tass--2020-12-06--Over 300 protesters detained in Minsk

Over 300 protesters detained in Minsk

MINSK , December 6 .
/TASS/ .
More than 300 protesters were detained in Minsk on Sunday , spokesman for the Minsk police department Alexander Kupchenya said .
`` More than 300 people were detained in Minsk on charges of violating the law on mass gatherings ( article 23.34 of the Belarusian Code of Administrative Offense ) , '' he said .
According to the Minsk police , small groups of protesters gathered in Minsk ’ s dwelling quarters in a time span from noon to 15:00 local time .
`` In some districts , participants in the unauthorized gatherings @ @ @ @ @ @ @ taken to prevent such actions , '' the spokesman said , adding that some of those detained had earlier been brought to responsibility for taking part in unauthorized rallies .
Some , in his words , offered resistance to the police , which is punishable by an arrest of up to 30 days .
`` So , some of those detained have a real chance to see in the New Year in custody , instead of being at home , with the family , '' he added .
Meanwhile , according to human @ @ @ @ @ @ @ other Belarusian cities .
The unregistered human rights center Vesna said on its website that by now it knows about 182 detained people .
According to the Belarusian Association of Journalists , several journalists were detained during Sunday ’ s protests .
Some of them were released after identity checks .
Nationwide demonstrations have engulfed Belarus following the August 9 presidential election .
According to the Central Election Commission ’ s official results , incumbent President Alexander Lukashenko won by a landslide , garnering 80.10 % of the vote .
His closest rival @ @ @ @ @ @ @ came in second , with 10.12 % of the ballot .
However , she refused to recognize the election ’ s outcome , and left Belarus for Lithuania .
After the results of the exit polls were announced late on August 9 , mass protests erupted in downtown Minsk and other Belarusian cities .
During the early post-election period , the rallies snowballed into fierce clashes between the protesters and police .
The current unrest is being cheered on by the opposition ’ s Coordination Council , which has been beating the drum @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the Belarusian authorities have castigated the ongoing turmoil and demanded that these unauthorized demonstrations be stopped .
More than 30,000 people have been detained since August 9 .
Most of them were subjects to administrative arrests and fines , some face criminal charges .

MINSK, December 6. /TASS/. More than 300 protesters were detained in Minsk on Sunday, spokesman for the Minsk police department Alexander Kupchenya said.
"More than 300 people were detained in Minsk on charges of violating the law on mass gatherings (article 23.34 of the Belarusian Code of Administrative Offense)," he said.
According to the Minsk police, small groups of protesters gathered in Minsk’s dwelling quarters in a time span from noon to 15:00 local time. "In some districts, participants in the unauthorized gatherings tried to block traffic. Measures were taken to prevent such actions," the spokesman said, adding that some of those detained had earlier been brought to responsibility for taking part in unauthorized rallies. Some, in his words, offered resistance to the police, which is punishable by an arrest of up to 30 days. "So, some of those detained have a real chance to see in the New Year in custody, instead of being at home, with the family," he added.
Meanwhile, according to human rights activists, protesters were detained in other Belarusian cities. The unregistered human rights center Vesna said on its website that by now it knows about 182 detained people. According to the Belarusian Association of Journalists, several journalists were detained during Sunday’s protests. Some of them were released after identity checks.
Nationwide demonstrations have engulfed Belarus following the August 9 presidential election. According to the Central Election Commission’s official results, incumbent President Alexander Lukashenko won by a landslide, garnering 80.10% of the vote. His closest rival in the race, Svetlana Tikhanovskaya, came in second, with 10.12% of the ballot. However, she refused to recognize the election’s outcome, and left Belarus for Lithuania. After the results of the exit polls were announced late on August 9, mass protests erupted in downtown Minsk and other Belarusian cities. During the early post-election period, the rallies snowballed into fierce clashes between the protesters and police. The current unrest is being cheered on by the opposition’s Coordination Council, which has been beating the drum for more protests. In response, the Belarusian authorities have castigated the ongoing turmoil and demanded that these unauthorized demonstrations be stopped. More than 30,000 people have been detained since August 9. Most of them were subjects to administrative arrests and fines, some face criminal charges.


tass--2020-12-06--Non-recognition of Venezuelan polls indicates inability to face truth - Russian diplomat

RIO DE JANEIRO , December 6 .
/TASS/ .
Those countries that refuse to recognize Sunday ’ s parliamentary elections in Venezuela are simply unable to face the truth , Russian Ambassador to that country , Sergei Melik-Bagdasarov , told TASS .
`` The statements by government officials from a number of states about non-recognition of the parliamentary polls in Venezuela only indicate their inability to face the truth .
They probably think they have the right to disregard others ’ right , '' he said .
Voting at parliamentary elections in Venezuela started at 06:00 local time ( 13:00 @ @ @ @ @ @ @ close at 18:00 local time ( 01:00 a.m. Moscow time on December 7 ) .
The Venezuelans are to elect 227 lawmakers of the unicameral National Assembly .
As many as 14,000 candidates nominated by 107 political forces are vying for the seats .
The parliamentary election is held amidst a dire socio-economic crisis and political instability , which started in 2015 after the opposition forces won the latest parliamentary election .
On January 23 , 2019 , Juan Guaido , a Venezuelan opposition leader and speaker of the National Assembly , whose @ @ @ @ @ @ @ by the country ’ s Supreme Court , had declared himself interim president and announced the launch of Operation Freedom to topple incumbent President Nicolas Maduro .
More than 50 countries voiced their support to Guaido , including the United States and most European and South American nations .
Later , the opposition forces orchestrated some coup attempts against the president , but Maduro , who is supported by the army , retained control .
The opposition repeatedly accused the authorities of violations during the election campaign .
As a result , 27 @ @ @ @ @ @ @ polls .
However some of their candidates are taking part in the race .
Meanwhile , the United States has already given to understand that it will not recognize Venezuela ’ s parliamentary elections as it doesn ’ t consider them fair .
Ecuador , Colombia , and Spain shared this position .
The European Union has called on the Venezuelan government to postpone the elections to a later date to have time to establish dialogue between the authorities and the opposition and invite more international observers .

RIO DE JANEIRO, December 6. /TASS/. Those countries that refuse to recognize Sunday’s parliamentary elections in Venezuela are simply unable to face the truth, Russian Ambassador to that country, Sergei Melik-Bagdasarov, told TASS.
"The statements by government officials from a number of states about non-recognition of the parliamentary polls in Venezuela only indicate their inability to face the truth. They probably think they have the right to disregard others’ right," he said.
Voting at parliamentary elections in Venezuela started at 06:00 local time (13:00 Moscow time). Polling stations will close at 18:00 local time (01:00 a.m. Moscow time on December 7). The Venezuelans are to elect 227 lawmakers of the unicameral National Assembly. As many as 14,000 candidates nominated by 107 political forces are vying for the seats.
The parliamentary election is held amidst a dire socio-economic crisis and political instability, which started in 2015 after the opposition forces won the latest parliamentary election.
On January 23, 2019, Juan Guaido, a Venezuelan opposition leader and speaker of the National Assembly, whose appointment to that position had been cancelled by the country’s Supreme Court, had declared himself interim president and announced the launch of Operation Freedom to topple incumbent President Nicolas Maduro. More than 50 countries voiced their support to Guaido, including the United States and most European and South American nations. Later, the opposition forces orchestrated some coup attempts against the president, but Maduro, who is supported by the army, retained control.
The opposition repeatedly accused the authorities of violations during the election campaign. As a result, 27 opposition parties have decided to boycott the polls. However some of their candidates are taking part in the race.
Meanwhile, the United States has already given to understand that it will not recognize Venezuela’s parliamentary elections as it doesn’t consider them fair. Ecuador, Colombia, and Spain shared this position. The European Union has called on the Venezuelan government to postpone the elections to a later date to have time to establish dialogue between the authorities and the opposition and invite more international observers.


tass--2020-12-06--Two killed, three injured as building crane falls down into Volga in Samara region

SAMARA , December 6 .
/TASS/ .
Two people died and three more were hurt when a building crane fell @ @ @ @ @ the Volga River in the Samara region , a spokesman for the Russian emergencies ministry @ @ @ @ @ said on Sunday .
`` The accident occurred near the village of Klimovka .
A @ @ @ @ @ a technological bridge into the Volga .
Two men , born in 1967 and 1981 @ @ @ @ @ were hurt , '' he said , adding that two of those hurt were taken @ @ @ @ @ surveyed the area .
The search for the bodies of those killed is planned for @ @

SAMARA, December 6. /TASS/. Two people died and three more were hurt when a building crane fell down from a bridge to the Volga River in the Samara region, a spokesman for the Russian emergencies ministry’s Samara region department said on Sunday.
"The accident occurred near the village of Klimovka. A crawler crane fell down from a technological bridge into the Volga. Two men, born in 1967 and 1981, died. Three people were hurt," he said, adding that two of those hurt were taken to hospital.
Rescuers have surveyed the area. The search for the bodies of those killed is planned for Monday.


tass--2020-12-06--37% of universities completely switched to e-learning amid pandemic - minister

MOSCOW , December 6 .
/TASS/ .
Some 37 % of universities and their branches in Russia have switched to @ @ @ @ @ , Russian Minister of Science and Higher Education Valery Falkov said on Sunday .
`` @ @ @ @ @ establishments and their branches have completely switched to online learning .
To be more precise @ @ @ @ @ 1,287 ) higher education establishments and their branches , '' he said in an interview @ @ @ @ @ station .
Moscow-and St. Petersburg-based universities and other higher learning establishments were switched to distance @ @ @ @ @ November 13 to February 6 , 2021 .
The ministry recommended universities in regions to @ @ @ @

MOSCOW, December 6. /TASS/. Some 37% of universities and their branches in Russia have switched to e-learning amid the coronavirus pandemic, Russian Minister of Science and Higher Education Valery Falkov said on Sunday.
"Thirty-seven percent of higher education establishments and their branches have completely switched to online learning. To be more precise, 478 (out of 1,287) higher education establishments and their branches," he said in an interview with the Komsomolskaya Pravda radio station.
Moscow-and St. Petersburg-based universities and other higher learning establishments were switched to distance learning for a period from November 13 to February 6, 2021. The ministry recommended universities in regions to do the same.


tass--2020-12-06--Over 60 protesters detained in Belarus during Sunday’s protests - human rights center

MINSK , December 6 .
/TASS/ .
More than 69 people were detained during Sunday ’ s protests in Minsk and other Belarusian cities , the Vesna unregistered human rights center reported .
The list of those detained posted on Vesna ’ s website at 16:00 Moscow time includes 64 names .
Most of them were detained in Minsk .
Detentions were also reported from Grodno , Brest , Smolevichi .
Among those detained are two journalists , BelaPAN reporters Marina Khorevich and Sergei Lyudkevich .
Two correspondents from the news agencies RIA Novosti and Interfax-West were released after identity @ @ @ @ @ @ @ following the August 9 presidential election .
According to the Central Election Commission ’ s official results , incumbent President Alexander Lukashenko won by a landslide , garnering 80.10 % of the vote .
His closest rival in the race , Svetlana Tikhanovskaya , came in second , with 10.12 % of the ballot .
However , she refused to recognize the election ’ s outcome , and left Belarus for Lithuania .
After the results of the exit polls were announced late on August 9 , mass protests erupted in downtown Minsk @ @ @ @ @ @ @ early post-election period , the rallies snowballed into fierce clashes between the protesters and police .
The current unrest is being cheered on by the opposition ’ s Coordination Council , which has been beating the drum for more protests .
In response , the Belarusian authorities have castigated the ongoing turmoil and demanded that these unauthorized demonstrations be stopped .

MINSK, December 6. /TASS/. More than 69 people were detained during Sunday’s protests in Minsk and other Belarusian cities, the Vesna unregistered human rights center reported.
The list of those detained posted on Vesna’s website at 16:00 Moscow time includes 64 names. Most of them were detained in Minsk. Detentions were also reported from Grodno, Brest, Smolevichi. Among those detained are two journalists, BelaPAN reporters Marina Khorevich and Sergei Lyudkevich. Two correspondents from the news agencies RIA Novosti and Interfax-West were released after identity checks.
Nationwide demonstrations have engulfed Belarus following the August 9 presidential election. According to the Central Election Commission’s official results, incumbent President Alexander Lukashenko won by a landslide, garnering 80.10% of the vote. His closest rival in the race, Svetlana Tikhanovskaya, came in second, with 10.12% of the ballot. However, she refused to recognize the election’s outcome, and left Belarus for Lithuania. After the results of the exit polls were announced late on August 9, mass protests erupted in downtown Minsk and other Belarusian cities. During the early post-election period, the rallies snowballed into fierce clashes between the protesters and police. The current unrest is being cheered on by the opposition’s Coordination Council, which has been beating the drum for more protests. In response, the Belarusian authorities have castigated the ongoing turmoil and demanded that these unauthorized demonstrations be stopped.


tass--2020-12-07--Russia to roll out Su-57 fifth-generation fighter with 2nd-stage engine in 2022

MOSCOW , December 7 .
/TASS/ .
The first Su-57 fifth-generation fighters with the advanced second-stage engine will be assembled in 2022 , Head of Russia ’ s state tech corporation Rostec Sergei Chemezov said on Monday .
`` We continue work on the second-stage engine .
< ... > And I hope that somewhere in 2022 the engines will be made and mounted on the planes and we will launch their serial production in the next few years , '' the Rostec chief said .
Russia is currently holding the flight tests of the second-stage engine aboard the aircraft @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of the new engine have already been manufactured .
Now work is underway to finalize its assemblies and systems . ''
The second-stage engine codenamed Item 30 will be serial-produced at the UEC-Ufa Engine Production Association ( part of the United Engine Corporation within Rostec ) .
The Ufa enterprise earlier manufactured the first prototype of the second-stage engine that entered flight tests in December 2017 .
It was earlier reported that the serial deliveries of Su-57 fifth-generation fighters fitted out with the new engines would begin in 2023 .
The second-stage engine @ @ @ @ @ @ @ supersonic speed without using an afterburner .
The Su-57 is a fifth-generation multirole fighter designed to destroy all types of air , ground and naval targets .
The Su-57 fighter jet features stealth technology with the broad use of composite materials , is capable of developing supersonic cruising speed and is furnished with the most advanced onboard radio-electronic equipment , including a powerful onboard computer ( the so-called electronic second pilot ) , the radar system spread across its body and some other innovations , in particular , armament placed inside its fuselage @ @ @ @ @ @ @ for the first time on January 29 , 2010 .
Compared to its predecessors , the Su-57 combines the functions of an attack plane and a fighter jet while the use of composite materials and innovation technologies and the fighter ’ s aerodynamic configuration ensure the low level of radar and infrared signature .
The plane ’ s armament will include , in particular , hypersonic missiles .
The fifth-generation fighter jet has been successfully tested in combat conditions in Syria .

MOSCOW, December 7. /TASS/. The first Su-57 fifth-generation fighters with the advanced second-stage engine will be assembled in 2022, Head of Russia’s state tech corporation Rostec Sergei Chemezov said on Monday.
"We continue work on the second-stage engine. <...> And I hope that somewhere in 2022 the engines will be made and mounted on the planes and we will launch their serial production in the next few years," the Rostec chief said.
Russia is currently holding the flight tests of the second-stage engine aboard the aircraft, Chemezov said. "Several prototypes of the new engine have already been manufactured. Now work is underway to finalize its assemblies and systems."
The second-stage engine codenamed Item 30 will be serial-produced at the UEC-Ufa Engine Production Association (part of the United Engine Corporation within Rostec). The Ufa enterprise earlier manufactured the first prototype of the second-stage engine that entered flight tests in December 2017. It was earlier reported that the serial deliveries of Su-57 fifth-generation fighters fitted out with the new engines would begin in 2023. The second-stage engine will allow the Su-57 fighter to develop supersonic speed without using an afterburner.
The Su-57 is a fifth-generation multirole fighter designed to destroy all types of air, ground and naval targets. The Su-57 fighter jet features stealth technology with the broad use of composite materials, is capable of developing supersonic cruising speed and is furnished with the most advanced onboard radio-electronic equipment, including a powerful onboard computer (the so-called electronic second pilot), the radar system spread across its body and some other innovations, in particular, armament placed inside its fuselage.
The Su-57 took to the skies for the first time on January 29, 2010. Compared to its predecessors, the Su-57 combines the functions of an attack plane and a fighter jet while the use of composite materials and innovation technologies and the fighter’s aerodynamic configuration ensure the low level of radar and infrared signature.
The plane’s armament will include, in particular, hypersonic missiles. The fifth-generation fighter jet has been successfully tested in combat conditions in Syria.


tass--2020-12-07--COVID-19 situation in Moscow remains complex, says Mayor

MOSCOW , December 7 .
/TASS/ .
The situation with the spread of the coronavirus infection in the capital remains @ @ @ @ @ all the basic parameters is observed , Moscow Mayor Sergei Sobyanin said at the State @ @ @ @ @ coronavirus incidence in the Russian Federation on Monday .
`` The situation remains tense .
@ @ @ @ @ all the basic parameters of the continued COVID pandemic , '' the mayor said .
@ @ @ @ @ he noted that the healthcare system in Moscow is functioning steadily .

MOSCOW, December 7. /TASS/. The situation with the spread of the coronavirus infection in the capital remains tense, an increase in all the basic parameters is observed, Moscow Mayor Sergei Sobyanin said at the State Coordination Council to control the coronavirus incidence in the Russian Federation on Monday.
"The situation remains tense. We see an increase in all the basic parameters of the continued COVID pandemic," the mayor said.
At the same time, he noted that the healthcare system in Moscow is functioning steadily.


tass--2020-12-07--Over 340 people detained in Belarus during Sunday protests

MINSK , December 7 .
/TASS/ .
Belarusian law enforcement agencies have detained 344 people during the protests in Belarus on Sunday , Belarusian Interior Ministry Spokesperson Olga Chemodanova said on Monday on her Telegram channel .
`` In total , yesterday , 344 people were detained for violating the law on mass gatherings until the court considers their cases on administrative violations , '' she informed .
The message informs that in some cases , protesters attempted to go out into traffic and disobeyed the demands of the law enforcement .
Nationwide demonstrations have engulfed Belarus following the August @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Central Election Commission ’ s official results , incumbent President Alexander Lukashenko won by a landslide , garnering 80.10 % of the vote .
His closest rival in the race , Svetlana Tikhanovskaya , came in second , with 10.12 % of the ballot .
However , she refused to recognize the election ’ s outcome , and left Belarus for Lithuania .
After the results of the exit polls were announced late on August 9 , mass protests erupted in downtown Minsk and other Belarusian cities .
During the early post-election period @ @ @ @ @ @ @ between the protesters and police .
The current unrest is being cheered on by the opposition ’ s Coordination Council , which has been beating the drum for more protests .
In response , the Belarusian authorities have castigated the ongoing turmoil and demanded that these unauthorized demonstrations be stopped .

MINSK, December 7. /TASS/. Belarusian law enforcement agencies have detained 344 people during the protests in Belarus on Sunday, Belarusian Interior Ministry Spokesperson Olga Chemodanova said on Monday on her Telegram channel.
"In total, yesterday, 344 people were detained for violating the law on mass gatherings until the court considers their cases on administrative violations," she informed.
The message informs that in some cases, protesters attempted to go out into traffic and disobeyed the demands of the law enforcement.
Nationwide demonstrations have engulfed Belarus following the August 9 presidential election. According to the Central Election Commission’s official results, incumbent President Alexander Lukashenko won by a landslide, garnering 80.10% of the vote. His closest rival in the race, Svetlana Tikhanovskaya, came in second, with 10.12% of the ballot. However, she refused to recognize the election’s outcome, and left Belarus for Lithuania. After the results of the exit polls were announced late on August 9, mass protests erupted in downtown Minsk and other Belarusian cities. During the early post-election period, the rallies snowballed into fierce clashes between the protesters and police. The current unrest is being cheered on by the opposition’s Coordination Council, which has been beating the drum for more protests. In response, the Belarusian authorities have castigated the ongoing turmoil and demanded that these unauthorized demonstrations be stopped.


tass--2020-12-07--Mayors of Moscow, Beijing sign three-year cooperation program of two capitals

MOSCOW , December 7 .
/TASS/ .
Moscow Mayor Sergei Sobyanin and Mayor of Beijing Chen Jining have signed a program of cooperation between Moscow and Beijing city authorities for 2021-2023 .
It is planned to continue to exchange best practices of the two capitals in fighting the pandemic , developing the subway system , tourism , and other spheres , the press service of the mayor and the Moscow government told TASS on Monday .
`` The signing ceremony was held in a video conference format within the framework of the Moscow - Beijing - 25 : New Time @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the 25th anniversary of establishing partner relations between the capitals of Russia and China .
According to the mutual agreement , the main directions of cooperation between Moscow and Beijing in 2020-2023 will become the exchange of best practices and implementation of joint projects in such spheres as trade and economic and innovative cooperation , scientific and technical innovations , education , urban planning , transportation , public health , tourism and culture , media outlets , '' the press service said .
The press service added that , for instance , the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of industry-specific experts in particular spheres in order to exchange scientific and technical talents ; the development of cooperation in humanities by means of exchanging instructors , students , and schoolchildren , organizing joint study and research ; sharing best practices in the city transportation management , transportation planning for the Winter Olympic Games which will take place in Beijing in 2022 ; exchanging solutions in the sphere of control and prevention of the coronavirus infection , its treatment and diagnostics .
`` The bilateral relations between Moscow and Beijing are built on @ @ @ @ @ @ @ friendly partner relations of May 16 , 1995 .
During the anniversary forum dedicated to this date , the staff of the city administrations of the two capitals will discuss the opportunities of joint projects in the spheres of innovation , science , economy , and transport .
It is also planned to sign an agreement on cooperation between Moscow and Beijing subways for another five-year term .
Within the framework of this agreement the specialists will continue to share regularly their expertise in the infrastructure development and implementation of cutting-edge technologies in @ @ @ @ @ @ @ specified .
It was added that the forum will culminate in an online gala concert with the participation of the Bolshoi Theatre Chamber Orchestra , the Osipov State Russian Folk Orchestra , and the Beijing Symphony Orchestra .
It will be aired by Russia ’ s Culture TV channel and China ’ s BTV .
The authorities noted that `` despite the COVID-19 pandemic , the volume of mutual trade between Moscow and China during 9 months of 2020 has grown by 10 % compared to the same period in 2019 and totaled @ @ @ @ @ @ @ bln of exports from Moscow and $ 19 bln of imports from China .
In September 2020 , also in a video conference format , an agreement was signed between the Moscow Innovation Cluster and the Zhongguancun technology hub on cooperation in the sphere of innovations , research and development in cutting-edge directions of science and technologies .
This was one of the practical steps on implementing the joint initiative of Russian President Vladimir Putin and his Chinese counterpart Xi Jinping on holding in 2020-2021 the Years of Russian-Chinese Scientific , Technical , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ concluded .

MOSCOW, December 7. /TASS/. Moscow Mayor Sergei Sobyanin and Mayor of Beijing Chen Jining have signed a program of cooperation between Moscow and Beijing city authorities for 2021-2023. It is planned to continue to exchange best practices of the two capitals in fighting the pandemic, developing the subway system, tourism, and other spheres, the press service of the mayor and the Moscow government told TASS on Monday.
"The signing ceremony was held in a video conference format within the framework of the Moscow - Beijing - 25: New Time - New Opportunities online forum dedicated to the 25th anniversary of establishing partner relations between the capitals of Russia and China. According to the mutual agreement, the main directions of cooperation between Moscow and Beijing in 2020-2023 will become the exchange of best practices and implementation of joint projects in such spheres as trade and economic and innovative cooperation, scientific and technical innovations, education, urban planning, transportation, public health, tourism and culture, media outlets," the press service said.
The press service added that, for instance, the program includes the creation of a database of industry-specific experts in particular spheres in order to exchange scientific and technical talents; the development of cooperation in humanities by means of exchanging instructors, students, and schoolchildren, organizing joint study and research; sharing best practices in the city transportation management, transportation planning for the Winter Olympic Games which will take place in Beijing in 2022; exchanging solutions in the sphere of control and prevention of the coronavirus infection, its treatment and diagnostics.
"The bilateral relations between Moscow and Beijing are built on the basis of the agreement to establish friendly partner relations of May 16, 1995. During the anniversary forum dedicated to this date, the staff of the city administrations of the two capitals will discuss the opportunities of joint projects in the spheres of innovation, science, economy, and transport. It is also planned to sign an agreement on cooperation between Moscow and Beijing subways for another five-year term. Within the framework of this agreement the specialists will continue to share regularly their expertise in the infrastructure development and implementation of cutting-edge technologies in the subway," the press service specified.
It was added that the forum will culminate in an online gala concert with the participation of the Bolshoi Theatre Chamber Orchestra, the Osipov State Russian Folk Orchestra, and the Beijing Symphony Orchestra. It will be aired by Russia’s Culture TV channel and China’s BTV.
The authorities noted that "despite the COVID-19 pandemic, the volume of mutual trade between Moscow and China during 9 months of 2020 has grown by 10% compared to the same period in 2019 and totaled $20.5 bln, including $1.46 bln of exports from Moscow and $19 bln of imports from China.
In September 2020, also in a video conference format, an agreement was signed between the Moscow Innovation Cluster and the Zhongguancun technology hub on cooperation in the sphere of innovations, research and development in cutting-edge directions of science and technologies. This was one of the practical steps on implementing the joint initiative of Russian President Vladimir Putin and his Chinese counterpart Xi Jinping on holding in 2020-2021 the Years of Russian-Chinese Scientific, Technical, and Innovative Cooperation, the press service concluded.


tass--2020-12-07--Russia-US ties far from best and it’s not Moscow’s fault, Kremlin says

MOSCOW , December 7 .
/TASS/ .
Achieving sustainable developments goals could become a part of the dialogue between Russia and the United States , but it is not because the dialogue is in dire state right now , Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov told reporters Monday , commenting on the media reports that Russian envoy for cooperation with international organizations to achieve sustainable development goals Anatoly Chubais can allegedly become a negotiator between the Kremlin and US President-Elect Joe Biden ’ s administration .
`` Achieving sustainable developments goals could become one of the elements in the bilateral dialogue between @ @ @ @ @ @ @ not .
Because this dialogue is generally far from being in the best state right now , and not because of Moscow , '' Peskov underlined .
He added that even if this topic were an element of this dialogue , `` it would not be the only element . ''
The Kremlin spokesman pointed out that Chubais `` will work specifically on the topic of sustainable development . ''
Meanwhile , it is `` the Foreign Ministry , other agencies and the Russian president that deal with '' bilateral relations , Peskov @ @

MOSCOW, December 7. /TASS/. Achieving sustainable developments goals could become a part of the dialogue between Russia and the United States, but it is not because the dialogue is in dire state right now, Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov told reporters Monday, commenting on the media reports that Russian envoy for cooperation with international organizations to achieve sustainable development goals Anatoly Chubais can allegedly become a negotiator between the Kremlin and US President-Elect Joe Biden’s administration.
"Achieving sustainable developments goals could become one of the elements in the bilateral dialogue between Moscow and Washington, but it is not. Because this dialogue is generally far from being in the best state right now, and not because of Moscow," Peskov underlined.
He added that even if this topic were an element of this dialogue, "it would not be the only element." The Kremlin spokesman pointed out that Chubais "will work specifically on the topic of sustainable development." Meanwhile, it is "the Foreign Ministry, other agencies and the Russian president that deal with" bilateral relations, Peskov said.


tass--2020-12-07--Kremlin lauds Russia's program of import substitution as successful

MOSCOW , December 7 .
/ TASS / .
The program for the substitution of imported products in Russia proved @ @ @ @ @ production made it possible to replace the majority of the most important goods , Russian @ @ @ @ @ reporters on Monday .
On Monday , the Kommersant newspaper , citing a study by @ @ @ @ @ NRA ) , wrote that Russia was unable to replace supplies of the main category @ @ @ @ @ production , being short of the target indicators of the import substitution strategy .
Answering @ @ @ @ @ agrees with this assessment , Peskov said that the program is `` successful . ''
@ @ @ @ @ country has not set a goal of 100 % import substitution , which would cover @ @ @ @ @ industry .
Not a single country is doing this , he stressed .
At the @ @ @ @ @ as the import substitution of basic products , including meat , is concerned , `` @ @ @ @ @ progress has been achieved , '' Peskov said .

MOSCOW, December 7. / TASS /. The program for the substitution of imported products in Russia proved to be successful as domestic production made it possible to replace the majority of the most important goods, Russian Presidential Spokesman Dmitry Peskov told reporters on Monday.
On Monday, the Kommersant newspaper, citing a study by the National Rating Agency (NRA), wrote that Russia was unable to replace supplies of the main category of imported products through domestic production, being short of the target indicators of the import substitution strategy.
Answering the question whether the Kremlin agrees with this assessment, Peskov said that the program is "successful." According to him, the country has not set a goal of 100% import substitution, which would cover all items of the food industry. Not a single country is doing this, he stressed. At the same time, as far as the import substitution of basic products, including meat, is concerned, "it is obvious that much progress has been achieved," Peskov said.


tass--2020-12-07--Kremlin expects Russian journalists in Turkey to be released shortly

MOSCOW , December 7./TASS/ .
The Kremlin expects that the incident with the detention of Russian journalists in Turkey will be settled , and they will be released shortly , Kremlin Spokesman Dmitry Peskov said on Monday .
`` Our diplomats are in contact with the Turkish side .
We expect that this incident will be settled through a dialogue , '' the spokesman said .
`` We expect , we hope that our journalists will be released shortly , '' Peskov stressed .
`` We will be taking whatever action is possible to help the detained Russian journalists , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ answer the question whether Moscow regarded the incident as an unfriendly move from Turkey .
`` We continue looking into the circumstances of this detention , the reasons behind it , '' he noted .
On December 4 , the Russian Foreign Ministry reported that contact had been lost with two Russian journalists in Istanbul .
The ministry said that the Russian journalists , reporter Alexey Petrushko and cameraman Ivan Malyshkin from Russia ’ s NTV channel , had last contacted their colleagues on December 3 .
They said then that they had @ @ @ @ @ @ @ taking them somewhere .
Earlier , the broadcaster said that their employees stopped getting in touch after they had informed the editorial office about their detention by police officers near Istanbul .
The journalists were detained near the building of Baykar Savunma , a Turkish company specializing in the production of UAVs , a source in the Turkish Foreign Ministry told TASS on Friday .
The reporters had no accreditation , the source said .
Baykar Savunma produces , in particular , Bayraktar TB2 unmanned combat aerial vehicle for the Turkish army .

MOSCOW, December 7./TASS/. The Kremlin expects that the incident with the detention of Russian journalists in Turkey will be settled, and they will be released shortly, Kremlin Spokesman Dmitry Peskov said on Monday.
"Our diplomats are in contact with the Turkish side. We expect that this incident will be settled through a dialogue," the spokesman said. "We expect, we hope that our journalists will be released shortly," Peskov stressed.
"We will be taking whatever action is possible to help the detained Russian journalists," he pledged. Peskov declined to answer the question whether Moscow regarded the incident as an unfriendly move from Turkey. "We continue looking into the circumstances of this detention, the reasons behind it," he noted.
On December 4, the Russian Foreign Ministry reported that contact had been lost with two Russian journalists in Istanbul. The ministry said that the Russian journalists, reporter Alexey Petrushko and cameraman Ivan Malyshkin from Russia’s NTV channel, had last contacted their colleagues on December 3. They said then that they had been detained by unknown people who were taking them somewhere. Earlier, the broadcaster said that their employees stopped getting in touch after they had informed the editorial office about their detention by police officers near Istanbul.
The journalists were detained near the building of Baykar Savunma, a Turkish company specializing in the production of UAVs, a source in the Turkish Foreign Ministry told TASS on Friday. The reporters had no accreditation, the source said. Baykar Savunma produces, in particular, Bayraktar TB2 unmanned combat aerial vehicle for the Turkish army.


tass--2020-12-07--Russia to start deliveries of ‘world’s best’ Armata tank to troops in 2021

MOSCOW , December 7 .
/TASS/ .
Serial deliveries of the latest T-14 ‘ Armata ’ tank to the Russian troops will begin in 2021 , Head of the state hi-tech corporation Rostec Sergei Chemezov announced on Monday .
Russia ’ s top brass wants to replace Armata with two-section ‘ tank of the future ’ '' Serial deliveries of the T-14 tank based on the Armata platform will begin in 2021 .
This is , undoubtedly , the world ’ s best tank today .
In the future , this vehicle will become the main battle tank in the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ said .
In 2019 , Russia formalized all the necessary documents for the export of Armata tanks , he said .
`` We are advertising this tank to foreign customers .
This year , it was demonstrated ‘ live ’ at the Army forum : visitors could come up to it , take a picture of it and touch it .
It is a pity it has been impossible to demonstrate it abroad yet due to the absence of foreign exhibitions , '' the Rostec chief said .
The uncrewed version of the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ’ t be serial-produced but will be designed for testing unmanned technologies for other land-based robots , Chemezov said .
Currently , Russia ’ s Kalashnikov Group is actively developing ground combat robots .
These systems have also been employed in Syria , the Rostec chief said .
`` A number of our other enterprises are working on developing such systems .
Even the Armata was tested as an unmanned tank .
Of course , this will not be a serial-produced vehicle .
We are testing unmanned technologies on it , '' he @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Armata tank with the crew will be maximally robotized , the Rostec chief said .
`` The Armata crew does not need to aim accurately .
It only has to aim the gun roughly .
Electronics will do all the rest : it will accurately determine the distance to the target and aim the gun at it .
That is , the vehicle uses artificial intelligence elements that help the crew deliver fire , '' the Rostec chief said .
This algorithm is already being used in the combat robots that have been @ @ @ @ @ @ @ The Armata is a heavy tracked standardized platform serving as the basis to develop a main battle tank , an infantry fighting vehicle , an armored personnel carrier and some other armored vehicles .
The T-14 tank based on the Armata combat platform has been developed by Uralvagonzavod defense manufacturer ( part of Rostec ) .
The latest tank was shown to the public for the first time at Red Square ’ s Victory Day parade on May 9 , 2015 .
The Armata tank underwent preliminary trials in 2019 .
The new @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
It features fully digitized equipment , an unmanned turret and an isolated armored capsule for the crew .

MOSCOW, December 7. /TASS/. Serial deliveries of the latest T-14 ‘Armata’ tank to the Russian troops will begin in 2021, Head of the state hi-tech corporation Rostec Sergei Chemezov announced on Monday.
Russia’s top brass wants to replace Armata with two-section ‘tank of the future’
"Serial deliveries of the T-14 tank based on the Armata platform will begin in 2021. This is, undoubtedly, the world’s best tank today. In the future, this vehicle will become the main battle tank in the Russian Army," the Rostec chief said.
In 2019, Russia formalized all the necessary documents for the export of Armata tanks, he said.
"We are advertising this tank to foreign customers. This year, it was demonstrated ‘live’ at the Army forum: visitors could come up to it, take a picture of it and touch it. It is a pity it has been impossible to demonstrate it abroad yet due to the absence of foreign exhibitions," the Rostec chief said.
Unmanned Armata version
The uncrewed version of the latest T-14 ‘Armata’ tank won’t be serial-produced but will be designed for testing unmanned technologies for other land-based robots, Chemezov said.
Currently, Russia’s Kalashnikov Group is actively developing ground combat robots. These systems have also been employed in Syria, the Rostec chief said.
"A number of our other enterprises are working on developing such systems. Even the Armata was tested as an unmanned tank. Of course, this will not be a serial-produced vehicle. We are testing unmanned technologies on it," he explained.
However, even the serial-produced Armata tank with the crew will be maximally robotized, the Rostec chief said.
"The Armata crew does not need to aim accurately. It only has to aim the gun roughly. Electronics will do all the rest: it will accurately determine the distance to the target and aim the gun at it. That is, the vehicle uses artificial intelligence elements that help the crew deliver fire," the Rostec chief said.
This algorithm is already being used in the combat robots that have been tested in Syria, he stressed.
The Armata is a heavy tracked standardized platform serving as the basis to develop a main battle tank, an infantry fighting vehicle, an armored personnel carrier and some other armored vehicles.
The T-14 tank based on the Armata combat platform has been developed by Uralvagonzavod defense manufacturer (part of Rostec). The latest tank was shown to the public for the first time at Red Square’s Victory Day parade on May 9, 2015. The Armata tank underwent preliminary trials in 2019.
The new combat vehicle differs fundamentally from its predecessors. It features fully digitized equipment, an unmanned turret and an isolated armored capsule for the crew.


tass--2020-12-07--Kremlin says no need for lockdown or travel restrictions due to COVID-19 in Russia

MOSCOW , December 7 .
/TASS/ .
The measures taken to combat the COVID-19 pandemic in Russia ensure that no new restrictions are introduced so far , including a lockdown or interregional travel restrictions , Kremlin Spokesman Dmitry Peskov told reporters on Monday , commenting on the statement by Russian Health Minister Mikhail Murashko , who said that there may be a discussion of restricting domestic travel due to hotbeds of the virus in Russian regions .
`` There is a prevailing opinion that the current level of organization of counteracting [ the pandemic ] and ensuring that people get @ @ @ @ @ @ @ avoid introducing lockdowns , shutting down travel between regions or switching off the economy .
We still think that there is no need for this , '' Peskov said .
He reminded that regional heads have a special mandate to introduce COVID-19 measures .
`` Regional heads are free to use this mandate , naturally , in accordance with the governmental commission , to approve urgent and efficient measures to combat the spread of the infection , '' the spokesman said .
Earlier on Monday , Russian Health Ministry Aide Alexey Kuznetsov informed @ @ @ @ @ @ @ on potential restrictions on interregional travel were part of a report at the conference `` Medicine and Quality 2020 '' in a review of measures used in the world to combat COVID-19 or that may be used to curb the spread of infection .
The aide noted that the statement was taken out of context .

MOSCOW, December 7. /TASS/. The measures taken to combat the COVID-19 pandemic in Russia ensure that no new restrictions are introduced so far, including a lockdown or interregional travel restrictions, Kremlin Spokesman Dmitry Peskov told reporters on Monday, commenting on the statement by Russian Health Minister Mikhail Murashko, who said that there may be a discussion of restricting domestic travel due to hotbeds of the virus in Russian regions.
"There is a prevailing opinion that the current level of organization of counteracting [the pandemic] and ensuring that people get access to medical services is enough to avoid introducing lockdowns, shutting down travel between regions or switching off the economy. We still think that there is no need for this," Peskov said.
He reminded that regional heads have a special mandate to introduce COVID-19 measures. "Regional heads are free to use this mandate, naturally, in accordance with the governmental commission, to approve urgent and efficient measures to combat the spread of the infection," the spokesman said.
Earlier on Monday, Russian Health Ministry Aide Alexey Kuznetsov informed that the health minister’s statement on potential restrictions on interregional travel were part of a report at the conference "Medicine and Quality 2020" in a review of measures used in the world to combat COVID-19 or that may be used to curb the spread of infection. The aide noted that the statement was taken out of context.


tass--2020-12-07--Moscow deputy mayor says ‘no end in sight’ to fight against coronavirus pandemic

MOSCOW , December 7 .
/TASS/ .
There is `` no end in sight '' to the fight against the coronavirus pandemic , Moscow Deputy Mayor Anastasia Rakova said at the 13th Russian Scientific and Practical Conference with international participation dubbed `` Medicine and Quality 2020 '' on Monday .
`` We have been fighting the infection for nine months .
The marathon continues with no end in sight , '' she pointed out .
However , Rakova was hopeful that Moscow would be able to defeat the pandemic in the coming months .
`` The pandemic made the entire @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , face unprecedented challenges .
In order to combat them , we had to completely overhaul the city ’ s healthcare system , '' the deputy mayor noted .
According to her , `` rapid responses and moves to change the existing rules '' were crucial .
`` I think we have never before had to make changes so fast as far as the healthcare system is concerned .
It ’ s important not only to be able to promptly change the rules of the game depending on how the situation develops .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ that doctors start using new technologies as soon as possible , '' Rakova added .
`` At the beginning of the pandemic , we had to establish a new system to manage all the processes , '' she went on to say .
`` All work , from detecting suspected patients and providing drugs to patients , is carried out for each individual case .
The focus is on the people , '' the Moscow deputy mayor emphasized .

MOSCOW, December 7. /TASS/. There is "no end in sight" to the fight against the coronavirus pandemic, Moscow Deputy Mayor Anastasia Rakova said at the 13th Russian Scientific and Practical Conference with international participation dubbed "Medicine and Quality 2020" on Monday.
"We have been fighting the infection for nine months. The marathon continues with no end in sight," she pointed out.
However, Rakova was hopeful that Moscow would be able to defeat the pandemic in the coming months. "The pandemic made the entire world, including our country and city, face unprecedented challenges. In order to combat them, we had to completely overhaul the city’s healthcare system," the deputy mayor noted.
According to her, "rapid responses and moves to change the existing rules" were crucial. "I think we have never before had to make changes so fast as far as the healthcare system is concerned. It’s important not only to be able to promptly change the rules of the game depending on how the situation develops. It’s crucial to make sure that doctors start using new technologies as soon as possible," Rakova added.
"At the beginning of the pandemic, we had to establish a new system to manage all the processes," she went on to say. "All work, from detecting suspected patients and providing drugs to patients, is carried out for each individual case. The focus is on the people," the Moscow deputy mayor emphasized.


tass--2020-12-07--Russia develops family of heavy strike drones

`` We already have the carriers and the work in this area is being carried out not only by Rostec enterprises but also by the Urals Civil Aviation Plant and Kronshtadt Company , '' the chief executive said , responding to a question about the pace of work on Russian heavy strike drones .
As for Rostec , the Sukhoi Company integrated into the United Aircraft Corporation has completed the development and started the trials of the Okhotnik ( Hunter ) heavy strike drone , Chemezov said .
`` It has already been tested in conjunction with the Su-57 fifth-generation @ @ @ @ @ @ @ that can fly to long ranges and be controlled both by an operator on the ground and by the crew of an aircraft operating in conjunction with it .
The drone can also carry quite powerful armament , '' Chemezov explained .
Russia ’ s Defense Ministry has requested the defense industry to maximally speed up the work on all these projects , the Rostec chief said .
The Okhotnik developed by the Sukhoi Design Bureau features stealth technology and the flying wing design ( it lacks the tail ) , which reduces @ @ @ @ @ @ @ data of open sources , the drone has a take-off weight of 20 tonnes and can develop a speed of around 1,000 km/h .
The Okhotnik heavy attack drone performed its debut flight on August 3 , 2019 .
The flight lasted over 20 minutes under an operator ’ s control .
On September 27 , 2019 , the Okhotnik performed a flight together with a Su-57 fifth-generation fighter jet .
The drone maneuvered in the air in the automated mode at an altitude of around 1,600 meters and its flight lasted over @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Yuri Slyusar said at the Army-2020 forum on August 25 that a large order for the manufacture of Okhotnik heavy strike drones was expected and their serial deliveries to the troops were due to begin from 2024 .

"We already have the carriers and the work in this area is being carried out not only by Rostec enterprises but also by the Urals Civil Aviation Plant and Kronshtadt Company," the chief executive said, responding to a question about the pace of work on Russian heavy strike drones.
As for Rostec, the Sukhoi Company integrated into the United Aircraft Corporation has completed the development and started the trials of the Okhotnik (Hunter) heavy strike drone, Chemezov said.
"It has already been tested in conjunction with the Su-57 fifth-generation plane. This is a cutting-edge drone that can fly to long ranges and be controlled both by an operator on the ground and by the crew of an aircraft operating in conjunction with it. The drone can also carry quite powerful armament," Chemezov explained.
Russia’s Defense Ministry has requested the defense industry to maximally speed up the work on all these projects, the Rostec chief said.
Okhotnik heavy drone
The Okhotnik developed by the Sukhoi Design Bureau features stealth technology and the flying wing design (it lacks the tail), which reduces its radar signature. According to the data of open sources, the drone has a take-off weight of 20 tonnes and can develop a speed of around 1,000 km/h.
The Okhotnik heavy attack drone performed its debut flight on August 3, 2019. The flight lasted over 20 minutes under an operator’s control. On September 27, 2019, the Okhotnik performed a flight together with a Su-57 fifth-generation fighter jet. The drone maneuvered in the air in the automated mode at an altitude of around 1,600 meters and its flight lasted over 30 minutes.
United Aircraft Corporation Chief Yuri Slyusar said at the Army-2020 forum on August 25 that a large order for the manufacture of Okhotnik heavy strike drones was expected and their serial deliveries to the troops were due to begin from 2024.


tass--2020-12-07--Press review: US seeks discord between Moscow, Tokyo and Russia to aid UNESCO in Karabakh

Izvestia : US seeks to sow discord between Tokyo and Moscow The US assumes that under Japan ’ s new Prime Minister Yoshihide Suga , Russia ’ s activity on the borders will increase due to Japan ’ s changed policy on Moscow , Izvestia reports .
Meanwhile , Suga stated that he intends to continue the course of his predecessor Shinzo Abe on improving relations with Russia .
Commander of the United States Forces in Japan ( USFJ ) Kevin Schneider stated that Suga is likely to use a different approach to Russia than Abe ’ s government .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ military activities near Japan under the new PM , Schneider was quoted as saying earlier .
In mid-September , Suga succeeded former Japanese PM Shinzo Abe , who stepped down due to health issues .
The new head of government vowed to carry on the policy of his predecessor .
However , there are certain differences in their approach to governing .
Suga named strengthening the alliance with the US and building strategic relations with China and South Korea as his main foreign policy priorities .
As for relations with Moscow , the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ than Abe .
Besides , Suga chooses to focus on the need to resolve the issue of the Kuril Islands instead of paying attention to signing a peace treaty with Moscow .
Maxim Krylov , an expert with the Carnegie Moscow Center , said that `` in the foreseeable future , Suga ’ s Japan will be an introvert country closed for repairs , passively reacting to external impulses precisely to the extent necessary . ''
`` There will be no ambitious political initiatives until at least the next fall , '' the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ parliamentary election is planned in Japan for October 2021 .
`` And after that , it is also unlikely , regarding Russia , '' the expert said .
According to the political commentator , it seems that relations between Russia and Japan are starting to cool down .
`` The activation of bilateral contacts that had begun in 2016 was Abe ’ s unilateral initiative , based on his feeling that he had a historic mission and based on his personal relations with Putin .
Abe ’ s successor has neither of those @ @ @ @ @ @ @ international affairs so far , and it seems that he has no desire to leave the fortress that he is rebuilding unless it is necessary , '' the analyst stated .
Russian peacekeepers will not be able to guard all of Nagorno-Karabakh ’ s historic sites , so Armenia and Azerbaijan must work on preserving them independently , Special Representative of the Russian President on International Cultural Cooperation Mikhail Shvydkoy told Izvestia .
He noted that a UNESCO mission will be sent to the region to study the condition of the Karabakh monuments @ @ @ @ @ @ @ this effort .
The Russian political figure called on Armenian and Azerbaijani cultural representatives to begin peaceful dialogue next year .
`` In this case , it would not be right to place the duty of guarding all historic sites in Karabakh on Russian peacekeepers .
Armenia and Azerbaijan must deal with preserving them independently .
On the one hand , they are under Azerbaijani government control , and on the other hand , they are controlled by Nagorno-Karabakh officials , '' the envoy stated .
`` It is important that the countries @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of the UNESCO commission on monitoring the state of the cultural monuments , '' he insisted .
At the same time , public dialogue should be initiated to overcome the consequences of the conflict between Armenian and Azerbaijani cultural representatives .
The Russian official noted that this dialogue could be launched in 2021 .
Presidential Adviser of the Nagorno-Karabakh Republic David Babayan told Izvestia that before the recent conflict , the Nagorno-Karabakh Republic had covered 11,500 square kilometers , whereas now its territory only covers about 3,000 square kilometers .
Thousands of monuments @ @ @ @ @ @ @ s control , he stressed .
Another round of Sunday demonstrations in Belarus has shown that neither side is willing to yield .
In spite of modifications to the protest format , the government is adapting to these changes , quelling the rallies .
So far , Belarusian President Alexander Lukashenko has managed to cling to power through brute force , Nezavisimaya Gazeta reports .
Meanwhile , experts interviewed by the paper point out that the protesters are guided by sheer enthusiasm , and the government seems to have the upper hand at @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 18th Sunday protest in the country and the 120th day of the Belarusian protests .
For the third week in a row , the protesters have chosen to congregate on streets and squares outside of the city center .
`` The protests continue , they didn ’ t go anywhere , but the format has been altered .
Not much has changed since last weekend , '' political analyst Valery Karbalevich told Nezavisimaya Gazeta .
According to him , the scale of the December 6 rallies has not changed significantly , and the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
`` The regime has tipped the scales in its favor over the past month , it seems .
The government has an advantage , since they are using the full force of the state apparatus , while the protesters are guided by sheer enthusiasm and nothing else , '' the expert stated .
The Belarusian government continues to use violent suppression tactics , he added .
Last week , the international community continued to issue statements on the events in Belarus .
On December 4 , UN High Commissioner for Human Rights @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Belarus is deteriorating .
The UN addressed Minsk demanding an end to the violence .
EU Special Representative for Human Rights Eamon Gilmore said earlier that an international tribunal may be created over the situation in Belarus .
However , so far , these statements have not affected the government , experts point out .
`` It is too early to talk about outside influence at this point .
At any rate , we don ’ t see any obvious and serious cases of that .
Statements made by international organizations and by @ @ @ @ @ @ @ political regime in Belarus in any way .
More likely , it is a factor of moral support for the protesting public , '' Karbalevich stated .
Moldova has entered a period of political strife after the presidential election .
President-Elect Maia Sandu and incumbent President Igor Dodon are fighting for political influence , Kommersant reports .
The control over the republic ’ s parliament , which is a crucial institution needed to run the country successfully , is at stake .
On December 3 , the Moldovan parliament approved a bill stripping @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ’ s Service of Information and Security and moving it to the parliament ’ s jurisdiction .
The bill was proposed by the Party of Socialists of the Republic of Moldova , which supports incumbent President Igor Dodon .
This piece of legislation and a number of other laws were approved in a hurry , disregarding the parliament ’ s usual procedure .
Both Maia Sandu and voices in the West expressed their dissatisfaction with the recent events .
Washington openly stated that the decision to go back on an agreement on selling @ @ @ @ @ @ @ a new embassy negatively affects US-Moldovan bilateral ties .
The EU stated that the parliament ’ s vote lacked transparency .
However , it seems that the opinion of the West is of little consequence to the socialists and to the incumbent president .
The resolve and the hurried manner of approving the new laws show that the fight for the control over parliament will be tough , Kommersant notes .
The goal of each side is to mobilize their electoral base as much as possible .
In Dodon ’ s case , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ population of Moldova after the approval of a new law on the Russian language and Russian news .
If Sandu chooses to criticize these steps using strong anti-Russian rhetoric , she risks entering a far-right zone that she attempted to get away from during the presidential campaign , the newspaper added .
Meanwhile , Victor Selin , leader of Moldova ’ s Social Democratic Party , told Nezavisimaya Gazeta that Sandu had managed to reach a deal with the country ’ s Prime Minister Ion Chicu , with the Moldovan government possibly set @ @ @ @ @ @ @ corresponding agreement between Sandu and Chicu had been reached , and that a resignation statement might be published in the near future .
`` Chicu was promised a spot at the IMF , so it ’ s hard to turn down such an offer , '' Selin explained .
Two Russian pipelaying vessels , the Akademik Cherskiy and the Fortuna , plan to continue the construction of the Nord Stream 2 pipeline .
Both vessels have received the green light to continue construction work starting December 2 , and the Akademik Cherskiy has @ @ @ @ @ @ @ island of Bornholm , Kommersant informs .
Experts note , however , that the winter weather in the Baltic Sea might hinder the construction of the pipeline , which may take up to five months if the pipe layers synchronize their efforts .
The Russian pipelaying vessels need to finish construction of the pipeline in two areas : one spans about 50 kilometers and is located near the island of Bornholm in Denmark ’ s exclusive economic zone , while the other one is about 2.6 kilometers long connecting the terminal in Germany @ @ @ @ @ @ @ in the sea .
Gas analyst at the Skolkovo Energy Center of Energy Center Sergey Kapitonov told Kommersant that the speed of the construction would depend on the number of vessels involved in pipelaying .
If both the Akademik Cherskiy and the Fortuna are involved , the construction of the first string will be over in about three months , while the second string will be done in about five months .
If only one vessel is involved in the construction , the deadline will be moved up .
A month or two @ @ @ @ @ @ @ complete for starting-up and adjusting the works before the pipeline is ready to be used , the expert notes .
`` Besides , the season of winter storms in the Baltic Sea may negatively affect the construction process , '' he stated , adding that this is not the most favorable period to begin construction of the pipeline due to weather conditions .
TASS is not responsible for the material quoted in these press reviews

Izvestia: US seeks to sow discord between Tokyo and Moscow The US assumes that under Japan’s new Prime Minister Yoshihide Suga, Russia’s activity on the borders will increase due to Japan’s changed policy on Moscow, Izvestia reports. Meanwhile, Suga stated that he intends to continue the course of his predecessor Shinzo Abe on improving relations with Russia. Commander of the United States Forces in Japan (USFJ) Kevin Schneider stated that Suga is likely to use a different approach to Russia than Abe’s government. Washington expects Russia to step up its military activities near Japan under the new PM, Schneider was quoted as saying earlier. In mid-September, Suga succeeded former Japanese PM Shinzo Abe, who stepped down due to health issues. The new head of government vowed to carry on the policy of his predecessor. However, there are certain differences in their approach to governing. Suga named strengthening the alliance with the US and building strategic relations with China and South Korea as his main foreign policy priorities. As for relations with Moscow, the new Japanese leader mentions Russia much less than Abe. Besides, Suga chooses to focus on the need to resolve the issue of the Kuril Islands instead of paying attention to signing a peace treaty with Moscow.
Maxim Krylov, an expert with the Carnegie Moscow Center, said that "in the foreseeable future, Suga’s Japan will be an introvert country closed for repairs, passively reacting to external impulses precisely to the extent necessary." "There will be no ambitious political initiatives until at least the next fall," the commentator said. Izvestia notes that a parliamentary election is planned in Japan for October 2021. "And after that, it is also unlikely, regarding Russia," the expert said. According to the political commentator, it seems that relations between Russia and Japan are starting to cool down. "The activation of bilateral contacts that had begun in 2016 was Abe’s unilateral initiative, based on his feeling that he had a historic mission and based on his personal relations with Putin. Abe’s successor has neither of those things. He has no experience in international affairs so far, and it seems that he has no desire to leave the fortress that he is rebuilding unless it is necessary," the analyst stated. Izvestia: Russia ready to aid UNESCO effort in Karabakh Russian peacekeepers will not be able to guard all of Nagorno-Karabakh’s historic sites, so Armenia and Azerbaijan must work on preserving them independently, Special Representative of the Russian President on International Cultural Cooperation Mikhail Shvydkoy told Izvestia. He noted that a UNESCO mission will be sent to the region to study the condition of the Karabakh monuments, and Moscow is ready to assist this effort. The Russian political figure called on Armenian and Azerbaijani cultural representatives to begin peaceful dialogue next year. "In this case, it would not be right to place the duty of guarding all historic sites in Karabakh on Russian peacekeepers. Armenia and Azerbaijan must deal with preserving them independently. On the one hand, they are under Azerbaijani government control, and on the other hand, they are controlled by Nagorno-Karabakh officials," the envoy stated. "It is important that the countries work on a bilateral basis with representatives of the UNESCO commission on monitoring the state of the cultural monuments," he insisted. At the same time, public dialogue should be initiated to overcome the consequences of the conflict between Armenian and Azerbaijani cultural representatives. The Russian official noted that this dialogue could be launched in 2021. Presidential Adviser of the Nagorno-Karabakh Republic David Babayan told Izvestia that before the recent conflict, the Nagorno-Karabakh Republic had covered 11,500 square kilometers, whereas now its territory only covers about 3,000 square kilometers. Thousands of monuments have been left outside the republic’s control, he stressed. Nezavisimaya Gazeta: Belarusian protests guided by sheer enthusiasm Another round of Sunday demonstrations in Belarus has shown that neither side is willing to yield. In spite of modifications to the protest format, the government is adapting to these changes, quelling the rallies. So far, Belarusian President Alexander Lukashenko has managed to cling to power through brute force, Nezavisimaya Gazeta reports. Meanwhile, experts interviewed by the paper point out that the protesters are guided by sheer enthusiasm, and the government seems to have the upper hand at this point.
December 6 marked the 18th Sunday protest in the country and the 120th day of the Belarusian protests. For the third week in a row, the protesters have chosen to congregate on streets and squares outside of the city center. "The protests continue, they didn’t go anywhere, but the format has been altered. Not much has changed since last weekend," political analyst Valery Karbalevich told Nezavisimaya Gazeta. According to him, the scale of the December 6 rallies has not changed significantly, and the balance of power has remained the same. "The regime has tipped the scales in its favor over the past month, it seems. The government has an advantage, since they are using the full force of the state apparatus, while the protesters are guided by sheer enthusiasm and nothing else," the expert stated. The Belarusian government continues to use violent suppression tactics, he added. Last week, the international community continued to issue statements on the events in Belarus. On December 4, UN High Commissioner for Human Rights Michelle Bachelet noted that the situation in Belarus is deteriorating. The UN addressed Minsk demanding an end to the violence. EU Special Representative for Human Rights Eamon Gilmore said earlier that an international tribunal may be created over the situation in Belarus. However, so far, these statements have not affected the government, experts point out. "It is too early to talk about outside influence at this point. At any rate, we don’t see any obvious and serious cases of that. Statements made by international organizations and by the West virtually do not influence the political regime in Belarus in any way. More likely, it is a factor of moral support for the protesting public," Karbalevich stated. Media: Moldovan leadership grappling for political strength after election Moldova has entered a period of political strife after the presidential election. President-Elect Maia Sandu and incumbent President Igor Dodon are fighting for political influence, Kommersant reports. The control over the republic’s parliament, which is a crucial institution needed to run the country successfully, is at stake. On December 3, the Moldovan parliament approved a bill stripping the president of control over the country’s Service of Information and Security and moving it to the parliament’s jurisdiction. The bill was proposed by the Party of Socialists of the Republic of Moldova, which supports incumbent President Igor Dodon.
Read also Moldovan president vows to sign Russian language bill before Sandu takes office
This piece of legislation and a number of other laws were approved in a hurry, disregarding the parliament’s usual procedure. Both Maia Sandu and voices in the West expressed their dissatisfaction with the recent events. Washington openly stated that the decision to go back on an agreement on selling land to Washington for the construction of a new embassy negatively affects US-Moldovan bilateral ties. The EU stated that the parliament’s vote lacked transparency. However, it seems that the opinion of the West is of little consequence to the socialists and to the incumbent president. The resolve and the hurried manner of approving the new laws show that the fight for the control over parliament will be tough, Kommersant notes. The goal of each side is to mobilize their electoral base as much as possible. In Dodon’s case, he needs to count on the Russian-speaking population of Moldova after the approval of a new law on the Russian language and Russian news. If Sandu chooses to criticize these steps using strong anti-Russian rhetoric, she risks entering a far-right zone that she attempted to get away from during the presidential campaign, the newspaper added. Meanwhile, Victor Selin, leader of Moldova’s Social Democratic Party, told Nezavisimaya Gazeta that Sandu had managed to reach a deal with the country’s Prime Minister Ion Chicu, with the Moldovan government possibly set to resign. Selin informed that the corresponding agreement between Sandu and Chicu had been reached, and that a resignation statement might be published in the near future. "Chicu was promised a spot at the IMF, so it’s hard to turn down such an offer," Selin explained. Kommersant: Gazprom plans to conclude construction of Nord Stream 2 Two Russian pipelaying vessels, the Akademik Cherskiy and the Fortuna, plan to continue the construction of the Nord Stream 2 pipeline. Both vessels have received the green light to continue construction work starting December 2, and the Akademik Cherskiy has already reached the construction site near the island of Bornholm, Kommersant informs. Experts note, however, that the winter weather in the Baltic Sea might hinder the construction of the pipeline, which may take up to five months if the pipe layers synchronize their efforts.
Read also Gazprom Neft still interested in market of Iraqi Kurdistan


tass--2020-12-07--Introduction of COVID-19 vaccines key objective of global healthcare, WHO envoy says

MOSCOW , December 7 .
/TASS/ .
The world is a step away from introducing COVID-19 vaccines , which are crucial today for ensuring quality healthcare , World Health Organization ( WHO ) Representative in Russia Melita Vujnovic said on Monday during the Russian Scientific and Practical Conference with international participation `` Medicine and Quality 2020 '' .
The conference is held online .
`` We are literally one step away from vaccines .
Introducing vaccines is the crucial thing currently , because they ensure the quality of medical aid and the safety of patients and medical workers , '' @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , the balance of risks and new opportunities should be maintained as countries introduce vaccines .
Vujnovic noted that the main objective of the WHO during the pandemic and at all times is that `` every person , no matter where they get sick , gets access to quality healthcare . ''
The WHO envoy reminded that in 2015 , UN member states approved the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development .
Sustainable Development Goal number three stipulates that the countries `` ensure healthy lives and promote well-being for all at all ages .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ , over 66.5 mln people have been diagnosed with COVID-19 , and over 1.5 mln have died .
Russia has documented 2,488,912 cases of infection ; 1,956,588 patients have recovered and 43,597 have died .
Russia registered the first COVID-19 vaccine in the world under the name of Sputnik V on August 11 .
The vaccine was developed by the Gamaleya Research Center for Epidemiology and Microbiology .
Post-registration testing of the vaccine begun in Moscow on September 7 , with first volunteers getting the first vaccine shot on September 9 .
Preliminary @ @ @ @ @ @ @ effectiveness of the vaccine surpasses 95 % on the 42nd day after vaccination , provided that the patient received the second dose .

MOSCOW, December 7. /TASS/. The world is a step away from introducing COVID-19 vaccines, which are crucial today for ensuring quality healthcare, World Health Organization (WHO) Representative in Russia Melita Vujnovic said on Monday during the Russian Scientific and Practical Conference with international participation "Medicine and Quality 2020". The conference is held online.
"We are literally one step away from vaccines. Introducing vaccines is the crucial thing currently, because they ensure the quality of medical aid and the safety of patients and medical workers," she said.
According to the envoy, the balance of risks and new opportunities should be maintained as countries introduce vaccines. Vujnovic noted that the main objective of the WHO during the pandemic and at all times is that "every person, no matter where they get sick, gets access to quality healthcare."
The WHO envoy reminded that in 2015, UN member states approved the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development. Sustainable Development Goal number three stipulates that the countries "ensure healthy lives and promote well-being for all at all ages."
Since the start of the pandemic, over 66.5 mln people have been diagnosed with COVID-19, and over 1.5 mln have died. Russia has documented 2,488,912 cases of infection; 1,956,588 patients have recovered and 43,597 have died.
Russia registered the first COVID-19 vaccine in the world under the name of Sputnik V on August 11. The vaccine was developed by the Gamaleya Research Center for Epidemiology and Microbiology. Post-registration testing of the vaccine begun in Moscow on September 7, with first volunteers getting the first vaccine shot on September 9. Preliminary results of the trials suggest that the effectiveness of the vaccine surpasses 95% on the 42nd day after vaccination, provided that the patient received the second dose.


tass--2020-12-07--US strategic bombers approached Russia's western borders over 10 times in 2020

MOSCOW , December 7 .
/TASS/ .
US strategic bombers approached the Russian borders within the area of responsibility of Russia ’ s Baltic Fleet more than ten times in 2020 , Baltic Fleet Commander Admiral Alexander Nosatov said on Monday .
`` This year , over a thousand reconnaissance flights have been registered near the state border within the Baltic Fleet ’ s area of responsibility , which is about 150 flights more compared to last year .
US strategic bombers approached our borders more than ten times .
Last year , for example , only two such cases @ @ @ @ @ @ @ in an interview with the Defense Ministry ’ s Krasnaya Zvezda newspaper .
For the first time ever , the strategic bombers performed flights in groups in 2020 , he said .
Further strengthening air defense is a priority task for Russia ’ s Baltic Fleet , the commander said .
`` Today , a fighter aviation regiment armed with Su-27 fighters , an air defense large unit outfitted with S-400 ‘ Triumf ’ anti-aircraft missile systems , a separate surface-to-air missile regiment equipped with Tor-M2 surface-to-air missile complexes and air defense systems @ @ @ @ @ @ @ sky day and night , '' the admiral stressed .

MOSCOW, December 7. /TASS/. US strategic bombers approached the Russian borders within the area of responsibility of Russia’s Baltic Fleet more than ten times in 2020, Baltic Fleet Commander Admiral Alexander Nosatov said on Monday.
"This year, over a thousand reconnaissance flights have been registered near the state border within the Baltic Fleet’s area of responsibility, which is about 150 flights more compared to last year. US strategic bombers approached our borders more than ten times. Last year, for example, only two such cases were observed," the admiral said in an interview with the Defense Ministry’s Krasnaya Zvezda newspaper.
For the first time ever, the strategic bombers performed flights in groups in 2020, he said.
Further strengthening air defense is a priority task for Russia’s Baltic Fleet, the commander said.
"Today, a fighter aviation regiment armed with Su-27 fighters, an air defense large unit outfitted with S-400 ‘Triumf’ anti-aircraft missile systems, a separate surface-to-air missile regiment equipped with Tor-M2 surface-to-air missile complexes and air defense systems of surface ships are protecting the Baltic sky day and night," the admiral stressed.


tass--2020-12-07--Baltic Fleet to set up new division in response to NATO’s build-up near Russian borders

MOSCOW , December 7 .
/TASS/ .
Russia ’ s Baltic Fleet will be reinforced with a motorized infantry division in response to NATO forces ’ build-up near Russian borders in the westernmost Kaliningrad Region , Baltic Fleet Commander Admiral Alexander Nosatov said on Monday .
An armored , several multinational battalion tactical groups and other strike units of NATO ’ s forces have been pulled close to the land borders of the Russian enclave , the admiral said .
`` In response to this threat , the Armed Forces ’ command has to take measures in response .
As @ @ @ @ @ @ @ motorized infantry division will be formed to make part of the Baltic Fleet ’ s army corps .
The new formation will comprise motor rifle and artillery regiments and a separate tank regiment , '' the commander said in an interview with the Defense Ministry ’ s Krasnaya Zvezda newspaper .
A source in the region ’ s defense circles earlier told TASS that a motor rifle division would be formed in the Kaliningrad Region in 2021 as part of the 11th army corps of the Baltic Fleet ’ s coastal defense and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Russian Armed Forces ’ table of organization and equipment , a motorized infantry division should comprise three motor rifle regiments and a tank regiment .
The number of armored and motor rifle battalions in the 11th army corps is expected to rise by several units as a result of its reorganization .

MOSCOW, December 7. /TASS/. Russia’s Baltic Fleet will be reinforced with a motorized infantry division in response to NATO forces’ build-up near Russian borders in the westernmost Kaliningrad Region, Baltic Fleet Commander Admiral Alexander Nosatov said on Monday.
An armored, several multinational battalion tactical groups and other strike units of NATO’s forces have been pulled close to the land borders of the Russian enclave, the admiral said.
"In response to this threat, the Armed Forces’ command has to take measures in response. As one of such measures, a full-strength motorized infantry division will be formed to make part of the Baltic Fleet’s army corps. The new formation will comprise motor rifle and artillery regiments and a separate tank regiment," the commander said in an interview with the Defense Ministry’s Krasnaya Zvezda newspaper.
A source in the region’s defense circles earlier told TASS that a motor rifle division would be formed in the Kaliningrad Region in 2021 as part of the 11th army corps of the Baltic Fleet’s coastal defense and ground forces stationed there.
Under the Russian Armed Forces’ table of organization and equipment, a motorized infantry division should comprise three motor rifle regiments and a tank regiment. The number of armored and motor rifle battalions in the 11th army corps is expected to rise by several units as a result of its reorganization.


tass--2020-12-07--Number of COVID-19 infections in Russia increases by over 28,000 in 24 hours

MOSCOW , December 7 .
/TASS/ .
The number of confirmed COVID-19 infections in Russia over the past 24 hours @ @ @ @ @ bringing the total to 2,488,912 , the anti-coronavirus crisis center told journalists on Monday .
@ @ @ @ @ infections were detected which was the highest since the beginning of the pandemic .
On @ @ @ @ @ ’ calculations , over the past seven days in Russia 18.8 cases of the infection @ @ @ @ @ detected daily , a day earlier this value was at 18.6 .

MOSCOW, December 7. /TASS/. The number of confirmed COVID-19 infections in Russia over the past 24 hours has increased by 28,142, bringing the total to 2,488,912, the anti-coronavirus crisis center told journalists on Monday.
On Sunday, 29,039 daily infections were detected which was the highest since the beginning of the pandemic.
On average, according to TASS’ calculations, over the past seven days in Russia 18.8 cases of the infection per 100,000 residents have been detected daily, a day earlier this value was at 18.6.


tass--2020-12-07--First serial-produced Su-57 fighter to be delivered by year’s end

MOSCOW , December 7 .
/TASS/ .
The first serial-produced Su-57 fighter with the operational first-stage engine will be delivered @ @ @ @ @ the Russian Federation before the end of the year , chief executive of the state-run @ @ @ @ @ journalists .
`` In the near future , literally before the end of the year @ @ @ @ @ serial-produced aircraft with the first-stage engine .
It complies with all of the characteristics required @ @ @ @ @ '' he said .

MOSCOW, December 7. /TASS/. The first serial-produced Su-57 fighter with the operational first-stage engine will be delivered to the Defense Ministry of the Russian Federation before the end of the year, chief executive of the state-run Rostec corporation Sergei Chemezov told journalists.
"In the near future, literally before the end of the year, we should deliver a serial-produced aircraft with the first-stage engine. It complies with all of the characteristics required of the fifth-generation aircraft," he said.


tass--2020-12-07--Russia waiting for Turkey’s decision on second S-400 deal

MOSCOW , December 7 .
/TASS/ .
Russia has executed the first contract for the delivery of the S-400 air defense systems to Turkey and a second deal will depend on Ankara ’ s decision , head of the Rostec State Corporation Sergei Chemezov said at a briefing on Monday .
According to him , the first S-400 contract with Turkey has been fully executed , all components of the systems have been delivered to Turkey and Russia has received full payment .
`` The ball is now in Turkey ’ s court , we are waiting for our partners @ @ @ @ @ @ @ with Turkey , discussions on future cooperation are underway .
We are also discussing the possibilities of producing components there , '' Chemezov said .
He pointed out that the S-400 systems involved complex technologies and it was impossible to start producing them from scratch .
At the same time , there are prospects for Russian-Turkish defense cooperation in other areas .
`` It was a unique deal because it was made with a NATO country .
We are in talks with our Turkish partners on other equipment as well , the prospects @ @ @ @ @ @ @ noted .
Moscow signed a contract with Ankara on the delivery of the S-400 systems in 2017 .
Turkey became the first NATO country to purchase these systems from Russia , drawing a negative reaction from the United States and NATO in general .
In particular , Washington said that `` Turkey ’ s decision to purchase Russian S-400 air defense systems renders its continued involvement with the F-35 impossible . ''
The US is also threatening to impose sanctions on Turkey over its purchase of the Russian-made systems .
The S-400 Triumf @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ) is the most advanced long-range anti-aircraft missile system that went into service in 2007 .
It is designed to destroy aircraft , cruise and ballistic missiles , including medium-range ones , and can also be used against ground objectives .
The S-400 system can engage targets at a distance of 400 km and at an altitude of up to 35 km .

MOSCOW, December 7. /TASS/. Russia has executed the first contract for the delivery of the S-400 air defense systems to Turkey and a second deal will depend on Ankara’s decision, head of the Rostec State Corporation Sergei Chemezov said at a briefing on Monday.
According to him, the first S-400 contract with Turkey has been fully executed, all components of the systems have been delivered to Turkey and Russia has received full payment. "The ball is now in Turkey’s court, we are waiting for our partners to make decisions. Rosoboronexport maintains contact with Turkey, discussions on future cooperation are underway. We are also discussing the possibilities of producing components there," Chemezov said.
He pointed out that the S-400 systems involved complex technologies and it was impossible to start producing them from scratch. At the same time, there are prospects for Russian-Turkish defense cooperation in other areas. "It was a unique deal because it was made with a NATO country. We are in talks with our Turkish partners on other equipment as well, the prospects are there," the Rostec CEO noted.
S-400 deal
Moscow signed a contract with Ankara on the delivery of the S-400 systems in 2017. Turkey became the first NATO country to purchase these systems from Russia, drawing a negative reaction from the United States and NATO in general. In particular, Washington said that "Turkey’s decision to purchase Russian S-400 air defense systems renders its continued involvement with the F-35 impossible." The US is also threatening to impose sanctions on Turkey over its purchase of the Russian-made systems.
The S-400 Triumf (NATO reporting name: SA-21 Growler) is the most advanced long-range anti-aircraft missile system that went into service in 2007. It is designed to destroy aircraft, cruise and ballistic missiles, including medium-range ones, and can also be used against ground objectives. The S-400 system can engage targets at a distance of 400 km and at an altitude of up to 35 km.


tass--2020-12-07--Over 539,000 COVID-19 patients remain under observation in Russia

Baltic Fleet to set up new division in response to NATO ’ s build-up near Russian borders An armored , @ @ @ @ @ and other strike units of NATO ’ s forces have been pulled close to the @ @ @ @ @ region

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