tass--2020-12-28--No difference in immunity in men, women inoculated with Sputnik V, manual says

MOSCOW , December 28 .
/TASS/ .
Clinical trials of the Sputnik V vaccine have demonstrated that the immunity level to the coronavirus does not differ in men and women .
This information was included in the instruction manual on the medical use of the vaccine preparation published on the website of the Federal Service for Surveillance in Healthcare .
`` Immunological properties and the safety of the vaccine were studied in various clinical trials on adult volunteers of both genders aged over 18 .
The interim analysis of the immunogenicity demonstrated that the vaccine forms an immune response in @ @ @ @ @ @ @ antibodies did not meaningfully vary in men and women < ... > , no statistically significant difference in volunteers of different gender and age was detected , '' the document reads .
Also , since the Russian Healthcare Ministry approved the use of the Sputnik V vaccine in elderly persons , the updated instruction manual does not contain age restrictions for people over 60 .
`` The data obtained during clinical trials with the participation of patients of this age group proved that the introduction of the developed vaccine induces a formation of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ virus involving both humoral and cellular immunity chains in people over 60 years of age .
At the same time the safety profile in the group of individuals aged over 60 does not differ from the general population of patients .
Taking into account the obtained results , the corresponding results were approved , '' the letter by Director of the Gamaleya National Research Center Alexander Gintsburg to healthcare specialists on issues of regulatory aspects of use of Sputnik V reads .
On August 11 , Russia became the first country worldwide to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ was named Sputnik V. The preparation was developed by the Gamaleya National Research Center for Epidemiology and Microbiology of the Russian Healthcare Ministry and passed clinical trials in June-July .
Post-registration trials began in Moscow on September 7 , the first vaccine was administered to volunteers on September 9 .

MOSCOW, December 28. /TASS/. Clinical trials of the Sputnik V vaccine have demonstrated that the immunity level to the coronavirus does not differ in men and women. This information was included in the instruction manual on the medical use of the vaccine preparation published on the website of the Federal Service for Surveillance in Healthcare.
"Immunological properties and the safety of the vaccine were studied in various clinical trials on adult volunteers of both genders aged over 18. The interim analysis of the immunogenicity demonstrated that the vaccine forms an immune response in volunteers. <...> Levels of antibodies did not meaningfully vary in men and women <...>, no statistically significant difference in volunteers of different gender and age was detected," the document reads.
Also, since the Russian Healthcare Ministry approved the use of the Sputnik V vaccine in elderly persons, the updated instruction manual does not contain age restrictions for people over 60. "The data obtained during clinical trials with the participation of patients of this age group proved that the introduction of the developed vaccine induces a formation of a strong immune response to the SARS-CoV-2 virus involving both humoral and cellular immunity chains in people over 60 years of age. At the same time the safety profile in the group of individuals aged over 60 does not differ from the general population of patients. Taking into account the obtained results, the corresponding results were approved," the letter by Director of the Gamaleya National Research Center Alexander Gintsburg to healthcare specialists on issues of regulatory aspects of use of Sputnik V reads.
On August 11, Russia became the first country worldwide to register a vaccine against the coronavirus which was named Sputnik V. The preparation was developed by the Gamaleya National Research Center for Epidemiology and Microbiology of the Russian Healthcare Ministry and passed clinical trials in June-July. Post-registration trials began in Moscow on September 7, the first vaccine was administered to volunteers on September 9.


tass--2020-12-28--Putin, Netanyahu discuss situation in Syria, says Kremlin

MOSCOW , December 28 .
/TASS/ .
Russian President Vladimir Putin and Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu have discussed the @ @ @ @ @ phone call on Monday , the Kremlin ’ s press service informed .
`` They @ @ @ @ @ focusing on some aspects of the development of the situation in Syria , '' the @ @ @ @ @ parties also discussed the current issues of Russian-Israeli relations in various spheres .
`` They @ @ @ @ @ to expanding multi-faceted bilateral cooperation , namely in the fight against COVID-19 , '' the @ @ @ @ @ run-up to the New Year , the leaders have exchanged holiday greetings .
Besides , @ @ @ @ @ to Netanyahu and the Israeli people on the occasion of Hanukkah , which was celebrated @ @ @ @ @ and Netanyahu also agreed to maintain contact .

MOSCOW, December 28. /TASS/. Russian President Vladimir Putin and Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu have discussed the situation in Syria during a phone call on Monday, the Kremlin’s press service informed.
"They have discussed regional issues, focusing on some aspects of the development of the situation in Syria," the press service informs.
The parties also discussed the current issues of Russian-Israeli relations in various spheres. "They have reaffirmed their mutual commitment to expanding multi-faceted bilateral cooperation, namely in the fight against COVID-19," the Kremlin added.
In the run-up to the New Year, the leaders have exchanged holiday greetings. Besides, Putin sent his warm regards to Netanyahu and the Israeli people on the occasion of Hanukkah, which was celebrated earlier in December.
Putin and Netanyahu also agreed to maintain contact.


tass--2020-12-28--Combination of Sputnik V with AstraZeneca to protect from COVID-19 for 2 years — scientist

MOSCOW , December 28 .
/TASS/ .
A combination of the Russian Sputnik V vaccine and a preparation by British-Swedish AstraZeneca will protect against the coronavirus infection for two years , Director of the Gamaleya National Research Center for Epidemiology and Microbiology of the Russian Healthcare Ministry Alexander Gintsburg said in an interview with the Russia-24 TV channel on Monday .
`` Memory cells will form much better as a result of using such a hybrid two-component vaccine .
And the vaccine , quite obviously , will accordingly protect an inoculated individual not for 3-4 months but for at least @ @ @ @ @ @ @ According to him , the combination of the vaccines will also give an opportunity to elevate the immunity level which will appear as a result of using the preparation .
Earlier , the Russian Direct Investment Fund ( RDIF ) , the Gamaleya National Research Center , R-Pharm and AstraZeneca signed a memorandum on cooperation in the sphere of developing a vaccine against the coronavirus .
Restrictions due to the coronavirus will possibly be lifted by November 2021 , Alexander Gintsburg thinks .
`` The epidemiology textbooks say : 'As soon as we @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the epidemic process will become manageable with the use of a vaccine , an uncontrolled transmission of this viral strain between people will stop.
’ From this moment on , it will be possible to live responsibly in the conditions without these epidemiological restrictions that are currently forced on us by the epidemic situation .
I hope this time in our country will come at some point by November of next year , '' he said .
The scientist noted that it is possible to draw such conclusions based on the production volumes @ @ @ @ @ @ @ emphasized that it is necessary for residents to realize that the only way to keep safe from the infection is to get vaccinated .
`` And all these claims that ‘ it won ’ t touch me ’ or ‘ I will have a light form and develop immunity ’ are simply scientifically unsound , '' the researcher added .

MOSCOW, December 28. /TASS/. A combination of the Russian Sputnik V vaccine and a preparation by British-Swedish AstraZeneca will protect against the coronavirus infection for two years, Director of the Gamaleya National Research Center for Epidemiology and Microbiology of the Russian Healthcare Ministry Alexander Gintsburg said in an interview with the Russia-24 TV channel on Monday.
"Memory cells will form much better as a result of using such a hybrid two-component vaccine. And the vaccine, quite obviously, will accordingly protect an inoculated individual not for 3-4 months but for at least two years," he said.
According to him, the combination of the vaccines will also give an opportunity to elevate the immunity level which will appear as a result of using the preparation.
Earlier, the Russian Direct Investment Fund (RDIF), the Gamaleya National Research Center, R-Pharm and AstraZeneca signed a memorandum on cooperation in the sphere of developing a vaccine against the coronavirus.
Restrictions due to the coronavirus
Restrictions due to the coronavirus will possibly be lifted by November 2021, Alexander Gintsburg thinks. "The epidemiology textbooks say: 'As soon as we vaccinate 70% of the population, the epidemic process will become manageable with the use of a vaccine, an uncontrolled transmission of this viral strain between people will stop.’ From this moment on, it will be possible to live responsibly in the conditions without these epidemiological restrictions that are currently forced on us by the epidemic situation. I hope this time in our country will come at some point by November of next year," he said.
The scientist noted that it is possible to draw such conclusions based on the production volumes of the Russian vaccine.
He also emphasized that it is necessary for residents to realize that the only way to keep safe from the infection is to get vaccinated. "And all these claims that ‘it won’t touch me’ or ‘I will have a light form and develop immunity’ are simply scientifically unsound," the researcher added.


tass--2020-12-28--Two terrorists eliminated, one policeman killed in Chechnya

GROZNY , December 28 .
/TASS/ .
Two knife-wielding terrorists who attempted to seize the arms of the patrol police @ @ @ @ @ were eliminated while one policeman was killed and another was wounded , Chechen leader Ramzan @ @ @ @ @ `` On Monday , two knife-wielding terrorists made an attempt to seize the arms of @ @ @ @ @ on duty in the center of Grozny .
One policeman was killed .
By retaliation @ @ @ @ @ eliminated .
A law-enforcement officer was also wounded in the attack .
His condition is @ @ @ @ @ victims or injured persons among civilians , '' Kadyrov wrote on his Telegram channel .

GROZNY, December 28. /TASS/. Two knife-wielding terrorists who attempted to seize the arms of the patrol police in the center of Grozny were eliminated while one policeman was killed and another was wounded, Chechen leader Ramzan Kadyrov said on Monday.
"On Monday, two knife-wielding terrorists made an attempt to seize the arms of the patrol police who were on duty in the center of Grozny. One policeman was killed. By retaliation fire, the attackers were eliminated. A law-enforcement officer was also wounded in the attack. His condition is stable. There are no victims or injured persons among civilians," Kadyrov wrote on his Telegram channel.


tass--2020-12-28--Azerbaijan, Armenia exchange prisoners with Russian peacekeepers’ mediation

EREBUNI AIRPORT /Armenia/ , December 28 .
/TASS/ .
Azerbaijan and Armenia held a new round of a prisoners ’ swap , in which two Azerbaijanis were delivered to Baku and four Armenians to Yerevan , Russian Peacekeeping Contingent Commander Lieutenant-General Rustam Muradov announced on Monday .
`` Today , for the purposes of implementing the trilateral statement by the leaders of Russia , Azerbaijan and Armenia of November 9 , 2020 , a new swap of prisoners has taken place .
As a result of the work done , the Russian peacekeepers under my personal control have delivered two @ @ @ @ @ @ @ prisoners to Erebuni by a plane of Russia ’ s Aerospace Force , '' the commander said .
The Russian peacekeepers `` will continue contributing to the strict fulfillment of the trilateral agreement , '' he stressed .
Armenian Deputy Prime Minister Tigran Avinyan announced on Monday that four Armenian prisoners had returned home with the mediation of Russia and the International Committee of the Red Cross .
On December 15 , 44 prisoners returned to Armenia from Azerbaijan with Russia ’ s mediation .
On the same day , 12 Azerbaijani prisoners @ @ @ @ @ @ @ November 9 , Russian President Vladimir Putin , Azerbaijani President Ilham Aliyev and Armenian Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan signed a joint statement on a complete ceasefire in Nagorno-Karabakh starting from November 10 .
The Russian leader said that Azerbaijan and Armenia would maintain the positions that they had held and Russian peacekeepers would be deployed to the region .
In addition , the Agdam , Kalbajar and Lachin districts were handed over back to Azerbaijan .
According to the statement , parts of the Martuni , Martakert and Askeran districts , the city @ @ @ @ @ @ @ district , which used to be part of the Nagorno-Karabakh autonomous region in the Soviet era , were also handed over to Azerbaijan .

EREBUNI AIRPORT /Armenia/, December 28. /TASS/. Azerbaijan and Armenia held a new round of a prisoners’ swap, in which two Azerbaijanis were delivered to Baku and four Armenians to Yerevan, Russian Peacekeeping Contingent Commander Lieutenant-General Rustam Muradov announced on Monday.
"Today, for the purposes of implementing the trilateral statement by the leaders of Russia, Azerbaijan and Armenia of November 9, 2020, a new swap of prisoners has taken place. As a result of the work done, the Russian peacekeepers under my personal control have delivered two captive Azerbaijanis to Baku and returned four prisoners to Erebuni by a plane of Russia’s Aerospace Force," the commander said.
The Russian peacekeepers "will continue contributing to the strict fulfillment of the trilateral agreement," he stressed.
Armenian Deputy Prime Minister Tigran Avinyan announced on Monday that four Armenian prisoners had returned home with the mediation of Russia and the International Committee of the Red Cross.
On December 15, 44 prisoners returned to Armenia from Azerbaijan with Russia’s mediation. On the same day, 12 Azerbaijani prisoners returned to their home land.
On November 9, Russian President Vladimir Putin, Azerbaijani President Ilham Aliyev and Armenian Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan signed a joint statement on a complete ceasefire in Nagorno-Karabakh starting from November 10. The Russian leader said that Azerbaijan and Armenia would maintain the positions that they had held and Russian peacekeepers would be deployed to the region. In addition, the Agdam, Kalbajar and Lachin districts were handed over back to Azerbaijan.
According to the statement, parts of the Martuni, Martakert and Askeran districts, the city of Shushi and almost the entire Hadrut district, which used to be part of the Nagorno-Karabakh autonomous region in the Soviet era, were also handed over to Azerbaijan.


tass--2020-12-28--Russia extends suspension of air traffic with UK until January 12

OSCOW , December 28 .
/TASS/ .
Russia has extended suspension of the air service with the United Kingdom until @ @ @ @ @ coronavirus response center told reporters on Monday .
`` The response center for prevention of @ @ @ @ @ novel coronavirus infection made the decision to extend the term for the suspension of air @ @ @ @ @ .
To secure health of the population , restrictions are extended until 23.59 pm of @ @ @ @ @ '' the center said .
Russia suspended air service with the United Kingdom for a @ @ @ @ @ view of the new coronavirus strain found there .

OSCOW, December 28. /TASS/. Russia has extended suspension of the air service with the United Kingdom until January 12 inclusively, the coronavirus response center told reporters on Monday.
"The response center for prevention of import and spread of the novel coronavirus infection made the decision to extend the term for the suspension of air traffic with the United Kingdom. To secure health of the population, restrictions are extended until 23.59 pm of January 12, 2021," the center said.
Russia suspended air service with the United Kingdom for a week on December 22 in view of the new coronavirus strain found there.


tass--2020-12-28--Presidents of Russia and China to interact in energy projects implementation — Kremlin

MOSCOW , December 28 .
/TASS/ .
Russian President Vladimir Putin acknowledged the stance of deepening interaction in all areas @ @ @ @ @ projects in the energy sector , in the conversation with President of China Xi Jinping @ @ @ @ @ press service said after the telephone conversation .
`` Considering the 20th anniversary of signing @ @ @ @ @ Friendship and Cooperation between the Russian Federation and the People ’ s Republic of China @ @ @ @ @ confirmed to further deepen interaction across all areas , including implementation of large-scale projects in @ @ @ @ @ industrial cooperation , '' the Kremlin says .
The Russian leader also expressed readiness `` @ @ @ @ @ at the international stage , for the sake of supporting peace and stability on a @ @ @ @ @ '' The parties noted with satisfaction the efficient joint efforts of relevant authorities of both @ @ @ @ @ control .
`` Importance of cooperation in vaccine development and production was highlighted , '' @ @ @ @

MOSCOW, December 28. /TASS/. Russian President Vladimir Putin acknowledged the stance of deepening interaction in all areas, including implementation of large-scale projects in the energy sector, in the conversation with President of China Xi Jinping, the Kremlin’s press service said after the telephone conversation.
"Considering the 20th anniversary of signing the Treaty on Good-Neighborliness, Friendship and Cooperation between the Russian Federation and the People’s Republic of China, the mutual commitment was confirmed to further deepen interaction across all areas, including implementation of large-scale projects in the sphere of energy and industrial cooperation," the Kremlin says.
The Russian leader also expressed readiness "to more actively coordinate steps at the international stage, for the sake of supporting peace and stability on a global and regional scale." The parties noted with satisfaction the efficient joint efforts of relevant authorities of both countries in the coronavirus infection control. "Importance of cooperation in vaccine development and production was highlighted," the Kremlin said.


tass--2020-12-28--Four Armenian prisoners return home with Russia’s mediation

YEREVAN , December 28 .
/TASS/ .
Four Armenian prisoners have returned home with the mediation of Russia and the International Committee of the Red Cross , Armenian Deputy Prime Minister Tigran Avinyan wrote on Facebook on Monday .
`` Dear compatriots , four Armenian prisoners have today returned to Armenia with the mediation of the Russian Federation and the International Committee of the Red Cross .
They are now staying under doctors ’ observation and receiving the necessary medical , moral and psychological assistance .
The process of the exchange of prisoners continues , '' the deputy PM said @ @ @ @ @ @ @ returned to Armenia from Azerbaijan with Russia ’ s mediation .
On November 9 , Russian President Vladimir Putin , Azerbaijani President Ilham Aliyev and Armenian Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan signed a joint statement on a complete ceasefire in Nagorno-Karabakh starting from November 10 .
The Russian leader said that Azerbaijan and Armenia would maintain the positions that they had held and Russian peacekeepers would be deployed to the region .
In addition , the Agdam , Kalbajar and Lachin districts were handed over back to Azerbaijan .
According to the statement , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Askeran districts , the city of Shushi and almost the entire Hadrut district , which used to be part of the Nagorno-Karabakh autonomous region in the Soviet era , were also handed over to Azerbaijan .

YEREVAN, December 28. /TASS/. Four Armenian prisoners have returned home with the mediation of Russia and the International Committee of the Red Cross, Armenian Deputy Prime Minister Tigran Avinyan wrote on Facebook on Monday.
"Dear compatriots, four Armenian prisoners have today returned to Armenia with the mediation of the Russian Federation and the International Committee of the Red Cross. They are now staying under doctors’ observation and receiving the necessary medical, moral and psychological assistance. The process of the exchange of prisoners continues," the deputy PM said.
On December 15, 44 prisoners returned to Armenia from Azerbaijan with Russia’s mediation.
On November 9, Russian President Vladimir Putin, Azerbaijani President Ilham Aliyev and Armenian Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan signed a joint statement on a complete ceasefire in Nagorno-Karabakh starting from November 10. The Russian leader said that Azerbaijan and Armenia would maintain the positions that they had held and Russian peacekeepers would be deployed to the region. In addition, the Agdam, Kalbajar and Lachin districts were handed over back to Azerbaijan.
According to the statement, parts of the Martuni, Martakert and Askeran districts, the city of Shushi and almost the entire Hadrut district, which used to be part of the Nagorno-Karabakh autonomous region in the Soviet era, were also handed over to Azerbaijan.


tass--2020-12-28--Russia does not hide any COVID-19 lethality data — official

MOSCOW , December 28 .
/TASS/ .
Since the start of the pandemic , Russia has never hidden any data on COVID-19 mortality rate , Russian Deputy Prime Minister Tatyana Golikova said on Monday .
`` I can say absolutely clearly and officially , and I know what I ’ m talking about , that Russia is not hiding its mortality rate data , not even one bit of it .
Besides , since the start of the pandemic , Russia has published all data on the general mortality rate and on the COVID-19 mortality rate , '' she said @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Channel One .
The official added that first COVID-19 deaths had been documented in Russia in March .
`` The main rise in mortality began in May and June , '' she explained .
Golikova recalled that Russia uses the methodology of the World Health Organization ( WHO ) to determine the COVID-19 mortality rate , which differentiates between confirmed deaths due to COVID-19 and cases when a person dies from other illnesses while testing positive for COVID-19 .
`` Naturally , we will discuss the consequences of the coronavirus and the way @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of the World Health Organization and experts , '' the official added .
Since the start of the pandemic , about 80.8 mln people have contracted COVID-19 worldwide , and over 1.7 mln have died .
Russia has documented 3,078,035 cases of COVID-19 , 2,471,309 patients have recovered and 55,265 have died .

MOSCOW, December 28. /TASS/. Since the start of the pandemic, Russia has never hidden any data on COVID-19 mortality rate, Russian Deputy Prime Minister Tatyana Golikova said on Monday.
"I can say absolutely clearly and officially, and I know what I’m talking about, that Russia is not hiding its mortality rate data, not even one bit of it. Besides, since the start of the pandemic, Russia has published all data on the general mortality rate and on the COVID-19 mortality rate," she said in an interview with Russia’s Channel One.
The official added that first COVID-19 deaths had been documented in Russia in March. "The main rise in mortality began in May and June," she explained.
Golikova recalled that Russia uses the methodology of the World Health Organization (WHO) to determine the COVID-19 mortality rate, which differentiates between confirmed deaths due to COVID-19 and cases when a person dies from other illnesses while testing positive for COVID-19. "Naturally, we will discuss the consequences of the coronavirus and the way it affects other chronic diseases with members of the World Health Organization and experts," the official added.
Since the start of the pandemic, about 80.8 mln people have contracted COVID-19 worldwide, and over 1.7 mln have died. Russia has documented 3,078,035 cases of COVID-19, 2,471,309 patients have recovered and 55,265 have died.


tass--2020-12-28--Russia’s mortality rate grows by 13.8% compared to 2019, says deputy PM

MOSCOW , December 28 .
/TASS/ .
Russia ’ s mortality rate grew by 13.8 % during the first eleven months of this year compared to the same period in 2019 , Russian Deputy Prime Minister Tatyana Golilkova said on Monday .
`` According to the data provided by Rosstat ( Russia ’ s Federal State Statistics Service - TASS ) , which it will make public today , mortality rate in January-November 2020 grew by 13.8 % compared to the same period last year .
At the same time , I would like to draw your attention to the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ for more than 81 % of the increase in total mortality during that period of time , '' she said at a briefing in the Russian government .
According to Golikova , despite the fact that COVID-19 and related diseases account for more than 81 % of the increase in the number of fatalities , mortality rate from cardiovascular diseases , diseases of the nervous and endocrine systems will grow by the end of 2020 , since people with such diseases are most susceptible to the novel coronavirus infection .
She noted that @ @ @ @ @ @ @ in November in December was somewhat worse than during the previous months .
This is due to the autumn-winter season , when the spread of COVID-19 increases in conjunction with other diseases , she explained .
To date , 3,078,035 coronavirus cases have been confirmed in Russia , with 2,471,309 patients having recovered from the disease .
Russia ’ s latest data indicates 55,265 fatalities nationwide .
Earlier , the Russian government set up an Internet hotline to keep the public updated on the coronavirus situation .

MOSCOW, December 28. /TASS/. Russia’s mortality rate grew by 13.8% during the first eleven months of this year compared to the same period in 2019, Russian Deputy Prime Minister Tatyana Golilkova said on Monday.
"According to the data provided by Rosstat (Russia’s Federal State Statistics Service - TASS), which it will make public today, mortality rate in January-November 2020 grew by 13.8% compared to the same period last year. At the same time, I would like to draw your attention to the fact that COVID-19 and its complications account for more than 81% of the increase in total mortality during that period of time," she said at a briefing in the Russian government.
According to Golikova, despite the fact that COVID-19 and related diseases account for more than 81% of the increase in the number of fatalities, mortality rate from cardiovascular diseases, diseases of the nervous and endocrine systems will grow by the end of 2020, since people with such diseases are most susceptible to the novel coronavirus infection.
She noted that the situation in terms of mortality rates in November in December was somewhat worse than during the previous months. This is due to the autumn-winter season, when the spread of COVID-19 increases in conjunction with other diseases, she explained.
To date, 3,078,035 coronavirus cases have been confirmed in Russia, with 2,471,309 patients having recovered from the disease. Russia’s latest data indicates 55,265 fatalities nationwide. Earlier, the Russian government set up an Internet hotline to keep the public updated on the coronavirus situation.


tass--2020-12-28--Putin offers condolences to families of sailors who died in Barents Sea wreck

MOSCOW , December 28 .
/TASS/ .
Russian President Vladimir Putin has sent a telegram to Murmansk Region Governor Andrei @ @ @ @ @ families of those who died in the Onega fishing boat tragedy in the Barents Sea @ @ @ @ @ heavy heart that I learnt about the tragedy in the Barents Sea that claimed lives @ @ @ @ @ crew .
I ask you to relay deep condolences to the families of those who @ @ @ @ @ to those who survived , '' reads the telegram published on the Kremlin ’ s @ @ @ @ @ Monday , the Onega fishing boat capsized in the Barents Sea and sank .
Nineteen @ @ @ @ @ freezing waters , two of whom have been saved .
Searches are underway to look @ @ @ @ @ the same time , an emergency service source told TASS that the missing sailors are @ @ @ @ @

MOSCOW, December 28. /TASS/. Russian President Vladimir Putin has sent a telegram to Murmansk Region Governor Andrei Chibis to extend condolences to families of those who died in the Onega fishing boat tragedy in the Barents Sea.
"It is with heavy heart that I learnt about the tragedy in the Barents Sea that claimed lives of the Onega fishing boat crew. I ask you to relay deep condolences to the families of those who died and words of support to those who survived," reads the telegram published on the Kremlin’s website Monday.
Earlier on Monday, the Onega fishing boat capsized in the Barents Sea and sank. Nineteen people were left in the freezing waters, two of whom have been saved. Searches are underway to look for the others. At the same time, an emergency service source told TASS that the missing sailors are presumed to be dead.


tass--2020-12-28--Russia declares Bulgarian military attache’s aide persona non-grata

MOSCOW , December 28 .
/TASS/ .
Russia is expelling the Bulgarian military attache ’ s aide Lieutenant-Colonel Mitko Borisov in retaliation for the expulsion of a Russian diplomat from Sofia .
A note to this effect was handed to Bulgaria ’ s ambassador in Moscow Atanas Krastin , who was summoned to the Russian Foreign Ministry on Monday .
`` On December 28 , Bulgaria ’ s ambassador Atanas Krastin was invited to the Russian Foreign Ministry where he was handed the ministry ’ s note declaring an aide to the military attache of the Bulgarian embassy in Moscow @ @ @ @ @ @ @ non-grata .
The aforesaid embassy staffer was ordered to leave Russia within 72 hours , '' the Russian Foreign Ministry said .
The measure is in retaliation to Bulgaria ’ s decision to expel the military , air and naval attache at Russia ’ s embassy in Sofia on December 19 .
He was the sixth Russian diplomat to have been expelled from Bulgaria over the past two years .
There were allegations that he had been involved in intelligence activities in the country starting from 2017 , in particular , gathering information @ @ @ @ @ @ @ in exercises in Bulgaria .
He was ordered to leave Bulgaria within a 72-hour deadline .
The Russian embassy stressed that no proof of any activities incompatible with the diplomatic status had been presented .
Russia stressed its right to take retaliatory steps .

MOSCOW, December 28. /TASS/. Russia is expelling the Bulgarian military attache’s aide Lieutenant-Colonel Mitko Borisov in retaliation for the expulsion of a Russian diplomat from Sofia. A note to this effect was handed to Bulgaria’s ambassador in Moscow Atanas Krastin, who was summoned to the Russian Foreign Ministry on Monday.
"On December 28, Bulgaria’s ambassador Atanas Krastin was invited to the Russian Foreign Ministry where he was handed the ministry’s note declaring an aide to the military attache of the Bulgarian embassy in Moscow, Lieutenant-Colonel Mitko Borisov, as persona non-grata. The aforesaid embassy staffer was ordered to leave Russia within 72 hours," the Russian Foreign Ministry said.
The measure is in retaliation to Bulgaria’s decision to expel the military, air and naval attache at Russia’s embassy in Sofia on December 19.
He was the sixth Russian diplomat to have been expelled from Bulgaria over the past two years. There were allegations that he had been involved in intelligence activities in the country starting from 2017, in particular, gathering information about US military personnel’s participation in exercises in Bulgaria. He was ordered to leave Bulgaria within a 72-hour deadline. The Russian embassy stressed that no proof of any activities incompatible with the diplomatic status had been presented. Russia stressed its right to take retaliatory steps.


tass--2020-12-29--Over 1 mln Russians isolated due to contacts with COVID-19 patients

MOSCOW , December 29 .
/TASS/ .
Over 1 mln Russians are currently under observation due to confirmed contacts with @ @ @ @ @ over their self-isolation has been increased , Head of the Federal Service for Surveillance on @ @ @ @ @ Wellbeing Anna Popova reported at a session of the presidium of the state coordination council @ @ @ @ @ in the Russian Federation on Tuesday .
`` In all , there are over 1 @ @ @ @ @ and the control over their isolation was also increased both by us and law enforcement @ @ @ @ @ The top sanitary doctor noted that on Monday alone over 78,000 people were registered for @ @ @ @ @ remain self-isolated during two weeks .

MOSCOW, December 29. /TASS/. Over 1 mln Russians are currently under observation due to confirmed contacts with coronavirus patients. The control over their self-isolation has been increased, Head of the Federal Service for Surveillance on Consumer Rights Protection and Human Wellbeing Anna Popova reported at a session of the presidium of the state coordination council to control the coronavirus incidence in the Russian Federation on Tuesday.
"In all, there are over 1 mln contacts under observation today and the control over their isolation was also increased both by us and law enforcement," she said.
The top sanitary doctor noted that on Monday alone over 78,000 people were registered for observation who will have to remain self-isolated during two weeks.


tass--2020-12-29--Argentina begins COVID-19 vaccination with Russia’s Sputnik V vaccine

BUENOS AIRES , December 29 .
/TASS/ .
Argentina has launched COVID-19 vaccination with a Russian-made vaccine Sputnik V on Tuesday .
Governor of the province of Buenos Aires Axel Kicillof was among the first ones to get the vaccine shot , Argentina ’ s Todo Noticias TV channel informed .
Inoculation against coronavirus with Sputnik V to begin in Argentina on December 29 The governor left the hospital with a certificate confirming that he was vaccinated against COVID-19 .
According to the TV channel , a nurse from the province of Buenos Aires was the first one to get @ @ @ @ @ @ @ will run concurrently in all regions of the country .
The major part of vaccine doses from the first batch , 123,000 , were sent to the province of Buenos Aires .
The capital of Argentina received 23,100 doses .
Earlier , the Russian Direct Investment Fund and the Argentine government signed a contract on the delivery of 10 mln doses of Russia ’ s Sputnik V. The first batch consisting of 300,000 doses was sent to Argentina on December 24 .
The day before , the country ’ s Health Ministry approved @ @ @ @ @ @ @

BUENOS AIRES, December 29. /TASS/. Argentina has launched COVID-19 vaccination with a Russian-made vaccine Sputnik V on Tuesday. Governor of the province of Buenos Aires Axel Kicillof was among the first ones to get the vaccine shot, Argentina’s Todo Noticias TV channel informed.
Inoculation against coronavirus with Sputnik V to begin in Argentina on December 29
The governor left the hospital with a certificate confirming that he was vaccinated against COVID-19.
According to the TV channel, a nurse from the province of Buenos Aires was the first one to get a vaccine jab.
The vaccination campaign will run concurrently in all regions of the country. The major part of vaccine doses from the first batch, 123,000, were sent to the province of Buenos Aires. The capital of Argentina received 23,100 doses.
Earlier, the Russian Direct Investment Fund and the Argentine government signed a contract on the delivery of 10 mln doses of Russia’s Sputnik V. The first batch consisting of 300,000 doses was sent to Argentina on December 24. The day before, the country’s Health Ministry approved the emergency use of the vaccine.


tass--2020-12-29--COVID-19 situation stabilizes in 77 Russian regions, top sanitary doctor says

MOSCOW , December 29 .
/TASS/ .
The situation with the coronavirus in 77 Russian regions has been in the @ @ @ @ @ five weeks , Head of the Federal Service for Surveillance on Consumer Rights Protection and @ @ @ @ @ on Tuesday .
`` In 77 regions , the phase of stabilization has continued for @ @ @ @ @ This is a decent forecasting sign , '' she said at a session of the @ @ @ @ @ council to control the coronavirus incidence in the Russian Federation .
According to the latest @ @ @ @ @ mln people have been infected worldwide and over 1.7 mln deaths have been reported .
@ @ @ @ @ cases have been confirmed in Russia , with 2,496,183 patients having recovered from the disease @ @ @ @ @ data indicates 55,827 fatalities nationwide .
Earlier , the Russian government set up an Internet @ @ @ @ @ updated on the coronavirus situation .

MOSCOW, December 29. /TASS/. The situation with the coronavirus in 77 Russian regions has been in the stabilization phase for more than five weeks, Head of the Federal Service for Surveillance on Consumer Rights Protection and Human Wellbeing Anna Popova reported on Tuesday.
"In 77 regions, the phase of stabilization has continued for over five weeks already. This is a decent forecasting sign," she said at a session of the presidium of the state coordination council to control the coronavirus incidence in the Russian Federation.
According to the latest global statistics, about 81.3 mln people have been infected worldwide and over 1.7 mln deaths have been reported. To date, 3,105,037 coronavirus cases have been confirmed in Russia, with 2,496,183 patients having recovered from the disease. Russia’s latest data indicates 55,827 fatalities nationwide. Earlier, the Russian government set up an Internet hotline to keep the public updated on the coronavirus situation.


tass--2020-12-29--Turkey supports Russia’s efforts to facilitate development of new Syrian constitution

SOCHI , December 29 .
/TASS/ .
Ankara has taken note of Moscow ’ s efforts aimed at facilitating the @ @ @ @ @ constitution , Turkish Foreign Minister Mevlut Cavusoglu said following talks with his Russian counterpart Sergey @ @ @ @ @ We support the initiative to adopt a new constitution in Syria .
We can see @ @ @ @ @ s efforts and we support the political process , '' he pointed out .
Geneva @ @ @ @ @ the Small Group of the Syrian Constitutional Committee between November 30 and December 4 .
@ @ @ @ @ the country ’ s government , opposition and civil society - have so far been @ @ @ @ @ .
According to United Nations Special Envoy for Syria Geir Pedersen , the fifth meeting @ @ @ @ @ on January 25 .

SOCHI, December 29. /TASS/. Ankara has taken note of Moscow’s efforts aimed at facilitating the development of a new Syrian constitution, Turkish Foreign Minister Mevlut Cavusoglu said following talks with his Russian counterpart Sergey Lavrov on Tuesday.
"We support the initiative to adopt a new constitution in Syria. We can see the results of Russia’s efforts and we support the political process," he pointed out.
Geneva hosted the fourth meeting of the Small Group of the Syrian Constitutional Committee between November 30 and December 4. The parties - representatives of the country’s government, opposition and civil society - have so far been unable to reach specific agreements. According to United Nations Special Envoy for Syria Geir Pedersen, the fifth meeting is set to take place on January 25.


tass--2020-12-29--Russia, Turkey reaffirm commitment to military cooperation despite US pressure

SOCHI , December 29 .
/TASS/ .
Moscow and Ankara reaffirm their commitment to developing military-technical cooperation despite the pressure @ @ @ @ @ Minister Sergey Lavrov said on Tuesday on the outcomes of the talks with his Turkish @ @ @ @ @ We have reaffirmed our mutual commitment to developing military-technical cooperation .
President [ of Russia @ @ @ @ @ many times that we value the principal commitment of our Turkish colleagues to continuing the @ @ @ @ @ the ongoing illegitimate pressure from the side of Washington that is blatantly lobbying the interests @ @ @ @ @ , illegitimate methods , '' he said .
On December 14 , the US announced @ @ @ @ @ 's Defense Industries Presidency Ismail Demir and three Turkish citizens within the CAATSA ( Countering @ @ @ @ @ Act ) due to Ankara ’ s purchase of Russian S-400 missile defense systems .

SOCHI, December 29. /TASS/. Moscow and Ankara reaffirm their commitment to developing military-technical cooperation despite the pressure from Washington, Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov said on Tuesday on the outcomes of the talks with his Turkish colleague Mevlut Cavusoglu.
"We have reaffirmed our mutual commitment to developing military-technical cooperation. President [of Russia Vladimir] Putin pointed out many times that we value the principal commitment of our Turkish colleagues to continuing the cooperation in this area despite the ongoing illegitimate pressure from the side of Washington that is blatantly lobbying the interests of US producers through non-market, illegitimate methods," he said.
On December 14, the US announced sanctions against head of Turkey's Defense Industries Presidency Ismail Demir and three Turkish citizens within the CAATSA (Countering America's Adversaries Through Sanctions Act) due to Ankara’s purchase of Russian S-400 missile defense systems.


tass--2020-12-29--US relations with Russia, China deteriorated because of Trump administration, envoy says

`` The outgoing administration - the administration of President Trump - has brought both the United States ’ relations with Russia and its relations with China into a stalemate .
Moreover , that happened solely through the fault and at the initiative of the Americans , '' he said .
BEIJING , December 29 .
/TASS/ .
The United States ’ relations with Russia and China have deteriorated through the fault and at the initiative of the outgoing Trump administration , Russian Ambassador to China Andrei Denisov told reporters at a news conference on Tuesday .
According to Denisov , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ United States and China in its relations [ with the US ] did the best they could under the Trump [ administration ] to prevent a negative scenario . ''
`` We , both Russia and China , have now become the main adversaries for the United States , '' he noted .
He stressed that China had found `` the most optimal option in relations with the Americans . ''
According to the ambassador , China `` has just stopped paying attention to the hostile actions of the outgoing Trump administration .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ waiting for the advent of the new administration .
Both China and Russia have already expressed their willingness to work with the new administration and their readiness to look for common ground in order to reverse the negative trend in relations that has emerged through the fault of the American administration , '' Denisov noted .
`` Both our Chinese partners and we would like to hope that a more sensible approach in relations with our countries will prevail under the new US administration .
It remains to be seen whether these hopes @ @ @ @ @ @ @ thing is certain - that depends entirely on the Americans , '' the ambassador concluded .
The US presidential election was held on November 3 .
On December 14 , the US Electoral College convened and confirmed Biden ’ s election victory .
The Democrat received 306 votes , while incumbent President Donald Trump secured 232 votes .
With 538 electors , a candidate needs to get 270 votes to be elected to the office of President of the United States .
In late November , Trump , who has still not conceded @ @ @ @ @ @ @ White House only if the Electoral College voted for Biden .
In light of this remark , the procedure which is normally considered a formality drew enormous media spotlight .

"The outgoing administration - the administration of President Trump - has brought both the United States’ relations with Russia and its relations with China into a stalemate. Moreover, that happened solely through the fault and at the initiative of the Americans," he said.
BEIJING, December 29. /TASS/. The United States’ relations with Russia and China have deteriorated through the fault and at the initiative of the outgoing Trump administration, Russian Ambassador to China Andrei Denisov told reporters at a news conference on Tuesday.
According to Denisov, "Russia in its relations with the United States and China in its relations [with the US] did the best they could under the Trump [administration] to prevent a negative scenario." "We, both Russia and China, have now become the main adversaries for the United States," he noted.
He stressed that China had found "the most optimal option in relations with the Americans." According to the ambassador, China "has just stopped paying attention to the hostile actions of the outgoing Trump administration."
"Of course, we are waiting for the advent of the new administration. Both China and Russia have already expressed their willingness to work with the new administration and their readiness to look for common ground in order to reverse the negative trend in relations that has emerged through the fault of the American administration," Denisov noted. "Both our Chinese partners and we would like to hope that a more sensible approach in relations with our countries will prevail under the new US administration. It remains to be seen whether these hopes will come true. However, one thing is certain - that depends entirely on the Americans," the ambassador concluded.
The US presidential election was held on November 3. On December 14, the US Electoral College convened and confirmed Biden’s election victory. The Democrat received 306 votes, while incumbent President Donald Trump secured 232 votes. With 538 electors, a candidate needs to get 270 votes to be elected to the office of President of the United States.
In late November, Trump, who has still not conceded, said that he would leave the White House only if the Electoral College voted for Biden. In light of this remark, the procedure which is normally considered a formality drew enormous media spotlight.


tass--2020-12-29--Turkey, Russia continue talks on COVID vaccine supplies, production

SOCHI , December 29 .
/TASS/ .
Ankara and Moscow continue consultations on the supply and joint production of the @ @ @ @ @ Turkish Foreign Minister Mevlut Cavusoglu said following talks with his Russian counterpart Sergey Lavrov on @ @ @ @ @ close cooperation on various pandemic-related issues with Russia , including vaccination , '' he pointed @ @ @ @ @ Vladimir Putin made a proposal concerning the Sputnik V vaccine to our president .
The @ @ @ @ @ the Health Ministry and a protocol on cooperation on the vaccine was signed immediately .
@ @ @ @ @ a cabinet meeting yesterday that cooperation continues normally , it particularly concerns vaccine supplies and @ @ @ @ @ vaccine , '' Cavusoglu added .
On August 11 , Russia became the first country @ @ @ @ @ , which was named Sputnik V. The vaccine was developed by the Gamaleya Scientific Research @ @ @ @ @ and underwent clinical trials in June and July .
The vaccine ’ s post-registration trials @ @ @ @ @ early September .

SOCHI, December 29. /TASS/. Ankara and Moscow continue consultations on the supply and joint production of the Sputnik V coronavirus vaccine, Turkish Foreign Minister Mevlut Cavusoglu said following talks with his Russian counterpart Sergey Lavrov on Tuesday.
"We maintain close cooperation on various pandemic-related issues with Russia, including vaccination," he pointed out. "Russian President Vladimir Putin made a proposal concerning the Sputnik V vaccine to our president. The president gave an order to the Health Ministry and a protocol on cooperation on the vaccine was signed immediately. The health minister said at a cabinet meeting yesterday that cooperation continues normally, it particularly concerns vaccine supplies and the joint production of the vaccine," Cavusoglu added.
On August 11, Russia became the first country to register a coronavirus vaccine, which was named Sputnik V. The vaccine was developed by the Gamaleya Scientific Research Institute of Epidemiology and Microbiology and underwent clinical trials in June and July. The vaccine’s post-registration trials kicked off in Moscow in early September.


tass--2020-12-29--Volume of cybercrime soared four times in 2020, says Sberbank CEO

`` The crooks use the latest technical means .
Before covid , the volume of cybercrime approximately doubled annually .
In 2020 , it has increased fourfold .
Are our special services and law enforcement agencies able to resist it ?
Obviously not , '' he said .
MOSCOW , December 29 .
/TASS/ .
The volume of cybercrime soared four times in 2020 , head of Sberbank Herman Gref said in an interview with TASS .
He added that so far law enforcement agencies are not able to stop the rapid growth of such crimes .
The head of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ elderly people who become victims of cyber criminals , sometimes such attackers manage to swindle hundreds of millions of rubles out of a person .
`` Two weeks ago , they stole several hundred million rubles from a top manager , a client of one of the banks .
And I can tell you about a dozen of such stories .
You will be very surprised if you find out what kind of people they cheated out of their money and how they did it , '' Gref told TASS .
He stressed @ @ @ @ @ @ @ person should take into account , in particular the degree of cyber security of this credit institution .
`` I always tell my friends : choose a bank not only from the point of view of financial reliability , but also cyber security .
Banks where they invest a lot in the cyber defense system , and you will be protected , '' head of Sberbank said .
Gref also noted that the criminals act much faster than the special services , and this is a worldwide problem .
`` The state mechanism @ @ @ @ @ @ @ only about Russia - many countries are in a similar situation .
We are gradually realizing how serious the problem is , '' he said .

"The crooks use the latest technical means. Before covid, the volume of cybercrime approximately doubled annually. In 2020, it has increased fourfold. Are our special services and law enforcement agencies able to resist it? Obviously not," he said.
MOSCOW, December 29. /TASS/. The volume of cybercrime soared four times in 2020, head of Sberbank Herman Gref said in an interview with TASS. He added that so far law enforcement agencies are not able to stop the rapid growth of such crimes.
The head of Sberbank noted that it is not only elderly people who become victims of cyber criminals, sometimes such attackers manage to swindle hundreds of millions of rubles out of a person.
"Two weeks ago, they stole several hundred million rubles from a top manager, a client of one of the banks. And I can tell you about a dozen of such stories. You will be very surprised if you find out what kind of people they cheated out of their money and how they did it," Gref told TASS.
He stressed that when choosing a bank, a person should take into account, in particular the degree of cyber security of this credit institution.
"I always tell my friends: choose a bank not only from the point of view of financial reliability, but also cyber security. Banks where they invest a lot in the cyber defense system, and you will be protected," head of Sberbank said.
Gref also noted that the criminals act much faster than the special services, and this is a worldwide problem. "The state mechanism is too clumsy. It's not only about Russia - many countries are in a similar situation. We are gradually realizing how serious the problem is," he said.


tass--2020-12-29--Western sanctions have no impact on Russia-Turkey cooperation, says Lavrov

SOCHI , December 29 .
/TASS/ .
Western sanctions have no impact on Russia-Turkey relations , Russian Foreign Minister Sergey @ @ @ @ @ his Turkish counterpart Mevlut Cavusoglu on Tuesday .
`` Relations between Russia and Turkey are @ @ @ @ @ depend on anyone ’ s aggressive and hostile actions and whims .
They are based @ @ @ @ @ the two countries and their determination to continue mutually beneficial cooperation by searching for a @ @ @ @ @ Lavrov said in response to a question .
`` Our relations had gained strategic importance @ @ @ @ @ to threaten with and introduce its illegitimate unilateral sanctions , '' he added .
At @ @ @ @ @ pointed out that Russia and Turkey pursued independent foreign policies and coordinated their efforts to @ @ @ @ @ interests and maintain their balance .
`` This is why [ Moscow and Ankara ] @ @ @ @ @ the West who seek to use unfair competition practices in all areas , including the @ @ @ @ @ and defense cooperation , '' the Russian top diplomat stressed .

SOCHI, December 29. /TASS/. Western sanctions have no impact on Russia-Turkey relations, Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov said following talks with his Turkish counterpart Mevlut Cavusoglu on Tuesday.
"Relations between Russia and Turkey are self-sustainable and don’t depend on anyone’s aggressive and hostile actions and whims. They are based on the national interests of the two countries and their determination to continue mutually beneficial cooperation by searching for a balance of interests," Lavrov said in response to a question. "Our relations had gained strategic importance long before the West began to threaten with and introduce its illegitimate unilateral sanctions," he added.
At the same time, Lavrov pointed out that Russia and Turkey pursued independent foreign policies and coordinated their efforts to promote the two counties’ interests and maintain their balance. "This is why [Moscow and Ankara] cause outrage among those in the West who seek to use unfair competition practices in all areas, including the economy, the energy sector and defense cooperation," the Russian top diplomat stressed.


tass--2020-12-29--Belligerent statements of Ukrainian leadership on Donbass cause concern, Lavrov says

SOCHI , December 29 .
/TASS/ .
The latest belligerent statements of the Ukrainian leadership on Donbass cause concern , @ @ @ @ @ stated after talks with his Turkish counterpart Mevlut Cavusoglu on Tuesday .
`` We had @ @ @ @ @ crisis , the unified position involved the necessity to fulfill all the obligations that the @ @ @ @ @ the Minsk Agreements .
We consider any encouragement of Ukraine ’ s aggressive actions inadmissible @ @ @ @ @ expressed our concern over recent all the more belligerent statements of the Ukrainian leadership , @ @ @ @ @ December 28 , Ukrainian Foreign Minister Dmitry Kuleba stated that Ukraine won ’ t surrender @ @ @ @ @ added that the country will continue as a European country since its split with Russia @ @ @ @ @ stated that Kiev won ’ t allow for Donbass to be outside of the Ukrainian @ @ @ @ @ won ’ t permit holding local elections there in disregard of Ukrainian legislation .

SOCHI, December 29. /TASS/. The latest belligerent statements of the Ukrainian leadership on Donbass cause concern, Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov stated after talks with his Turkish counterpart Mevlut Cavusoglu on Tuesday.
"We had a discussion of the Ukrainian crisis, the unified position involved the necessity to fulfill all the obligations that the sides undertook in accordance with the Minsk Agreements. We consider any encouragement of Ukraine’s aggressive actions inadmissible and due to that we expressed our concern over recent all the more belligerent statements of the Ukrainian leadership," he said.
On December 28, Ukrainian Foreign Minister Dmitry Kuleba stated that Ukraine won’t surrender Crimea and Donbass. He added that the country will continue as a European country since its split with Russia is final. He also stated that Kiev won’t allow for Donbass to be outside of the Ukrainian constitution and legal order and won’t permit holding local elections there in disregard of Ukrainian legislation.


tass--2020-12-29--Fashion designer Pierre Cardin dies aged 98

Russian Defense Ministry does not rule out US might revise its stance on New START Deputy Defense Minister Alexander Fomin @ @ @ @ @ had for a long time pushed ahead with a policy of building up its military @

West was covering up crimes of Kiev regime that led to Ukraine’s tragedy, Lavrov says
"During this entire period, the population of DPR and LPR was subjected to abuse, perennial shelling on the part of the Kiev regime that openly adopted a course towards Russophobia and genocide," the Russian top diplomat noted
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tass--2020-12-29--Shipbuilders deliver cutting-edge corvette to Russian Navy

The ceremony of raising the Russian Navy ’ s St. Andrew ’ s flag was held at the Severnaya Shipyard in St. Petersburg .
ST. PETERSBURG , December 29 .
/TASS/ .
The Project 20385 lead corvette Gremyashchiy has been accepted for service in the Russian Navy .
`` Today is a remarkable event for the Navy .
On the eve of the New Year , a new ship completely unique by its technical characteristics has been handed over .
The corvette will soon be relocated to the Pacific Fleet to the place of its permanent operation , '' Russian @ @ @ @ @ @ @ delivery ceremony .
Six more corvettes of this class will be built for the Pacific Fleet and will be eventually armed with Tsirkon hypersonic missiles , the Navy chief said .
The Gremyashchiy is the Project 20385 lead corvette laid down at the Severnaya Shipyard on February 1 , 2012 and floated out in June 2017 .
The corvettes of this Project developed by the Almaz Central Marine Design Bureau are designated to detect and destroy enemy submarines and surface ships , provide for troop landing and cope with numerous green-water tasks .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ have an operating range of 3,500 miles and their sea endurance is 15 days .
They are armed with Kalibr-NK universal missile systems , Redut anti-aircraft missile launchers and Paket anti-submarine warfare technology .
Compared to the ships of the previous Project 20380 , the Gremyashchiy carries Kalibr-NK and/or Oniks cruise missiles .
Project 20385 envisages a hangar for a Ka-27 helicopter .
The corvette was named after the Northern Fleet ’ s legendary destroyer Gremyashchiy that fought during the Soviet Union ’ s 1941-1945 Great Patriotic War against Nazi Germany .
For @ @ @ @ @ @ @ war , the destroyer was awarded the Guards title while its commander , 1st Rank Captain Anton Gurin was bestowed with the Hero of the Soviet Union title .

The ceremony of raising the Russian Navy’s St. Andrew’s flag was held at the Severnaya Shipyard in St. Petersburg.
ST. PETERSBURG, December 29. /TASS/. The Project 20385 lead corvette Gremyashchiy has been accepted for service in the Russian Navy.
"Today is a remarkable event for the Navy. On the eve of the New Year, a new ship completely unique by its technical characteristics has been handed over. The corvette will soon be relocated to the Pacific Fleet to the place of its permanent operation," Russian Navy Commander-in-Chief Nikolai Yevmenov said at the delivery ceremony.
Six more corvettes of this class will be built for the Pacific Fleet and will be eventually armed with Tsirkon hypersonic missiles, the Navy chief said.
The Gremyashchiy is the Project 20385 lead corvette laid down at the Severnaya Shipyard on February 1, 2012 and floated out in June 2017. The corvettes of this Project developed by the Almaz Central Marine Design Bureau are designated to detect and destroy enemy submarines and surface ships, provide for troop landing and cope with numerous green-water tasks.
Project 20385 corvettes displace 2,200 tonnes, have an operating range of 3,500 miles and their sea endurance is 15 days. They are armed with Kalibr-NK universal missile systems, Redut anti-aircraft missile launchers and Paket anti-submarine warfare technology.
Compared to the ships of the previous Project 20380, the Gremyashchiy carries Kalibr-NK and/or Oniks cruise missiles. Project 20385 envisages a hangar for a Ka-27 helicopter.
The corvette was named after the Northern Fleet’s legendary destroyer Gremyashchiy that fought during the Soviet Union’s 1941-1945 Great Patriotic War against Nazi Germany. For its successful operations at sea during the war, the destroyer was awarded the Guards title while its commander, 1st Rank Captain Anton Gurin was bestowed with the Hero of the Soviet Union title.


tass--2020-12-29--Aeroflot resumes flights to Warsaw

Aeroflot resumes flights to Warsaw

WARSAW , December 29 .
/TASS/ .
Aeroflot has resumed freight and passenger flights to Warsaw , press secretary of @ @ @ @ @ Rudzki told TASS on Tuesday .
The first direct flight of Aeroflot from Moscow since @ @ @ @ @ capital of Poland on Saturday .
`` Aeroflot flights will be made every Saturday from @ @ @ @ @ , 2021 , '' the press secretary said .
Flight tickets can be purchased as @ @ @ @ @ in the afternoon .
Poland ’ s air carrier LOT that earlier made flights en @ @ @ @ @ Warsaw `` has not yet started flights to Moscow , '' Rudzki added .
In @ @ @ @ @ , all the passengers arriving at Poland must undergo the 10-day self-isolation , the press @ @ @

WARSAW, December 29. /TASS/. Aeroflot has resumed freight and passenger flights to Warsaw, press secretary of the Warsaw Chopin Airport Piotr Rudzki told TASS on Tuesday.
The first direct flight of Aeroflot from Moscow since spring has arrived at the capital of Poland on Saturday. "Aeroflot flights will be made every Saturday from December 26 to March 27, 2021," the press secretary said.
Flight tickets can be purchased as usual. Flights are made in the afternoon.
Poland’s air carrier LOT that earlier made flights en route Warsaw - Moscow - Warsaw "has not yet started flights to Moscow," Rudzki added.
In view of the epidemiological situation, all the passengers arriving at Poland must undergo the 10-day self-isolation, the press secretary added.


tass--2020-12-29--Nothing but rumors: Kremlin rebuffs guessing game on Putin’s possible 'successors’

MOSCOW , December 29 .
/TASS/ .
The question of who can become Russia ’ s future president always sparks interest , but speculation on that topic is unsubstantiated , as a rule , Kremlin Spokesman Dmitry Peskov told reporters on Tuesday .
Turning to the matter in question , the spokesman commented on the recent remarks by Vladimir Zhirinovsky , the firebrand leader of the Liberal Democratic Party of Russia ( LDPR ) , who had named possible future leaders of the Russian Federation and elaborated on why the issue triggered such tremendous interest .
`` The subject of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Russia ’ s political landscape , both among political scientists and other circles close to them , '' Peskov noted .
In his view , `` it has always been this way , and it will probably always be so . ''
`` Of course , such hypotheses very frequently have nothing substantial to back them up and are merely rumors , '' he stressed .
The Kremlin spokesman declined to expound on Zhirinovsky ’ s predictions .
He noted , however , that the LDPR leader `` has a wealth of political @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ratings [ of a potential future president of Russia ] are based on that experience , '' Peskov suggested .
When asked whether Russian President Vladimir Putin himself has pondered over a successor , Peskov recalled that the head of state was asked that question many times at various press conferences .
`` He answered it on multiple occasions , '' Peskov pointed out .

MOSCOW, December 29. /TASS/. The question of who can become Russia’s future president always sparks interest, but speculation on that topic is unsubstantiated, as a rule, Kremlin Spokesman Dmitry Peskov told reporters on Tuesday.
Turning to the matter in question, the spokesman commented on the recent remarks by Vladimir Zhirinovsky, the firebrand leader of the Liberal Democratic Party of Russia (LDPR), who had named possible future leaders of the Russian Federation and elaborated on why the issue triggered such tremendous interest.
"The subject of a successor traditionally sparks enormous interest across Russia’s political landscape, both among political scientists and other circles close to them," Peskov noted. In his view, "it has always been this way, and it will probably always be so."
"Of course, such hypotheses very frequently have nothing substantial to back them up and are merely rumors," he stressed.
The Kremlin spokesman declined to expound on Zhirinovsky’s predictions. He noted, however, that the LDPR leader "has a wealth of political experience." "Perhaps, his ratings [of a potential future president of Russia] are based on that experience," Peskov suggested.
When asked whether Russian President Vladimir Putin himself has pondered over a successor, Peskov recalled that the head of state was asked that question many times at various press conferences. "He answered it on multiple occasions," Peskov pointed out.


tass--2020-12-29--Russia’s smartphone sales hit record $7.76 bln in 2020

MOSCOW , December 29 .
/TASS/ .
Russia saw record-breaking smartphone sales in 2020 - about 31 mln devices were sold for 570 bln rubles ( $ 7.76 bln ) , M.Video-Eldorado and MTS told TASS .
`` Sales of smartphones in the Russian market by the end of 2020 will increase by about 4 % in units and by 15 % in money , to a record 31.5 mln devices and 570 bln rubles .
The market ’ s average bill by the end of the year will grow by about 9 % to 18,000 rubles , '' M.Video @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of 20 % in units and 25 % in money terms .
In 2019 , 30 mln smartphones were sold in Russia for about 495 bln rubles ( $ 6.74 bln ) .
According to MTS analysts , despite a short-term drop in demand in Q2 2020 , at the end of the year the market grew to record values - in January-December , Russians bought 31 mln devices worth more than 572 bln rubles ( $ 7.79 bln ) , the company told TASS .
Compared to last year , the growth @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and 14.3 % in monetary terms .
The number of mobile devices sold over the Internet increased by 60 % .

MOSCOW, December 29. /TASS/. Russia saw record-breaking smartphone sales in 2020 - about 31 mln devices were sold for 570 bln rubles ($7.76 bln), M.Video-Eldorado and MTS told TASS.
"Sales of smartphones in the Russian market by the end of 2020 will increase by about 4% in units and by 15% in money, to a record 31.5 mln devices and 570 bln rubles. The market’s average bill by the end of the year will grow by about 9% to 18,000 rubles," M.Video noted. M.Video-Eldorado group expects sales growth of 20% in units and 25% in money terms. In 2019, 30 mln smartphones were sold in Russia for about 495 bln rubles ($6.74 bln).
According to MTS analysts, despite a short-term drop in demand in Q2 2020, at the end of the year the market grew to record values - in January-December, Russians bought 31 mln devices worth more than 572 bln rubles ($7.79 bln), the company told TASS. Compared to last year, the growth amounted to 2.3% in physical terms and 14.3% in monetary terms. The number of mobile devices sold over the Internet increased by 60%.


tass--2020-12-29--Russia was one of the first to help other countries amid pandemic — Foreign Ministry

MOSCOW , December 29 .
/TASS/ .
Russia was one of the first to provide assistance to other countries amid the novel coronavirus pandemic .
Also , it established wide cooperation in developing and providing anti-virus medications and vaccines , the Russian Foreign Ministry said in a commentary on the basic foreign policy results of 2020 .
`` Russia was one of the first to have provided active assistance to other countries in the struggle against COVID-19 and in overcoming the socio-economic effects of the crisis ; it established wide cooperation in developing , manufacturing and providing anti-virus medications and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
The commentary recalls that one of the most important aspects of foreign policy work was to promote the return home of more than 300,000 compatriots through evacuation flights .
Alongside this urgent assistance was provided to those who found themselves in adverse circumstances abroad .
The Russian Foreign Ministry recalled President Vladimir Putin ’ s initiative for holding a summit of the five permanent members of the UN Security Council for identifying solutions to acute problems of today .
In principle , the idea was supported by other permanent members of the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ world community .
`` Russia proposed a positive , unifying agenda for the sake of global stability and predictability and for strengthening the central role of the UN as the main coordinating body in world politics .
It urged partners to refrain from zero sum games and double standards and opt for an open and honest dialogue , '' the commentary runs .

MOSCOW, December 29. /TASS/. Russia was one of the first to provide assistance to other countries amid the novel coronavirus pandemic. Also, it established wide cooperation in developing and providing anti-virus medications and vaccines, the Russian Foreign Ministry said in a commentary on the basic foreign policy results of 2020.
"Russia was one of the first to have provided active assistance to other countries in the struggle against COVID-19 and in overcoming the socio-economic effects of the crisis; it established wide cooperation in developing, manufacturing and providing anti-virus medications and vaccines," the Foreign Ministry said.
The commentary recalls that one of the most important aspects of foreign policy work was to promote the return home of more than 300,000 compatriots through evacuation flights. Alongside this urgent assistance was provided to those who found themselves in adverse circumstances abroad.
The Russian Foreign Ministry recalled President Vladimir Putin’s initiative for holding a summit of the five permanent members of the UN Security Council for identifying solutions to acute problems of today. In principle, the idea was supported by other permanent members of the UN Security Council and welcomed by the world community.
"Russia proposed a positive, unifying agenda for the sake of global stability and predictability and for strengthening the central role of the UN as the main coordinating body in world politics. It urged partners to refrain from zero sum games and double standards and opt for an open and honest dialogue," the commentary runs.


tass--2020-12-29--Russia blacklists top German intelligence officials

MOSCOW , December 29 .
/TASS/ .
Moscow has blacklisted a number of German law enforcement and intelligence officials , barring them from entering Russia , the Russian Foreign Ministry said in a statement on Tuesday .
According to the ministry , the move was taken in response to the European Union ’ s sanctions over the alleged `` Russian trace '' in a cyberattack on the Bundestag ’ s computer system in 2015 .
`` In response to the EU ’ s destructive actions , Moscow has decided to expand the blacklist of German nationals barred from entering Russia @ @ @ @ @ @ @ In accordance with the diplomatic principle of reciprocity , Russia has blacklisted top officials from the law enforcement and intelligence agencies that belong to the German Defense Ministry , '' the document adds .
According to the Russian Foreign Ministry , Moscow has repeatedly called on Berlin to hold bilateral expert consultations on the data allegedly pointing to the involvement of Russian citizens in the cyberattack but the German authorities ignored the initiative .
`` Their approach makes it clear that Berlin has never been interested in really investigating the so-called Russian hackers @ @ @ @ @ @ @ staged as another provocation against our country , '' the statement runs .
The European Union and the United Kingdom earlier imposed sanctions on two Russian nationals , including Head of the Main Directorate of the General Staff of the Russian Armed Forces Igor Kostyukov , allegedly responsible for the 2015 attack on the German Bundestag .

MOSCOW, December 29. /TASS/. Moscow has blacklisted a number of German law enforcement and intelligence officials, barring them from entering Russia, the Russian Foreign Ministry said in a statement on Tuesday. According to the ministry, the move was taken in response to the European Union’s sanctions over the alleged "Russian trace" in a cyberattack on the Bundestag’s computer system in 2015.
"In response to the EU’s destructive actions, Moscow has decided to expand the blacklist of German nationals barred from entering Russia," the statement reads. "In accordance with the diplomatic principle of reciprocity, Russia has blacklisted top officials from the law enforcement and intelligence agencies that belong to the German Defense Ministry," the document adds.
According to the Russian Foreign Ministry, Moscow has repeatedly called on Berlin to hold bilateral expert consultations on the data allegedly pointing to the involvement of Russian citizens in the cyberattack but the German authorities ignored the initiative. "Their approach makes it clear that Berlin has never been interested in really investigating the so-called Russian hackers case and the entire situation was initially staged as another provocation against our country," the statement runs.
The European Union and the United Kingdom earlier imposed sanctions on two Russian nationals, including Head of the Main Directorate of the General Staff of the Russian Armed Forces Igor Kostyukov, allegedly responsible for the 2015 attack on the German Bundestag.


tass--2020-12-29--Russian government prepares benefits for mining companies in Arctic

MOSCOW , December 29 .
/TASS/ .
The Russian government is discussing new benefits for mining companies in the Arctic @ @ @ @ @ are made , they can be provided in return for investments .
Finance Minister Anton @ @ @ @ @ .
`` The Ministry for the Development of the Russian Far East has prepared another @ @ @ @ @ Arctic .
We are considering it , but while we are in the process of @ @ @ @ @ have not yet been adopted , '' the minister said , adding that among other @ @ @ @ @ benefits in profit taxation .
At the same time , it is proposed to extend @ @ @ @ @ oil companies , but also to other extracting companies .

MOSCOW, December 29. /TASS/. The Russian government is discussing new benefits for mining companies in the Arctic zone. If the decisions are made, they can be provided in return for investments. Finance Minister Anton Siluanov told reporters on Tuesday.
"The Ministry for the Development of the Russian Far East has prepared another package of proposals on the Arctic. We are considering it, but while we are in the process of working out decisions, they have not yet been adopted," the minister said, adding that among other things, the measures include benefits in profit taxation.
At the same time, it is proposed to extend the benefits not only to oil companies, but also to other extracting companies.


tass--2020-12-29--Too early to discuss downsides of branding individuals as foreign agents, Kremlin says

MOSCOW , December 29 .
/TASS/ .
It is too early to discuss whether the inclusion of individuals on the register of foreign agents in the media sphere would have any downsides , Kremlin Spokesman Dmitry Peskov said on Tuesday .
Earlier , the Russian Ministry of Justice included five individuals on the list of media outlets acting as foreign agents , including human rights activist Lev Ponomarev .
When asked whether this could create risks for many citizens that might be included on the list , Peskov said : `` The Ministry of Justice did act in accordance with @ @ @ @ @ @ @ now , it is too early to make conclusions about any risks while the law enforcement practice is being accumulated , '' he noted .
According to the Kremlin official , it is too early to discuss any `` negative manifestations . ''
`` Naturally , the law enforcement practice will be analyzed , '' he stressed .
Peskov added that while the media and public figures often express concern in relation to certain laws , their fears end up unfounded .
`` So let ’ s wait , accumulate experience , and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ somehow , '' he said .
The law on media outlets acting as foreign agents was approved in 2017 , and in late 2019 , the legislation became applicable to individuals .
So far , there are 17 media outlets on the register of foreign agents .
Media outlets branded as foreign agents must adhere to the same obligations as non-commercial organizations registered as foreign agents .
Individuals can be considered foreign media agents if they spread information or materials ( namely online ) for wide public use and receive funding from abroad @

MOSCOW, December 29. /TASS/. It is too early to discuss whether the inclusion of individuals on the register of foreign agents in the media sphere would have any downsides, Kremlin Spokesman Dmitry Peskov said on Tuesday.
Earlier, the Russian Ministry of Justice included five individuals on the list of media outlets acting as foreign agents, including human rights activist Lev Ponomarev.
When asked whether this could create risks for many citizens that might be included on the list, Peskov said: "The Ministry of Justice did act in accordance with the amended law." "Right now, it is too early to make conclusions about any risks while the law enforcement practice is being accumulated," he noted.
According to the Kremlin official, it is too early to discuss any "negative manifestations." "Naturally, the law enforcement practice will be analyzed," he stressed.
Peskov added that while the media and public figures often express concern in relation to certain laws, their fears end up unfounded. "So let’s wait, accumulate experience, and then we will try and analyze it somehow," he said.
Law on foreign agents
The law on media outlets acting as foreign agents was approved in 2017, and in late 2019, the legislation became applicable to individuals. So far, there are 17 media outlets on the register of foreign agents.
Media outlets branded as foreign agents must adhere to the same obligations as non-commercial organizations registered as foreign agents.
Individuals can be considered foreign media agents if they spread information or materials (namely online) for wide public use and receive funding from abroad.


tass--2020-12-29--Still unclear whether Putin will get inoculated publicly, Kremlin says

MOSCOW , December 29 .
/TASS/ .
Kremlin Spokesman Dmitry Peskov has reported that currently it is not known whether the head of state will be inoculated against the coronavirus publicly on camera or this will be reported via a press release .
`` No , so far it is unknown , '' the Kremlin representative told journalists on Tuesday in response to a question how the vaccination of Vladimir Putin will be reported .
At the same time the spokesman reiterated that `` the president himself said that he made a decision to get inoculated '' but in order @ @ @ @ @ @ @ wait for the completion of all formalities for including a certain age group in trials .
`` Then we will simply wait for the president ’ s decision who will himself report in the way he wants to and at the time he deems appropriate , '' the Kremlin spokesman added .
On December 26 , Russian Healthcare Minister Mikhail Murashko reported that the Ministry allowed to use the Sputnik V vaccine for mass inoculation of individuals over 60 years of age .
He also noted that the tests conducted confirmed effectiveness and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 60 .
On December 10 , inoculation against the coronavirus was launched in Russia .
On December 14 , the Healthcare Minister reported that the preparation within the framework of the large-scale vaccination was delivered to all Russian regions .

MOSCOW, December 29. /TASS/. Kremlin Spokesman Dmitry Peskov has reported that currently it is not known whether the head of state will be inoculated against the coronavirus publicly on camera or this will be reported via a press release.
"No, so far it is unknown," the Kremlin representative told journalists on Tuesday in response to a question how the vaccination of Vladimir Putin will be reported.
At the same time the spokesman reiterated that "the president himself said that he made a decision to get inoculated" but in order to do so it was necessary to wait for the completion of all formalities for including a certain age group in trials. "Then we will simply wait for the president’s decision who will himself report in the way he wants to and at the time he deems appropriate," the Kremlin spokesman added.
On December 26, Russian Healthcare Minister Mikhail Murashko reported that the Ministry allowed to use the Sputnik V vaccine for mass inoculation of individuals over 60 years of age. He also noted that the tests conducted confirmed effectiveness and safety of the vaccine for residents over 60.
On December 10, inoculation against the coronavirus was launched in Russia. On December 14, the Healthcare Minister reported that the preparation within the framework of the large-scale vaccination was delivered to all Russian regions.


tass--2020-12-29--Russian Navy to operate 7 Antey-class submarines by late 2023

MOSCOW , December 29 .
/TASS/ .
The Russian Navy Main Command plans to have seven Project 949A and Project 949AM ‘ Antey ’ nuclear-powered submarines in the Northern and Pacific Fleets by the end of 2023 , a source in the defense industry told TASS on Tuesday .
`` By this time [ 2023 ] , six Project 949A nuclear-powered submarines will get repaired based on their technical condition while the nuclear-powered sub Irkutsk will be modernized under the Project 949AM , '' the source specified .
TASS has no official confirmation of this information yet .
Currently , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and upgrade at the Far Eastern Zvezda ship repair plant .
A source earlier told TASS that the sub ’ s strike capabilities would grow at least two-fold after its upgrade and it would be capable of carrying 48 new Kalibr-PL , Oniks and Tsirkon missiles .
According to the data of open sources , five Project 949A submarines are currently operational in the Northern and Pacific Fleets and one sub is under repairs .
They carry 24 P-700 Granit anti-ship missiles as their basic strike weapons .
One submarine of this project @ @ @ @ @ @ @ accident in 2000 .

MOSCOW, December 29. /TASS/. The Russian Navy Main Command plans to have seven Project 949A and Project 949AM ‘Antey’ nuclear-powered submarines in the Northern and Pacific Fleets by the end of 2023, a source in the defense industry told TASS on Tuesday.
"By this time [2023], six Project 949A nuclear-powered submarines will get repaired based on their technical condition while the nuclear-powered sub Irkutsk will be modernized under the Project 949AM," the source specified.
TASS has no official confirmation of this information yet.
Currently, the nuclear-powered submarine Irkutsk is undergoing repairs and upgrade at the Far Eastern Zvezda ship repair plant. A source earlier told TASS that the sub’s strike capabilities would grow at least two-fold after its upgrade and it would be capable of carrying 48 new Kalibr-PL, Oniks and Tsirkon missiles.
According to the data of open sources, five Project 949A submarines are currently operational in the Northern and Pacific Fleets and one sub is under repairs. They carry 24 P-700 Granit anti-ship missiles as their basic strike weapons. One submarine of this project, the Kursk, sank in an accident in 2000.


tass--2020-12-29--Russian cosmonauts’ team gets four new members in 2020

MOSCOW , December 29 .
/TASS/ .
Four new members joined the Russian cosmonauts ’ team in 2020 , Gagarin Cosmonaut Training Center Chief Pavel Vlasov announced on Tuesday .
`` At the end of the year , four new members joined the team .
I wish them success on the difficult way of training for space flights , '' he said in his New Year congratulation posted on the Center ’ s website .
The new campaign for recruiting new members into the Russian cosmonauts ’ team kicked off on June 3 , 2019 .
It was earlier planned @ @ @ @ @ @ @ completed by October .
Later , the Cosmonaut Training Center told TASS that the contest commission planned to extend the selection procedure until December .
The Cosmonaut Training Center told TASS in August that 1,984 applications had been filed and 59 candidates had been invited to take part in the face-to-face selection stage .
Russia ’ s State Space Corporation Roscosmos completed accepting applications for participation in the selection procedure in June .
Roscosmos said that 156 contenders had submitted a full package of documents , including 123 men and 33 women .

MOSCOW, December 29. /TASS/. Four new members joined the Russian cosmonauts’ team in 2020, Gagarin Cosmonaut Training Center Chief Pavel Vlasov announced on Tuesday.
"At the end of the year, four new members joined the team. I wish them success on the difficult way of training for space flights," he said in his New Year congratulation posted on the Center’s website.
The new campaign for recruiting new members into the Russian cosmonauts’ team kicked off on June 3, 2019. It was earlier planned that the face-to-face selection stage would be completed by October. Later, the Cosmonaut Training Center told TASS that the contest commission planned to extend the selection procedure until December.
The Cosmonaut Training Center told TASS in August that 1,984 applications had been filed and 59 candidates had been invited to take part in the face-to-face selection stage. Russia’s State Space Corporation Roscosmos completed accepting applications for participation in the selection procedure in June. Roscosmos said that 156 contenders had submitted a full package of documents, including 123 men and 33 women.