and animal incentives in a big data world. As a human individual is considered a “consuming man”, a man of modern Western civilization, without faith in God or ideals, but only in his own needs and desires. Ethics and values are derived internally within each individual, rather than from an external source. This, in turn, is achieved through the intellectual and spiritual development (read, degradation) of the individual and society, which should lead to the emergence of a “super-man” (human-god). Thus, Moscow residents are offered the concept for the city development a model that many call neoliberal fascism. In this regard, the “Moscow team” is ahead of the rest of the world. By now, no other head of the world metropolis allowed to openly or even implicitly declare the desire to create a segregated digital caste society where the masses will serve as fuel for the new aristocracy of super-men.
No factual data or scientific opinion holds sway over mayor team. They are simply ignored, or rather used for cheap propaganda. For example, information that Russia’s mortality rate in was lower than last year is presented as Sobyanin’s personal victory. This is despite Moscow’s growing mortality from illnesses not related to pneumonia. This is due to the majority of hospitals not admitting patients for planned operations and reducing the volume of activity by a factor of two. Hospital wards are empty. Even those specifically designated for COVID-19 are only half-full.
At the same time Sobyanin is getting increased informational support. Almost all Russian liberal and official state media either praise him or keep quiet. The same could be said about foreign MSM. The only exception is probably a single timid publication in DW where the author rather hesitatingly but nevertheless slightly criticizes Moscow.
Mr. Sobyanin is not Russia’s president or prime minister. Therefore, what is happening? Is someone else directing Sobyanin, or is the mayor of Moscow running his own political game? One can assume with a high degree of certainty that Sobyanin is not an independent political player. He is being directed by those forces who direct a good part of the state apparatus in Russia. And that’s probably not Vladimir Putin.
Sobyanin is a man of the system that established itself after USSR. He’s a Yeltsin-era man, a member of the so-called “family”. He became the head of the city of Kogalyma in 1991. In November of 1993, the head of Khanty-Mansi region Aleksandr Filipenko appointed Sobyanin his first deputy. In January 1996 he became the governor of Tyumen region. His entire career consisted of strict adherence to the directives of the system which elevated him.
Let’s remember that when the pandemic began, recommendations on combating it came from a single center. At first that was done in all the countries, but with various degree of alacrity. But the mayor of Moscow demonstrated yet again he knows how to carry out instructions better than anyone. Without neglecting his own interests. It’s enough to say that among the Russian adherents to neo-liberalism, Sobyanin has not been the only one who realized and enthusiastically embraced the possibilities. The head of Rospotrebnadzor, the consumer rights agency, Ms. Popova, is not lagging far behind, either. Her professional specialization is hygiene and ecology.
But it’s difficult to imagine Sobyanin and Popova personally spend entire days thinking up decrees on coronavirus and self-isolation, or that it’s done by their deputies and their suitably competent teams. In order to do it truly effectively, one needs hundreds of specialists in the field, not officials, analyzing the huge volume of statistical and scientific data, making predictions and thinking through the details. One would require a well-oiled system, an institutional framework, which neither Sobyanin nor Popova has. There is no system, but there are detailed recommendations.
All of these recommendations, de-facto orders, are not developed by national Russian agencies but rather come from certain supra-national entities. With COVID-19, it’s WHO. Naturally at that level one can speak of only broad guidance. They are turned into details by foreign consulting. Sobyanin and Popova have McKinsey and Boston Consulting Group, both Anglo-American firms. They have those hundreds of specialists who work out the details of WHO, IMF guidance. Looking at their history and activities, it’s hard not to conclude they are tightly linked to US and UK intelligence. Moreover, they also earn massive salaries from unjustifiably huge government contracts from Moscow mayor’s office and several Russian federal entities. These include Russia’s Central Bank and Sberbank. On the lower national level, these firms’ activities are support by the research infrastructure of the Higher School of Economics.
This amounts to government from without. It affects the entire civil government hierarchy in Russia, from the Government of the Russian Federation, ending with governors and mayors. Only the national security wing remains independent, chiefly the MOD and partly the defense industry. They all understand what is happening, but not all are traitors to the national interest. One can also engage in sabotage by openly ignoring recommendations by arguing local conditions or laws make them impossible. Unlike the great majority of regional leaders, Sobyanin is still trying to do everything “right”, and is closely following his neo-liberal comrades.
Therefore it’s not surprising that Sobyanin’s media support is growing. One can, “and should” criticize Putin, not Sobyanin. Today he is once again predicted to be the next prime minister. Does President Putin need Prime Minister Sobyanin? Of course not, it will mean the end of direct leadership by Putin and the destruction of his power vertical which he’s been building for the last 20 years to counter the rule from without. One is left with the impression that the president understands all of that. But will he have the political force and will to engage the government from without in a decisive battle? That remains an open question.
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southfront--2020-06-03--In Video: Jaysh al-Izza Trains Its New Recruits Next To Refugee Camps In Greater Idlib

Jaysh al-Izza , one of the remaining armed factions in Greater Idlib , announced on May 31 that a new batch of its special forces has completed training .
The group released a video on June 2 showing the training of its new special forces personnel .
In the video , 28 fighters can be seen training with live ammo and battle tanks in a military camp located right beside refugees ’ tents in northern Idlib .
The camp is named after Abdul Baset al-Sarout , the so-called “ icon ” of the Syrian opposition who was killed by the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ northern Hama last year .
Jaysh al-Izza has been training its militants in the camp for around a year now .
Last year , The SAA inflicted heavy losses on Jaysh al-Izza .
The army captured the group ’ s main strongholds in northern Hama and neutralized most of its militants .
Jaysh al-Izza faced another setback as a result of its repeated defeats when 500 of its fighters defected and joined the Turkish-backed Sham Legion .
Jamil al-Saleh , leader of Jaysh al-Izza , has been attempting to revive his group for @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the number of the group ’ s militants is still very low , likely a few hundreds if not dozens .
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Jaysh al-Izza, one of the remaining armed factions in Greater Idlib, announced on May 31 that a new batch of its special forces has completed training.
The group released a video on June 2 showing the training of its new special forces personnel. In the video, 28 fighters can be seen training with live ammo and battle tanks in a military camp located right beside refugees’ tents in northern Idlib.
The camp is named after Abdul Baset al-Sarout, the so-called “icon” of the Syrian opposition who was killed by the Syrian Arab Army (SAA) in northern Hama last year. Jaysh al-Izza has been training its militants in the camp for around a year now.
Last year, The SAA inflicted heavy losses on Jaysh al-Izza. The army captured the group’s main strongholds in northern Hama and neutralized most of its militants.
Jaysh al-Izza faced another setback as a result of its repeated defeats when 500 of its fighters defected and joined the Turkish-backed Sham Legion.
Jamil al-Saleh, leader of Jaysh al-Izza, has been attempting to revive his group for a few months now. Nevertheless, the number of the group’s militants is still very low, likely a few hundreds if not dozens.
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southfront--2020-06-03--Libyan Civilian Accuses GNA Interior Minister Of Ripping His Eye Out With Spoon

A Libyan civilian , who was held in a prison run by the Turkish-backed Government of National Accord ( GNA ) , has accused the GNA ’ s Minister of Interior Fathi Bashagha of torturing him and ripping his eye .
In a message to the UN , Recep Megrahi said that he was tortured in the Mitiga prison when he was being held there in the summer of 2019 .
Megrahi said one day he and other prisoners were brought to meet Bashagha who was visiting the prison .
During the meeting , Bashagha allegedly ripped out his eye @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
“ Throughout that time my hands were tied with handcuffs , and without asking me any question Fathi Pashaga approached me , forced me to kneel on my knees and then held my head , at that time I saw him holding a spoon and moving it towards my face , in the next moment I felt sharp pain then I lost consciousness , when I woke up in the dungeon I found out that my eye was popped , and the prisoners who were with me at the time of the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ my eye with the spoon he was holding , the needed medical treatment was not provided to me , ” Megrahi said in the video message , which was released on June 1 .
The man said he didn ’ t complain to Libyan authorities as he feared retaliation .
He also called on the UN to investigate the incident .
Megrahi ’ s claims have not been verified by any independent source so far .
The GNA and the Ministry of Interior are yet to comment on the matter .
Bashagha , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ member of the Misrata Military Council .
This was a body overseeing the work of the city ’ s militias during the Libyan Revolution .
In 2018 , he became the GNA ’ s Minister of Interior .
According to Libyan sources , Bashagha enjoys very close relations with Turkey .
According to reports , he is actively supporting the Turkish military intervention to support the GNA .
MORE ON THIS TOPIC : • Dramatic Video Shows Ambush Of Libyan National Army Unit By Turkish-backed Forces Near Tripoli

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A Libyan civilian, who was held in a prison run by the Turkish-backed Government of National Accord (GNA), has accused the GNA’s Minister of Interior Fathi Bashagha of torturing him and ripping his eye.
In a message to the UN, Recep Megrahi said that he was tortured in the Mitiga prison when he was being held there in the summer of 2019.
Megrahi said one day he and other prisoners were brought to meet Bashagha who was visiting the prison. During the meeting, Bashagha allegedly ripped out his eye with a spoon for no clear reason.
“Throughout that time my hands were tied with handcuffs, and without asking me any question Fathi Pashaga approached me, forced me to kneel on my knees and then held my head, at that time I saw him holding a spoon and moving it towards my face, in the next moment I felt sharp pain then I lost consciousness, when I woke up in the dungeon I found out that my eye was popped, and the prisoners who were with me at the time of the incident confirmed that Fathi Pashaga ripped out my eye with the spoon he was holding, the needed medical treatment was not provided to me,” Megrahi said in the video message, which was released on June 1.
The man said he didn’t complain to Libyan authorities as he feared retaliation. He also called on the UN to investigate the incident.
Megrahi’s claims have not been verified by any independent source so far. The GNA and the Ministry of Interior are yet to comment on the matter.
Bashagha, a former military pilot, was a member of the Misrata Military Council. This was a body overseeing the work of the city’s militias during the Libyan Revolution. In 2018, he became the GNA’s Minister of Interior.
According to Libyan sources, Bashagha enjoys very close relations with Turkey. According to reports, he is actively supporting the Turkish military intervention to support the GNA.
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southfront--2020-06-03--Russian Contribution To Fight Against Piracy Off Coast Of Somalia

Piracy is a form of organized international crime , which includes the following : • Any unlawful act of violence , detention or any robbery committed for personal purposes by the crew or passengers of any private property ship and directed on the high seas against another ship or persons and property located on her board ; • Any unlawful act of violence , detention or any robbery against any ship , persons or property in the area outside jurisdiction of any state ; • Any act of voluntary participation in the use of any ship , committed with knowledge @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the ship is a pirate ship ; • Any act that constitutes incitement or knowingly contributes to the carrying out of the above actions .
There are several reasons for the prevalence of piracy in the Horn of Africa : 1 .
The lack of a single government and executive authorities .
Since 1991 , Somalia has virtually ceased to exist as a centralized state , having broken up into zones of influence of local authorities , and the centralized economy and financial system have not been functioning since then .
2 .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ ’ s population .
The unstable political situation in the country led to the decline of the entire social and economic infrastructure .
The dominance of poachers and the dumping of toxic waste in the waters of Somalia by foreign ships significantly limited the ability of locals to earn a living by fishing .
This forced many to turn to piracy .
3 .
The location of the Somali coast near one of the busiest trade routes in the world , connecting Asia with Europe through the Suez Canal .
Given the intensive @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , a large flow of ships with valuable cargo represents a mass of objects for potential capture .
Piracy in this area of the world has been rapidly developing since 2004 .
In 2008 alone , Somali pirates hijacked 42 merchant ships .
For example , in November , they captured the huge 330-meter-long Saudi oil tanker Sirius Star .
The tanker was transporting $ 110 million worth of crude oil to the United States .
5 .
The interest of various external forces , including insurance and private military companies .
The @ @ @ @ @ @ @ on the following legal basis : • Geneva Convention on the High Seas of 1958 .
Article 14 of the 1958 Convention states : “ All states are fully obligated to contribute to the elimination of piracy on the high seas and elsewhere outside the jurisdiction of any state.
” • United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea ( UNCLOS ) of 1982 .
In the 1982 Convention , this provision is enshrined in article 100 , all states cooperate in the suppression of piracy on the high seas or in @ @ @ @ @ @ @ a state as much as possible .
• Convention for the Suppression of Unlawful Acts against the Safety of Maritime Navigation of 1988 .
This convention is a multilateral treaty by which states agree to prohibit and punish behavior that may pose a threat to the safety of maritime navigation .
• Military Doctrine of the Russian Federation .
In accordance with Art .
31 of the Military Doctrine of the Russian Federation , the formation of the Armed Forces can be quickly used outside of Russia in the fight against piracy , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Other , less significant , but still enforced international agreements to prevent piracy .
Russia carries out various activities to fight piracy .
Russia is interested in protecting both its own and the international maritime shipping from piracy .
Forces of the Russian Navy escort ships , conduct aerial reconnaissance to discover pirate activity , search and detain suspicious ships and persons suspected of piracy , destroy pirate boats , and also establish cooperation with the naval forces of other states that fight piracy .
Since 2008 , warships of the Russian Navy @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Pyotr Velikiy , Marshal Shaposhnikov , Neustrashimy , and others ) have sailed towards the coast of Somalia on anti-piracy operations .
Since 2008 , the Russian Navy has carried out 32 trips to the Gulf of Aden and other pirate-hazardous areas .
152 groups of ships ( caravans ) and 727 ships have been escorted ( 56 of them are ships flying the Russian flag ) .
Russian forces have prevented 10 seizure attempts and detained 7 craft and 80 pirates .
The liberation of the Moscow University tanker on May 6th @ @ @ @ @ @ @ was among the most successful operations .
Thanks to joint international efforts , the situation with pirate attacks in the area off the coast of Somalia and in the Gulf of Aden was taken under control .
In 2017-2018 Severomorsk , a large anti-submarine ship of the Russian Northern Fleet , carried out the tasks of protecting maritime navigation from pirate attacks in the Gulf of Aden .
In 2019 , the Yaroslav Mudry frigate , from the Baltic Fleet , escorted a caravan of civilian ships in the Gulf of Aden , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Viktor Konetskiy sea tug .
In 2020 , the Baltic Fleet group , which returned to Baltiysk on May 5th , 2020 , will be replaced by the Admiral Grigorovich frigate of the Black Sea Fleet .
On May 20th , the ship , together with the rescue tugboat Professor Nicholas Muru , sailed through the Suez Canal towards the Indian Ocean .
Russia , also , cooperates with other states in fighting piracy in the Horn of Africa .
For this period , the region has combined international naval forces from 33 @ @ @ @ @ @ @ waters with an area of about 3.2 million square miles .
The Russian Navy joined the international efforts to combat piracy off the coast of Somalia in 2008 .
Since then , a significant number of Russian and foreign ships have been escorted through this most dangerous area .
Many pirate attacks have been repelled .
In particular , in 2009 , Russian forces took part in the Ocean Shield , an international anti-piracy operation .
Periodically , Russia , together with other countries , takes part in naval exercises .
In December @ @ @ @ @ @ @ forces of Russia , China and Iran took place .
Maneuvers are being worked out to allow for measures to combat terrorism and maritime piracy , as well as to ensure security in a key area for world trade .
Despite ongoing international efforts , the significant presence of warships of various countries in the sea area off the coast of Somalia , and some successes in the fight against piracy in recent years , the threat of attacks on ships in the Horn of Africa will likely increase in 2020 and 2021 @ @ @ @ @ @ @ : • An unstable political situation , both within the region and on the global arena .
Another factor is the growing confrontation of the United States with Iran and China .
• A significant deterioration in the socio-economic situation in the region .
• Limitations of the coronavirus pandemic .
The infection spreads among navies , security services .
Specialized PMCs also work more carefully .
• The reduction of the volume and profitability of world trade , and as a result , the likely cost savings .
Today the world is @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the 2000s .
There are anti-piracy missions .
Many ships are equipped with strongholds and a wide experience has been gained in clashes with pirates .
There are corresponding security structures .
However , the abovementioned challenges and threats do not allow optimism towards the solution of the problem of piracy in the waters of Somalia and the adjacent sea area .
Shipowners , fleet operators and sailors should to prepare for the increasing threat of attacks on ships in these waters .
MORE ON THE TOPIC : • UK-Flagged Tanker Attacked By @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Pirates Make First Successful Attack in Last 5 Years

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Piracy is a form of organized international crime, which includes the following:
Any unlawful act of violence, detention or any robbery committed for personal purposes by the crew or passengers of any private property ship and directed on the high seas against another ship or persons and property located on her board; Any unlawful act of violence, detention or any robbery against any ship, persons or property in the area outside jurisdiction of any state; Any act of voluntary participation in the use of any ship, committed with knowledge of the circumstances by virtue of which the ship is a pirate ship; Any act that constitutes incitement or knowingly contributes to the carrying out of the above actions.
There are several reasons for the prevalence of piracy in the Horn of Africa:
1. The lack of a single government and executive authorities.
Since 1991, Somalia has virtually ceased to exist as a centralized state, having broken up into zones of influence of local authorities, and the centralized economy and financial system have not been functioning since then.
2. The difficult economic situation of the region’s population.
The unstable political situation in the country led to the decline of the entire social and economic infrastructure. The dominance of poachers and the dumping of toxic waste in the waters of Somalia by foreign ships significantly limited the ability of locals to earn a living by fishing. This forced many to turn to piracy.
3. The location of the Somali coast near one of the busiest trade routes in the world, connecting Asia with Europe through the Suez Canal.
Given the intensive trade contacts of Asian and European countries, a large flow of ships with valuable cargo represents a mass of objects for potential capture.
Piracy in this area of the world has been rapidly developing since 2004.
In 2008 alone, Somali pirates hijacked 42 merchant ships. For example, in November, they captured the huge 330-meter-long Saudi oil tanker Sirius Star. The tanker was transporting $110 million worth of crude oil to the United States.
4. Inadequate efforts by coastal governments to combat piracy.
5. The interest of various external forces, including insurance and private military companies.
The Russian involvement in anti-piracy actions is based on the following legal basis:
Geneva Convention on the High Seas of 1958. Article 14 of the 1958 Convention states: “All states are fully obligated to contribute to the elimination of piracy on the high seas and elsewhere outside the jurisdiction of any state.”
United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS) of 1982. In the 1982 Convention, this provision is enshrined in article 100, all states cooperate in the suppression of piracy on the high seas or in any other place outside the jurisdiction of a state as much as possible.
Convention for the Suppression of Unlawful Acts against the Safety of Maritime Navigation of 1988. This convention is a multilateral treaty by which states agree to prohibit and punish behavior that may pose a threat to the safety of maritime navigation.
Military Doctrine of the Russian Federation. In accordance with Art. 31 of the Military Doctrine of the Russian Federation, the formation of the Armed Forces can be quickly used outside of Russia in the fight against piracy, ensuring the safety of navigation.
Other, less significant, but still enforced international agreements to prevent piracy. Russia carries out various activities to fight piracy. Russia is interested in protecting both its own and the international maritime shipping from piracy.
Forces of the Russian Navy escort ships, conduct aerial reconnaissance to discover pirate activity, search and detain suspicious ships and persons suspected of piracy, destroy pirate boats, and also establish cooperation with the naval forces of other states that fight piracy.
Since 2008, warships of the Russian Navy (Admiral Vinogradov, Admiral Tributs, Pyotr Velikiy, Marshal Shaposhnikov, Neustrashimy, and others) have sailed towards the coast of Somalia on anti-piracy operations.
Since 2008, the Russian Navy has carried out 32 trips to the Gulf of Aden and other pirate-hazardous areas. 152 groups of ships (caravans) and 727 ships have been escorted (56 of them are ships flying the Russian flag). Russian forces have prevented 10 seizure attempts and detained 7 craft and 80 pirates. The liberation of the Moscow University tanker on May 6th, 2010 off the coast of Somalia was among the most successful operations.
Thanks to joint international efforts, the situation with pirate attacks in the area off the coast of Somalia and in the Gulf of Aden was taken under control.
In 2017-2018 Severomorsk, a large anti-submarine ship of the Russian Northern Fleet, carried out the tasks of protecting maritime navigation from pirate attacks in the Gulf of Aden.
“In order to ensure a naval presence in the far ocean zone, the North Fleet improved its combat training and professional skills, carried out a military diplomatic mission, carried out anti-piracy tasks and ensured the safety of civil shipping.”
In 2019, the Yaroslav Mudry frigate, from the Baltic Fleet, escorted a caravan of civilian ships in the Gulf of Aden, together with the Yelnya tanker and the Viktor Konetskiy sea tug.
In 2020, the Baltic Fleet group, which returned to Baltiysk on May 5th, 2020, will be replaced by the Admiral Grigorovich frigate of the Black Sea Fleet. On May 20th, the ship, together with the rescue tugboat Professor Nicholas Muru, sailed through the Suez Canal towards the Indian Ocean.
Russia, also, cooperates with other states in fighting piracy in the Horn of Africa.
For this period, the region has combined international naval forces from 33 countries. They provide security in international waters with an area of about 3.2 million square miles.
The Russian Navy joined the international efforts to combat piracy off the coast of Somalia in 2008. Since then, a significant number of Russian and foreign ships have been escorted through this most dangerous area. Many pirate attacks have been repelled.
In particular, in 2009, Russian forces took part in the Ocean Shield, an international anti-piracy operation.
Periodically, Russia, together with other countries, takes part in naval exercises. In December 2019, joint exercises of the naval forces of Russia, China and Iran took place.
Maneuvers are being worked out to allow for measures to combat terrorism and maritime piracy, as well as to ensure security in a key area for world trade.
Growing Threat
Despite ongoing international efforts, the significant presence of warships of various countries in the sea area off the coast of Somalia, and some successes in the fight against piracy in recent years, the threat of attacks on ships in the Horn of Africa will likely increase in 2020 and 2021.
The main reasons for that are:
An unstable political situation, both within the region and on the global arena. Another factor is the growing confrontation of the United States with Iran and China. A significant deterioration in the socio-economic situation in the region. Limitations of the coronavirus pandemic. The infection spreads among navies, security services. Specialized PMCs also work more carefully. The reduction of the volume and profitability of world trade, and as a result, the likely cost savings. The global economic downturn in general.
Today the world is better prepared to fight pirates than in the 2000s. There are anti-piracy missions. Many ships are equipped with strongholds and a wide experience has been gained in clashes with pirates. There are corresponding security structures. However, the abovementioned challenges and threats do not allow optimism towards the solution of the problem of piracy in the waters of Somalia and the adjacent sea area. Shipowners, fleet operators and sailors should to prepare for the increasing threat of attacks on ships in these waters.
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southfront--2020-06-03--Turkish-Backed Militants Declare Military Zone In Southern Idlib

The Turkish-backed National Front for Liberation ( NFL ) has declared the al-Zawiya Mount in the southern countryside of Idlib a “ military zone.
” In its statement , the al-Sham Falcons , one of the NFL ’ s factions , called on civilians to evacuate the entire eastern part of the mountain .
The faction claimed that the step is meant to ensure the safety of the region ’ s residents .
According to the group ’ s statement , which was released on June 2 , the military zone will cover the areas located to the east of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ announcement , civilians began leaving the designated “ military zone , ” according to several opposition sources .
Last week , the al-Fateh al-Mubeen operations room claimed that the Syrian Arab Army ( SAA ) is amassing its troops to attack southern Idlib .
The NFL is a main member of the room , which is led by al-Qaeda-affiliated Hay ’ at Tahrir al-Sham ( HTS ) .
Greater Idlib militants appear to be preparing for a large-scale military operation by the Syrian Arab Army ( SAA ) and its allies .
The @ @ @ @ @ @ @ reopen the M4 highway , which links Lattakia and Aleppo .
Turkey is committed to secure the M4 under the March 5 agreement with Russia .
However , a long section of the highway is still blocked .
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The Turkish-backed National Front for Liberation (NFL) has declared the al-Zawiya Mount in the southern countryside of Idlib a “military zone.”
In its statement, the al-Sham Falcons, one of the NFL’s factions, called on civilians to evacuate the entire eastern part of the mountain. The faction claimed that the step is meant to ensure the safety of the region’s residents.
According to the group’s statement, which was released on June 2, the military zone will cover the areas located to the east of the following points:
The town of Benin;
The Benin-Farkia road;
The town of Majrashah;
The al-Ruyha junction;
The town of Moataf;
The town of Marzaf;
The town of Kadura.
After the NFL announcement, civilians began leaving the designated “military zone,” according to several opposition sources.
نزوح عدة عائلات من قرى وبلدات جبل الزاوية اليوم الأربعاء 3 حزيران، باتجاه الشمال، نتيجة الخوف من تجدد العمليات العسكرية من قبل النظام السوري وروسيا.#سوريا #إدلب pic.twitter.com/Cp4NgsQqpM — هادي خراط (@hadikhraat) June 3, 2020
Last week, the al-Fateh al-Mubeen operations room claimed that the Syrian Arab Army (SAA) is amassing its troops to attack southern Idlib. The NFL is a main member of the room, which is led by al-Qaeda-affiliated Hay’at Tahrir al-Sham (HTS).
Greater Idlib militants appear to be preparing for a large-scale military operation by the Syrian Arab Army (SAA) and its allies. The army could launch such an operation to reopen the M4 highway, which links Lattakia and Aleppo.
Turkey is committed to secure the M4 under the March 5 agreement with Russia. However, a long section of the highway is still blocked.
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southfront--2020-06-03--US War Criminals Again Threaten the ICC If It Tries To Do Its Job

US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo has stated that the US will go to great lengths to prevent any attempt by the International Criminal Court ( ICC ) to prosecute Americans and Israelis on two separate criminal cases related to the seventeen-year US War in Afghanistan and Israeli actions on the territory of the West Bank .
Pompeo added that the Trump administration would address the matter in the near future , and promised US efforts to stop the ICC trials .
“ And now this court has become corrupted and is attempting to go after the young men and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ who fought so hard [ … ] And they think that the ICC ought to be able to haul these young men and women in .
We will never let that happen .
We ’ re working along many fronts to prevent it from happening.
” Pompeo argued that as Israel and the US have never ratified the establishing document of the ICC , the Rome Statute , they and their citizens are not subject to ICC prosecution .
While technically Pompeo is correct , the ICC could start a probe into allegations @ @ @ @ @ @ @ in Afghanistan due to the country being a member of the international tribunal .
The case was approved on 5 March 2020 after a long delay .
The ICC can not prosecute American soldiers as long as they remain citizens of a state that has not ratified the Rome Statute , unless the UN Security Council refers the case to it .
The prosecutor , reviewing the allegations of Israeli crimes on the territory of the West Bank , in turn , admitted that the case was complicated due to the ambiguous status @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the UN considers it occupied , Israel exercises control over the area and is preparing to extend its laws on the territory .
Regardless of that , the prosecutor chose to proceed with the case , which was referred to the ICC by the Palestinian Authority .
The US was a signatory to the Rome Statute , but later announced that it would not ratify the agreement and withdrew its signature , which obliges the country not to undermine the object and purpose of the treaty establishing the ICC .
While under the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ICC , the situation changed under President Barack Obama , who decided to reconsider relations with the ICC .
However , the positive trend in bilateral ties ended with the arrival of the Trump administration , which has vehemently opposed prosecuting not only American soldiers , but also Washington ’ s Israeli allies .
Former Trump national security adviser John Bolton stated in 2018 that the US would do anything to “ protect [ its ] citizens ” and threatened the ICC and its staff with sanctioning their funds in the US and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ICC , under US law .
The international tribunal responded that it would continue investigating war crimes , regardless of Trump ’ s threats .
In March of this year Pompeo , who previously served as director of the CIA , took the denunciations a step further , threatening the family members of ICC staff .
Sarah Leah Whitson , the managing director for research and policy at the Quincy Institute for Responsible Statecraft , drew attention to the “ shocking attack ” on Twitter .
This blatant US threat against the family @ @ @ @ @ @ @ part of a longer historical pattern of Washington attacking multilateral institutions .
At the beginning of the George W. Bush administration ’ s so-called war on terror , in 2002 , the US Congress passed a bill called the American Service-Members ’ Protection Act — more commonly known as the “ Hague Invasion Act.
” This unprecedented piece of legislation declares that the US government unilaterally grants itself the right to militarily invade the Hague if a citizen of the United States or any allied country is prosecuted by the court .
MORE @ @ @ @ @ @ @ CRIMINAL COURT PROSECUTOR IN ATTEMPT TO SABOTAGE INVESTIGATION OF WAR CRIMES IN AFGHANISTAN • Taliban car bomb leaves at least 7 intelligence officers dead in Eastern Afghanistan

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US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo has stated that the US will go to great lengths to prevent any attempt by the International Criminal Court (ICC) to prosecute Americans and Israelis on two separate criminal cases related to the seventeen-year US War in Afghanistan and Israeli actions on the territory of the West Bank.
“I think that the ICC and the world will see that we are determined to prevent having Americans and our friends and allies in Israel and elsewhere hauled in by this corrupt ICC”, Pompeo stated, according to Ynetnews.com.
Pompeo added that the Trump administration would address the matter in the near future, and promised US efforts to stop the ICC trials.
“And now this court has become corrupted and is attempting to go after the young men and women of the United States of America who fought so hard […] And they think that the ICC ought to be able to haul these young men and women in. We will never let that happen. We’re working along many fronts to prevent it from happening.”
Pompeo argued that as Israel and the US have never ratified the establishing document of the ICC, the Rome Statute, they and their citizens are not subject to ICC prosecution.
While technically Pompeo is correct, the ICC could start a probe into allegations about war crimes committed during the war in Afghanistan due to the country being a member of the international tribunal. The case was approved on 5 March 2020 after a long delay. The ICC cannot prosecute American soldiers as long as they remain citizens of a state that has not ratified the Rome Statute, unless the UN Security Council refers the case to it.
The prosecutor, reviewing the allegations of Israeli crimes on the territory of the West Bank, in turn, admitted that the case was complicated due to the ambiguous status of the territory in question. While the UN considers it occupied, Israel exercises de facto control over the area and is preparing to extend its laws on the territory. Regardless of that, the prosecutor chose to proceed with the case, which was referred to the ICC by the Palestinian Authority.
The US was a signatory to the Rome Statute, but later announced that it would not ratify the agreement and withdrew its signature, which obliges the country not to undermine the object and purpose of the treaty establishing the ICC.
While under the Bush administration Washington opposed cooperating with the ICC, the situation changed under President Barack Obama, who decided to reconsider relations with the ICC. However, the positive trend in bilateral ties ended with the arrival of the Trump administration, which has vehemently opposed prosecuting not only American soldiers, but also Washington’s Israeli allies.
Former Trump national security adviser John Bolton stated in 2018 that the US would do anything to “protect [its] citizens” and threatened the ICC and its staff with sanctioning their funds in the US and prosecution, including anyone who helps the ICC, under US law. The international tribunal responded that it would continue investigating war crimes, regardless of Trump’s threats.
In March of this year Pompeo, who previously served as director of the CIA, took the denunciations a step further, threatening the family members of ICC staff.
“We want to identify those responsible for this partisan investigation and their family members who may want to travel to the United States or engage in activity that’s inconsistent with making sure we protect Americans,” Pompeo said, according to the US State Department’s official transcript.
Sarah Leah Whitson, the managing director for research and policy at the Quincy Institute for Responsible Statecraft, drew attention to the “shocking attack” on Twitter.
“This isn’t just unlawful collective punishment against family members; it’s not just a disturbing attack on staff of a judiciary — where the US has voted to refer other nations for prosecution; it’s abuse of federal authority to use sanctions against actual wrongdoers.” Whitson called on Democratic presidential candidates Joe Biden and Bernie Sanders to “condemn this US State Department assault on the staff and FAMILIES of ICC – abuse of sanctions authority in flagrant attack on judicial independence, unlawful collective punishment.” LINK
This blatant US threat against the family members of International Criminal Court prosecutors is part of a longer historical pattern of Washington attacking multilateral institutions.
At the beginning of the George W. Bush administration’s so-called war on terror, in 2002, the US Congress passed a bill called the American Service-Members’ Protection Act — more commonly known as the “Hague Invasion Act.”
This unprecedented piece of legislation declares that the US government unilaterally grants itself the right to militarily invade the Hague if a citizen of the United States or any allied country is prosecuted by the court.
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southfront--2020-06-03--Russian Forces Establish New Position In Northeast Al-Hasakah (Videos)

On June 3 , the Russian Military Police established a new position in the northeastern countryside of Syria ’ s al-Hasakah .
The position was established near the village of Qasr Deep that ’ s located in the countryside of the town of al-Malikiyah .
Vedeng , a news outlet based in northeast Syria , released a video showing Russian troops establishing the position .
A unit of the Russian Military Police attempted to conduct a patrol inside al-Malikiyah while the new position was being built .
However , it was blocked by U.S. forces , according to the North @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Qasr Deep locals prevented a unit of the Russian Military Police from entering their village for an unknown reason .
The issue has apparently been solved .
Last year , several units of the Russian Military Police were deployed in northeast Syria in order to implement a Russian-Turkish ceasefire agreement on the region .
The agreement ended a Turkish attack on the northeast .
The new position in Qasr Deep is likely one of several “ observation posts ” that Russia agreed to establish in northeast Syria to keep Kurdish forces away from @ @ @ @ @ @ @ THIS TOPIC :

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On June 3, the Russian Military Police established a new position in the northeastern countryside of Syria’s al-Hasakah.
The position was established near the village of Qasr Deep that’s located in the countryside of the town of al-Malikiyah. Vedeng, a news outlet based in northeast Syria, released a video showing Russian troops establishing the position.
A unit of the Russian Military Police attempted to conduct a patrol inside al-Malikiyah while the new position was being built. However, it was blocked by U.S. forces, according to the North Press Agency.
A day earlier, Qasr Deep locals prevented a unit of the Russian Military Police from entering their village for an unknown reason. The issue has apparently been solved.
Last year, several units of the Russian Military Police were deployed in northeast Syria in order to implement a Russian-Turkish ceasefire agreement on the region. The agreement ended a Turkish attack on the northeast.
The new position in Qasr Deep is likely one of several “observation posts” that Russia agreed to establish in northeast Syria to keep Kurdish forces away from Turkey’s border.
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southfront--2020-06-04--In Maps: Military Situation In Libya Following Recent Advances By Turkish-led Forces

Click to see the full-size image This map provides a general look at the current military situation in Libya following @ @ @ @ @ forces .
Recently , they captured Tripoli International Airport from the Libyan National Army and @ @ @ @ @ near it .
MORE HERE Click to see the full-size image MORE ON THE TOPIC @ @ @ @ @ Area Of Libya ’ s Tripoli On June 3 , 2020 ( Map Update )

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This map provides a general look at the current military situation in Libya following the recent advances by Turkish-led forces. Recently, they captured Tripoli International Airport from the Libyan National Army and are now developing their advance near it. MORE HERE
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southfront--2020-06-04--Military Situation In Yemen On June 4, 2020 (Map Update)

Click to see the full-size image A brief overview of the recent developments in Yemen : • Clashes between Ansar @ @ @ @ @ ongoing north of Sarwah ; • Ansar Allah reported 105 ceasefire violations in al-Hudaydah during @ @ @ @ @ These included 50 artillery strikes and sporadic firefights .
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A brief overview of the recent developments in Yemen:
Saudi-led coalition warplanes struck the Zahir area 4 times;
Saudi-led coalition warplanes struck the Kitaf area 4 times;
Saudi-led coalition warplanes struck the Haradh area 3 times;
Saudi-led coalition warplanes struck the Majzar area 2 times;
Saudi-led coalition warplanes struck the Sarwah area 5 times;
Clashes between Ansar Allah and Saudi-led forces are ongoing north of Sarwah;
Ansar Allah reported 105 ceasefire violations in al-Hudaydah during the past 24 hours. These included 50 artillery strikes and sporadic firefights.
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southfront--2020-06-04--“Trump Must Go”: Novelty Accounts On Twitter Represent U.S. “Moderate Opposition”

In recent days , around the US protests following the killing of George Floyd by Minneapolis police officer Derak Chauvin , a series of novelty Twitter accounts have appeared .
It should be emphasized that these are , by no means , serious accounts calling for escalation of violence or anything of the sort , they simply very bluntly and openly mock the United States ’ double-faced approach towards Iran , Venezuela , China , Syria and more .
“ Syria has responded to our call .
We are thankful for the Syrian leadership and their help towards the American @ @ @ @ @ @ @ assistance to moderate rebels in the US.
” These accounts , in a very apparent parody , present a situation similar to what has been happening in Syria in the past years .
They are presumably from Syria , Iran and Venezuela and call for support of the “ moderate opposition ” in the US in their fight against the Trump regime .
These include the “ Free American Army , ” the “ US Interim Government , ” “ Jaish Al Chicago , ” the “ KFC Brigades , ” “ Hayat @ @ @ @ @ @ @ “ Bernard Brigades.
” There are even statements from the “ US Interim Government ” in regard to ANTIFA , which can be read below .
According to the statement , chemical weapons are being used on the streets and Trump is using them against his own people and that is unacceptable .
Other Twitter users are joining in on the activism .
Twitter initially banned the account “ Jaish al Chicago ” and then , the Ministry of Defense of the group released a statement and it was restored .
The US @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Iran and Venezuela , with the all-too-familiar slogan “ Trump Must Go.
” The KFC Brigades , in response to the US military being deployed to curb the protests , declared Washington , D.C. a “ military zone.
” They also call for a “ Free America ” and that Iran had its revolution , and now it was the US turn .
MORE ON THE TOPIC : • At Least 11 Killed In U.S .
Protests So Far , As Violence Appears To Escalate • Death Toll Grows As Result Of Protests @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Cities Are Put Under Curfew

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In recent days, around the US protests following the killing of George Floyd by Minneapolis police officer Derak Chauvin, a series of novelty Twitter accounts have appeared.
It should be emphasized that these are, by no means, serious accounts calling for escalation of violence or anything of the sort, they simply very bluntly and openly mock the United States’ double-faced approach towards Iran, Venezuela, China, Syria and more.
“Syria has responded to our call. We are thankful for the Syrian leadership and their help towards the American people.” “Syria to provide military assistance to moderate rebels in the US.”
Syria has responded to our call. We are thankful for the Syrian leadership and their help towards the American people. #FreeAmerica https://t.co/1UikbldpMH — US Interim Government (@USInterimGOV) June 3, 2020
These accounts, in a very apparent parody, present a situation similar to what has been happening in Syria in the past years.
They are presumably from Syria, Iran and Venezuela and call for support of the “moderate opposition” in the US in their fight against the Trump regime.
“The Trump-regime hates it, but it has to happen. A new America is possible. Overthrow the regime.”
The Trump-regime hates it, but it has to happen. A new America is possible. Overthrow the regime. #FreeAmerica pic.twitter.com/nG5oAXVB8v — US Interim Government (@USInterimGOV) June 4, 2020
These include the “Free American Army,” the “US Interim Government,” “Jaish Al Chicago,” the “KFC Brigades,” “Hayat Tahrir al Burger King” and the “Bernard Brigades.”
“We are military defectors and civillian democracy activists fed up with the systematic oppression by the Trump-regime and its shabiha militias. We ask China & Iran for help and assistance in reaching our goals.”
We are military defectors and civillian democracy activists fed up with the systematic oppression by the Trump-regime and its shabiha militias. We ask China & Iran for help and assistance in reaching our goals. — Free American Army (@FAARMYOfficial) May 31, 2020
There are even statements from the “US Interim Government” in regard to ANTIFA, which can be read below. According to the statement, chemical weapons are being used on the streets and Trump is using them against his own people and that is unacceptable.
Other Twitter users are joining in on the activism.
Dear Pres. Nicolas Maduro. I am girl of 7 living under Trump regime. My family cannot pay rent & streets are filled with chemical weapons. Please establish a no-fly zone & humanitarian aid corridors before there is a genocide. It is better to start WWIII than another day of this — Alex Rubinstein (@RealAlexRubi) June 3, 2020
Twitter initially banned the account “Jaish al Chicago” and then, the Ministry of Defense of the group released a statement and it was restored.
Our enemies are trying to silence us and our brigades. Our operations will continue until victory is achieved.#FreeAmerica https://t.co/4XOI0yazT2 — Free American Army (@FAARMYOfficial) June 3, 2020
The US Interim Government continues calling for help from Iran and Venezuela, with the all-too-familiar slogan “Trump Must Go.”
We condemn the rutheless attack on peaceful protestors by the Trump-regime. We ask that Iran and Venezuela quickly intervene to stop the senseless bloodshed.#TrumpMustGo #RegimeChangeNow pic.twitter.com/mfbIzBJtBf — US Interim Government (@USInterimGOV) June 2, 2020
Jaish al Chicago official announcement regarding #Trump|s latest speech: Trump's latest speech proved that this regime is incompetent and can't follow orders or help the free people of America. We condemn the regime's order to deploy the National Guard and call for a ceasefire. — Jaish al Chicago (@JaishAlChicago) June 1, 2020
The KFC Brigades, in response to the US military being deployed to curb the protests, declared Washington, D.C. a “military zone.”
The KFC Brigades declare DC as military zone. We and the @FAarmyofficial have big plans to liberate the city. https://t.co/MbvfDWKoE5 — KFC Brigades (@KFCBrigades) June 1, 2020
Thank you for your support and your trust in our cause to topple the Trump-regime.#TrumpMustGo https://t.co/bevnPl6Zkr — Free American Army (@FAARMYOfficial) June 1, 2020
Spokesperson of the Interim Government commenting on the actions taken by the militias of the Trump-regime. "I am sure they are stupid and they will never succeed". pic.twitter.com/aiLmuS7I9T — US Interim Government (@USInterimGOV) June 1, 2020
They also call for a “Free America” and that Iran had its revolution, and now it was the US turn.
#Iran had its revolution. #America has its revolution now. Like Iran, America will rise from the ashes of the regime. #TrumpMustGo #AmericanSpring pic.twitter.com/WsDZ2sT65T — US Interim Government (@USInterimGOV) June 1, 2020
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southfront--2020-06-04--Russian, Turkish Forces Complete 15th Joint Patrol On M4 Highway Despite IED Attack (Video)

On June 4 , the Russian Military Police and the Turkish military conducted a 15th joint patrol on the M4 highway in the northwestern Syrian region of Greater Idlib .
The patrol started from the government-held town of Tronba bypassed the town of Arihah and reached the village of Kafer Shalaya for the first time ever .
While the Russian-Turkish patrol was passing near Arihah , two improvised explosive devices ( IEDs ) exploded .
Some opposition activists claimed that Turkish forces detonated the IEDs , while others said they struck the joint patrol .
No losses were reported , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ explosion struck a Turkish patrol on the M4 .
A Turkish service member was killed and others were reportedly injured .
The M4 links the coastal city of Lattakia with Aleppo city , Syria ’ s industrial hub .
Russia and Turkey agreed to open the highway on March 5 .
Turkey is making serious efforts to reopen the highway .
Nevertheless , terrorist groups are still present in its vicinity .
If Ankara fails to address this threat , the Syrian Arab Army and its allies could use force to secure the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ • Syrian Opposition Activists Claim Russian Warplanes Are Bombing Greater Idlib Once Again

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On June 4, the Russian Military Police and the Turkish military conducted a 15th joint patrol on the M4 highway in the northwestern Syrian region of Greater Idlib.
The patrol started from the government-held town of Tronba bypassed the town of Arihah and reached the village of Kafer Shalaya for the first time ever.
TR-RF Mutabakatı çerçevesinde; İdlib’deki M4 Karayolunda, kara ve hava unsurlarının katılımıyla 15’inci Türk-Rus Birleşik Kara Devriyesi icra edildi.#MSB #TSK pic.twitter.com/GHHMA7H7jA — T.C. Millî Savunma Bakanlığı (@tcsavunma) June 4, 2020
While the Russian-Turkish patrol was passing near Arihah, two improvised explosive devices (IEDs) exploded. Some opposition activists claimed that Turkish forces detonated the IEDs, while others said they struck the joint patrol. No losses were reported, however.
Last week, a mysterious explosion struck a Turkish patrol on the M4. A Turkish service member was killed and others were reportedly injured.
The M4 links the coastal city of Lattakia with Aleppo city, Syria’s industrial hub. Russia and Turkey agreed to open the highway on March 5.
Turkey is making serious efforts to reopen the highway. Nevertheless, terrorist groups are still present in its vicinity. If Ankara fails to address this threat, the Syrian Arab Army and its allies could use force to secure the highway.
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southfront--2020-06-04--GNA Captured Tripoli International Airport, As Haftar Requests More Tangible Support From Egypt

On June 3rd , the Government of National Accord ( GNA ) and its Turkish support took control of Tripoli International Airport from Field Marshal Khalifa Haftar ’ s forces .
This was announced by GNA military spokesperson Mohamad Gnounou .
The airport has been closed since 2014 and had been held by the Libyan National Army ( LNA ) , commanded by Haftar , since 2019 , when the operation to cleanse the capital from terrorists began .
And wherever the GNA enter , photographs with vehicles with the image of ISIS terrorists are quick to be published .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ also continuing , with the GNA reclaiming control of Alsbaya .
The LNA is carrying out airstrikes on Gharyan , but there ’ s little other progress being made in the area .
In southern Tripoli , the LNA appears to be losing positions and withdrawing from areas , with the GNA capturing armored vehicles and weaponry .
The GNA is reportedly pushing further south , towards Suq al Khamis bridge .
In the diplomatic field , GNA President Fayez al-Serraj traveled to Istanbul to meet Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan .
Meanwhile @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Cairo , and he said that no negotiations would take place until there are GNA militants in Tripoli and around it .
Some sources claimed that Haftar requested further , and more direct , support from Egypt in his fight against the Turkish-backed GNA .
Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov said that Russian prisoners in Tripoli complicated any cooperation with the GNA .
However , the GNA Deputy Prime Minister was in Moscow for discussions , and it was expressed that there was chance for a truce between the GNA and LNA .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ Civilian Accuses GNA Interior Minister Of Ripping His Eye Out With Spoon • Military Situation In Area Of Libya ’ s Tripoli On June 3 , 2020 ( Map Update )

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On June 3rd, the Government of National Accord (GNA) and its Turkish support took control of Tripoli International Airport from Field Marshal Khalifa Haftar’s forces.
This was announced by GNA military spokesperson Mohamad Gnounou.
“Our forces have fully liberated Tripoli international airport,” Gnounou said.
The airport has been closed since 2014 and had been held by the Libyan National Army (LNA), commanded by Haftar, since 2019, when the operation to cleanse the capital from terrorists began.
And wherever the GNA enter, photographs with vehicles with the image of ISIS terrorists are quick to be published.
Clashes south of Tripoli around Gharyan are also continuing, with the GNA reclaiming control of Alsbaya.
#Breaking_News#Arraed Correspondent : The Libyan army forces are controlling parts of #Alsbaya area, and they have found dead bodies in the city's hospital.#Libya pic.twitter.com/5v2GSZlgJA — Arraed LG+ (@ArraedLG) June 4, 2020
The LNA is carrying out airstrikes on Gharyan, but there’s little other progress being made in the area.
In southern Tripoli, the LNA appears to be losing positions and withdrawing from areas, with the GNA capturing armored vehicles and weaponry.
The GNA is reportedly pushing further south, towards Suq al Khamis bridge.
عاجل | القائد الميداني بالجيش محمد المشاي يؤكد لبانوراما وصول قوات الجيش لكوبري سوق الخميس إمسيحل. pic.twitter.com/2FCk0Yd8SD — ليبيا بانوراما (@lpc_ly) June 4, 2020
#شاهد غـنـائـم كـبيرة غنمتها قـوات حكومة الوفاق بمـنطقتي وادي الـربـيـع و عـيـن زارة صباح اليوم الخميس.. pic.twitter.com/1OYOVi1X5r — Almanara Libya (@AlmanaraMedia) June 4, 2020
رتل تابع لمرتزقة "الجنجويد" على طريق المطار بمدينة "بني وليد" بعد هروبهم من محاور القتال قرب العاصمة #طرابلس pic.twitter.com/wwxuohfDEj — صحيفة الاستقلال – ميديا (@alestiklal) June 4, 2020
In the diplomatic field, GNA President Fayez al-Serraj traveled to Istanbul to meet Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan.
Meanwhile, Field Marshal Khalifa Haftar is in Cairo, and he said that no negotiations would take place until there are GNA militants in Tripoli and around it.
#ليبيا — مصادر الحدث: حفتر أبلغ القاهرة رفضه أي مباحثات قبل سحب ميليشيات الوفاق — ا لـ حـ ـد ث (@AlHadath) June 3, 2020
Some sources claimed that Haftar requested further, and more direct, support from Egypt in his fight against the Turkish-backed GNA.
#القاهرة — مصادر الحدث: حفتر طالب دعم مصر دوليا لوقف التوغل التركي في ليبيا — ا لـ حـ ـد ث (@AlHadath) June 3, 2020
Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov said that Russian prisoners in Tripoli complicated any cooperation with the GNA.
However, the GNA Deputy Prime Minister was in Moscow for discussions, and it was expressed that there was chance for a truce between the GNA and LNA.
وزير الخارجية الروسي: السجناء الروس في العاصمة الليبية طرابلس عقبة رئيسية أمام التعاون مع حكومة الوفاق — سكاي نيوز عربية-عاجل (@SkyNewsArabia_B) June 3, 2020
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southfront--2020-06-04--Military Situation In Syria On June 4, 2020 (Map Update)

Click to see the full-size image A brief overview of the recent developments in Syria : • The Russian Military @ @ @ @ @ near Qasr Deep ; • The Turkish-backed National Front for Liberation has declared the al-Zawiya @ @ @ @ @ ’ ; • Jaysh al-Izza announced that a new batch of its special forces had @ @ @ @ @ sources claim that ‘ Russian airstrikes ’ hit some targets near Sirmaniyah .
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A brief overview of the recent developments in Syria:
Additional units of Iranian-backed Liwa Fatemiyoun deployed near al-Mayadin;
The Russian Military Police established an observation post near Qasr Deep;
The Turkish-backed National Front for Liberation has declared the al-Zawiya Mount a ‘military zone’;
Jaysh al-Izza announced that a new batch of its special forces had completed training;
Pro-militant sources claim that ‘Russian airstrikes’ hit some targets near Sirmaniyah.
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