tass--2020-06-25--Russia’s Tu-160M, Tu-22M3M bombers to get new navigation system for mid-air refueling

KAZAN , June 25 .
/TASS/ .
Russia ’ s upgraded Tupolev Tu-22M3M and Tu-160M strategic missile-carrying bombers will get a new short-range navigation system for landing and mid-air refueling integrated with the glass cockpit , Chief Designer of Radiopribor Company Yevgeny Glebov told reporters on Thursday .
`` As their specific feature , these aircraft will get the glass cockpit .
All the systems are digitized , complying with certain GOSTs [ state technical standards ] .
We are finalizing our apparatus [ the navigation system ] for these GOSTs in terms of interaction with the equipment and providing @ @ @ @ @ @ @ cockpit , '' the chief designer said .
The company has already produced the first navigation systems for the latest aircraft , the chief designer said .
`` The factory produced two systems for Tu-22 planes .
They are now undergoing flight trials .
And it is making three systems for Tu-160s , '' he said .
The navigation system produced by the Kazan-based company is designed to detect an aerial refueling tanker and make two planes reach the designated point for mid-air refueling .
`` The task of our equipment is to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ aerial refueling tanker is from a combat plane , '' the chief designer explained .

KAZAN, June 25. /TASS/. Russia’s upgraded Tupolev Tu-22M3M and Tu-160M strategic missile-carrying bombers will get a new short-range navigation system for landing and mid-air refueling integrated with the glass cockpit, Chief Designer of Radiopribor Company Yevgeny Glebov told reporters on Thursday.
"As their specific feature, these aircraft will get the glass cockpit. All the systems are digitized, complying with certain GOSTs [state technical standards]. We are finalizing our apparatus [the navigation system] for these GOSTs in terms of interaction with the equipment and providing digital outputs for interfacing with the glass cockpit," the chief designer said.
The company has already produced the first navigation systems for the latest aircraft, the chief designer said. "The factory produced two systems for Tu-22 planes. They are now undergoing flight trials. And it is making three systems for Tu-160s," he said.
The navigation system produced by the Kazan-based company is designed to detect an aerial refueling tanker and make two planes reach the designated point for mid-air refueling.
"The task of our equipment is to show where and at what distance an aerial refueling tanker is from a combat plane," the chief designer explained.


tass--2020-06-25--First industrial batch of Russian vaccine against COVID-19 may appear by fall

MOSCOW , June 25 .
/TASS/ .
The first industrial batch of a vaccine against the coronavirus in Russia is @ @ @ @ @ the beginning of fall , Head of the Federal Service for Surveillance on Consumer Rights @ @ @ @ @ Popova '' We all look forward to the promised deadlines - it is the beginning @ @ @ @ @ are waiting ] to obtain the first industrial batch of the vaccine , '' she @ @ @ @ @ the Russia-24 TV channel .

MOSCOW, June 25. /TASS/. The first industrial batch of a vaccine against the coronavirus in Russia is planned to be obtained at the beginning of fall, Head of the Federal Service for Surveillance on Consumer Rights Protection and Human Wellbeing Anna Popova
"We all look forward to the promised deadlines - it is the beginning of fall. [We are waiting] to obtain the first industrial batch of the vaccine," she said in an interview with the Russia-24 TV channel.


tass--2020-06-25--US protests won’t derail Trump’s re-election chances, says expert

MOSCOW , June 25./TASS/ .
The coronavirus pandemic , mass protests against racial inequality and police abuse in the US have not derailed chances of President Donald Trump to be re-elected in November , Valery Garbuzov , director of the Russian Academy of Sciences ’ Institute for US and Canadian Studies , said on Thursday .
`` Of course the problems are not fewer in number than back in January .
However , all these unexpected developments — the pandemic and protests — have not derailed Trump ’ s re-election chances .
Simply , the voters will be seeing him @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Garbuzov told an online session of the international forum ‘ Primakov Readings ’ looking into strategic consequences of crises in the US .
According to the expert , specific feature of the current election campaign in the US is that the instrument of achieving social harmony that has always been in place in the country is jeopardized now .
`` Currently , differences in the US have probably reached their peak when a compromise as an instrument of overcoming them is in jeopardy .
This is seen not only in Congress , not @ @ @ @ @ @ @ have also joined this process now , '' Garbuzov emphasized .
He explained that the most substantial elements of the current campaign are an economic crisis , the pandemic and street protests that have brought to the surface one more factor — the issue of racism .
As for Trumps ’ problem at the moment , he said `` he has lost all the electoral luggage that was there in January , and now Trump has to change it in process . ''
`` This is exactly what he was doing .
The @ @ @ @ @ @ @ against the pandemic .
Now , accusations of racism have been added , which is not entirely fair , since many are saying now that Trump has done even more than Barack Obama .
That is why I believe that today this election still remains a referendum on Trump , since just the same he is the central figure of all discussions , everything is concentrating on him , '' the analyst pointed out .
Mass protests and unrest began in many parts of the United States following the death of Afro-American George @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 25 the police used excessive force .
All four officers who participated in that operation were dismissed and faced official charges .
The US National Guard was commissioned to help local law enforcers restore order .
Nighttime curfew had to be imposed in about 40 cities , including Washington and New York .

MOSCOW, June 25./TASS/. The coronavirus pandemic, mass protests against racial inequality and police abuse in the US have not derailed chances of President Donald Trump to be re-elected in November, Valery Garbuzov, director of the Russian Academy of Sciences’ Institute for US and Canadian Studies, said on Thursday.
"Of course the problems are not fewer in number than back in January. However, all these unexpected developments — the pandemic and protests — have not derailed Trump’s re-election chances. Simply, the voters will be seeing him from a different angle then," Garbuzov told an online session of the international forum ‘Primakov Readings’ looking into strategic consequences of crises in the US.
According to the expert, specific feature of the current election campaign in the US is that the instrument of achieving social harmony that has always been in place in the country is jeopardized now. "Currently, differences in the US have probably reached their peak when a compromise as an instrument of overcoming them is in jeopardy. This is seen not only in Congress, not only in media, but the streets have also joined this process now," Garbuzov emphasized.
He explained that the most substantial elements of the current campaign are an economic crisis, the pandemic and street protests that have brought to the surface one more factor — the issue of racism.
As for Trumps’ problem at the moment, he said "he has lost all the electoral luggage that was there in January, and now Trump has to change it in process."
"This is exactly what he was doing. The focus is new now — the battle against the pandemic. Now, accusations of racism have been added, which is not entirely fair, since many are saying now that Trump has done even more than Barack Obama. That is why I believe that today this election still remains a referendum on Trump, since just the same he is the central figure of all discussions, everything is concentrating on him," the analyst pointed out.
Mass protests and unrest began in many parts of the United States following the death of Afro-American George Floyd. During his arrest on May 25 the police used excessive force. All four officers who participated in that operation were dismissed and faced official charges. The US National Guard was commissioned to help local law enforcers restore order. Nighttime curfew had to be imposed in about 40 cities, including Washington and New York.


tass--2020-06-25--Russian senate slams ‘foreign attack’ on constitutional amendment vote

MOSCOW , June 25 .
/TASS/ .
Russia ’ s nationwide vote on constitutional amendments has become a target for a `` foreign attack '' carried out through mass media sources , social networks and non-profit organizations controlled by the West , Chairperson of the Russian Federation Council ( upper house of parliament ) Commission for the Protection of State Sovereignty and Prevention of Interference in Russia 's Internal Affairs Andrei Klimov told reporters Thursday .
`` The Federation Council commission officially announces that the process of the Russia-wide vote on amending the text of the constitution has become one @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
Instead of a civilized and democratic procedure when each voter gets the right to express their own attitude through direct voting , various illegal campaigns are being forced on us .
To discredit both the amendments themselves and the procedure of the Russia-wide vote , mass media outlets and social networks controlled by the West , various non-profit organizations and activists , many of whom constantly cooperate with different overseas organizations , are used , '' he said .
According to the commission 's statement delivered by its chairperson , Western countries @ @ @ @ @ @ @ been deliberately advancing a policy of illegitimate interference in the sovereign constitutional process since mid-January .
Russian citizens are asked to cast their ballots in the nationwide vote on constitutional amendments , as the vote began today , June 25 .
Even though the official vote day is set for July 1 by Russian President Vladimir Putin ’ s order , citizens can take part in it throughout the week due to coronavirus precautions meant to eliminate the risk of transmission .
The vote was initially supposed to take place on April 22 @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the worsening coronavirus crisis .
On June 1 , Putin gave it a go-ahead at a senior meeting , setting the new date for July 1 .

MOSCOW, June 25. /TASS/. Russia’s nationwide vote on constitutional amendments has become a target for a "foreign attack" carried out through mass media sources, social networks and non-profit organizations controlled by the West, Chairperson of the Russian Federation Council (upper house of parliament) Commission for the Protection of State Sovereignty and Prevention of Interference in Russia's Internal Affairs Andrei Klimov told reporters Thursday.
"The Federation Council commission officially announces that the process of the Russia-wide vote on amending the text of the constitution has become one of the targets for a foreign attack. Instead of a civilized and democratic procedure when each voter gets the right to express their own attitude through direct voting, various illegal campaigns are being forced on us. To discredit both the amendments themselves and the procedure of the Russia-wide vote, mass media outlets and social networks controlled by the West, various non-profit organizations and activists, many of whom constantly cooperate with different overseas organizations, are used," he said.
According to the commission's statement delivered by its chairperson, Western countries and their allies headed by Washington have been deliberately advancing a policy of illegitimate interference in the sovereign constitutional process since mid-January.
Russian citizens are asked to cast their ballots in the nationwide vote on constitutional amendments, as the vote began today, June 25. Even though the official vote day is set for July 1 by Russian President Vladimir Putin’s order, citizens can take part in it throughout the week due to coronavirus precautions meant to eliminate the risk of transmission.
The vote was initially supposed to take place on April 22 but eventually had to be postponed amid the worsening coronavirus crisis. On June 1, Putin gave it a go-ahead at a senior meeting, setting the new date for July 1.


tass--2020-06-25--Diplomat reveals reason behind US accusations of Russian activity in Arctic

MOSCOW , June 25 .
/TASS/ .
Washington ’ s allegations that Russia is pursuing military activities in the Arctic @ @ @ @ @ to deter Moscow , said Russian Deputy Foreign Minister Sergey Ryabkov during an online Primakov @ @ @ @ @ in the Crises Swirl : Strategic Consequences on Thursday .
Russia doubts secrecy of talks @ @ @ @ @ sensitive data — diplomat The diplomat pointed out though that there are numerous examples of @ @ @ @ @ framework of the Arctic Council and expressed hope that the Arctic remains an `` oasis @ @ @ @ @ interaction . ''
Additionally , the official mentioned that the Arctic issues will not be @ @ @ @ @ scheduled for the fall .

MOSCOW, June 25. /TASS/. Washington’s allegations that Russia is pursuing military activities in the Arctic are caused by US policy to deter Moscow, said Russian Deputy Foreign Minister Sergey Ryabkov during an online Primakov Readings session entitled The USA in the Crises Swirl: Strategic Consequences on Thursday.
Russia doubts secrecy of talks with US following publication of sensitive data — diplomat
The diplomat pointed out though that there are numerous examples of constructive Russian-American interaction within the framework of the Arctic Council and expressed hope that the Arctic remains an "oasis of mutual understanding and practical interaction."
Additionally, the official mentioned that the Arctic issues will not be discussed at the BRICS summit scheduled for the fall.


tass--2020-06-25--Ilyushin combat planes to get defensive aids suites against anti-aircraft missiles

KAZAN , June 25 .
/TASS/ .
Russia ’ s Ilyushin Il-76MD-90A and Il-78M-90A military planes will be outfitted with electronic warfare systems that will protect them against surface-to-air missiles , Chief Designer of Radiopribor Company Yevgeny Glebov told reporters on Thursday .
`` The defensive aids suites [ against anti-aircraft missiles ] will be mounted on the Il-76MD-90A planes and also on the Il-78M-90A new aerial refueling tanker .
The first model of the aerial refueling tanker features the system made by its developer [ Ekran Research Institute ] while Il-76MD-90A planes are serial-produced and , therefore , we @ @ @ @ @ @ @ them , '' the chief designer said .
The production of defensive aids suites is a new task for the company .
The suite is based on an active jamming station that impacts surface-to-air missiles ’ systems , he said .
`` Surface-to-air missiles have two principles of operation : a radar homing warhead and an infrared active guidance warhead .
That is why , the defensive aids suite includes a jamming station that actively impacts a flying missile ’ s emissions and gives it a false direction , after which the missile @ @ @ @ @ @ @ The Il-76MD-90A is a heavily upgraded version of the Il-76MD military transport plane .
The aircraft ’ s new navigation and automated control systems and its communications suite enhance flight safety and the accuracy of piloting and landing .
The latest modification of the widely known military transport plane is distinguished by its new equipment , including the glass cockpit , modern PS-90A-76 engines , the modified wing and the enhanced landing gear .
Russia is developing an Il-78-90A aerial refueling tanker on the basis of the Il-76MD-90A plane .

KAZAN, June 25. /TASS/. Russia’s Ilyushin Il-76MD-90A and Il-78M-90A military planes will be outfitted with electronic warfare systems that will protect them against surface-to-air missiles, Chief Designer of Radiopribor Company Yevgeny Glebov told reporters on Thursday.
"The defensive aids suites [against anti-aircraft missiles] will be mounted on the Il-76MD-90A planes and also on the Il-78M-90A new aerial refueling tanker. The first model of the aerial refueling tanker features the system made by its developer [Ekran Research Institute] while Il-76MD-90A planes are serial-produced and, therefore, we will mount serial defensive aids suites on them," the chief designer said.
The production of defensive aids suites is a new task for the company. The suite is based on an active jamming station that impacts surface-to-air missiles’ systems, he said.
"Surface-to-air missiles have two principles of operation: a radar homing warhead and an infrared active guidance warhead. That is why, the defensive aids suite includes a jamming station that actively impacts a flying missile’s emissions and gives it a false direction, after which the missile moves sideways," he explained.
The Il-76MD-90A is a heavily upgraded version of the Il-76MD military transport plane. The aircraft’s new navigation and automated control systems and its communications suite enhance flight safety and the accuracy of piloting and landing.
The latest modification of the widely known military transport plane is distinguished by its new equipment, including the glass cockpit, modern PS-90A-76 engines, the modified wing and the enhanced landing gear. Russia is developing an Il-78-90A aerial refueling tanker on the basis of the Il-76MD-90A plane.


tass--2020-06-25--Poland to confront security costs if it becomes 'frontline state’ — Russian diplomat

MOSCOW , June 25 .
/TASS/ .
Russia proceeds from the idea that Poland is aware of the costs of obtaining the status of a ‘ frontline state ’ , including those that will affect its own security , Russia ’ s Deputy Foreign Minister Alexander Grushko told TASS , while commenting on US plans for moving part of its forces from Germany to Poland .
`` Apparently , one should proceed from the understanding that if Warsaw wishes to intentionally position itself in the capacity of a frontline state by accommodating foreign forces on a permanent basis , it @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , including those that concern its own security , '' Grushko said .
Speaking at a joint news conference with his Polish counterpart Andrzej Duda on Wednesday US President Donald Trump said that the United States would relocate part of its forces from Germany to Poland .
Trump also said that Washington hoped to have a good relationship with Moscow despite the troop redeployment plans .
Earlier , the US leader said that Washington would reduce its military contingent in Germany to 25,000 , if Berlin refused to pay for their accommodation and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ agreements with NATO .
Currently Germany accommodates 52,000 US troops .
Poland and the United States have been discussing an increase in US military presence in Poland since the autumn of 2018 , when the initiative of creating ‘ Fort Trump ’ was first mentioned during Duda ’ s visit to Washington .
According to different sources an estimated 4,500 to 5,000 US troops are stationed in Poland at the moment .

MOSCOW, June 25. /TASS/. Russia proceeds from the idea that Poland is aware of the costs of obtaining the status of a ‘frontline state’, including those that will affect its own security, Russia’s Deputy Foreign Minister Alexander Grushko told TASS, while commenting on US plans for moving part of its forces from Germany to Poland.
"Apparently, one should proceed from the understanding that if Warsaw wishes to intentionally position itself in the capacity of a frontline state by accommodating foreign forces on a permanent basis, it is apparently aware of all related costs, including those that concern its own security," Grushko said.
Speaking at a joint news conference with his Polish counterpart Andrzej Duda on Wednesday US President Donald Trump said that the United States would relocate part of its forces from Germany to Poland. Trump also said that Washington hoped to have a good relationship with Moscow despite the troop redeployment plans. Earlier, the US leader said that Washington would reduce its military contingent in Germany to 25,000, if Berlin refused to pay for their accommodation and to increase defense spending in accordance with agreements with NATO. Currently Germany accommodates 52,000 US troops.
Poland and the United States have been discussing an increase in US military presence in Poland since the autumn of 2018, when the initiative of creating ‘Fort Trump’ was first mentioned during Duda’s visit to Washington. According to different sources an estimated 4,500 to 5,000 US troops are stationed in Poland at the moment.


tass--2020-06-25--Duty free trade on Hainan up by 141% in May

HAIKOU , June 25 .
/TASS/ .
Sales of Hainan 's duty free stores in May amounted to more than 1.9 billion yuan ( about $ 279 million ) .
According to the Hainan Daily , last month the volume of duty free trade grew by 141 % compared to the same period last year .
According to the news outlet , in May Hainan 's economy enjoyed a revival .
Thus , the volume of retail trade last month increased by 6.7 % year on year , which is by 6.1 percentage points more than in April .
One @ @ @ @ @ @ @ activity was the discounts in Hainan duty free shops during the International Workers ' Day weekend ( May 1-5 ) , the newspaper writes .
At present , there are four duty free stores on the island : two in Haikou , one each in the resort town of Sanya in the southern part of the island and in Qionghai in the east of the province .
On April 20 , 2011 , the Chinese State Council approved the launch of a pilot program for the development of a duty-free store chain on @ @ @ @ @ @ @ island as a world-class resort .
In order to create the most favorable conditions for tourists , in December 2018 , the authorities decided to increase the maximum amount of duty free purchases on the island from 16,000 to 30,000 yuan ( from $ 2.280 to $ 4.480 ) without restrictions on the number of purchased goods .
According to official statistics , in 2018 sales in duty free shops on Hainan reached 10.1 billion yuan ( about $ 1.47 billion ) , which is about 26 % of the relevant national figure @ @ @ @ @ @ @ more than 34 % to 13.61 billion yuan ( $ 1.97 billion ) .

HAIKOU, June 25. /TASS/. Sales of Hainan's duty free stores in May amounted to more than 1.9 billion yuan (about $ 279 million). According to the Hainan Daily, last month the volume of duty free trade grew by 141% compared to the same period last year.
According to the news outlet, in May Hainan's economy enjoyed a revival. Thus, the volume of retail trade last month increased by 6.7% year on year, which is by 6.1 percentage points more than in April. One of the key factors that influenced consumer activity was the discounts in Hainan duty free shops during the International Workers' Day weekend (May 1-5), the newspaper writes.
At present, there are four duty free stores on the island: two in Haikou, one each in the resort town of Sanya in the southern part of the island and in Qionghai in the east of the province.
On April 20, 2011, the Chinese State Council approved the launch of a pilot program for the development of a duty-free store chain on the Island of Hainan to promote the island as a world-class resort.
In order to create the most favorable conditions for tourists, in December 2018, the authorities decided to increase the maximum amount of duty free purchases on the island from 16,000 to 30,000 yuan (from $ 2.280 to $ 4.480) without restrictions on the number of purchased goods.
According to official statistics, in 2018 sales in duty free shops on Hainan reached 10.1 billion yuan (about $ 1.47 billion), which is about 26% of the relevant national figure. In 2019 the sales grew by more than 34% to 13.61 billion yuan ($ 1.97 billion).


tass--2020-06-25--Kremlin watches situation with indictment of Kosovo president very closely

MOSCOW , June 25 .
/TASS/ .
Moscow is watching the situation with indictment of Hashim Thaci , the President @ @ @ @ @ Kosovo , with war crimes in the Hague court very closely , Kremlin spokesman Dmitry @ @ @ @ @ `` We observe what effects this may cause .
So far , we know that @ @ @ @ @ the Kosovars announced their rejection of going anywhere and partaking in any events abroad , @ @ @ @ @ development very closely , '' Peskov said .

MOSCOW, June 25. /TASS/. Moscow is watching the situation with indictment of Hashim Thaci, the President of the partially-recognized Republic of Kosovo, with war crimes in the Hague court very closely, Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov told journalists Thursday.
"We observe what effects this may cause. So far, we know that, following this ruling, the Kosovars announced their rejection of going anywhere and partaking in any events abroad, so we are watching the development very closely," Peskov said.


tass--2020-06-25--US rainbow flag stunt: Kremlin warns LGBT propaganda aimed at minors outlawed in Russia

MOSCOW , June 25./TASS/ .
Violating legislation that prohibits the promotion of homosexuality among minors is unacceptable , Kremlin Spokesman @ @ @ @ @ commenting on the US Embassy in Moscow flying a rainbow flag .
`` We don @ @ @ @ @ of the US Embassy from the Kremlin .
But our Foreign Ministry definitely does , @ @ @ @ @ question on whether the Kremlin had noticed the breach of Russian laws .
`` In @ @ @ @ @ of untraditional sexual minorities [ among youngsters ] is prohibited by law in our country @ @ @ @ @ US Embassy sources told TASS that the rainbow flag had been designed by US painter @ @ @ @ @ and for the first time was raised during the Gay Freedom Parade on June 25 @ @ @ @ @ as a symbol of hope and diversity .
They also said that June is Pride @ @ @ @ @ , `` that everyone deserves to live a life free from hatred , prejudice and @ @ @

MOSCOW, June 25./TASS/. Violating legislation that prohibits the promotion of homosexuality among minors is unacceptable, Kremlin Spokesman Dmitry Peskov said on Thursday commenting on the US Embassy in Moscow flying a rainbow flag.
"We don’t see the building of the US Embassy from the Kremlin. But our Foreign Ministry definitely does," Peskov said answering a question on whether the Kremlin had noticed the breach of Russian laws. "In any case, the propaganda of untraditional sexual minorities [among youngsters] is prohibited by law in our country," Peskov stressed.
US Embassy sources told TASS that the rainbow flag had been designed by US painter and activist Gilbert Baker, and for the first time was raised during the Gay Freedom Parade on June 25, 1978 in San Francisco as a symbol of hope and diversity. They also said that June is Pride Month, when Americans celebrate, "that everyone deserves to live a life free from hatred, prejudice and persecution."


tass--2020-06-25--US Democrats try to use anti-racist protests to woo electorate ahead of election — expert

MOSCOW , June 25 .
/TASS/ .
The United States ’ Democratic Party has been trying to use anti-racist protests in attempts to woo the electorate ahead of the November 3 presidential election , the director of the Primakov Institute of the World Economy and International Relations ( IMEMO ) , Alexander Dynkin , said in the on-line session of the Primakov Readings entitled `` The USA in the Crises Swirl : Strategic Consequences . ''
`` The Democrats will certainly use the color revolution in the literal and figurative sense as a consequence of frustration by African-Americans in the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ '' Dynkin said .
He blamed the current turmoil in the United States on structural problems , such as the healthcare crisis , the income gap widening to a chasm , systemic racial conflict and short-term problems stemming from the chaotic struggle against the coronavirus and the twists and turns of the election campaign .
`` The way I see it , hypocrisy and the dictatorship of political correctness are beating all records .
For instance , the Associated Press has made a decision to capitalize the word ‘ black ’ when using @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Street is vowing to challenge racial discrimination and is hurrying to incorporate Blacks on the boards of directors , while the monthly wage in the African subsidiaries of US companies remains very low , '' Dynkin said .
Mass protests and unrest began in many parts of the United States following the death of Afro-American George Floyd .
During his arrest on May 25 the police used excessive force .
All four officers who participated in that operation were dismissed and faced official charges .
The US National Guard was commissioned to help @ @ @ @ @ @ @ curfew had to be imposed in about 40 cities , including Washington and New York .

MOSCOW, June 25. /TASS/. The United States’ Democratic Party has been trying to use anti-racist protests in attempts to woo the electorate ahead of the November 3 presidential election, the director of the Primakov Institute of the World Economy and International Relations (IMEMO), Alexander Dynkin, said in the on-line session of the Primakov Readings entitled "The USA in the Crises Swirl: Strategic Consequences."
"The Democrats will certainly use the color revolution in the literal and figurative sense as a consequence of frustration by African-Americans in the final stretch of the presidential campaign," Dynkin said.
He blamed the current turmoil in the United States on structural problems, such as the healthcare crisis, the income gap widening to a chasm, systemic racial conflict and short-term problems stemming from the chaotic struggle against the coronavirus and the twists and turns of the election campaign.
"The way I see it, hypocrisy and the dictatorship of political correctness are beating all records. For instance, the Associated Press has made a decision to capitalize the word ‘black’ when using it to denote racial affiliation… While Wall Street is vowing to challenge racial discrimination and is hurrying to incorporate Blacks on the boards of directors, while the monthly wage in the African subsidiaries of US companies remains very low," Dynkin said.
Mass protests and unrest began in many parts of the United States following the death of Afro-American George Floyd. During his arrest on May 25 the police used excessive force. All four officers who participated in that operation were dismissed and faced official charges. The US National Guard was commissioned to help local law enforcers restore order. Nighttime curfew had to be imposed in about 40 cities, including Washington and New York.


tass--2020-06-25--Western politicians know truth about World War II, promote other ideas, says Putin

`` Of course , both the Western politicians and such specialists and historians like you are well aware .
Do they not know it was not the Soviet Union who attacked the Nazi Germany , but the Nazi Germany who attacked the Soviet Union on June 22 , 1941 ?
Is this not known ?
Everyone knows everything alright , '' he said .
NOVO OGARYOVO , June 25 .
/TASS/ .
Western politicians are well aware of the truth regarding World War II , but promote other ideas in the media and textbooks , Russian President Vladimir Putin said @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of Russia .
`` Do they not know who finished the Fascist vile creature in its lair , who stormed Berlin ?
Of course they do , but they do not say it in the textbooks , they promote other ideas in the media , '' the Russian leader said .
According to Putin , everybody knows who conducted nuclear strikes on Japan ’ s Hiroshima and Nagasaki .
`` They know !
But what do they say in Japanese textbooks ?
‘ Allies ’ .
What allies ?
The Allies had no @ @ @ @ @ @ @ it , '' he underscored .
Putin underscored that this way , the unwanted ideas are being washed out consistently , step by step .
`` You mentioned the Munich Betrayal .
Already then , in 1938 , the western politicians provided assessments of this conspiracy between France , the UK and the Nazi Germany on partition of Czechoslovakia ; even then they said that this triggered the World War II .
Today , this is being forgotten , washed away .
Why ?
Because they do not like it , because they @ @ @ @ @ @ @ in their own interests , '' the head of state said , expressing his regret that the history does not teach people anything .
`` There is no desire to build an international security system in the interests of the entire world , taking interests of all participants of the international activity into account , '' he complained .
Putin underscored that it is necessary `` to fight for truth about the World War II in a bid to establish our policy in a way that would ensure the interests of the Russian @ @ @ @ @ @ @ would dare to smear the memory of our heroes , who carried the burden of the Great Patriotic War on their shoulders and made a decisive contribution to the victory over Nazism in the World War II .
`` .

"Of course, both the Western politicians and such specialists and historians like you are well aware. Do they not know it was not the Soviet Union who attacked the Nazi Germany, but the Nazi Germany who attacked the Soviet Union on June 22, 1941? Is this not known? Everyone knows everything alright," he said.
NOVO OGARYOVO, June 25. /TASS/. Western politicians are well aware of the truth regarding World War II, but promote other ideas in the media and textbooks, Russian President Vladimir Putin said during his meeting with the Civic Chamber of Russia.
"Do they not know who finished the Fascist vile creature in its lair, who stormed Berlin? Of course they do, but they do not say it in the textbooks, they promote other ideas in the media," the Russian leader said.
According to Putin, everybody knows who conducted nuclear strikes on Japan’s Hiroshima and Nagasaki.
"They know! But what do they say in Japanese textbooks? ‘Allies’. What allies? The Allies had no nuclear weapons, only the US had it," he underscored.
Putin underscored that this way, the unwanted ideas are being washed out consistently, step by step.
"You mentioned the Munich Betrayal. Already then, in 1938, the western politicians provided assessments of this conspiracy between France, the UK and the Nazi Germany on partition of Czechoslovakia; even then they said that this triggered the World War II. Today, this is being forgotten, washed away. Why? Because they do not like it, because they want to build today’s relations in their own interests," the head of state said, expressing his regret that the history does not teach people anything.
"There is no desire to build an international security system in the interests of the entire world, taking interests of all participants of the international activity into account," he complained.
Putin underscored that it is necessary "to fight for truth about the World War II in a bid to establish our policy in a way that would ensure the interests of the Russian state," "so that no-one would dare to smear the memory of our heroes, who carried the burden of the Great Patriotic War on their shoulders and made a decisive contribution to the victory over Nazism in the World War II.".


tass--2020-06-25--Belarus coronavirus cases top 60,000

Belarus coronavirus cases top 60,000

MINSK , June 25 .
/TASS/ .
The number of coronavirus cases in Belarus increased by 437 in the past 24 hours , bringing the total to 60,382 , while five more patients died from virus-related causes , the national health ministry said via its Telegram channel .
`` 60,382 people with positive tests for coronavirus were registered .
Since the infection started spreading in the country , 367 patients with underlying health conditions and coronavirus infection died , '' the ministry noted .
According to the official data , 41,448 people recovered from COVID-19 and were discharged ( 1,312 @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Overall , the country carried out 919,139 coronavirus tests .
Local authorities never imposed any lockdown measures , the country still holds mass events and is now engaged in a presidential election campaign , the vote will take place on August 9 .
This week , Belarus surpassed Spain in the number of identified cases per every 1 million people and is now ranked second in Europe among countries with populations over 100,000 .
In late December 2019 , Chinese officials notified the World Health Organization ( WHO ) about the outbreak of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 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 9,542,400 people have been infected worldwide and more than 485,200 deaths have been reported .
In addition , so far , over 5,186,600 individuals have recovered from the illness across the globe .

MINSK, June 25. /TASS/. The number of coronavirus cases in Belarus increased by 437 in the past 24 hours, bringing the total to 60,382, while five more patients died from virus-related causes, the national health ministry said via its Telegram channel.
"60,382 people with positive tests for coronavirus were registered. Since the infection started spreading in the country, 367 patients with underlying health conditions and coronavirus infection died," the ministry noted. According to the official data, 41,448 people recovered from COVID-19 and were discharged (1,312 in the past 24 hours). Overall, the country carried out 919,139 coronavirus tests.
Local authorities never imposed any lockdown measures, the country still holds mass events and is now engaged in a presidential election campaign, the vote will take place on August 9. This week, Belarus surpassed Spain in the number of identified cases per every 1 million people and is now ranked second in Europe among countries with populations over 100,000.
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 9,542,400 people have been infected worldwide and more than 485,200 deaths have been reported. In addition, so far, over 5,186,600 individuals have recovered from the illness across the globe.


tass--2020-06-25--Lukashenko to discuss foreign meddling in Belarusian elections with Putin

While making appointments Thursday , the Belarusian leader noted that the opposition demands fair and proper elections , while behaving unfairly themselves , adding that `` there are puppeteers behind them . ''
MINSK , June 25 .
/TASS/ .
Belarusian President Alexander Lukashenko disclosed that he intends to discuss foreign meddling in the Belarusian presidential elections with his Russian counterpart Vladimir Putin .
`` There are [ puppeteers ] from both sides .
They live in Poland and they also toss stuff from Russia .
We will talks with President Putin about it during our meeting shortly , but @ @ @ @ @ @ @ newest false technologies are in use , there is foreign meddling in our elections , our internal affairs , '' Lukashenko said .
Commenting on Lukashenko ’ s remarks , Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov underscored that `` Russia has never meddled , does not meddle and does not intend to plan in anyone ’ s electoral processes . ''
`` Even more so in electoral processes of our ally , Belarus , '' he added .
Speaking about the situation in the country , Lukashenko noted that there are `` horrible fake news @ @ @ @ @ @ @ which some seek to use to discredit the authorities , including one regarding a $ 840 million Swiss bank account of one of Lukashenko ’ s sons .
`` Send a letter there via diplomatic channels : whoever wants to withdraw this money , let them do it immediately , '' the President quipped .
He also noted that there is blatantly false information out there , and people that do not understand banking documents believe those fakes .
`` There will always be this kind of fakes .
We must take this @ @ @ @ @ @ @ it and to fight it .
By the way , this is being thrown in by various structures from Russia [ … ] , '' he underscored .
`` This is not our stuff , this information comes from Russia .
They will apologize later , will take it down , but it is already in people ’ s brains . ''
Lukashenko also commented on the Internet reports alleging that some people desired to quit his security service .
`` About the servicemen ; they say , someone left and took their @ @ @ @ @ @ @ say they are against the authorities , '' Lukashenko said .
`` It is impossible for a person to resign from the security service and keep the ID for even one hour .
First , the serviceman hands over their weapon , their ID , and then he get the final clearance list . ''
These fakes are something that needs to be lived with , the president said .
`` But we must keep our head on our shoulders and keep explaining what is going on , '' the president said .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ to August 9 .
Collection of signatures for registration of candidates , initially performed by 15 initiative groups , is over ; 7 candidates submitted their signatures for checking by the electoral commission .
The candidates will be registered between July 5 and 14 .

While making appointments Thursday, the Belarusian leader noted that the opposition demands fair and proper elections, while behaving unfairly themselves, adding that "there are puppeteers behind them."
MINSK, June 25. /TASS/. Belarusian President Alexander Lukashenko disclosed that he intends to discuss foreign meddling in the Belarusian presidential elections with his Russian counterpart Vladimir Putin.
"There are [puppeteers] from both sides. They live in Poland and they also toss stuff from Russia. We will talks with President Putin about it during our meeting shortly, but this situation is very complicated. The newest false technologies are in use, there is foreign meddling in our elections, our internal affairs," Lukashenko said.
Commenting on Lukashenko’s remarks, Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov underscored that "Russia has never meddled, does not meddle and does not intend to plan in anyone’s electoral processes."
"Even more so in electoral processes of our ally, Belarus," he added.
Spread of fake news
Speaking about the situation in the country, Lukashenko noted that there are "horrible fake news" being spread across the Internet, which some seek to use to discredit the authorities, including one regarding a $840 million Swiss bank account of one of Lukashenko’s sons.
"Send a letter there via diplomatic channels: whoever wants to withdraw this money, let them do it immediately," the President quipped.
He also noted that there is blatantly false information out there, and people that do not understand banking documents believe those fakes.
"There will always be this kind of fakes. We must take this into account, learn to live with it and to fight it. By the way, this is being thrown in by various structures from Russia […]," he underscored. "This is not our stuff, this information comes from Russia. They will apologize later, will take it down, but it is already in people’s brains."
Lukashenko also commented on the Internet reports alleging that some people desired to quit his security service.
"About the servicemen; they say, someone left and took their ID with them, and now they say they are against the authorities," Lukashenko said. "It is impossible for a person to resign from the security service and keep the ID for even one hour. First, the serviceman hands over their weapon, their ID, and then he get the final clearance list."
These fakes are something that needs to be lived with, the president said.
"But we must keep our head on our shoulders and keep explaining what is going on," the president said.
The presidential elections in Belarus are scheduled to August 9. Collection of signatures for registration of candidates, initially performed by 15 initiative groups, is over; 7 candidates submitted their signatures for checking by the electoral commission. The candidates will be registered between July 5 and 14.


tass--2020-06-25--Russian government adjusts national project to support SMEs taking pandemic into account

NOVOSIBIRSK , June 25 .
/TASS/ .
The Russian government is adjusting the national project `` Small and medium-sized enterprises and the support of individual entrepreneurial initiative '' taking into account the situation with the coronavirus pandemic , Presidential Commissioner for the Entrepreneurs ' Rights Boris Titov told TASS .
The main targets of the national project are to increase the share of small and medium-sized businesses in the country 's GDP up to 32.5 % , and the number of people employed in the sector — up to 25 mln by 2024 .
The Minister of Economic Development of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ that the Russian government intends to review a number of events and , possibly , targets of national projects , but plans to return to this issue in August-September .
`` Of course it would , '' Titov said , answering a question about whether this national project would require adjustment .
`` The government is doing this , we know about it .
The part regarding education , lectures , seminars is a large part of the national project — it should be directed to specific assistance to the most affected small @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
Titov said earlier that the pandemic caused a 30 % decline in revenue for 60 % of Russian small and medium-sized enterprises ( SMEs ) , while only 10 % of such companies are currently making profit .
`` According to our estimates , at least 60 % [ of SMEs ] received minus 30 % of revenue .
Today 10 % of entities receive profit , '' Titov said .
At the same time , he noted that the amount of financial assistance to business during the pandemic is `` very @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , `` other institutions '' work .
`` For example , demand is supported through direct payments to families with children , through pensions , this , of course , also supports business , because demand is already falling sharply .
Of course , tax benefits for small businesses are available , '' he said .
Titov noted that support measures such as a moratorium on bankruptcy of SMEs from the most affected sectors were less in demand by business .
In 2020 , due to the situation with the coronavirus pandemic , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the population and business .
Thus , small and medium-sized businesses from the most affected sectors can count on deferred rental and tax payments , excluding VAT .
In addition , a moratorium on bankruptcy of such companies was introduced , banks launched a program to issue loans at 0 % on employee salaries .
On June 1 , a credit program was launched to support employment in affected areas and socially oriented non-profit organizations with a reduced rate of 2 % per annum .
Income tax paid for 2019 will be refunded @ @ @ @

NOVOSIBIRSK, June 25. /TASS/. The Russian government is adjusting the national project "Small and medium-sized enterprises and the support of individual entrepreneurial initiative" taking into account the situation with the coronavirus pandemic, Presidential Commissioner for the Entrepreneurs' Rights Boris Titov told TASS.
The main targets of the national project are to increase the share of small and medium-sized businesses in the country's GDP up to 32.5%, and the number of people employed in the sector — up to 25 mln by 2024. The Minister of Economic Development of Russia Maxim Reshetnikov on May 25 reported that the Russian government intends to review a number of events and, possibly, targets of national projects, but plans to return to this issue in August-September.
"Of course it would," Titov said, answering a question about whether this national project would require adjustment. "The government is doing this, we know about it. The part regarding education, lectures, seminars is a large part of the national project — it should be directed to specific assistance to the most affected small and medium-sized entrepreneurs," he added.
Titov said earlier that the pandemic caused a 30% decline in revenue for 60% of Russian small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), while only 10% of such companies are currently making profit. "According to our estimates, at least 60% [of SMEs] received minus 30% of revenue. Today 10% of entities receive profit," Titov said.
At the same time, he noted that the amount of financial assistance to business during the pandemic is "very limited" whilst, according to him, "other institutions" work.
"For example, demand is supported through direct payments to families with children, through pensions, this, of course, also supports business, because demand is already falling sharply. Of course, tax benefits for small businesses are available," he said.
Titov noted that support measures such as a moratorium on bankruptcy of SMEs from the most affected sectors were less in demand by business.
Support measures
In 2020, due to the situation with the coronavirus pandemic, the Russian authorities introduced support measures for the population and business. Thus, small and medium-sized businesses from the most affected sectors can count on deferred rental and tax payments, excluding VAT. In addition, a moratorium on bankruptcy of such companies was introduced, banks launched a program to issue loans at 0% on employee salaries.
On June 1, a credit program was launched to support employment in affected areas and socially oriented non-profit organizations with a reduced rate of 2% per annum. Income tax paid for 2019 will be refunded for the self-employed.


tass--2020-06-25--Amendments will reinforce civil and labor rights of Russians, vows Medvedev

MOSCOW , June 25 .
/TASS/ .
Deputy Chairman of the Security Council of Russia Dmitry Medvedev is confident that if the constitutional amendments are adopted , it will bolster ensuring the labor and social rights of Russian citizens .
`` This enhances guaranteeing the social and labor rights of citizens , '' Medvedev assured reporters , when answering a question on whether the proposed Constitutional amendments are more social than political ones .
`` I think that those are extremely important guarantees which , if they are supported by the popular vote and subsequently become amendments to the Constitution @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , the foundation of our state , and , of course , [ they ] will create additional opportunities to protect the rights of our citizens , '' Medvedev emphasized .
`` The entire Constitution is a legal and political document , so even the norms that pertain to the economy still contain a powerful political charge , '' the ex-premier believes .
In his opinion , the proposed constitutional amendments `` are directed at reinforcing the labor rights of citizens , establishing the principle of inflationary adjustments , as well as the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ families with multiple children . ''
According to Medvedev , all of this is extremely important right now .
`` Those seemingly common issues being taken to the constitutional level have become utterly crucial at present , since due to the coronavirus pandemic people have come up against unemployment and problems caused by the loss of additional income or a primary job .
That is why all of this , in my opinion , makes it very urgent to take the provisions of this kind to the constitutional level , '' he specified @ @ @ @ @ @ @ acquire a constitutional nature , these norms acquire a constitutional nature , and then no matter who is in power , no matter what government there is , they won ’ t be able to say : `` You know what , we won ’ t conduct inflationary adjustments , '' since this a constitutional norm , so without amending the Constitution , this won ’ t be possible to accomplish , '' Medvedev explained .

MOSCOW, June 25. /TASS/. Deputy Chairman of the Security Council of Russia Dmitry Medvedev is confident that if the constitutional amendments are adopted, it will bolster ensuring the labor and social rights of Russian citizens.
"This enhances guaranteeing the social and labor rights of citizens," Medvedev assured reporters, when answering a question on whether the proposed Constitutional amendments are more social than political ones. "I think that those are extremely important guarantees which, if they are supported by the popular vote and subsequently become amendments to the Constitution, they will strengthen our legal foundation, the foundation of our state, and, of course, [they] will create additional opportunities to protect the rights of our citizens," Medvedev emphasized.
"The entire Constitution is a legal and political document, so even the norms that pertain to the economy still contain a powerful political charge," the ex-premier believes. In his opinion, the proposed constitutional amendments "are directed at reinforcing the labor rights of citizens, establishing the principle of inflationary adjustments, as well as the targeted support of citizens and aid to families with multiple children."
According to Medvedev, all of this is extremely important right now. "Those seemingly common issues being taken to the constitutional level have become utterly crucial at present, since due to the coronavirus pandemic people have come up against unemployment and problems caused by the loss of additional income or a primary job. That is why all of this, in my opinion, makes it very urgent to take the provisions of this kind to the constitutional level," he specified.
"This means that these principles acquire a constitutional nature, these norms acquire a constitutional nature, and then no matter who is in power, no matter what government there is, they won’t be able to say: "You know what, we won’t conduct inflationary adjustments," since this a constitutional norm, so without amending the Constitution, this won’t be possible to accomplish," Medvedev explained.


tass--2020-06-26--SCO prioritizes battle against illegal drug trafficking

SCO Secretary General Vladimir Norov had an interview with TASS , stressing that currently one can confidently state that the SCO is one of the most prominent regional organizations involved in anti-drug issues BEIJING , June 26 .
/TASS/ .
The war on illegal drug trafficking is a top priority of the Shanghai Cooperation Organization ( SCO ) , SCO Secretary General Vladimir Norov said in an interview with TASS this Friday , June 26 , dubbed International Day Against Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking .
`` For the Shanghai Cooperation Organization this day has a special meaning .
The @ @ @ @ @ @ @ a priority activity of the SCO and its Charter reflects that , '' the top official said .
The issue of non-medical use of narcotics and psychotropic substances has become ever more pressing , the Secretary General said .
According to the UN 2019 World Drug Report , people using drugs numbered over 270 mln in the 15-64 age group ( 5.5 % of world population ) which is 30 % higher than in 2009 .
The number of opioid users alone grew 1.5 times in 2016 - 2017 totaling 53.4 mln people @ @ @ @ @ @ @ revenues are estimated at approximately $ 320 bln .
The alarming surge of the drug business and drug addiction seen over the recent years has adversely affected practically all spheres of society and government , undermining institutions , social norms , and particularly the gene pool of nations .
The world today is open like never before with trade , economic and individual connections between countries , regions , organizations , and people circulating , so these opportunities are now used by transnational criminal networks dealing in illegal drug production , trafficking , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ out .
He added that the path to success in fighting the drug trade involves not only the increased effectiveness of law enforcement structures , but also a consolidation of nations ’ diversified efforts by sharing their best practices , information , and harmonization of legislation , national strategies and approaches to solve this issue .
The Secretary General said that currently one can confidently state that the SCO is one of the most prominent regional organizations involved in anti-drug issues .
`` We have a common normative base and a flexible institutional @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of anti-drug policy , from intelligence gathering activities to the realization of a whole range of preventative , medical , and rehabilitation measures , '' he emphasized .
A three-level mechanism of regular consultations by the relevant organizations implements the renewed SCO anti-drug strategy and its program .
Due to their joint effort , up to 40 % of illegally trafficked opioids have been seized throughout all of Eurasia .
The Secretary General went on to say that the anti-drug interaction of the SCO member states continues to develop and to adapt to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ now with the changes that are occurring on the illegal drug market due to the coronavirus pandemic .
Above all , the lockdowns introduced by nations have increased the already growing share of digital communications in the life of society , which correspondingly influenced the channels of drug distribution .
`` In relation to that I would like to mention the importance of the applied nature of the joint event of the SCO and the UN Office on Drugs and Crime on fighting drugs over the Internet ’ s underground segment better known @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the beginning of March of this year on the sidelines of the 63rd session of the UN Commission on Narcotic Drugs in Vienna , '' noted the top official .
He pointed out that simultaneously practical measures of reacting to the new risks are being hammered out .
For example , as a result of the last two SCO anti-drug Spider Web operations directed at intercepting synthetic drugs and virtual payments in the drug trade , among other things , over 10 tonnes of narcotic and psychotropic substances were seized .
A top @ @ @ @ @ @ @ trafficking from Afghanistan .
`` In fact , our states form a unified barrier to fight global drug violence which threatens not only us but also far more distant countries in Europe , North America , Africa , Australia , and Oceania , '' he emphasized .
The SCO chief mentioned the organization ’ s interaction with its Afghan partners within the SCO-Afghanistan Contact group and the due international recognition of the SCO input to the global anti-drug effort .
The top official noted that the SCO closely follows the growing symbiosis of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and threats .
In this context , the phenomenon of drug terrorism is particularly alarming when income from illegal drug trafficking is used to sponsor terrorist activity .
The SCO Regional anti-terrorist structure counteracts this activity and thanks to its coordination , 24 channels financing terrorists were shut down over the past year .
The SCO managed to boost international attention here on this issue and secure UN support for multi-level cooperation between the two organizations .
`` We notice some new tendencies connected to illegal drug trafficking , '' the SCO chief @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of ground and air transportation has led to the concentration of drug production on internal markets , while drug trafficking has been moving south towards the maritime routes of transport .
In the first half of this year , Indian and Pakistani law enforcement intercepted large drug batches imported via seaports .
Additionally , drug trafficking from the Golden Triangle zone continues , to China and India , among others .
In relation to that , the SCO plans to expand its interaction in the format of SCO-ASEAN-UN ODC .
The top official @ @ @ @ @ @ @ inviolability of the three UN anti-drug conventions and view them as a cornerstone of the contemporary international drug control system .
Narcotics and psychotropic substances should be employed for scientific and medical purposes exclusively , while the recent tendencies to legalize cannabis for recreational use only serve to erode the established international anti-drug legislation .
The Secretary General noted that the organization places great emphasis on the implementation of the 2018 SCO Concept to prevent the abuse of narcotics and psychotropic-substances in order to decrease the influence of their illegal trafficking on public @ @ @ @ @ @ @ member states intend to refine medical and rehabilitation aid to those who suffer from drug addiction , conduct joint narcological research , develop new methods of chemical and toxicological testing and perfect treatment of drug-addicted patients .

SCO Secretary General Vladimir Norov had an interview with TASS, stressing that currently one can confidently state that the SCO is one of the most prominent regional organizations involved in anti-drug issues
BEIJING, June 26. /TASS/. The war on illegal drug trafficking is a top priority of the Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO), SCO Secretary General Vladimir Norov said in an interview with TASS this Friday, June 26, dubbed International Day Against Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking. "For the Shanghai Cooperation Organization this day has a special meaning. The fight against illicit trafficking has transformed into a priority activity of the SCO and its Charter reflects that," the top official said. A menacing trend The issue of non-medical use of narcotics and psychotropic substances has become ever more pressing, the Secretary General said. According to the UN 2019 World Drug Report, people using drugs numbered over 270 mln in the 15-64 age group (5.5% of world population) which is 30% higher than in 2009. The number of opioid users alone grew 1.5 times in 2016 - 2017 totaling 53.4 mln people. The underground drug market’s revenues are estimated at approximately $320 bln. The alarming surge of the drug business and drug addiction seen over the recent years has adversely affected practically all spheres of society and government, undermining institutions, social norms, and particularly the gene pool of nations. The world today is open like never before with trade, economic and individual connections between countries, regions, organizations, and people circulating, so these opportunities are now used by transnational criminal networks dealing in illegal drug production, trafficking, and trade, the SCO chief pointed out. He added that the path to success in fighting the drug trade involves not only the increased effectiveness of law enforcement structures, but also a consolidation of nations’ diversified efforts by sharing their best practices, information, and harmonization of legislation, national strategies and approaches to solve this issue. Cooperation The Secretary General said that currently one can confidently state that the SCO is one of the most prominent regional organizations involved in anti-drug issues. "We have a common normative base and a flexible institutional cooperation foundation which encompasses absolutely all aspects of anti-drug policy, from intelligence gathering activities to the realization of a whole range of preventative, medical, and rehabilitation measures," he emphasized. A three-level mechanism of regular consultations by the relevant organizations implements the renewed SCO anti-drug strategy and its program. Due to their joint effort, up to 40% of illegally trafficked opioids have been seized throughout all of Eurasia.
Read also Police thwart drug supply route in Russian Far East
The Secretary General went on to say that the anti-drug interaction of the SCO member states continues to develop and to adapt to new challenges, which are particularly apparent now with the changes that are occurring on the illegal drug market due to the coronavirus pandemic. Above all, the lockdowns introduced by nations have increased the already growing share of digital communications in the life of society, which correspondingly influenced the channels of drug distribution. Practical measures "In relation to that I would like to mention the importance of the applied nature of the joint event of the SCO and the UN Office on Drugs and Crime on fighting drugs over the Internet’s underground segment better known as the DarkNet which was held at the beginning of March of this year on the sidelines of the 63rd session of the UN Commission on Narcotic Drugs in Vienna," noted the top official. He pointed out that simultaneously practical measures of reacting to the new risks are being hammered out. For example, as a result of the last two SCO anti-drug Spider Web operations directed at intercepting synthetic drugs and virtual payments in the drug trade, among other things, over 10 tonnes of narcotic and psychotropic substances were seized. The Afghan route A top priority by the SCO is curbing drug trafficking from Afghanistan. "In fact, our states form a unified barrier to fight global drug violence which threatens not only us but also far more distant countries in Europe, North America, Africa, Australia, and Oceania," he emphasized. The SCO chief mentioned the organization’s interaction with its Afghan partners within the SCO-Afghanistan Contact group and the due international recognition of the SCO input to the global anti-drug effort. Drug dealing and terrorism The top official noted that the SCO closely follows the growing symbiosis of the drug business with other transboundary challenges and threats. In this context, the phenomenon of drug terrorism is particularly alarming when income from illegal drug trafficking is used to sponsor terrorist activity. The SCO Regional anti-terrorist structure counteracts this activity and thanks to its coordination, 24 channels financing terrorists were shut down over the past year. The SCO managed to boost international attention here on this issue and secure UN support for multi-level cooperation between the two organizations. New tendencies "We notice some new tendencies connected to illegal drug trafficking," the SCO chief said. He noted that the suspension of ground and air transportation has led to the concentration of drug production on internal markets, while drug trafficking has been moving south towards the maritime routes of transport. In the first half of this year, Indian and Pakistani law enforcement intercepted large drug batches imported via seaports. Additionally, drug trafficking from the Golden Triangle zone continues, to China and India, among others. In relation to that, the SCO plans to expand its interaction in the format of SCO-ASEAN-UN ODC.


tass--2020-06-26--People demonstrating high interest to voting on constitutional amendments

KONAKOVO /Tver region/ , June 26 .
/TASS/ .
Russians are demonstrating increased interest in voting on constitutional amendments , @ @ @ @ @ told TASS on Friday .
`` In general , our monitoring shows that interest to @ @ @ @ @ very high and people are demonstrating quite serious political activity and personal involvement in amending @ @ @ @ @ she said .
She said the office had receives quite a lot of calls when @ @ @ @ @ of information about the location of their polling stations or that they were being forced @ @ @ @ @ from that , in her words , some complained that polling stations were inaccessible for @ @ @

KONAKOVO /Tver region/, June 26. /TASS/. Russians are demonstrating increased interest in voting on constitutional amendments, human rights ombudswoman Tatiana Moskalkova told TASS on Friday.
"In general, our monitoring shows that interest to the constitutional amendment voting is very high and people are demonstrating quite serious political activity and personal involvement in amending the basic law," she said.
She said the office had receives quite a lot of calls when people complained about the lack of information about the location of their polling stations or that they were being forced to vote online. Apart from that, in her words, some complained that polling stations were inaccessible for disabled persons.


tass--2020-06-26--COVID morbidity still high in some Russian regions, says health minister

MOSCOW , June 26 .
/TASS/ .
COVID-19 morbidity is still quite high in a number of Russian regions , @ @ @ @ @ said on Friday .
`` Coronavirus infection incidence rates are still high in many regions @ @ @ @ @ the republic of ] Tyva .
The rest [ of the regions ] are at @ @ @ @ @ said , warning that it was too early to relax .
To date , 620,794 @ @ @ @ @ in Russia , with 384,152 patients having recovered from the disease .
Russia ’ s @ @ @ @ @ nationwide .
Earlier , the Russian government set up an Internet hotline to keep the @ @ @ @ @ situation .

MOSCOW, June 26. /TASS/. COVID-19 morbidity is still quite high in a number of Russian regions, Russian Health Minister Mikhail Murashko said on Friday.
"Coronavirus infection incidence rates are still high in many regions, for instance in [the republic of] Tyva. The rest [of the regions] are at different stages," he said, warning that it was too early to relax.
To date, 620,794 coronavirus cases have been confirmed in Russia, with 384,152 patients having recovered from the disease. Russia’s latest data indicates 8,781 fatalities nationwide. Earlier, the Russian government set up an Internet hotline to keep the public updated on the coronavirus situation.


tass--2020-06-26--Turkey obstructs investigation into deaths of vacationing children in 2019

MOSCOW , June 26 .
/TASS/ .
The Russian Investigative Committee has stated that Turkey is interfering with an investigation into the deaths of vacationing Russian children last summer .
`` The Republic of Turkey is obstructing the Russian investigation to ascertain the causes of death of our citizens , including children , on vacation last summer , '' Svetlana Petrenko , the official representative of the Russian Investigative Committee , told reporters .
`` In order to obtain evidence on Turkish soil based on current international agreements , we requested legal assistance but the data needed by the investigation @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and justified decisions on the criminal cases were never submitted by the Turkish side , '' she explained .
According to the official , the investigation in Russia has already questioned witnesses and experts , seized documents , and conducted eventual forensic tests .
In July 2019 , a 16-year-old Krasnoyarsk resident complaining of suddenly feeling ill was hospitalized in a private clinic in Alanya .
On the same day , after a physical exam , the girl was transferred to a different clinic where she died presumably of peritonitis .
In August @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 12-year-old girl from the Leningrad Region ended up with her arm stuck in the pipe of a swimming pool filtration system and spent a significant amount of time under water .
She was hospitalized but died despite the aid administered .
That same month , a 19-year-old Muscovite Olga Desyatova for unknown reasons went into a coma at an Antalya water park .
The Russian was taken to a hospital and in a week transported to Russia where she died without regaining consciousness .
In early September , a 5-year-old girl from the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ in a swimming pool where she began to drown .
After an emergency transportation to a clinic the girl died during resuscitative procedures .

MOSCOW, June 26. /TASS/. The Russian Investigative Committee has stated that Turkey is interfering with an investigation into the deaths of vacationing Russian children last summer.
"The Republic of Turkey is obstructing the Russian investigation to ascertain the causes of death of our citizens, including children, on vacation last summer," Svetlana Petrenko, the official representative of the Russian Investigative Committee, told reporters.
"In order to obtain evidence on Turkish soil based on current international agreements, we requested legal assistance but the data needed by the investigation and the materials relevant for any legal and justified decisions on the criminal cases were never submitted by the Turkish side," she explained.
According to the official, the investigation in Russia has already questioned witnesses and experts, seized documents, and conducted eventual forensic tests.
In July 2019, a 16-year-old Krasnoyarsk resident complaining of suddenly feeling ill was hospitalized in a private clinic in Alanya. On the same day, after a physical exam, the girl was transferred to a different clinic where she died presumably of peritonitis.
In August, at a Bodrum hotel, a 12-year-old girl from the Leningrad Region ended up with her arm stuck in the pipe of a swimming pool filtration system and spent a significant amount of time under water. She was hospitalized but died despite the aid administered. That same month, a 19-year-old Muscovite Olga Desyatova for unknown reasons went into a coma at an Antalya water park. The Russian was taken to a hospital and in a week transported to Russia where she died without regaining consciousness. In early September, a 5-year-old girl from the Arkhangelsk Region under unclear circumstances ended up in a swimming pool where she began to drown. After an emergency transportation to a clinic the girl died during resuscitative procedures.


tass--2020-06-26--Russian Black Sea Fleet frigate on its way home after Mediterranean mission

SEVASTOPOL , June 26 .
/TASS/ .
The Black Sea Fleet frigate Admiral Grigorovich is returning to its home base of Sevastopol after accomplishing its Mediterranean mission , the Fleet ’ s press office reported on Friday .
In the course of accomplishing the assigned missions , the frigate ’ s crew made a transit to the Indian Ocean where it took part in Russian flag demonstration events , the statement says .
`` The frigate Admiral Grigorovich is transiting the Black Sea ’ s Dardanelles and Bosporus Straits .
The ship is returning to Sevastopol after accomplishing missions in @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , '' the press office said in a statement .
Under the plan of rotating the Black Sea Fleet ’ s forces in distant waters , the frigate Admiral Grigorovich was replaced by the frigate Admiral Makarov , which had earlier arrived in the Mediterranean Sea .
The warships like the Admiral Grigorovich represent a new series of Project 11356R/M frigates ( the Project 11357 designation is also used ) .
These frigates are designed to destroy enemy surface ships and vessels , submarines and ground installations , carry out patrols and defend @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Project are armed with eight launchers of Kalibr-NK cruise missiles that are capable of striking surface , coastal and underwater targets at a distance of up to 2,600 km .
The warships of this Project are also armed with Shtil-1 , Palash and AK-630M air defense missile and artillery systems , A-190 100mm universal artillery guns , torpedo tubes and RBU-6000 rocket launchers .
The frigates also have a take-off and landing strip and a hangar for an anti-submarine warfare helicopter ( Ka-27 or Ka-31 ) .
The Soviet Navy ’ s 5th @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the Russian Navy ’ s permanent Mediterranean taskforce operating at present .
The 5th operational Soviet Squadron dealt with the tasks of naval presence in the Mediterranean theater of operations during the Cold War period .
Its main rival was the US Navy ’ s 6th Fleet .
The Soviet Squadron was disbanded on December 31 , 1992 , a year after the disintegration of the Soviet Union .
In 2013 , Russia started to create a new operational Mediterranean taskforce .
Russia ’ s new permanent Squadron is dealing with planned and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ theater of operations , including warding off threats to Russia ’ s national and military security .

SEVASTOPOL, June 26. /TASS/. The Black Sea Fleet frigate Admiral Grigorovich is returning to its home base of Sevastopol after accomplishing its Mediterranean mission, the Fleet’s press office reported on Friday.
In the course of accomplishing the assigned missions, the frigate’s crew made a transit to the Indian Ocean where it took part in Russian flag demonstration events, the statement says.
"The frigate Admiral Grigorovich is transiting the Black Sea’s Dardanelles and Bosporus Straits. The ship is returning to Sevastopol after accomplishing missions in the Navy’s Mediterranean permanent taskforce," the press office said in a statement.
Under the plan of rotating the Black Sea Fleet’s forces in distant waters, the frigate Admiral Grigorovich was replaced by the frigate Admiral Makarov, which had earlier arrived in the Mediterranean Sea.
The warships like the Admiral Grigorovich represent a new series of Project 11356R/M frigates (the Project 11357 designation is also used). These frigates are designed to destroy enemy surface ships and vessels, submarines and ground installations, carry out patrols and defend sea lanes.
The frigates of this Project are armed with eight launchers of Kalibr-NK cruise missiles that are capable of striking surface, coastal and underwater targets at a distance of up to 2,600 km.
The warships of this Project are also armed with Shtil-1, Palash and AK-630M air defense missile and artillery systems, A-190 100mm universal artillery guns, torpedo tubes and RBU-6000 rocket launchers. The frigates also have a take-off and landing strip and a hangar for an anti-submarine warfare helicopter (Ka-27 or Ka-31).
Russian Navy’s Mediterranean Squadron
The Soviet Navy’s 5th Mediterranean Squadron served as a prototype for the Russian Navy’s permanent Mediterranean taskforce operating at present. The 5th operational Soviet Squadron dealt with the tasks of naval presence in the Mediterranean theater of operations during the Cold War period. Its main rival was the US Navy’s 6th Fleet. The Soviet Squadron was disbanded on December 31, 1992, a year after the disintegration of the Soviet Union.
In 2013, Russia started to create a new operational Mediterranean taskforce. Russia’s new permanent Squadron is dealing with planned and urgent combat missions arising in the Mediterranean theater of operations, including warding off threats to Russia’s national and military security.


tass--2020-06-26--German investments in Russian economy reach 1.8 bln euro in Q1

BERLIN , June 26 .
/TASS/ .
The volume of net direct investment by German companies in the Russian economy @ @ @ @ @ 1.8 bln euro , according to the German-Russian Chamber of Commerce .
According to the @ @ @ @ @ German investments in the Russian economy was approximately at the level of the same period @ @ @ @ @ euro — despite the coronavirus pandemic .
Chairman of the German-Russian Chamber of Commerce Matthias @ @ @ @ @ that the German economy is still actively investing in the Russian market , despite measures @ @ @ @ @ , Russia , and around the world , shows that the Russian market remains attractive @ @ @ @ @ , and global trade conflicts .
He added that first of all , medium-sized family @ @ @ @ @ Russian economy .
The chamber noted that in 2018 the volume of net direct investments @ @ @ @ @ 3.3 bln euro , and in 2019 — 2.1 bln euro .

BERLIN, June 26. /TASS/. The volume of net direct investment by German companies in the Russian economy in Q1 2020 amounted to 1.8 bln euro, according to the German-Russian Chamber of Commerce.
According to the statement, the volume of German investments in the Russian economy was approximately at the level of the same period last year — 1.9 bln euro — despite the coronavirus pandemic.
Chairman of the German-Russian Chamber of Commerce Matthias Schepp noted that the fact that the German economy is still actively investing in the Russian market, despite measures to combat coronavirus in Germany, Russia, and around the world, shows that the Russian market remains attractive despite political tensions, sanctions, and global trade conflicts. He added that first of all, medium-sized family enterprises are investing in the Russian economy.
The chamber noted that in 2018 the volume of net direct investments of German companies amounted to 3.3 bln euro, and in 2019 — 2.1 bln euro.


tass--2020-06-26--NATO’s budget is 20 times Russia’s military spending, says envoy

VIENNA , June 26 .
/TASS/ .
Moscow is aware of NATO countries ’ attempts at attaining military supremacy , which is seen in the fact that the alliance ’ s overall military spending is 20 times greater than Russia ’ s defense budget , the acting chief Russian delegate at the Vienna negotiations on military security and arms control , Andrei Vorobyov , told the OSCE Annual Security Review Conference .
TASS obtained a transcript of his statement from Russia ’ s mission at the OSCE .
`` We see the NATO countries ’ attempts at gaining military superiority @ @ @ @ @ @ @ restraint in military spending .
The alliance ’ s overall military budget is 20 times Russia ’ s defense budget , '' Vorobyov said .
NATO keeps building up its military hardware .
`` The alliance ’ s combat air force is seven times larger than Russia ’ s .
Its naval ships outnumber ours by four times , and tanks and artillery , by three times .
In the meantime , the Western countries are pushing ahead with a cynical propaganda campaign over a ‘ Russian aggression ’ , '' Vorobyov said @

VIENNA, June 26. /TASS/. Moscow is aware of NATO countries’ attempts at attaining military supremacy, which is seen in the fact that the alliance’s overall military spending is 20 times greater than Russia’s defense budget, the acting chief Russian delegate at the Vienna negotiations on military security and arms control, Andrei Vorobyov, told the OSCE Annual Security Review Conference. TASS obtained a transcript of his statement from Russia’s mission at the OSCE.
"We see the NATO countries’ attempts at gaining military superiority. There is not a hint at restraint in military spending. The alliance’s overall military budget is 20 times Russia’s defense budget," Vorobyov said.
NATO keeps building up its military hardware. "The alliance’s combat air force is seven times larger than Russia’s. Its naval ships outnumber ours by four times, and tanks and artillery, by three times. In the meantime, the Western countries are pushing ahead with a cynical propaganda campaign over a ‘Russian aggression’," Vorobyov said.


tass--2020-06-26--Russian, foreign firms to feature over 25,000 weapon systems at Army-2020 arms show

MOSCOW , June 26 .
/TASS/ .
Over 1,000 companies will feature more than 25,000 items of armament and military hardware at the Army-2020 international military and technical forum that will take place in Russia on August 23-29 , Defense Minister Sergei Shoigu said at the ministry ’ s board meeting on Friday .
The forum will run at the Patriot military-patriotic park , the Kubinka airfield , the Alabino and Ashuluk practice ranges and in Russia ’ s military districts , the defense chief specified .
`` By now , over 1,000 domestic and foreign companies have announced their @ @ @ @ @ @ @ will feature more than 25,000 various items of armament and military hardware , '' Shoigu said .
This year , the Army-2020 military-technical forum will be held in a new format .
Alongside the military-technical forum , the International Army Games will open and Tank Biathlon teams will start competing at the Alabino practice range , the defense chief said .
`` Russian defense enterprises will feature their latest models not only in the static exposition but also in the forum ’ s demonstration part .
For this purpose , the Defense Ministry @ @ @ @ @ @ @ armament , '' Shoigu added .

MOSCOW, June 26. /TASS/. Over 1,000 companies will feature more than 25,000 items of armament and military hardware at the Army-2020 international military and technical forum that will take place in Russia on August 23-29, Defense Minister Sergei Shoigu said at the ministry’s board meeting on Friday.
The forum will run at the Patriot military-patriotic park, the Kubinka airfield, the Alabino and Ashuluk practice ranges and in Russia’s military districts, the defense chief specified.
"By now, over 1,000 domestic and foreign companies have announced their participation in the upcoming forum and they will feature more than 25,000 various items of armament and military hardware," Shoigu said.
This year, the Army-2020 military-technical forum will be held in a new format. Alongside the military-technical forum, the International Army Games will open and Tank Biathlon teams will start competing at the Alabino practice range, the defense chief said.
"Russian defense enterprises will feature their latest models not only in the static exposition but also in the forum’s demonstration part. For this purpose, the Defense Ministry will provide about 690 items of advanced armament," Shoigu added.


tass--2020-06-26--International flights from Russia may start in July

MOSCOW , June 26 .
/TASS/ .
It is still possible that international flights from Russia may start in July @ @ @ @ @ told reporters on Friday .
`` You may remember I expressed hope some time ago @ @ @ @ @ international flights in July .
This hope is still alive so far , '' the @ @ @ @ @ soon as we make sure that air traffic inside the country is safe , we @ @ @ @ @ our nationals to wide open space of the world ’ s atmosphere .
I think @ @ @ @ @ for that now , '' Ditrikh said .
Russian Prime Minister Mikhail Mishustin earlier asked @ @ @ @ @ regulators to review the potential options for restarting the international air traffic suspended because of @ @ @ @ @ fully closed the air service with other countries , except flights to bring back Russian @ @ @ @ @ carriage flights at the turn of March on the back of the coronavirus pandemic .
@ @ @ @ @ traffic is fully closed since March 27 .

MOSCOW, June 26. /TASS/. It is still possible that international flights from Russia may start in July, Transport Minister Evgeni Ditrikh told reporters on Friday.
"You may remember I expressed hope some time ago that we may start the international flights in July. This hope is still alive so far," the minister said. "As soon as we make sure that air traffic inside the country is safe, we will be ready to release our nationals to wide open space of the world’s atmosphere. I think we are not yet ready for that now," Ditrikh said.
Russian Prime Minister Mikhail Mishustin earlier asked national aviation and consumer rights regulators to review the potential options for restarting the international air traffic suspended because of the coronavirus pandemic.
Russia fully closed the air service with other countries, except flights to bring back Russian nationals, freight and mail carriage flights at the turn of March on the back of the coronavirus pandemic. Regular and charter international air traffic is fully closed since March 27.


tass--2020-06-26--Russia’s top brass to get casualty evacuation robots by 2023

MOSCOW , June 26 .
/TASS/ .
Russia ’ s Defense Ministry has placed an order for developing multirole medical robots for evacuating the wounded from the battlefield .
The order for the relevant experimental design work was posted on the government procurement website on Friday .
`` The Defense Ministry of Russia notifies about holding a closed tender for fulfilling the experimental design work : ‘ Developing Multi-Functional Robotized Medical Systems for Evacuating the Wounded and Incapacitated Personnel on Advanced Ground Carriers ( codenamed ‘ Evacuation-R ’ ) , '' the document says .
The contract is estimated at @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and the work is required to be completed `` by November 10 , 2022 . ''
Under the contract , 85,000,000 rubles ( $ 1.2 million ) will be allocated in 2020 , 127,000,000 rubles ( $ 1.8 million ) in 2021 and 37,982,141 rubles ( $ 550,000 ) in 2022 .
The results of the tender will be summed up on August 5 this year .
The gazeta.ru news portal reported in October 2016 that Russia ’ s Defense Ministry had initiated research into developing a family of robotized systems .
The @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the R & D work ‘ Evacuation-R ’ estimated at 90 million rubles ( $ 1.3 million in current prices ) was aimed at defining the conceptual design and tactics of using medical robots in the Armed Forces .
The researchers were assigned the task of finding technical solutions for creating medical evacuation platforms and automated technologies of diagnosing and controlling the general state of the wounded , sick and affected personnel .
The project envisaged several stages for its implementation .
Following the R & D effort , the Defense Ministry was @ @ @ @ @ @ @ experimental design work to develop a robotized vehicle capable of independently finding , identifying and withdrawing the wounded from the battlefield , and also moving across various terrain , inside premises , negotiating obstacles and climbing ladders .

MOSCOW, June 26. /TASS/. Russia’s Defense Ministry has placed an order for developing multirole medical robots for evacuating the wounded from the battlefield. The order for the relevant experimental design work was posted on the government procurement website on Friday.
"The Defense Ministry of Russia notifies about holding a closed tender for fulfilling the experimental design work: ‘Developing Multi-Functional Robotized Medical Systems for Evacuating the Wounded and Incapacitated Personnel on Advanced Ground Carriers (codenamed ‘Evacuation-R’)," the document says.
The contract is estimated at 249,982,141.5 rubles ($3.6 million) and the work is required to be completed "by November 10, 2022."
Under the contract, 85,000,000 rubles ($1.2 million) will be allocated in 2020, 127,000,000 rubles ($1.8 million) in 2021 and 37,982,141 rubles ($550,000) in 2022. The results of the tender will be summed up on August 5 this year.
Evacuation-R robot
The gazeta.ru news portal reported in October 2016 that Russia’s Defense Ministry had initiated research into developing a family of robotized systems. The news portal reported at the time that the R&D work ‘Evacuation-R’ estimated at 90 million rubles ($1.3 million in current prices) was aimed at defining the conceptual design and tactics of using medical robots in the Armed Forces.
The researchers were assigned the task of finding technical solutions for creating medical evacuation platforms and automated technologies of diagnosing and controlling the general state of the wounded, sick and affected personnel.
The project envisaged several stages for its implementation. Following the R&D effort, the Defense Ministry was expected to get performance specifications for opening experimental design work to develop a robotized vehicle capable of independently finding, identifying and withdrawing the wounded from the battlefield, and also moving across various terrain, inside premises, negotiating obstacles and climbing ladders.


tass--2020-06-26--Amount of fake news on constitutional amendments vote ‘off the charts’ — Kremlin

MOSCOW , June 26 .
/TASS/ .
The amount of fake news regarding the nationwide vote on constitutional amendments is off the charts , but it is up to the Central Electoral Commission to look into possible violations , Kremlin Spokesman Dmitry Peskov said Friday .
Peskov urged to report specific cases .
`` The number of fake news stories is off the scale right now , '' the spokesman said .
`` We are not ready to perceive impersonal data , we are ready to perceive specific data , ready to relay it to the Central Electoral Commission , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ] are unacceptable , '' Peskov said , commenting on reports of forced voting and other violations , recapping President Vladimir Putin ’ s remarks of the priority of absolute legitimacy of the amendments vote and unacceptability of any manipulations and frauds .
Commenting on reports that one voting station was deployed in the trunk of a car that moved from house to house collecting ballots in Vladivostok in the Far East , Peskov noted : `` About that car ’ s trunk , unless it ’ s a fake , [ … @ @ @ @ @ @ @ commission in Vladivostok , especially considering there are organizations interested in the purity of the vote . ''
The spokesman underscored that it remains to be determined whether this constitutes a forbidden voting format .
Besides , Peskov noted , `` this is not a forced vote . ''
`` It is very important to get all the details right , '' the spokesman said .
Answering a question about the Kremlin ’ s position on voting outside of voting stations and reports of voting `` in courtyards and on benches , '' @ @ @ @ @ @ @ `` publications on some websites as the truth in the first instance . ''
`` Unfortunately , we have more reasons to perceive it as a lie , '' the spokesman said .
However , he continued , even if such reports are true , the issue of compliance of this format with the law must be addressed to the Central Electoral Commission .
`` On benches or not — the important thing is whether this complies with the law or not , '' Peskov said , recalling that voting from home is @ @ @ @ @ @ @ from a bench ? ''
he asked .
The nationwide vote on constitutional amendments kicked off on June 25 across Russia .
According to a presidential order , July 1 is the official voting day , although Russian citizens are allowed to cast their vote starting on June 25 .
This is done in a bid to minimize the coronavirus spread .
Voting stations will be open between 08:00 and 20:00 local time in all regions of Russia , vote count will begin on 20:00 on July 1 , for all voting days @ @ @ @ @ @ @ outside of polling stations , including in the proximity of residential buildings , as well as contactless voting from home , online voting for residents of Moscow and the Nizhny Novgorod regions , and voting via the Mobile Voter app .

MOSCOW, June 26. /TASS/. The amount of fake news regarding the nationwide vote on constitutional amendments is off the charts, but it is up to the Central Electoral Commission to look into possible violations, Kremlin Spokesman Dmitry Peskov said Friday.
Peskov urged to report specific cases. "The number of fake news stories is off the scale right now," the spokesman said.
"We are not ready to perceive impersonal data, we are ready to perceive specific data, ready to relay it to the Central Electoral Commission, because, of course, [violations] are unacceptable," Peskov said, commenting on reports of forced voting and other violations, recapping President Vladimir Putin’s remarks of the priority of absolute legitimacy of the amendments vote and unacceptability of any manipulations and frauds.
Commenting on reports that one voting station was deployed in the trunk of a car that moved from house to house collecting ballots in Vladivostok in the Far East, Peskov noted: "About that car’s trunk, unless it’s a fake, […] one must turn to the electoral commission in Vladivostok, especially considering there are organizations interested in the purity of the vote."
The spokesman underscored that it remains to be determined whether this constitutes a forbidden voting format. Besides, Peskov noted, "this is not a forced vote." "It is very important to get all the details right," the spokesman said.
Answering a question about the Kremlin’s position on voting outside of voting stations and reports of voting "in courtyards and on benches," Peskov underscored that Kremlin does not perceive "publications on some websites as the truth in the first instance."
"Unfortunately, we have more reasons to perceive it as a lie," the spokesman said.
However, he continued, even if such reports are true, the issue of compliance of this format with the law must be addressed to the Central Electoral Commission. "On benches or not — the important thing is whether this complies with the law or not," Peskov said, recalling that voting from home is allowed. "How is this different from a bench?" he asked.
About the vote
The nationwide vote on constitutional amendments kicked off on June 25 across Russia. According to a presidential order, July 1 is the official voting day, although Russian citizens are allowed to cast their vote starting on June 25. This is done in a bid to minimize the coronavirus spread.
Voting stations will be open between 08:00 and 20:00 local time in all regions of Russia, vote count will begin on 20:00 on July 1, for all voting days at once.
Voting is also possible outside of polling stations, including in the proximity of residential buildings, as well as contactless voting from home, online voting for residents of Moscow and the Nizhny Novgorod regions, and voting via the Mobile Voter app.