tass--2020-05-07--More charges filed against former chief investigator of Russia’s Volgograd region — lawyer

MOSCOW , May 7 .
/TASS/ .
Investigators of Russia ’ s Federal Security Service ( FSB ) have filed new charges against Mikhail Muzrayev , a former head of the Investigative Committee ’ s Volgograd region accused of terrorism and illegal possession of arms , one of his lawyers told TASS .
`` New charges were filed against our defendant , under part 1 Article 285 of the Russian Criminal Code ( abuse of official powers ) , '' lawyer Andrei Grokhotov said .
`` Mikhail Muzrayev pleads not guilty . ''
The article entails a punishment of up @ @ @ @ @ @ @ attorney said the new charges are related to the criminal case launched against Muzrayev back in July 2019 .
The defense team does not comment on details of the criminal process due to signing a non-disclosure statement .
On June 11 , 2019 , Moscow ’ s Lefortovo court sanctioned the arrest of Muzrayev and local entrepreneur Vladimir Zubkov .
Investigators suspect them of involvement into an arson attack at the house of region ’ s head Andrey Bocharov on November 16 , 2016 .
On May 6 , 2020 , the same @ @ @ @ @ @ @ custody until June 10 .

MOSCOW, May 7. /TASS/. Investigators of Russia’s Federal Security Service (FSB) have filed new charges against Mikhail Muzrayev, a former head of the Investigative Committee’s Volgograd region accused of terrorism and illegal possession of arms, one of his lawyers told TASS.
"New charges were filed against our defendant, under part 1 Article 285 of the Russian Criminal Code (abuse of official powers)," lawyer Andrei Grokhotov said. "Mikhail Muzrayev pleads not guilty."
The article entails a punishment of up to four years in prison.
The attorney said the new charges are related to the criminal case launched against Muzrayev back in July 2019. The defense team does not comment on details of the criminal process due to signing a non-disclosure statement.
On June 11, 2019, Moscow’s Lefortovo court sanctioned the arrest of Muzrayev and local entrepreneur Vladimir Zubkov. Investigators suspect them of involvement into an arson attack at the house of region’s head Andrey Bocharov on November 16, 2016.
On May 6, 2020, the same court ruled to extend Muzrayev’s custody until June 10.


tass--2020-05-07--Poland’s May 10 presidential elections will not take place — coalition

WARSAW , May 7 .
/TASS/ .
The presidential elections in Poland , due on May 10 , will not take place , leaders of the ruling coalition announced on Wednesday night .
Jaroslaw Kaczynski , the head of the ruling Law and Justice party , and his coalition partner Jaroslaw Gowin , who leads the Agreement political party , plan that after May 10 , 2020 , the Supreme Court would declare the elections void because it did not happen .
`` The speaker of the parliament will announce new presidential elections at the earliest possible date , '' @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Polish Press Agency .
The first round of presidential election in Poland was due to take place on May 10 , but the election campaign was de-facto frozen due to the novel coronavirus pandemic .
Many politicians , and , according to surveys , over 70 of Polish citizens favor postponing the vote .
The Health Ministry recommended that the vote , if organized in its traditional form , be postponed for two years .
On April 6 , the lower chamber of the country ’ s parliament approved a bill to organize @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Many politicians , opposition forces , experts and the trade union of post workers opposed this form of elections .
The upper chamber rejected the bill , but the parliament still has an opportunity to overrule the decision , but only if the ruling Law and Justice party forms a coalition with Agreement .
Gowin earlier opposed the initiative , but later said he would support it if certain amendments are introduced into the bill .

WARSAW, May 7. /TASS/. The presidential elections in Poland, due on May 10, will not take place, leaders of the ruling coalition announced on Wednesday night.
Jaroslaw Kaczynski, the head of the ruling Law and Justice party, and his coalition partner Jaroslaw Gowin, who leads the Agreement political party, plan that after May 10, 2020, the Supreme Court would declare the elections void because it did not happen.
"The speaker of the parliament will announce new presidential elections at the earliest possible date," reads a statement, released by the Polish Press Agency.
The first round of presidential election in Poland was due to take place on May 10, but the election campaign was de-facto frozen due to the novel coronavirus pandemic. Many politicians, and, according to surveys, over 70 of Polish citizens favor postponing the vote.
The Health Ministry recommended that the vote, if organized in its traditional form, be postponed for two years.
On April 6, the lower chamber of the country’s parliament approved a bill to organize a postal vote in the country. Many politicians, opposition forces, experts and the trade union of post workers opposed this form of elections. The upper chamber rejected the bill, but the parliament still has an opportunity to overrule the decision, but only if the ruling Law and Justice party forms a coalition with Agreement.
Gowin earlier opposed the initiative, but later said he would support it if certain amendments are introduced into the bill.


tass--2020-05-07--Special flight from New York to Moscow scheduled for May 14 - Russian embassy

WASHINGTON , May 7 .
/TASS/ .
The next special flight to take Russians out of the United States to Moscow is tentatively scheduled for May 14 , the Russian embassy in Washington said .
`` Departure of Flight AFL103 New York-Moscow is scheduled for 19:20 local time May 14 , 2020 , '' the embassy said .
Only Russian citizens who permanently reside in Moscow and St .
Petersburg , as well as in several Central Russian regions , can register for the flight .
`` The number of seats is limited .
Lists will be formed on the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ through the Gosuslugi website [ providing state services ] , '' the embassy said .
The Russian embassy in Washington has lately got in touch with eight more Russian schoolchildren , their return home aboard the next flight from the US east coast , Russian Ambassador to the US Anatoly Antonov said Monday .
The embassy will work on their return aboard the next flight from the east coast .
On Wednesday , US Embassy in Moscow spokesperson Rebecca Ross said Russia ’ s flagship air carrier Aeroflot had started selling tickets for @ @ @ @ @ @ @ York on May 14 .

WASHINGTON, May 7. /TASS/. The next special flight to take Russians out of the United States to Moscow is tentatively scheduled for May 14, the Russian embassy in Washington said.
"Departure of Flight AFL103 New York-Moscow is scheduled for 19:20 local time May 14, 2020," the embassy said.
Only Russian citizens who permanently reside in Moscow and St . Petersburg, as well as in several Central Russian regions, can register for the flight.
"The number of seats is limited. Lists will be formed on the basis of [repatriation applications] registered through the Gosuslugi website [providing state services]," the embassy said.
The Russian embassy in Washington has lately got in touch with eight more Russian schoolchildren, their return home aboard the next flight from the US east coast, Russian Ambassador to the US Anatoly Antonov said Monday. The embassy will work on their return aboard the next flight from the east coast.
On Wednesday, US Embassy in Moscow spokesperson Rebecca Ross said Russia’s flagship air carrier Aeroflot had started selling tickets for a special flight from Moscow to New York on May 14.


tass--2020-05-07--Serbia lifts state of emergency, cancels curfew

BELGRADE , May 7 .
/TASS/ .
On Thursday , Serbia will lift the state of emergency and cancel the curfew , imposed earlier this year due to the novel coronavirus pandemic .
The parliament also lifted movement restrictions for urban residents aged 65 or older and rural residents aged 70 or older , who were earlier prohibited from leaving their homes .
Serbia ’ s unicameral parliament voted to support the decision on Wednesday .
The measures will come into force after being published by official sources .
At the same time , Serbian Prime Minister Ana Brnabic told @ @ @ @ @ @ @ early to say we defeated COVID-19 . ''
The ban on public gatherings will remain in place , while schoolchildren will continue studying remotely .
Theaters and cinemas will be closed , but parks will be open for individual walks .
Serbia has reported 9,791 confirmed coronavirus cases since the start of the epidemic , 203 of them fatal .
Earlier , the parliamentary election was put off in the country .
Bus and railway communication between regions has stopped , but partially resumed in early May .
In late April , the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ workshops .
Construction work has restarted , and barbershops and gyms have reopened .
Earlier , Serbia requested assistance in the fight against the epidemic from the Russian Federation .
On April 3-4 the Russian Aerospace Forces ’ planes delivered to Serbia Russian military medics , including virologists , radiation , chemical and biological protection specialists , special medical equipment , protection gear and sixteen military vehicles .
The Russian specialists are providing assistance in the capital and a number of other regions .
They have disinfected hundreds of thousands of meters at @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to more than 780 of patients across the country .

BELGRADE, May 7. /TASS/. On Thursday, Serbia will lift the state of emergency and cancel the curfew, imposed earlier this year due to the novel coronavirus pandemic.
The parliament also lifted movement restrictions for urban residents aged 65 or older and rural residents aged 70 or older, who were earlier prohibited from leaving their homes.
Kindergartens will resume their work.
Serbia’s unicameral parliament voted to support the decision on Wednesday. The measures will come into force after being published by official sources.
At the same time, Serbian Prime Minister Ana Brnabic told the parliament that "it is too early to say we defeated COVID-19."
The ban on public gatherings will remain in place, while schoolchildren will continue studying remotely. Theaters and cinemas will be closed, but parks will be open for individual walks.
Serbia has reported 9,791 confirmed coronavirus cases since the start of the epidemic, 203 of them fatal. Earlier, the parliamentary election was put off in the country. Bus and railway communication between regions has stopped, but partially resumed in early May. In late April, the government began to open food markets and workshops. Construction work has restarted, and barbershops and gyms have reopened.
Earlier, Serbia requested assistance in the fight against the epidemic from the Russian Federation. On April 3-4 the Russian Aerospace Forces’ planes delivered to Serbia Russian military medics, including virologists, radiation, chemical and biological protection specialists, special medical equipment, protection gear and sixteen military vehicles. The Russian specialists are providing assistance in the capital and a number of other regions. They have disinfected hundreds of thousands of meters at the 320 buildings and extended medical aid to more than 780 of patients across the country.


tass--2020-05-07--Russian, US scientists jointly study fundamental aspects of COVID-19 vaccine — academician

MOSCOW , May 7 .
/TASS/ .
Scientists from Russia and several Western nations cooperate in solving the fundamental problems of creating a vaccine against the novel coronavirus , Russian Academy of Sciences ( RAS ) Vice President Vladimir Chekhonin told TASS .
`` As far as fundamental aspects of the vaccine production are concerned , we cooperate closely with a huge number of front-rank specialists both in America and Europe .
We have mutual understanding , '' he said .
`` As far as production aspects are concerned - this is a matter of business .
< ... > @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ’ s not a matter of scientific cooperation , it ’ s a matter of business and scientific teams have absolutely nothing to do with it , '' the expert continued .
In Chekhonin ’ s opinion , a vaccine against COVID-19 should be expected by the start of the next year or so .
Although some countries might get it earlier and others - a bit later , the timeframes will be largely similar worldwide .
He reiterated that several Russian organizations - both state-and privately owned , are already developing prototypes @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , the World Health Organization included nine Russian vaccine prototypes into its list of promising options .
These include six vaccines created by the Novosibirsk-based Vector State Research Center of Virology and Biotechnology , two vaccines developed by the Biocad company and a vaccine made by the St. Petersburg Research Institute of Vaccines and Serums .
According to the Vice President of the Russian Academy of Sciences ( RAS ) , the decline in COVID-19 cases in Russia will be slow .
`` I don ’ t think that the decline [ in @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Although the epidemic process will probably lose its epidemic ‘ structure , ’ it will still be in place probably until mid-August .
This is an opinion of leading epidemiologists from the Russian Academy of Sciences , with whom we had relevant discussions .
This is an ambiguous point of view , there ’ s also an opinion that this period might be shorter and end by early August .
There is also a group of specialists who believe that we would keep fighting the disease throughout August , '' Chekhonin told TASS @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the Russian government heeds the advice of scientists and experts and promptly responds to COVID-19-related developments .
`` The government makes decisions related to the novel coronavirus infection in an extremely promt manner , in some cases relevant decrees are ready within a few hours .
For comparison : earlier , it took several weeks .
The government listens to us , experts , '' the scientist said .
He also said the government renders all possible assistance to scientists in their effort to develop new medicines , vaccines and testing kits .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ notified the World Health Organization ( WHO ) about the outbreak of a previously unknown pneumonia in the city of Wuhan , in central China .
Since then , cases of the novel coronavirus - named COVID-19 by the WHO - have been reported in every corner of the globe , including Russia .
On March 11 , 2020 , the WHO declared the coronavirus outbreak a pandemic .
According to the latest statistics , over 3,700,000 people have been infected worldwide and more than 258,000 deaths have been reported .
In addition @ @ @ @ @ @ @ have recovered from the illness across the globe .
To date , a total of 165,929 coronavirus cases have been confirmed in Russia , with 21,327 patients having recovered from the virus .
Russia ’ s latest data indicates 1,537 fatalities nationwide .
Earlier , the Russian government set up an Internet hotline to keep the public updated on the coronavirus situation .

MOSCOW, May 7. /TASS/. Scientists from Russia and several Western nations cooperate in solving the fundamental problems of creating a vaccine against the novel coronavirus, Russian Academy of Sciences (RAS) Vice President Vladimir Chekhonin told TASS.
"As far as fundamental aspects of the vaccine production are concerned, we cooperate closely with a huge number of front-rank specialists both in America and Europe. We have mutual understanding," he said.
"As far as production aspects are concerned - this is a matter of business. <...> One should keep in mind that it’s not a matter of scientific cooperation, it’s a matter of business and scientific teams have absolutely nothing to do with it," the expert continued.
In Chekhonin’s opinion, a vaccine against COVID-19 should be expected by the start of the next year or so. Although some countries might get it earlier and others - a bit later, the timeframes will be largely similar worldwide.
He reiterated that several Russian organizations - both state-and privately owned, are already developing prototypes of the vaccine.
In late April, the World Health Organization included nine Russian vaccine prototypes into its list of promising options. These include six vaccines created by the Novosibirsk-based Vector State Research Center of Virology and Biotechnology, two vaccines developed by the Biocad company and a vaccine made by the St. Petersburg Research Institute of Vaccines and Serums.
Overcoming the pandemic
According to the Vice President of the Russian Academy of Sciences (RAS), the decline in COVID-19 cases in Russia will be slow.
"I don’t think that the decline [in new cases] will be rapid. Although the epidemic process will probably lose its epidemic ‘structure,’ it will still be in place probably until mid-August. This is an opinion of leading epidemiologists from the Russian Academy of Sciences, with whom we had relevant discussions. This is an ambiguous point of view, there’s also an opinion that this period might be shorter and end by early August. There is also a group of specialists who believe that we would keep fighting the disease throughout August," Chekhonin told TASS.
He went on to say that the Russian government heeds the advice of scientists and experts and promptly responds to COVID-19-related developments.
"The government makes decisions related to the novel coronavirus infection in an extremely promt manner, in some cases relevant decrees are ready within a few hours. For comparison: earlier, it took several weeks. The government listens to us, experts," the scientist said.
He also said the government renders all possible assistance to scientists in their effort to develop new medicines, vaccines and testing kits.
In late December 2019, Chinese officials notified the World Health Organization (WHO) about the outbreak of a previously unknown pneumonia in the city of Wuhan, in central China. Since then, cases of the novel coronavirus - named COVID-19 by the WHO - have been reported in every corner of the globe, including Russia.
On March 11, 2020, the WHO declared the coronavirus outbreak a pandemic. According to the latest statistics, over 3,700,000 people have been infected worldwide and more than 258,000 deaths have been reported. In addition, so far, over 1,200,000 individuals have recovered from the illness across the globe.
To date, a total of 165,929 coronavirus cases have been confirmed in Russia, with 21,327 patients having recovered from the virus. Russia’s latest data indicates 1,537 fatalities nationwide. Earlier, the Russian government set up an Internet hotline to keep the public updated on the coronavirus situation.


tass--2020-05-07--Russia to float out new sub to carry Poseidon nuke drone in late June — source

MOSCOW , May 7 .
/TASS/ .
The second submarine to serve as a basic carrier of Russia ’ s Poseidon nuclear-capable underwater drones will be floated out approximately in late June , a defense industry source told TASS on Thursday .
`` The Khabarovsk [ Project 09852 ] will be floated out in late June at the earliest .
There is no exact date so far , '' the source said .
The Russian Navy ’ s press service did not comment on the information .
The Sevmash shipyard where the submarine is being built was not immediately available @ @ @ @ @ @ @ carrier of Poseidon drones , a Project 09852 special-purpose nuclear sub , the Belgorod , was floated out on April 23 , 2019 and is expected to enter service with the Russian Navy in September .
The Belgorod and the Khabarovsk are expected to carry six Poseidon drones each .
In his state-of-the-nation address to both houses of Russia ’ s parliament on March 1 , 2018 , Russian President Vladimir Putin mentioned for the first time the country ’ s efforts to develop a nuclear-powered unmanned underwater vehicle that can carry both @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of destroying enemy infrastructural facilities , aircraft carrier groups and other targets .
Poseidon drones together with their carriers - nuclear-powered submarines - make part of the so-called oceanic multipurpose system .
A source in the defense industry earlier told TASS that the Poseidon drone would be capable of carrying a nuclear warhead with a yield of up to 2 megatonnes to destroy enemy naval bases .
According to reported data , the Poseidon will feature an intercontinental range capability and an operational depth of over 1 km .

MOSCOW, May 7. /TASS/. The second submarine to serve as a basic carrier of Russia’s Poseidon nuclear-capable underwater drones will be floated out approximately in late June, a defense industry source told TASS on Thursday.
"The Khabarovsk [Project 09852] will be floated out in late June at the earliest. There is no exact date so far," the source said.
The Russian Navy’s press service did not comment on the information. The Sevmash shipyard where the submarine is being built was not immediately available for a comment.
The first basic carrier of Poseidon drones, a Project 09852 special-purpose nuclear sub, the Belgorod, was floated out on April 23, 2019 and is expected to enter service with the Russian Navy in September. The Belgorod and the Khabarovsk are expected to carry six Poseidon drones each.
In his state-of-the-nation address to both houses of Russia’s parliament on March 1, 2018, Russian President Vladimir Putin mentioned for the first time the country’s efforts to develop a nuclear-powered unmanned underwater vehicle that can carry both conventional and nuclear warheads and is capable of destroying enemy infrastructural facilities, aircraft carrier groups and other targets.
Poseidon drones together with their carriers - nuclear-powered submarines - make part of the so-called oceanic multipurpose system. A source in the defense industry earlier told TASS that the Poseidon drone would be capable of carrying a nuclear warhead with a yield of up to 2 megatonnes to destroy enemy naval bases.
According to reported data, the Poseidon will feature an intercontinental range capability and an operational depth of over 1 km.


tass--2020-05-07--Venezuelan authorities say three more armed incursion suspects detained

HAVANA , May 7 .
/TASS/ .
Venezuela ’ s law enforcement officers have detained three more mercenaries , who @ @ @ @ @ republic ’ s territory , the country ’ s Defense Minister Vladimir Padrino Lopez said @ @ @ @ @ jointly with the people , continue to chase mercenaries and terrorists who dared to enter @ @ @ @ @ Nicolas Maduro and drown our country in blood .
Three of them were captured on @ @ @ @ @ he wrote on Twitter , attaching a photograph of the three detainees .
On May @ @ @ @ @ announced that they had successfully foiled an attempt to infiltrate the country by a mercenary @ @ @ @ @ to stage a coup in Venezuela .
According to Maduro , among them were US @ @ @ @ @ the incumbent US president ’ s security service .
Earlier , the Venezuelan authorities said @ @ @ @ @ .

HAVANA, May 7. /TASS/. Venezuela’s law enforcement officers have detained three more mercenaries, who earlier attempted to infiltrate the republic’s territory, the country’s Defense Minister Vladimir Padrino Lopez said.
"Armed forces, jointly with the people, continue to chase mercenaries and terrorists who dared to enter our territory to kill President Nicolas Maduro and drown our country in blood. Three of them were captured on the Junquito-Carayaca highway," he wrote on Twitter, attaching a photograph of the three detainees.
On May 3, the Venezuelan authorities announced that they had successfully foiled an attempt to infiltrate the country by a mercenary group travelling from Colombia looking to stage a coup in Venezuela. According to Maduro, among them were US citizens, who worked for the incumbent US president’s security service. Earlier, the Venezuelan authorities said 17 mercenaries had been detained.


tass--2020-05-07--Belarusian Foreign Ministry strips Russia’s Channel One crew’s accreditation — TV

MINSK , May 6 .
/TASS/ .
The Belarusian Foreign Ministry has yanked the accreditation of a TV crew working for Russia ’ s Channel One after a report on the coronavirus developments in Belarus that had been shot by the group came out , Belarus 1 TV reported Wednesday .
`` Today , the Belarusian Foreign Ministry stripped the accreditation of Channel One ’ s television crew with a warning .
We are willing to take even tougher measures , '' the Belarusian channel stated .
`` Being a sovereign country , Belarus has the right to protect its @ @ @ @ @ @ @ also by informational ones .
For instance , [ protect them ] from lies and falsehoods , where one report had seven .
This is too much , '' the channel insisted .
Spokesperson for the Belarusian foreign ministry Anatoly Glaz told TASS that the accreditation of two Channel One employees was revoked in accordance with the law in media and the accreditation regulation .
He explained , `` the decision was made in light of [ the crew ] spreading information that has nothing to do with reality . ''
The Russian @ @ @ @ @ @ @ will not comment on the developments for now , awaiting the official document of the Belarusian authorities about the decision made regarding the Russian reporters .
Russia ’ s Channel One 's press service confirmed the news on Wednesday .
`` We confirm that out correspondent was expelled and the whole shooting crew had its accreditation stripped .
We view these actions of the Belarusian authorities absolutely groundless , '' the press service noted .

MINSK, May 6. /TASS/. The Belarusian Foreign Ministry has yanked the accreditation of a TV crew working for Russia’s Channel One after a report on the coronavirus developments in Belarus that had been shot by the group came out, Belarus 1 TV reported Wednesday.
"Today, the Belarusian Foreign Ministry stripped the accreditation of Channel One’s television crew with a warning. We are willing to take even tougher measures," the Belarusian channel stated. "Being a sovereign country, Belarus has the right to protect its citizens not only by medical means but also by informational ones. For instance, [protect them] from lies and falsehoods, where one report had seven. This is too much," the channel insisted.
Spokesperson for the Belarusian foreign ministry Anatoly Glaz told TASS that the accreditation of two Channel One employees was revoked in accordance with the law in media and the accreditation regulation. He explained, "the decision was made in light of [the crew] spreading information that has nothing to do with reality."
The Russian embassy in Belarus told TASS that they will not comment on the developments for now, awaiting the official document of the Belarusian authorities about the decision made regarding the Russian reporters.
Russia’s Channel One's press service confirmed the news on Wednesday.
"We confirm that out correspondent was expelled and the whole shooting crew had its accreditation stripped. We view these actions of the Belarusian authorities absolutely groundless," the press service noted.


tass--2020-05-06--Tourists spend over $140 mln on Hainan during May holidays

HAIKOU , May 6 .
/TASS/ .
Tourists spent more than 994 million yuan ( more than $ 140 million at the current exchange rate ) on the Island of Hainan during a nationwide weekend ( May 1-5 ) on Labor Day , Xinhua reported on Wednesday citing local authorities .
According to the news agency , the island ’ s tourism industry has welcomed about 1.3 million tourists , about 60 % of them visited panoramic attractions — parks , forest and coastal recreation areas , volcanoes , pagodas .
According to estimates , over 5,000 people made purchases @ @ @ @ @ @ @ five days , spending 298 million yuan ( $ 42 million ) .
“ In fact , during the May holidays , Hainan experienced the first small tourist boom since the local facilities resumed their work after a halt amid the epidemic of the novel coronavirus , ” a representative of the regional department for tourism , culture , broadcasting and sports said .
As the coronavirus outbreak in the country was combatted relatively recently and there are still risks of infection , all Hainan 's tourist facilities still can accept no more @ @ @ @ @ @ @ daily maximum number of visitors .
In order to visit the sights , tourists should reserve tickets online in advance and pass control at the entrance to the recreation area — allow security to measure body temperature using thermal cameras and special equipment .

HAIKOU, May 6. /TASS/. Tourists spent more than 994 million yuan (more than $ 140 million at the current exchange rate) on the Island of Hainan during a nationwide weekend (May 1-5) on Labor Day, Xinhua reported on Wednesday citing local authorities.
According to the news agency, the island’s tourism industry has welcomed about 1.3 million tourists, about 60% of them visited panoramic attractions — parks, forest and coastal recreation areas, volcanoes, pagodas. According to estimates, over 5,000 people made purchases in Hainan's duty free stores over five days, spending 298 million yuan ($ 42 million).
“In fact, during the May holidays, Hainan experienced the first small tourist boom since the local facilities resumed their work after a halt amid the epidemic of the novel coronavirus,” a representative of the regional department for tourism, culture, broadcasting and sports said.
As the coronavirus outbreak in the country was combatted relatively recently and there are still risks of infection, all Hainan's tourist facilities still can accept no more than 30% of the officially announced daily maximum number of visitors. In order to visit the sights, tourists should reserve tickets online in advance and pass control at the entrance to the recreation area — allow security to measure body temperature using thermal cameras and special equipment.


tass--2020-05-08--North Korean leader lauds Chinese authorities’ efforts to stem COVID-19 spread - agency

PYONGYANG , May 8 .
/TASS/ .
North Korean leader Kim Jong-un has extended a verbal message to Chinese President Xi Jinping praising all efforts of the authorities of China to stem the spread of the COVID-19 pandemic , the Korean Central News Agency ( KCNA ) reported .
`` Kim Jong-un in his message extended his warm greetings to Xi Jinping and congratulated him , highly appreciating that he is seizing a chance of victory in the war against the unprecedented epidemic and strategically and tactically controlling the overall situation while leading the Chinese party and people , '' @ @ @ @ @ @ @ he was pleased over the successes made in China as over his own , Kim Jong-un wished Xi Jinping good health , expressing conviction that the Chinese party and people would cement the successes made so far and steadily expand them and thus win a final victory under the wise guidance of Xi Jinping , '' according to KCNA .
In late December 2019 , Chinese officials notified the World Health Organization ( WHO ) about the outbreak of a previously unknown pneumonia in the city of Wuhan , in central China .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ coronavirus - named COVID-19 by the WHO - have been reported in every corner of the globe , including Russia .
On March 11 , 2020 , the WHO declared the coronavirus outbreak a pandemic .
According to the latest statistics , over 3,900,000 people have been infected worldwide and more than 270,000 deaths have been reported .
In addition , so far , over 1,340,000 individuals have recovered from the illness across the globe .

PYONGYANG, May 8. /TASS/. North Korean leader Kim Jong-un has extended a verbal message to Chinese President Xi Jinping praising all efforts of the authorities of China to stem the spread of the COVID-19 pandemic, the Korean Central News Agency (KCNA) reported.
"Kim Jong-un in his message extended his warm greetings to Xi Jinping and congratulated him, highly appreciating that he is seizing a chance of victory in the war against the unprecedented epidemic and strategically and tactically controlling the overall situation while leading the Chinese party and people," the agency reported.
"Saying that he was pleased over the successes made in China as over his own, Kim Jong-un wished Xi Jinping good health, expressing conviction that the Chinese party and people would cement the successes made so far and steadily expand them and thus win a final victory under the wise guidance of Xi Jinping," according to KCNA.
In late December 2019, Chinese officials notified the World Health Organization (WHO) about the outbreak of a previously unknown pneumonia in the city of Wuhan, in central China. Since then, cases of the novel coronavirus - named COVID-19 by the WHO - have been reported in every corner of the globe, including Russia.
On March 11, 2020, the WHO declared the coronavirus outbreak a pandemic. According to the latest statistics, over 3,900,000 people have been infected worldwide and more than 270,000 deaths have been reported. In addition, so far, over 1,340,000 individuals have recovered from the illness across the globe.


tass--2020-05-08--Kazakh, Russian presidents discuss upcoming meeting of Supreme Eurasian Economic Council

NUR-SULTAN , May 8 .
/TASS/ .
Kazakh President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev and his Russian counterpart Vladimir Putin have discussed preparations for a meeting of the Eurasian Economic Council , the Kazakh presidential press service said in a statement on Thursday , following a telephone call between the two presidents .
`` Before concluding the conversation , Kassym-Jomart Tokayev and Vladimir Putin considered matters related to the upcoming meeting of the Supreme Eurasian Economic Council , '' the statement reads .
According to reports , the meeting is scheduled to take place on May 19 .
`` When discussing the fight @ @ @ @ @ @ @ welcomed close cooperation between the two countries .
Vladimir Putin said that Russia was monitoring the Kazakh government ’ s steps to prevent the infection from spreading .
The Russian leader commended Kazakhstan ’ s measures aimed at supporting individuals and small and medium-sized businesses , '' the statement adds .
The two heads of state also exchanged congratulations on the 75th anniversary of the Victory in the Great Patriotic War .
The Kremlin press service said earlier in a statement that Putin and Tokayev had pointed out that the anniversary had special @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , determined to preserve memory of their fathers and grandfathers who had crushed Nazism .
In late December 2019 , Chinese officials notified the World Health Organization ( WHO ) about the outbreak of a previously unknown pneumonia in the city of Wuhan , in central China .
Since then , cases of the novel coronavirus - named COVID-19 by the WHO - have been reported in every corner of the globe , including Russia .
On March 11 , 2020 , the WHO declared the coronavirus outbreak a pandemic .
According to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ have been infected worldwide and more than 265,000 deaths have been reported .

NUR-SULTAN, May 8. /TASS/. Kazakh President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev and his Russian counterpart Vladimir Putin have discussed preparations for a meeting of the Eurasian Economic Council, the Kazakh presidential press service said in a statement on Thursday, following a telephone call between the two presidents.
"Before concluding the conversation, Kassym-Jomart Tokayev and Vladimir Putin considered matters related to the upcoming meeting of the Supreme Eurasian Economic Council," the statement reads.
According to reports, the meeting is scheduled to take place on May 19.
"When discussing the fight against the coronavirus pandemic, the parties welcomed close cooperation between the two countries. Vladimir Putin said that Russia was monitoring the Kazakh government’s steps to prevent the infection from spreading. The Russian leader commended Kazakhstan’s measures aimed at supporting individuals and small and medium-sized businesses," the statement adds.
The two heads of state also exchanged congratulations on the 75th anniversary of the Victory in the Great Patriotic War.
The Kremlin press service said earlier in a statement that Putin and Tokayev had pointed out that the anniversary had special significance for the two countries’ people, determined to preserve memory of their fathers and grandfathers who had crushed Nazism.
Coronavirus pandemic
In late December 2019, Chinese officials notified the World Health Organization (WHO) about the outbreak of a previously unknown pneumonia in the city of Wuhan, in central China. Since then, cases of the novel coronavirus - named COVID-19 by the WHO - have been reported in every corner of the globe, including Russia.
On March 11, 2020, the WHO declared the coronavirus outbreak a pandemic. According to the latest statistics, over 3,800,000 people have been infected worldwide and more than 265,000 deaths have been reported.


tass--2020-05-08--Russian, Greek diplomats discuss pandemic, assistance in repatriating their nationals

MOSCOW , May 8 .
/TASS/ .
Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov and his Greek counterpart Nikos Dendias discussed in a phone call on Thursday moves to mitigate the social and economic effects of the coronavirus pandemic as well as assistance in repatriating nationals of their countries , the Russian Foreign Ministry reported .
The diplomats `` looked into the tasks of fight against the spread of the novel coronavirus , including moves taken by Moscow and Athens to minimize the social and economic impact of the pandemic , and assistance in returning home nationals of the two countries , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ phone call , initiated by Greece , the top diplomats also exchanged opinions on the situation in the Eastern Mediterranean , as well as in the Middle East and North Africa `` with an emphasis on the situation around Libya and the Syrian settlement , '' the Foreign Ministry said .
Lavrov and Dendias also looked into the bilateral agenda , and confirmed the agreements regarding the events connected with the 75th Victory anniversary and the 200th anniversary of the start of national liberation fight in Greece .
According to the latest statistics @ @ @ @ @ @ @ with coronavirus worldwide and more than 265,000 deaths have been reported .
In addition , so far , over 1,300,000 individuals have recovered from the illness across the globe .

MOSCOW, May 8. /TASS/. Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov and his Greek counterpart Nikos Dendias discussed in a phone call on Thursday moves to mitigate the social and economic effects of the coronavirus pandemic as well as assistance in repatriating nationals of their countries, the Russian Foreign Ministry reported.
The diplomats "looked into the tasks of fight against the spread of the novel coronavirus, including moves taken by Moscow and Athens to minimize the social and economic impact of the pandemic, and assistance in returning home nationals of the two countries," the ministry said.
During the phone call, initiated by Greece, the top diplomats also exchanged opinions on the situation in the Eastern Mediterranean, as well as in the Middle East and North Africa "with an emphasis on the situation around Libya and the Syrian settlement," the Foreign Ministry said.
Lavrov and Dendias also looked into the bilateral agenda, and confirmed the agreements regarding the events connected with the 75th Victory anniversary and the 200th anniversary of the start of national liberation fight in Greece.
According to the latest statistics, over 3,800,000 people have been infected with coronavirus worldwide and more than 265,000 deaths have been reported. In addition, so far, over 1,300,000 individuals have recovered from the illness across the globe.


tass--2020-05-08--Russian embassy helps tourists stranded in Argentina amid pandemic, says ambassador

BUENOS AIRES , May 8 .
/TASS/ .
The Russian Embassy to Argentina and fellow countrymen living there help Russian nationals who can not return home amid the pandemic , supplying them with warm clothing ahead of the winter season , Russian Ambassador Dmitry Feoktistov said on Thursday .
`` The winter season is approaching .
We are helping the way we can together with our fellow countrymen - gathering warm clothing , bringing them to our tourists , '' the ambassador told journalists .
He also noted that apart from the cold weather , for which the tourists arriving @ @ @ @ @ @ @ was another problem - the absence of medicines common for Russia .
`` We have here people with chronic diseases , and serious ones , including cancer .
That is why , staying here for a long time without a possibility to take familiar medicines is also a big problem , '' the diplomat explained .
He emphasized , however , that the medic working at the embassy stays in touch with Russians .
So far , none of them has contracted coronavirus , he said .
`` This is one more argument @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , I think .
If we repatriate them now , we can be almost sure that there are no infected people among them , '' Feoktistov said He said the embassy had no information at the moment about a possible flight to evacuate Russian nationals .
According to updated reports , there are about 170 Russian nationals in Argentina , who want to return to Russia .
Argentina reported its first coronavirus case on March 3 .
As of now , over 5,200 coronavirus cases are reported , and 273 people have died @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and international flights .
Nationwide lockdown was enforced on March 20 .
On March 11 , 2020 , the WHO declared the coronavirus outbreak a pandemic .
According to the latest statistics , over 3,800,000 people have been infected worldwide and more than 265,000 deaths have been reported .
In addition , so far , over 1,300,000 individuals have recovered from the illness across the globe .

BUENOS AIRES, May 8. /TASS/. The Russian Embassy to Argentina and fellow countrymen living there help Russian nationals who cannot return home amid the pandemic, supplying them with warm clothing ahead of the winter season, Russian Ambassador Dmitry Feoktistov said on Thursday.
"The winter season is approaching. We are helping the way we can together with our fellow countrymen - gathering warm clothing, bringing them to our tourists," the ambassador told journalists.
He also noted that apart from the cold weather, for which the tourists arriving in Argentina were not ready, there was another problem - the absence of medicines common for Russia. "We have here people with chronic diseases, and serious ones, including cancer. That is why, staying here for a long time without a possibility to take familiar medicines is also a big problem," the diplomat explained.
He emphasized, however, that the medic working at the embassy stays in touch with Russians. So far, none of them has contracted coronavirus, he said. "This is one more argument in favor of organizing a repatriation flight, I think. If we repatriate them now, we can be almost sure that there are no infected people among them," Feoktistov said
He said the embassy had no information at the moment about a possible flight to evacuate Russian nationals. According to updated reports, there are about 170 Russian nationals in Argentina, who want to return to Russia.
Argentina reported its first coronavirus case on March 3. As of now, over 5,200 coronavirus cases are reported, and 273 people have died. In mid-March, Argentina stopped domestic and international flights. Nationwide lockdown was enforced on March 20.
On March 11, 2020, the WHO declared the coronavirus outbreak a pandemic. According to the latest statistics, over 3,800,000 people have been infected worldwide and more than 265,000 deaths have been reported. In addition, so far, over 1,300,000 individuals have recovered from the illness across the globe.


tass--2020-05-08--Pilot Yaroshenko lacks medical aid in jail despite coronavirus symptoms - spouse

ROSTOV-ON-DON , May 8 .
/TASS/ .
Russian pilot Konstantin Yaroshenko , who is serving his sentence in a US prison , has not been tested for COVID-19 , despite the fact that he has symptoms of the new coronavirus , Yaroshenko ’ s wife Viktoria told TASS on Thursday .
On April 20 , lawyer Alexey Tarasov told TASS that Yaroshenko `` has all the symptoms associated with the coronavirus , '' and believes that he was infected .
`` They stubbornly do not want to take Covid-19 tests from all prisoners .
They are waiting for the pandemic @ @ @ @ @ @ @ take these tests , '' the pilot ’ s wife said .
On April 23 , the administration of the penitentiary institution informed the Consulate General of the Russian Federation in New York , that it had sent Yaroshenko for a medical examination .
However , according to the wife of the Russian pilot , he has not received any medical assistance yet .
Konstantin Yaroshenko was convicted in the United States on September 7 , 2011 and sentenced to 20 years in prison .
He pled not guilty and described his arrest @ @ @ @ @ @ @ as a frame-up .
Yaroshenko was brought to the United States from Liberia , where he was arrested on May 28 , 2010 .
Agents of the US Drug Enforcement Administration allegedly exposed Yaroshenko ’ s criminal intent to transport a large batch of cocaine .
The Russian authorities and the pilot ’ s family in Rostov-on-Don have repeatedly asked the United States for Yaroshenko ’ s handover to Russia .

ROSTOV-ON-DON, May 8. /TASS/. Russian pilot Konstantin Yaroshenko, who is serving his sentence in a US prison, has not been tested for COVID-19, despite the fact that he has symptoms of the new coronavirus, Yaroshenko’s wife Viktoria told TASS on Thursday.
On April 20, lawyer Alexey Tarasov told TASS that Yaroshenko "has all the symptoms associated with the coronavirus," and believes that he was infected.
"They stubbornly do not want to take Covid-19 tests from all prisoners. They are waiting for the pandemic to subside and then e they may take these tests," the pilot’s wife said.
On April 23, the administration of the penitentiary institution informed the Consulate General of the Russian Federation in New York, that it had sent Yaroshenko for a medical examination. However, according to the wife of the Russian pilot, he has not received any medical assistance yet.
Konstantin Yaroshenko was convicted in the United States on September 7, 2011 and sentenced to 20 years in prison. He pled not guilty and described his arrest as a provocation and the whole case as a frame-up. Yaroshenko was brought to the United States from Liberia, where he was arrested on May 28, 2010. Agents of the US Drug Enforcement Administration allegedly exposed Yaroshenko’s criminal intent to transport a large batch of cocaine. The Russian authorities and the pilot’s family in Rostov-on-Don have repeatedly asked the United States for Yaroshenko’s handover to Russia.


tass--2020-05-08--Next stage of easing Moscow lockdown depends on strict abidance by isolation rules - mayor

MOSCOW , May 8 .
/TASS/ .
A next phase of Moscow lockdown easing will depend on how strictly people will abide by the self-isolation rules , Moscow Mayor Sergey Sobyanin said on Thursday .
`` The next stage depends on us , on how strictly we will control and abide by the self-isolation requirements , on our attention to the people around us , on how we will be taking care of each other , '' Sobyanin said in an interview with Rossiya-1 television .
These are the factors that will determine further moves towards a possible relaxation of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ all industrial and construction enterprises would reopen in Moscow on May 12 .
`` A sizable part of these enterprises - the defense and medical industry - remained open .
However , a huge number of [ enterprises ] around them , a huge number of small productions , were closed .
We are opening them from [ May ] 12 .
The same refers to the construction sites , '' Sobyanin said .
He explained that at these enterprises people work as close teams .
`` As for the sector of services @ @ @ @ @ @ @ people , and one person working in the beauty sector can infect hundreds , '' the mayor summed up .
The real number of coronavirus cases in Moscow accounts for 2 % or 2.5 % of citizens or nearly 300,000 people , Mayor Sobyanin told Rossiya-24 TV channel earlier in the day .
`` The goal of the city authorities now is to record the maximum possible number of people who have contracted the coronavirus .
This is necessary in order to self-isolate them and prevent the infection of their contacts .
`` @ @ @ @ @ @ @ underway and over the past week we have doubled the number of tests .
Earlier , some 20,000 tests were conducted and now nearly 40,000 , '' the mayor said .
According to the latest data , some 92,676 COVID-19 cases have been confirmed in the Russian capital .
To date , a total of 177,160 coronavirus cases have been confirmed in Russia , with 23,803 patients having recovered from the virus .
Russia ’ s latest data indicates 1,625 fatalities nationwide .

MOSCOW, May 8. /TASS/. A next phase of Moscow lockdown easing will depend on how strictly people will abide by the self-isolation rules, Moscow Mayor Sergey Sobyanin said on Thursday.
"The next stage depends on us, on how strictly we will control and abide by the self-isolation requirements, on our attention to the people around us, on how we will be taking care of each other," Sobyanin said in an interview with Rossiya-1 television. These are the factors that will determine further moves towards a possible relaxation of lockdown rules.
Sobyanin also reiterated that all industrial and construction enterprises would reopen in Moscow on May 12. "A sizable part of these enterprises - the defense and medical industry - remained open. However, a huge number of [enterprises] around them, a huge number of small productions, were closed. We are opening them from [May] 12. The same refers to the construction sites," Sobyanin said.
He explained that at these enterprises people work as close teams. "As for the sector of services, we have an indefinite number of people, and one person working in the beauty sector can infect hundreds," the mayor summed up.
The real number of coronavirus cases in Moscow accounts for 2% or 2.5% of citizens or nearly 300,000 people, Mayor Sobyanin told Rossiya-24 TV channel earlier in the day.
"The goal of the city authorities now is to record the maximum possible number of people who have contracted the coronavirus. This is necessary in order to self-isolate them and prevent the infection of their contacts. "For this, a giant work is underway and over the past week we have doubled the number of tests. Earlier, some 20,000 tests were conducted and now nearly 40,000," the mayor said.
According to the latest data, some 92,676 COVID-19 cases have been confirmed in the Russian capital. To date, a total of 177,160 coronavirus cases have been confirmed in Russia, with 23,803 patients having recovered from the virus. Russia’s latest data indicates 1,625 fatalities nationwide.


tass--2020-05-08--Moscow’s coronavirus death toll rises to 956

MOSCOW , May 8 .
/TASS/ .
Another 51 coronavirus patients have died in Moscow , bringing the death toll to 956 , the coronavirus monitoring center said in a statement on Thursday .
`` Another 51 patients have died in Moscow , all of them were diagnosed with pneumonia and tested positive for the coronavirus , '' the statement reads .
The center pointed out that those who had symptoms of respiratory illness needed to call a doctor instead of trying to cure themselves .
In late December 2019 , Chinese officials notified the World Health Organization ( WHO @ @ @ @ @ @ @ unknown pneumonia in the city of Wuhan , in central China .
Since then , cases of the novel coronavirus - named COVID-19 by the WHO - have been reported in every corner of the globe , including Russia .
On March 11 , 2020 , the WHO declared the coronavirus outbreak a pandemic .
According to the latest statistics , over 3,800,000 people have been infected worldwide and more than 265,000 deaths have been reported .
In addition , so far , over 1,300,000 individuals have recovered from the illness across the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of 177,160 coronavirus cases have been confirmed in Russia , with 23,803 patients having recovered from the virus .
Russia ’ s latest data indicates 1,625 fatalities nationwide .
Moscow accounts for the majority of cases ( 92,676 ) .
Earlier , the Russian government set up an Internet hotline to keep the public updated on the coronavirus situation .

MOSCOW, May 8. /TASS/. Another 51 coronavirus patients have died in Moscow, bringing the death toll to 956, the coronavirus monitoring center said in a statement on Thursday.
"Another 51 patients have died in Moscow, all of them were diagnosed with pneumonia and tested positive for the coronavirus," the statement reads.
The center pointed out that those who had symptoms of respiratory illness needed to call a doctor instead of trying to cure themselves.
Coronavirus pandemic
In late December 2019, Chinese officials notified the World Health Organization (WHO) about the outbreak of a previously unknown pneumonia in the city of Wuhan, in central China. Since then, cases of the novel coronavirus - named COVID-19 by the WHO - have been reported in every corner of the globe, including Russia.
On March 11, 2020, the WHO declared the coronavirus outbreak a pandemic. According to the latest statistics, over 3,800,000 people have been infected worldwide and more than 265,000 deaths have been reported. In addition, so far, over 1,300,000 individuals have recovered from the illness across the globe.
To date, a total of 177,160 coronavirus cases have been confirmed in Russia, with 23,803 patients having recovered from the virus. Russia’s latest data indicates 1,625 fatalities nationwide. Moscow accounts for the majority of cases (92,676). Earlier, the Russian government set up an Internet hotline to keep the public updated on the coronavirus situation.


tass--2020-05-07--Moscow court extends house arrest for Michael Calvey until August 13

MOSCOW , April 30 .
/TASS/ .
The Moscow City Court has ruled to extend to extend the term of house arrest for Michael Calvey , founder of the Baring Vostok private equity firm , who is accused of embezzlement , until August 13 , an official with the court ’ s press service told TASS .
`` By the request of the investigation , the term of house arrest for Michael Calvey has been extended until August 13 , '' the official said .
The court also extended the preventive measures for Vagan Abgaryan , partner at Baring Vostok @ @ @ @ @ @ @ for the financial industry sector at Baring Vostok , Ivan Zyuzin , Investment Director at Baring Vostok and also General Director of the First Collection Bureau Maxim Vladimirov and Advisor to the Management Board of Norvik Bank , Alexey Kordichev .
The investigation of the case has been completed .
All the defendants in the case have been accused of embezzlement committed on a large scale by an organized group ( part 4 article 160 of the Russian Criminal Code ) .
The accused persons and their lawyers are studying the files of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Serzod Yusupov , a minority shareholder in Vostochny Bank filed a complaint with Russia ’ s Federal Security Service ( FSB ) .
In addition , Artyom Avetisyan , another Vostochny shareholder , along with the deputy chairman of the bank ’ s board Konstantin Rogov testified against Michael Calvey .
Russia ’ s Investigative Committee launched a criminal case into the embezzlement of 2.5 bln rubles ( $ 37.5 mln ) from the Vostochny Bank on February 13 .
Michael Calvey is the key defendant in the case .
On February 15 @ @ @ @ @ @ @ five others : Vagan Abgaryan , Philippe Delpale , Ivan Zyuzin , Maxim Vladimirov and Alexey Kordichev .
They are all facing charges under part 4 article 159 of Russia ’ s Criminal Code ( fraud committed on a large scale by an organized group ) .
According to the initial version of the investigation , Calvey and his accomplices put together a scheme , where the `` First Collection Bureau '' , under their control , waived its right to a 59.9 % stake in a Luxembourg-based company called the International Financial @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the Vostochny bank to pay it back for a 2.5 billion-ruble debt .
Before the deal , IFTG ’ s shares were valued at 3 bln rubles .
However , the investigation is examining another estimate of 600,000 rubles ( according to a Cyprus-based company ’ s valuation ) .
That said , the Central Bank claimed that the price of these shares was close to zero , the investigator noted .
The defense later challenged that appraisal of shares referring to lack of results of the financial expertise .
Calvey denies all @ @ @ @ @ @ @ is an illegal attempt of the Vostochny bank ’ s minority shareholders to resolve a corporate dispute .

MOSCOW, April 30. /TASS/. The Moscow City Court has ruled to extend to extend the term of house arrest for Michael Calvey, founder of the Baring Vostok private equity firm, who is accused of embezzlement, until August 13, an official with the court’s press service told TASS.
"By the request of the investigation, the term of house arrest for Michael Calvey has been extended until August 13," the official said.
The court also extended the preventive measures for Vagan Abgaryan, partner at Baring Vostok, Philippe Delpale, an investment partner for the financial industry sector at Baring Vostok, Ivan Zyuzin, Investment Director at Baring Vostok and also General Director of the First Collection Bureau Maxim Vladimirov and Advisor to the Management Board of Norvik Bank, Alexey Kordichev.
The investigation of the case has been completed. All the defendants in the case have been accused of embezzlement committed on a large scale by an organized group (part 4 article 160 of the Russian Criminal Code). The accused persons and their lawyers are studying the files of the case.
Baring Vostok’s case
On February 7, Serzod Yusupov, a minority shareholder in Vostochny Bank filed a complaint with Russia’s Federal Security Service (FSB). In addition, Artyom Avetisyan, another Vostochny shareholder, along with the deputy chairman of the bank’s board Konstantin Rogov testified against Michael Calvey.
Russia’s Investigative Committee launched a criminal case into the embezzlement of 2.5 bln rubles ($37.5 mln) from the Vostochny Bank on February 13. Michael Calvey is the key defendant in the case.
On February 15, law enforcement agencies arrested Calvey and five others: Vagan Abgaryan, Philippe Delpale, Ivan Zyuzin, Maxim Vladimirov and Alexey Kordichev. They are all facing charges under part 4 article 159 of Russia’s Criminal Code (fraud committed on a large scale by an organized group).
According to the initial version of the investigation, Calvey and his accomplices put together a scheme, where the "First Collection Bureau", under their control, waived its right to a 59.9% stake in a Luxembourg-based company called the International Financial Technology Group (IFTG), to the Vostochny bank to pay it back for a 2.5 billion-ruble debt. Before the deal, IFTG’s shares were valued at 3 bln rubles. However, the investigation is examining another estimate of 600,000 rubles (according to a Cyprus-based company’s valuation). That said, the Central Bank claimed that the price of these shares was close to zero, the investigator noted. The defense later challenged that appraisal of shares referring to lack of results of the financial expertise. Calvey denies all the charges and says that his prosecution is an illegal attempt of the Vostochny bank’s minority shareholders to resolve a corporate dispute.


tass--2020-05-07--Trump tells Putin US ready to assist Russia in combating coronavirus

`` Today , President Donald J. Trump spoke with President Vladimir Putin of Russia to commemorate and reflect upon the 75th anniversary of Victory in Europe Day .
President Trump and President Putin discussed progress on defeating the coronavirus pandemic , '' he pointed out .
`` President Trump reiterated that the United States is working hard to care for Americans at home and is also ready to provide assistance to any country in need , including Russia .
President Trump reaffirmed that the United States is committed to effective arms control that includes not only Russia , but also @ @ @ @ @ @ @ discussions to avoid a costly arms race .
The two leaders also covered other bilateral and global issues , '' Deere added .
WASHINGTON , May 7 .
/TASS/ .
US President Donald Trump told his Russian counterpart Vladimir Putin in a phone call on Thursday that the US was ready to provide assistance to any country amid the coronavirus pandemic , including Russia , White House Deputy Press Secretary Judd Deere said .
Putin : Russia , US can achieve much , if they follow traditions of allied relations The Kremlin press @ @ @ @ @ @ @ a statement that when discussing the coronavirus situation , Putin and Trump `` welcomed bilateral cooperation '' and `` agreed to boost coordination in this area . ''
`` In particular , the US has suggested sending a shipment of medical equipment to Russia , '' the Kremlin press service added .
In late December 2019 , Chinese officials notified the World Health Organization ( WHO ) about the outbreak of a previously unknown pneumonia in the city of Wuhan , in central China .
Since then , cases of the novel coronavirus @ @ @ @ @ @ @ have been reported in every corner of the globe , including Russia .
On March 11 , 2020 , the WHO declared the coronavirus outbreak a pandemic .
According to the latest statistics , over 3,800,000 people have been infected worldwide and more than 265,000 deaths have been reported .
In addition , so far , over 1,300,000 individuals have recovered from the illness across the globe .
To date , a total of 177,160 coronavirus cases have been confirmed in Russia , with 23,803 patients having recovered from the virus .
Russia @ @ @ @ @ @ @ nationwide .
Earlier , the Russian government set up an Internet hotline to keep the public updated on the coronavirus situation .
According to the Johns Hopkins University , the United States ’ coronavirus cases have exceeded 1,230,000 the death toll has topped 73,500 .

"Today, President Donald J. Trump spoke with President Vladimir Putin of Russia to commemorate and reflect upon the 75th anniversary of Victory in Europe Day. President Trump and President Putin discussed progress on defeating the coronavirus pandemic," he pointed out. "President Trump reiterated that the United States is working hard to care for Americans at home and is also ready to provide assistance to any country in need, including Russia. President Trump reaffirmed that the United States is committed to effective arms control that includes not only Russia, but also China, and looks forward to future discussions to avoid a costly arms race. The two leaders also covered other bilateral and global issues," Deere added.
WASHINGTON, May 7. /TASS/. US President Donald Trump told his Russian counterpart Vladimir Putin in a phone call on Thursday that the US was ready to provide assistance to any country amid the coronavirus pandemic, including Russia, White House Deputy Press Secretary Judd Deere said.
Putin: Russia, US can achieve much, if they follow traditions of allied relations
The Kremlin press service, in turn, said in a statement that when discussing the coronavirus situation, Putin and Trump "welcomed bilateral cooperation" and "agreed to boost coordination in this area." "In particular, the US has suggested sending a shipment of medical equipment to Russia," the Kremlin press service added.
Coronavirus pandemic
In late December 2019, Chinese officials notified the World Health Organization (WHO) about the outbreak of a previously unknown pneumonia in the city of Wuhan, in central China. Since then, cases of the novel coronavirus - named COVID-19 by the WHO - have been reported in every corner of the globe, including Russia.
On March 11, 2020, the WHO declared the coronavirus outbreak a pandemic. According to the latest statistics, over 3,800,000 people have been infected worldwide and more than 265,000 deaths have been reported. In addition, so far, over 1,300,000 individuals have recovered from the illness across the globe.
To date, a total of 177,160 coronavirus cases have been confirmed in Russia, with 23,803 patients having recovered from the virus. Russia’s latest data indicates 1,625 fatalities nationwide. Earlier, the Russian government set up an Internet hotline to keep the public updated on the coronavirus situation.
According to the Johns Hopkins University, the United States’ coronavirus cases have exceeded 1,230,000 the death toll has topped 73,500.


tass--2020-05-07--Attacks on Soviet troops memorials despicable, says Azeri president

MOSCOW , May 7 .
/TASS/ .
Vandalistic attacks on memorials honoring Soviet troops who defeated Nazism are disgusting and @ @ @ @ @ Aliyev said in an exclusive interview with TASS First Deputy Director General Mikhail Gusman .
@ @ @ @ @ certain countries , when we see vandalistic acts on World War II monuments and see @ @ @ @ @ it evokes feelings of disgust and scorn , '' Aliyev said .
`` It is @ @ @ @ @ on the territory occupied by the former Soviet Union in the past .
Because it @ @ @ @ @ sacrificed the most for the sake of the common victory over Fascism .
Therefore , @ @ @ @ @ , and these attempts should be stopped . ''
Aliyev also stressed that world leaders @ @ @ @ @ the inadmissible nature of fighting with the monuments .

MOSCOW, May 7. /TASS/. Vandalistic attacks on memorials honoring Soviet troops who defeated Nazism are disgusting and despicable, Azeri President Ilham Aliyev said in an exclusive interview with TASS First Deputy Director General Mikhail Gusman.
"What is happening in certain countries, when we see vandalistic acts on World War II monuments and see monuments for fascists erected, it evokes feelings of disgust and scorn," Aliyev said. "It is especially offensive when it happens on the territory occupied by the former Soviet Union in the past. Because it was the Soviet Union that sacrificed the most for the sake of the common victory over Fascism. Therefore, these trends should be condemned, and these attempts should be stopped."
Aliyev also stressed that world leaders should speak more openly about the inadmissible nature of fighting with the monuments.


tass--2020-05-07--Putin, Trump discuss OPEC+ deal, coronavirus pandemic, bilateral relations

MOSCOW , May 7 .
/TASS/ .
Presidents Vladimir Putin of Russia and Donald Trump of the United States have discussed the fight against the coronavirus pandemic , the OPEC+ deal and bilateral relations , the Kremlin press service said on Thursday following a telephone conversation between the two presidents .
According to the press service , the heads of state exchanged congratulations on the 75th anniversary of the victory over Nazi Germany .
The conversation highlighted `` the historical importance of two countries ’ allied relations during World War II , which made it possible to defeat our common @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , Russia and the US can achieve progress in resolving the most pressing issues of our time , including efforts to ensure strategic stability issues , fight terrorism , resolve regional conflicts and contain epidemics , '' the statement said .
When discussing the coronavirus situation , Putin and Trump welcomed bilateral cooperation .
The two presidents `` agreed to boost coordination in this area . ''
`` In particular , the US has suggested sending a shipment of medical equipment to Russia , '' the Kremlin press service added .
The Russian @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the situation on the global oil market , '' the statement said .
They `` pointed out that a new OPEC+ deal , which took effect on May 1 , contributing to the stabilization of oil prices , had been made at an appropriate time largely thanks to communication between the presidents of Russia and the US . ''
The presidents of Russia and the US reiterated the importance of dialogue between the two countries .
This was their sixth telephone call since the beginning of the year .
Three of the six @ @ @ @ @ @ @ bin Abdulaziz Al Saud joined Putin and Trump on one occasion and another two conversations involved Saudi Crown Prince Mohamed bin Salman .

MOSCOW, May 7. /TASS/. Presidents Vladimir Putin of Russia and Donald Trump of the United States have discussed the fight against the coronavirus pandemic, the OPEC+ deal and bilateral relations, the Kremlin press service said on Thursday following a telephone conversation between the two presidents.
According to the press service, the heads of state exchanged congratulations on the 75th anniversary of the victory over Nazi Germany. The conversation highlighted "the historical importance of two countries’ allied relations during World War II, which made it possible to defeat our common enemy." "Maintaining this tradition, Russia and the US can achieve progress in resolving the most pressing issues of our time, including efforts to ensure strategic stability issues, fight terrorism, resolve regional conflicts and contain epidemics," the statement said.
When discussing the coronavirus situation, Putin and Trump welcomed bilateral cooperation. The two presidents "agreed to boost coordination in this area." "In particular, the US has suggested sending a shipment of medical equipment to Russia," the Kremlin press service added.
The Russian and US presidents also "touched upon the situation on the global oil market," the statement said. They "pointed out that a new OPEC+ deal, which took effect on May 1, contributing to the stabilization of oil prices, had been made at an appropriate time largely thanks to communication between the presidents of Russia and the US."
The presidents of Russia and the US reiterated the importance of dialogue between the two countries. This was their sixth telephone call since the beginning of the year. Three of the six calls were trilateral. Saudi King Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud joined Putin and Trump on one occasion and another two conversations involved Saudi Crown Prince Mohamed bin Salman.


tass--2020-05-07--Int’l organizations should punish for failure to honor decisions, says Azerbaijani leader

MOSCOW , May 7 .
/TASS/ .
International structures should launch mechanisms that will allow delivering punishment for failing to implement their decisions to avoid losing authority on the global arena , Azerbaijani President Ilham Aliyev said in an exclusive interview with TASS First Deputy Director General Mikhail Gusman .
`` The authority of an international organizations primarily depends on implementation of decisions it takes , and there is a lot of room for reform there , '' Aliyev noted .
`` Even resolutions of the UN Security Council adopted many years ago are not honored . ''
The president @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the situation around Nagorno-Karabakh .
`` Therefore , there definitely should be a punishment mechanism in place , '' he continued .
`` If an international organization delivers a decision that must be implemented , it must be implemented .
Meanwhile , there should be a procedure that can be comprised of a few stages to deal with a member [ of the organization ] who violates it , it must be there .
But it is not . ''
Due to lack of such mechanisms , Aliyev believes that certain disappointment in @ @ @ @ @ @ @ contradict international law do not enhance authority of international organizations and often raise doubts about the modern world order , '' the Azeri president continued .
`` International law should be a priority for all countries irrespective of their potential and capabilities .
When we see that it is often brazenly and openly violated , the question arises : why should we honor it ? ''
At the same time , the leader emphasized that the country is not going down this path .
`` Azerbaijan always puts rule of law and international @ @ @ @ @ @ @ `` However , such questions justly arise and a joint response should be found to answer them .
`` .

MOSCOW, May 7. /TASS/. International structures should launch mechanisms that will allow delivering punishment for failing to implement their decisions to avoid losing authority on the global arena, Azerbaijani President Ilham Aliyev said in an exclusive interview with TASS First Deputy Director General Mikhail Gusman.
"The authority of an international organizations primarily depends on implementation of decisions it takes, and there is a lot of room for reform there," Aliyev noted. "Even resolutions of the UN Security Council adopted many years ago are not honored."
The president underlined that Azerbaijan clearly saw it in the situation around Nagorno-Karabakh. "Therefore, there definitely should be a punishment mechanism in place," he continued. "If an international organization delivers a decision that must be implemented, it must be implemented. Meanwhile, there should be a procedure that can be comprised of a few stages to deal with a member [of the organization] who violates it, it must be there. But it is not."
Due to lack of such mechanisms, Aliyev believes that certain disappointment in international organizations emerges. "Actions that contradict international law do not enhance authority of international organizations and often raise doubts about the modern world order," the Azeri president continued. "International law should be a priority for all countries irrespective of their potential and capabilities. When we see that it is often brazenly and openly violated, the question arises: why should we honor it?"
At the same time, the leader emphasized that the country is not going down this path. "Azerbaijan always puts rule of law and international law first," Aliyev said. "However, such questions justly arise and a joint response should be found to answer them.".


tass--2020-05-07--Russian, EU envoys discuss Syrian, Libyan conflicts

MOSCOW , May 7 .
/TASS/ .
Russian Special Presidential Envoy for the Middle East and Africa Mikhail Bogdanov has @ @ @ @ @ the European Union ’ s Ambassador to Russia Markus Ederer to discuss the conflicts in @ @ @ @ @ Russian Foreign Ministry said in a statement on Thursday .
`` The parties thoroughly discussed @ @ @ @ @ developments in the Middle East and North Africa , focusing on the Libyan and Syrian @ @ @ @ @ on the Israeli-Palestinian conflict , '' the statement reads .
`` They pointed out that @ @ @ @ @ framework aimed at establishing lasting and comprehensive peace in the region , which particularly incudes @ @ @ @ @ , '' the Russian Foreign Ministry added .
The parties also highlighted the importance of @ @ @ @ @ and the EU , particularly within the Middle East Quartet , in order to facilitate @ @ @ @ @ based on the principle of two states .
The conversation was initiated by the European @ @ @ @ @

MOSCOW, May 7. /TASS/. Russian Special Presidential Envoy for the Middle East and Africa Mikhail Bogdanov has held a telephone conversation with the European Union’s Ambassador to Russia Markus Ederer to discuss the conflicts in Syria and Libya, the Russian Foreign Ministry said in a statement on Thursday.
"The parties thoroughly discussed the latest political and humanitarian developments in the Middle East and North Africa, focusing on the Libyan and Syrian crises, as well as on the Israeli-Palestinian conflict," the statement reads. "They pointed out that there is an international legal framework aimed at establishing lasting and comprehensive peace in the region, which particularly incudes United Nations Security Council resolutions," the Russian Foreign Ministry added.
The parties also highlighted the importance of coordinating the efforts of Russia and the EU, particularly within the Middle East Quartet, in order to facilitate talks between Israel and Palestine based on the principle of two states.
The conversation was initiated by the European Union Delegation to Russia.


tass--2020-05-07--Saudi Arabia’s coronavirus cases top 33,000

TASS , May 7 .
Saudi Arabian doctors has identified 1,793 new coronavirus cases in the past 24 hours , @ @ @ @ @ via Twitter on Thursday , adding that the total number of infections , therefore , @ @ @ @ @ The national data shows that nine people died in a single day , while 1,015 @ @ @ @ @ 219 coronavirus-related fatalities were recorded , the number of recoveries stands at 7,798 .
In @ @ @ @ @ officials notified the World Health Organization ( WHO ) about the outbreak of a previously @ @ @ @ @ of Wuhan , in central China .
Since then , cases of the novel coronavirus @ @ @ @ @ WHO - have been reported in every corner of the globe .
On March 11 @ @ @ @ @ declared the coronavirus outbreak a pandemic .
According to the latest statistics , over 3,800,000 @ @ @ @ @ and more than 265,000 deaths have been reported .
In addition , so far , @ @ @ @ @ from the illness across the globe .

TASS, May 7. Saudi Arabian doctors has identified 1,793 new coronavirus cases in the past 24 hours, the national health ministry said via Twitter on Thursday, adding that the total number of infections, therefore, has increased to 33,731.
The national data shows that nine people died in a single day, while 1,015 patients recovered. Overall, 219 coronavirus-related fatalities were recorded, the number of recoveries stands at 7,798.
In late December 2019, Chinese officials notified the World Health Organization (WHO) about the outbreak of a previously unknown pneumonia in the city of Wuhan, in central China. Since then, cases of the novel coronavirus - named COVID-19 by the WHO - have been reported in every corner of the globe.
On March 11, 2020, the WHO declared the coronavirus outbreak a pandemic. According to the latest statistics, over 3,800,000 people have been infected worldwide and more than 265,000 deaths have been reported. In addition, so far, over 1,300,000 individuals have recovered from the illness across the globe.


tass--2020-05-07--Putin, Macron exchange congratulations on Victory anniversary

MOSCOW , May 7./TASS/ .
The presidents of Russia and France , Vladimir Putin and Emmanuel Macron , exchanged congratulations @ @ @ @ @ in a phone call on Thursday , the Kremlin press service reports .
`` The @ @ @ @ @ congratulations in connection with the 75th anniversary of the Victory over Nazism , '' the @ @ @ @ @ that `` this anniversary is a common heritage of our states '' .
`` Vladimir @ @ @ @ @ , that Russia will always remember the feat of the pilots from the Normandie-Niemen Fighter @ @ @ @ @ the Soviet-German front .
The presidents conveyed sincere wishes of health and well-being to the @ @ @ @ @ '' the Kremlin press service added .

MOSCOW, May 7./TASS/. The presidents of Russia and France, Vladimir Putin and Emmanuel Macron, exchanged congratulations on the 75th Victory anniversary in a phone call on Thursday, the Kremlin press service reports.
"The heads of state exchanged warm congratulations in connection with the 75th anniversary of the Victory over Nazism," the press service said, adding that "this anniversary is a common heritage of our states".
"Vladimir Putin noted, in particular, that Russia will always remember the feat of the pilots from the Normandie-Niemen Fighter Regiment, who fought on the Soviet-German front. The presidents conveyed sincere wishes of health and well-being to the veterans in both countries," the Kremlin press service added.


tass--2020-05-07--Putin, Macron discuss preparations for UN quintet’s videoconference on pandemic

MOSCOW , May 7 .
/TASS/ .
Russian President Vladimir Putin and his French counterpart Emmanuel Macron held a telephone @ @ @ @ @ preparations for a video conference of the five permanent members of the UN Security Council @ @ @ @ @ press-service has said .
`` During the discussion of counter-measures against the spread of the @ @ @ @ @ importance was stressed of the established bilateral cooperation along these lines .
Preparations were touched @ @ @ @ @ the leaders of the five permanent members of the UN Security Council , devoted to @ @ @ @ @ , '' the press-service said .

MOSCOW, May 7. /TASS/. Russian President Vladimir Putin and his French counterpart Emmanuel Macron held a telephone conversation on Thursday to discuss preparations for a video conference of the five permanent members of the UN Security Council, the Kremlin’s press-service has said.
"During the discussion of counter-measures against the spread of the resistance to the coronavirus the importance was stressed of the established bilateral cooperation along these lines. Preparations were touched upon for a videoconference by the leaders of the five permanent members of the UN Security Council, devoted to joint struggle against the pandemic," the press-service said.


tass--2020-05-07--Northern Italy solemnly bids farewell to Russian servicemen coming home

ROME , May 7 .
/TASS/ .
Representatives of the authority of the Italy ’ s northern province of Lombardy came to the city of Bergamo to thank Russian specialists , who spent over 1.5 months providing aid against the coronavirus pandemic .
According to Russian Embassy in Italy , the ceremony was attended by Lombardy governor Attilio Fontana and a number of local authorities .
Russian Ambassador in Italy Sergey Razov announced that the Russian humanitarian military mission has finished its job in Italy .
The diplomat reminded that the mission was organized in accordance with the agreement , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Italian Prime Minister Giuseppe Conte .
He also remembered as almost two months ago , together with the Italian Foreign Minister Luigi Di Maio , he met the Russian team .
`` Working for almost a month and a half side by side with the Italian colleagues in the most contaminated areas , risking their health , our specialists were selflessly saving human lives , displaying resilience against the wide-scale coronavirus threat .
They fulfilled their duty honestly and in a highly professional manner .
I am certain that the Russian-Italian cooperation against @ @ @ @ @ @ @ that strengthens the canvas of our bilateral relations , '' Razov said .
`` You have come at the most difficult moment for us in the past 80 years .
And you brought concrete help , making life of our medics easier , among other things ; but you have displayed other values as well - friendship and solidarity .
And this is some incredible power , '' Fontana said .
Russian medics have cured a total of 76 patients in a field hospital in Bergamo , speedily constructed to admit the coronavirus @ @ @ @ @ @ @ hospital was overloaded .
The chemical and biological protection troops decontaminated 114 nursing homes , 1,131,000 square meters of indoor areas and over 420,000 square meters of outdoors areas and roads in 90 settlements of Lombardy .
According to the field hospital Chief Medical Officier Oliviero Valoti , the aid of the Russian servicemen was very needed and useful .
`` The colleagues helped a lot both in treatment of both the severely affected , whom we were able to move from the intensive care units to general units , and the easier @ @ @ @ @ @ @ highest level .
But , most importantly , the presence of the Russian colleagues gave us confidence that , in case of increased flow of patients we will not be left alone .
The Russian medics are highly effective , '' Valoti said .
`` We are incredibly pleased with out cooperation . ''
He disclosed that the hospital , which could only be used to treat the coronavirus infection , has very few patients remaining .
The situation in the Bergamo hospital has normalized as well .
The field hospital , which @ @ @ @ @ @ @ mothballed , at least until the end of the year .
`` We would like to preserve it for a time being in case of a new infection wave , '' Valoti said .
The Italian region of Bergamo was one of the most affected by the coronavirus pandemic , where , according to statistics , the fatality rate grew by over five times compared to the 2015-2019 average numbers .
Earlier , Russian Defense Minister Sergei Shoigu announced that the Russian troops will begin to return from Italy Thursday .
On March @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Russian military virologists and epidemiologists , eight medical brigades , as well as diagnostics and decontamination equipment to Italy .

ROME, May 7. /TASS/. Representatives of the authority of the Italy’s northern province of Lombardy came to the city of Bergamo to thank Russian specialists, who spent over 1.5 months providing aid against the coronavirus pandemic. According to Russian Embassy in Italy, the ceremony was attended by Lombardy governor Attilio Fontana and a number of local authorities.
Russian Ambassador in Italy Sergey Razov announced that the Russian humanitarian military mission has finished its job in Italy. The diplomat reminded that the mission was organized in accordance with the agreement, reached between Russian President Vladimir Putin and Italian Prime Minister Giuseppe Conte. He also remembered as almost two months ago, together with the Italian Foreign Minister Luigi Di Maio, he met the Russian team.
"Working for almost a month and a half side by side with the Italian colleagues in the most contaminated areas, risking their health, our specialists were selflessly saving human lives, displaying resilience against the wide-scale coronavirus threat. They fulfilled their duty honestly and in a highly professional manner. I am certain that the Russian-Italian cooperation against the coronavirus will become another binding element that strengthens the canvas of our bilateral relations," Razov said.
"You have come at the most difficult moment for us in the past 80 years. And you brought concrete help, making life of our medics easier, among other things; but you have displayed other values as well - friendship and solidarity. And this is some incredible power," Fontana said.
Chief medic’s impressions
Russian medics have cured a total of 76 patients in a field hospital in Bergamo, speedily constructed to admit the coronavirus patients when the local Pope John XXIII hospital was overloaded. The chemical and biological protection troops decontaminated 114 nursing homes, 1,131,000 square meters of indoor areas and over 420,000 square meters of outdoors areas and roads in 90 settlements of Lombardy.
According to the field hospital Chief Medical Officier Oliviero Valoti, the aid of the Russian servicemen was very needed and useful.
"The colleagues helped a lot both in treatment of both the severely affected, whom we were able to move from the intensive care units to general units, and the easier cases. Everyone was treated at the highest level. But, most importantly, the presence of the Russian colleagues gave us confidence that, in case of increased flow of patients we will not be left alone. The Russian medics are highly effective," Valoti said. "We are incredibly pleased with out cooperation."
He disclosed that the hospital, which could only be used to treat the coronavirus infection, has very few patients remaining. The situation in the Bergamo hospital has normalized as well. The field hospital, which has 142 beds, will be temporarily mothballed, at least until the end of the year.
"We would like to preserve it for a time being in case of a new infection wave," Valoti said.
The Italian region of Bergamo was one of the most affected by the coronavirus pandemic, where, according to statistics, the fatality rate grew by over five times compared to the 2015-2019 average numbers.
Earlier, Russian Defense Minister Sergei Shoigu announced that the Russian troops will begin to return from Italy Thursday. On March 22-25, 15 planes delivered some 100 Russian military virologists and epidemiologists, eight medical brigades, as well as diagnostics and decontamination equipment to Italy.


tass--2020-05-07--One person on board the copter crash-landing in Crimea is dead, says medic

SIMFEROPOL , May 7./TASS/ .
One of the three injured occupants of a military Mi-35 helicopter that crash-landed in the north of Crimea on Thursday has died in hospital , a medical source from the Dzhankoy region where the helicopter landed has told TASS .
`` One person has died , '' the source said , adding that one more injured person is in an intensive therapy unit in grave condition , and one more is in the trauma unit .
A source from an emergencies service said that medics are flying to Dzhankoy from Simferopol .
`` Three specialists @ @ @ @ @ @ @ from Simferopol on board an ambulance aircraft ] , '' the source said .
He specified that the medics would assess the condition of the injured people to decide whether they must be hospitalized to republican clinics .
The helicopter crash-landed in Crimea during a planned mission , three people were injured , the press service of the Southern Military District reported earlier .
There was no ammunition on board the helicopter .
There is no destruction on the ground .
A military commission has been dispatched to the site to look into @ @ @ @ @ @ @

SIMFEROPOL, May 7./TASS/. One of the three injured occupants of a military Mi-35 helicopter that crash-landed in the north of Crimea on Thursday has died in hospital, a medical source from the Dzhankoy region where the helicopter landed has told TASS.
"One person has died," the source said, adding that one more injured person is in an intensive therapy unit in grave condition, and one more is in the trauma unit.
A source from an emergencies service said that medics are flying to Dzhankoy from Simferopol. "Three specialists and a paramedical worker are flying [from Simferopol on board an ambulance aircraft]," the source said. He specified that the medics would assess the condition of the injured people to decide whether they must be hospitalized to republican clinics.
The helicopter crash-landed in Crimea during a planned mission, three people were injured, the press service of the Southern Military District reported earlier. There was no ammunition on board the helicopter. There is no destruction on the ground. A military commission has been dispatched to the site to look into the reasons behind the crash landing.


tass--2020-05-07--Putin: Russia, US can achieve much, if they follow traditions of allied relations

MOSCOW , May 7 .
/TASS/ .
Russian President Vladimir Putin noted in a phone talk with US President Donald Trump that Russia and the United States can achieve much , if they follow the traditions of WWII allied relations , the Kremlin press office reported on Thursday .
`` The historic significance of allied relations that bound our peoples during the years of World War II and made it possible to defeat the common enemy was emphasized .
It was stressed that following these traditions , Russia and the United States can achieve much in resolving acute problems of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ stability , the war on terror , the settlement of regional conflicts and the fight against epidemics , '' the Kremlin press office said in a statement .
The heads of state exchanged their congratulations on the occasion of the 75th anniversary of the Victory over fascism , the statement says .
This is the sixth telephone talk with the US leader since the beginning of the year .
The three of these talks were held in a trilateral format .
On two occasions , they were joined by Saudi Crown Prince Mohammad @ @ @ @ @ @ @ occasion by Saudi King Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud .

MOSCOW, May 7. /TASS/. Russian President Vladimir Putin noted in a phone talk with US President Donald Trump that Russia and the United States can achieve much, if they follow the traditions of WWII allied relations, the Kremlin press office reported on Thursday.
"The historic significance of allied relations that bound our peoples during the years of World War II and made it possible to defeat the common enemy was emphasized. It was stressed that following these traditions, Russia and the United States can achieve much in resolving acute problems of contemporaneity, including the provision of strategic stability, the war on terror, the settlement of regional conflicts and the fight against epidemics," the Kremlin press office said in a statement.
The heads of state exchanged their congratulations on the occasion of the 75th anniversary of the Victory over fascism, the statement says.
This is the sixth telephone talk with the US leader since the beginning of the year. The three of these talks were held in a trilateral format. On two occasions, they were joined by Saudi Crown Prince Mohammad bin Salman Al Saud and on one occasion by Saudi King Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud.


tass--2020-05-07--Russian SPARTA II freighter delivers 850 tonnes of humanitarian aid to Syria’s Tartus

TARTUS /SYRIA/ , May 7 .
Russian SPARTA II freighter delivered almost 850 tonnes of humanitarian aid to Syria ’ s Tartus , says Major General Andrei Teryukhov , who is in charge of material and technical supplies of the Russian Armed Forces group in Syria .
`` In all , 846 tonnes of food were delivered to the Syrian Arab Republic ’ s port of Tartus from the Russian Federation as humanitarian aid , '' Teryukhov said .
He added that , after unloading , the food would be distributed between convoys and sent to seven regional divisions of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ aid will be dispatched beyond the Euphrates , where it is especially needed .
The major general recalled that , since 2016 , Russia had already conducted over 2,400 humanitarian actions and transported over 4,000 tonnes of food , bottled water and essential goods to Syria .
Besides , Russia sent over 4,500 tonnes of construction materials and construction vehicles to Syria `` within aid on rebuilding cities . ''
Currently , ten Syrian provinces conduct repairs and rebuilding of 176 pre-schools and 225 schools .
Ali Yusef , deputy director of the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ship ’ s unloading , disclosed that 53 containers with rice , cereals , canned food , tea , and condensed milk had been unloaded already .
`` Over the last five years , Russia gave us a lot , we are very grateful for this humanitarian aid , '' he noted .

TARTUS /SYRIA/, May 7. Russian SPARTA II freighter delivered almost 850 tonnes of humanitarian aid to Syria’s Tartus, says Major General Andrei Teryukhov, who is in charge of material and technical supplies of the Russian Armed Forces group in Syria.
"In all, 846 tonnes of food were delivered to the Syrian Arab Republic’s port of Tartus from the Russian Federation as humanitarian aid," Teryukhov said.
He added that, after unloading, the food would be distributed between convoys and sent to seven regional divisions of the Russian Reconciliation Center. Some humanitarian aid will be dispatched beyond the Euphrates, where it is especially needed.
The major general recalled that, since 2016, Russia had already conducted over 2,400 humanitarian actions and transported over 4,000 tonnes of food, bottled water and essential goods to Syria. Besides, Russia sent over 4,500 tonnes of construction materials and construction vehicles to Syria "within aid on rebuilding cities." Currently, ten Syrian provinces conduct repairs and rebuilding of 176 pre-schools and 225 schools.
Ali Yusef, deputy director of the Tartus port terminal, who controls the ship’s unloading, disclosed that 53 containers with rice, cereals, canned food, tea, and condensed milk had been unloaded already. "Over the last five years, Russia gave us a lot, we are very grateful for this humanitarian aid," he noted.


tass--2020-05-07--Putin, Trump agree to boost coordination in fight against coronavirus

MOSCOW , May 7 .
/TASS/ .
Presidents Vladimir Putin of Russia and Donald Trump of the United States have @ @ @ @ @ the fight against the coronavirus pandemic , the Kremlin press service said on Thursday following @ @ @ @ @ two presidents .
`` When discussing the coronavirus situation , they welcomed bilateral cooperation , @ @ @ @ @ The two presidents `` agreed to boost coordination in this area . ''
`` In @ @ @ @ @ suggested sending a shipment of medical equipment to Russia , '' the Kremlin press service @ @

MOSCOW, May 7. /TASS/. Presidents Vladimir Putin of Russia and Donald Trump of the United States have agreed to boost coordination in the fight against the coronavirus pandemic, the Kremlin press service said on Thursday following a telephone conversation between the two presidents.
"When discussing the coronavirus situation, they welcomed bilateral cooperation," the statement reads. The two presidents "agreed to boost coordination in this area."
"In particular, the US has suggested sending a shipment of medical equipment to Russia," the Kremlin press service added.


tass--2020-05-07--First cruise along the Yenisei onboard TS Maxim Gorkiy planned for June

KRASNOYARSK , May 7 .
/TASS/ .
TS Maxim Gorkiy , which reached the Yenisei River via the Northern Sea Route , will leave Krasnoyarsk for Dudinka on the first Arctic cruise on June 6 , the Krasnoyarsk Region ’ s tourism agency ’ s Director Yulia Verkhushina told TASS , adding that the date could be adjusted .
Earlier , the Maxim Gorkiy navigated the Volga River .
The ship can hold 100 passengers .
In 2019 , the Krasnoyarsk Region ’ s Governor Alexander Uss announced plans to bring the ship to the Yenisei for tourist cruises .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ June 6 , '' the tourism official said .
`` Apparently , this situation [ with the coronavirus ] made its adjustments , but we hope the trip will take place . ''
During the first year , the organizers can not expect many foreign tourists , she continued .
`` Usually , when we introduce a tour , we do not see many foreigners in the course of the first year .
Foreigners normally use operators , who , in their turn , at first inspect everything , and only later offer @ @ @ @ @ @ @ will be important for gaining experience for future work .
We do not expect many tourists , since borders remain locked , '' she said .
The cheapest cruise from Krasnoyarsk to Dudinka for eleven days is 317,000 rubles ( $ 4,300 ) .
The tours include helicopter rides to the Taimyr Peninsula , where guests will visit the underexplored and hard-to-reach Putorana Plateau in the permafrost zone .
The river route spans 1,989 kilometers .

KRASNOYARSK, May 7. /TASS/. TS Maxim Gorkiy, which reached the Yenisei River via the Northern Sea Route, will leave Krasnoyarsk for Dudinka on the first Arctic cruise on June 6, the Krasnoyarsk Region’s tourism agency’s Director Yulia Verkhushina told TASS, adding that the date could be adjusted.
Earlier, the Maxim Gorkiy navigated the Volga River. The ship can hold 100 passengers. In 2019, the Krasnoyarsk Region’s Governor Alexander Uss announced plans to bring the ship to the Yenisei for tourist cruises.
"The first cruise is scheduled for June 6," the tourism official said. "Apparently, this situation [with the coronavirus] made its adjustments, but we hope the trip will take place."
During the first year, the organizers cannot expect many foreign tourists, she continued. "Usually, when we introduce a tour, we do not see many foreigners in the course of the first year. Foreigners normally use operators, who, in their turn, at first inspect everything, and only later offer new routes to clients. This year will be important for gaining experience for future work. We do not expect many tourists, since borders remain locked," she said.
The cheapest cruise from Krasnoyarsk to Dudinka for eleven days is 317,000 rubles ($4,300). The tours include helicopter rides to the Taimyr Peninsula, where guests will visit the underexplored and hard-to-reach Putorana Plateau in the permafrost zone. The river route spans 1,989 kilometers.