tass--2020-01-07--TurkStream launches in competitive environment eyeing long-term prospects - analysts

MOSCOW , January 7 .
/TASS/ .
The launch of the TurkStream gas pipeline aims to increase the reliability of Russian gas supplies to the markets of Turkey and Southeast Europe .
Although the moment for the launch is not the most favorable given gas oversupply in the market , the project has long-term value , according to analysts interviewed by TASS .
The launch of the gas pipeline , which runs from the Russkaya compressor station in the Anapa region along the bottom of the Black Sea to the Turkish coast , is scheduled for January 8 .
The @ @ @ @ @ @ @ TurkStream will be 15.75 bln cubic meters each .
The first line of the pipeline is intended for gas supplies to Turkish consumers , the second - for the countries of Southern and Southeast Europe .
Then , a land transit line will be laid to the border of Turkey with neighboring countries .
The project for the construction of a pipeline along the bottom of the Black Sea was called the South Stream initially .
Its capacity was estimated at 63 bln cubic meters per year .
Given the projects to expand @ @ @ @ @ @ @ this would completely replace the Ukrainian route .
However , due to opposition from the European Commission in December 2014 , Russia announced that it was backing away from the South Stream .
After some time , the project found a new life in the form of the TurkStream , but with less capacity .
`` The TurkStream will increase the reliability of Russian deliveries to the markets of Turkey and Southeast Europe , give an impetus to the development of gas infrastructure in the region and increase development sustainability of countries by @ @ @ @ @ @ @ balances among other reasons , '' Deputy director general at the National Energy Security Fund Alexey Grivach said .
Director of Fitch ’ s Corporate Division Dmitry Marinchenko underlined Turkey ’ s benefits from increased competition in the country 's gas market .
`` Turkey is a net importer of gas .
Its energy strategy involves reducing gas consumption , including through green energy , diversifying gas suppliers and turning it into a gas trading hub , like Germany in northern Europe .
After the launch of the TANAP pipeline , which delivers @ @ @ @ @ @ @ as the TurkStream , Turkey is in a winning position and can count on competitive prices .
Its portfolio includes pipeline gas from Russia , Azerbaijan , and Iran , as well as LNG , '' the expert said .
`` For Gazprom , this means that in order to maintain market share in Turkey , it will have to offer competitive prices , as is the case in many other European countries .
The high prices policy for countries that are not able to purchase it from alternative suppliers is a thing @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
Regarding the timing of the TurkStream , analysts agree that , given gas oversupply on the European market , the moment for starting supplies may not be the most favorable .
However , the situation is temporary , and the project is designed for many years to come .
According to Ekaterina Kolbikova from VYGON Consulting , by the end of 2019 , Russian gas supplies to Turkey could reach about 18-19 bln cubic meters compared to 24 bln cubic meters in 2018 .
`` Due to a decline in consumption , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the TurkStream in 2020 , is generally likely to be low - no more than 60 % ( 8-9 bln cubic meters ) amid weak demand and high competition with LNG and Azerbaijani gas .
These volumes will be transferred from the Trans-Balkan route , i.e .
from the Ukrainian direction , '' the expert said .
Increasing gas supplies through the gas pipeline to European countries will be carried out in stages until the end of 2020 : at the beginning of the year , the Bulgarian side will join the second @ @ @ @ @ @ @ will be able to pump gas to Greece and Macedonia .
In mid-2020 at the earliest , a line to Serbia will be launched .
In total , this route will provide up to 6 bln cubic meters in 2020 , that is , the loading of the second line of the TurkStream will be about 40 % , Kolbikova noted .
The fact is that the largest countries in terms of import - Hungary and Slovakia , reserved the gas pipeline capacities only from 2021 and from mid-2022 , respectively .
`` @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of course , very competitive .
Especially given the growing share of LNG , including Novatek ’ s contribution .
Especially at the beginning of 2020 the situation is complicated by the fact that on the one hand , out of fear of termination of Ukrainian transit , underground gas storage facilities were filled by over 90 % , but transit through Ukraine was extended .
As a result , an excess of gas at the beginning of the year is inevitable .
Of course , this will put pressure on prices , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ infrastructure has long-term value , '' analyst at Finam Group Alexey Kalachev noted .
`` Moreover , the total volume of gas in the European market is one thing , and gas availability in individual regions is another .
Since the TurkStream is designed for the southern part of the region , which is not very saturated with hydrocarbons , this project has a future , '' he added .
Alexey Grivach agrees : `` The situation is not the most favorable for the launch , although Russian gas has advantage over competitors @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the most important thing is that the gas pipeline ’ s was designed for at least 50 years ; therefore , temporary market prices fluctuations do not have a serious negative impact on a strategically significant project . ''
In December 2019 , the United States Senate approved the National Defense Authorization Act ( NDAA ) specifying the annual budget and expenditures of the US Department of Defense for 2020 fiscal year ( started on October 1 ) , which obliges the administration to impose sanctions on the Russian Nord Stream 2 and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 11 , the House of Representatives voted for the document .
Switzerland-based Allseas , pipe-laying company for the Nord Stream 2 pipeline , reported suspension of pipelay activities until regulatory , technical and environmental clarifications from the relevant US authority .
Analysts do not see any great dangers from the restrictions imposed on the TurkStream .
`` The gas pipeline itself has already been filled with gas , construction has been completed , and commissioning is underway , so the sanctions against the TurkStream operator will not have negative consequences for the project @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Marinchenko shares the same opinion : `` Sanctions are unlikely to have any effect on the first line of the pipeline , used for supplies for the Turkish market , but they can slow down construction of a host infrastructure for the second line , which is expected to supply which gas to Europe through Bulgaria .
`` .

MOSCOW, January 7. /TASS/. The launch of the TurkStream gas pipeline aims to increase the reliability of Russian gas supplies to the markets of Turkey and Southeast Europe. Although the moment for the launch is not the most favorable given gas oversupply in the market, the project has long-term value, according to analysts interviewed by TASS.
The launch of the gas pipeline, which runs from the Russkaya compressor station in the Anapa region along the bottom of the Black Sea to the Turkish coast, is scheduled for January 8. The capacity of the two lines of the TurkStream will be 15.75 bln cubic meters each. The first line of the pipeline is intended for gas supplies to Turkish consumers, the second - for the countries of Southern and Southeast Europe. Then, a land transit line will be laid to the border of Turkey with neighboring countries.
The project for the construction of a pipeline along the bottom of the Black Sea was called the South Stream initially. Its capacity was estimated at 63 bln cubic meters per year. Given the projects to expand gas transportation infrastructure in the Baltic, this would completely replace the Ukrainian route. However, due to opposition from the European Commission in December 2014, Russia announced that it was backing away from the South Stream. After some time, the project found a new life in the form of the TurkStream, but with less capacity.
"The TurkStream will increase the reliability of Russian deliveries to the markets of Turkey and Southeast Europe, give an impetus to the development of gas infrastructure in the region and increase development sustainability of countries by strengthening the role of gas in energy balances among other reasons," Deputy director general at the National Energy Security Fund Alexey Grivach said.
Director of Fitch’s Corporate Division Dmitry Marinchenko underlined Turkey’s benefits from increased competition in the country's gas market. "Turkey is a net importer of gas. Its energy strategy involves reducing gas consumption, including through green energy, diversifying gas suppliers and turning it into a gas trading hub, like Germany in northern Europe. After the launch of the TANAP pipeline, which delivers Azerbaijan gas to Turkey, as well as the TurkStream, Turkey is in a winning position and can count on competitive prices. Its portfolio includes pipeline gas from Russia, Azerbaijan, and Iran, as well as LNG," the expert said.
"For Gazprom, this means that in order to maintain market share in Turkey, it will have to offer competitive prices, as is the case in many other European countries. The high prices policy for countries that are not able to purchase it from alternative suppliers is a thing of the past," he added.
For the long run
Regarding the timing of the TurkStream, analysts agree that, given gas oversupply on the European market, the moment for starting supplies may not be the most favorable. However, the situation is temporary, and the project is designed for many years to come.
According to Ekaterina Kolbikova from VYGON Consulting, by the end of 2019, Russian gas supplies to Turkey could reach about 18-19 bln cubic meters compared to 24 bln cubic meters in 2018. "Due to a decline in consumption, the loading of the first line of the TurkStream in 2020, is generally likely to be low - no more than 60% (8-9 bln cubic meters) amid weak demand and high competition with LNG and Azerbaijani gas. These volumes will be transferred from the Trans-Balkan route, i.e. from the Ukrainian direction," the expert said.
Increasing gas supplies through the gas pipeline to European countries will be carried out in stages until the end of 2020: at the beginning of the year, the Bulgarian side will join the second line, which, in turn, will be able to pump gas to Greece and Macedonia. In mid-2020 at the earliest, a line to Serbia will be launched. In total, this route will provide up to 6 bln cubic meters in 2020, that is, the loading of the second line of the TurkStream will be about 40%, Kolbikova noted. The fact is that the largest countries in terms of import - Hungary and Slovakia, reserved the gas pipeline capacities only from 2021 and from mid-2022, respectively.
"The gas market in Europe is, of course, very competitive. Especially given the growing share of LNG, including Novatek’s contribution. Especially at the beginning of 2020 the situation is complicated by the fact that on the one hand, out of fear of termination of Ukrainian transit, underground gas storage facilities were filled by over 90%, but transit through Ukraine was extended. As a result, an excess of gas at the beginning of the year is inevitable. Of course, this will put pressure on prices, but the situation is temporary and the infrastructure has long-term value," analyst at Finam Group Alexey Kalachev noted.
"Moreover, the total volume of gas in the European market is one thing, and gas availability in individual regions is another. Since the TurkStream is designed for the southern part of the region, which is not very saturated with hydrocarbons, this project has a future," he added.
Alexey Grivach agrees: "The situation is not the most favorable for the launch, although Russian gas has advantage over competitors even under these conditions. However, the most important thing is that the gas pipeline’s was designed for at least 50 years; therefore, temporary market prices fluctuations do not have a serious negative impact on a strategically significant project."
US sanctions
In December 2019, the United States Senate approved the National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) specifying the annual budget and expenditures of the US Department of Defense for 2020 fiscal year (started on October 1), which obliges the administration to impose sanctions on the Russian Nord Stream 2 and TurkStream pipelines. Earlier, on December 11, the House of Representatives voted for the document. Switzerland-based Allseas, pipe-laying company for the Nord Stream 2 pipeline, reported suspension of pipelay activities until regulatory, technical and environmental clarifications from the relevant US authority.
Analysts do not see any great dangers from the restrictions imposed on the TurkStream. "The gas pipeline itself has already been filled with gas, construction has been completed, and commissioning is underway, so the sanctions against the TurkStream operator will not have negative consequences for the project," Ekaterina Kolbikova said.
Dmitry Marinchenko shares the same opinion: "Sanctions are unlikely to have any effect on the first line of the pipeline, used for supplies for the Turkish market, but they can slow down construction of a host infrastructure for the second line, which is expected to supply which gas to Europe through Bulgaria.".


tass--2020-01-07--Zakharova emphasizes word 'mistake' in US statement on withdrawal of troops from Iraq

MOSCOW , January 7 .
/ TASS / .
Russian Foreign Ministry spokesperson Maria Zakharova wrote on her Facebook page on Tuesday , that it is necessary to emphasize the word `` mistake '' in Pentagon 's explanation of the withdrawal of troops from Iraq .
`` I propose that we attach the word 'error ' to it , otherwise tomorrow everyone will start again with the `` Russian hackers '' did it , or nod in the direction of Russia Today , '' Zakharova said .
Earlier , General Mark Millie , the head of the Chief of Staff @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Armed Forces , told reporters that a letter about the withdrawal of US troops from Iraq had been published in error , it was a preliminary draft .
On Tuesday , a number of media sources reported on a letter sent by the Inherent Resolve military operation headquarters , which stated the US intention to withdraw its troops from Iraq .
After the text of the letter was published in the media , Pentagon chief Mark Esper refuted the information contained in it , saying that the US did not make a decision @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , the Pentagon confirmed that a missile strike near the Baghdad airport killed the head of the Quds Force Qasem Soleimani .
The operation was carried out at the direction of US President Donald Trump .
According to the Pentagon , the strike was defensive , since it was aimed at protecting US troops in Iraq and other countries .
Washington blamed Soleimani for allegedly approving a rally outside the US Embassy in Baghdad earlier this week .
Following the attack , the Supreme National Security Council of Iran vowed to exact `` @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Soleimani ’ s killing , blaming the United States for the attack .
In a phone call with UN Secretary General Antonio Guterres , Iranian Foreign Minister Mohammad Javad Zarif blasted the attack as an act of terrorism from the side of the US .
He pointed out that Tehran would take international measures to hold Washington responsible for the general ’ s murder .
The situation in the Middle East sharply worsened after the death of Soleimani .
Tehran promised the United States a tough response and began to reduce the implementation @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
The actions of the Americans , who have been attacking Shiite groups in Iraq since December 29 , have been criticized the Iraqi authorities and raised the question of the legitimacy of the coalition 's actions led by Washington .
On January 5 , the Iraqi parliament adopted a resolution demanding the complete withdrawal of all foreign troops from the country .
US President Donald Trump refused to do so , threatening Iraq with `` unprecedented sanctions .
`` .

MOSCOW, January 7. / TASS /. Russian Foreign Ministry spokesperson Maria Zakharova wrote on her Facebook page on Tuesday, that it is necessary to emphasize the word "mistake" in Pentagon's explanation of the withdrawal of troops from Iraq.
"I propose that we attach the word 'error' to it, otherwise tomorrow everyone will start again with the "Russian hackers" did it, or nod in the direction of Russia Today," Zakharova said.
Earlier, General Mark Millie, the head of the Chief of Staff Committee (CNA) of the US Armed Forces, told reporters that a letter about the withdrawal of US troops from Iraq had been published in error, it was a preliminary draft.
On Tuesday, a number of media sources reported on a letter sent by the Inherent Resolve military operation headquarters, which stated the US intention to withdraw its troops from Iraq. After the text of the letter was published in the media, Pentagon chief Mark Esper refuted the information contained in it, saying that the US did not make a decision to leave Iraq.
On January 3, the Pentagon confirmed that a missile strike near the Baghdad airport killed the head of the Quds Force Qasem Soleimani. The operation was carried out at the direction of US President Donald Trump. According to the Pentagon, the strike was defensive, since it was aimed at protecting US troops in Iraq and other countries. Washington blamed Soleimani for allegedly approving a rally outside the US Embassy in Baghdad earlier this week.
Following the attack, the Supreme National Security Council of Iran vowed to exact "severe revenge" on those involved in Soleimani’s killing, blaming the United States for the attack. In a phone call with UN Secretary General Antonio Guterres, Iranian Foreign Minister Mohammad Javad Zarif blasted the attack as an act of terrorism from the side of the US. He pointed out that Tehran would take international measures to hold Washington responsible for the general’s murder.
The situation in the Middle East sharply worsened after the death of Soleimani. Tehran promised the United States a tough response and began to reduce the implementation of its obligations under the nuclear deal.
The actions of the Americans, who have been attacking Shiite groups in Iraq since December 29, have been criticized the Iraqi authorities and raised the question of the legitimacy of the coalition's actions led by Washington. On January 5, the Iraqi parliament adopted a resolution demanding the complete withdrawal of all foreign troops from the country. US President Donald Trump refused to do so, threatening Iraq with "unprecedented sanctions.".


tass--2020-01-07--US denies visa to Iranian Foreign Minister Zarif for trip to UN Security Council meeting

January 7 .
/ TASS/ .
The United States refused to issue a visa to Iranian Foreign Minister Mohammad Javad Zarif , who was about to leave for Thursday 's meeting of the UN Security Council , Reuters news agency reported on Monday .
According to him , this decision followed an increase in tension between the two countries after the commander of the Special Forces of Al-Quds of the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps ( Iranian elite units of the Armed Forces ) Qasem Soleimani was killed as a result of a US air strike in the Baghdad airport area @ @ @ @ @ @ @ carried out at the direction of US President Donald Trump , .
According to the Pentagon , the strike was defensive , since it was aimed at protecting US troops in Iraq and other countries .
Washington blamed Soleimani for allegedly approving a rally outside the US Embassy in Baghdad earlier this week .
On January 3 , the Pentagon confirmed that a missile strike near the Baghdad airport killed the head of the Quds Force Qasem Soleimani .
The operation was carried out at the direction of US President Donald Trump .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ was defensive , since it was aimed at protecting US troops in Iraq and other countries .
Washington blamed Soleimani for allegedly approving a rally outside the US Embassy in Baghdad earlier this week .
Following the attack , the Supreme National Security Council of Iran vowed to exact `` severe revenge '' on those involved in Soleimani ’ s killing , blaming the United States for the attack .
In a phone call with UN Secretary General Antonio Guterres , Iranian Foreign Minister Mohammad Javad Zarif blasted the attack as an act @ @ @ @ @ @ @ US .
He pointed out that Tehran would take international measures to hold Washington responsible for the general ’ s murder .
The situation in the Middle East sharply worsened after the death of Soleimani .
Tehran promised the United States a tough response and began to reduce the implementation of its obligations under the nuclear deal .
The actions of the Americans , who have been attacking Shiite groups in Iraq since December 29 , have been criticized the Iraqi authorities and raised the question of the legitimacy of the coalition 's @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 5 , the Iraqi parliament adopted a resolution demanding the complete withdrawal of all foreign troops from the country .
US President Donald Trump refused to do so , threatening Iraq with `` unprecedented sanctions .
`` .

January 7. / TASS/. The United States refused to issue a visa to Iranian Foreign Minister Mohammad Javad Zarif, who was about to leave for Thursday's meeting of the UN Security Council, Reuters news agency reported on Monday.
According to him, this decision followed an increase in tension between the two countries after the commander of the Special Forces of Al-Quds of the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (Iranian elite units of the Armed Forces) Qasem Soleimani was killed as a result of a US air strike in the Baghdad airport area on January 3. The operation was carried out at the direction of US President Donald Trump, . According to the Pentagon, the strike was defensive, since it was aimed at protecting US troops in Iraq and other countries. Washington blamed Soleimani for allegedly approving a rally outside the US Embassy in Baghdad earlier this week.
On January 3, the Pentagon confirmed that a missile strike near the Baghdad airport killed the head of the Quds Force Qasem Soleimani. The operation was carried out at the direction of US President Donald Trump. According to the Pentagon, the strike was defensive, since it was aimed at protecting US troops in Iraq and other countries. Washington blamed Soleimani for allegedly approving a rally outside the US Embassy in Baghdad earlier this week.
Following the attack, the Supreme National Security Council of Iran vowed to exact "severe revenge" on those involved in Soleimani’s killing, blaming the United States for the attack. In a phone call with UN Secretary General Antonio Guterres, Iranian Foreign Minister Mohammad Javad Zarif blasted the attack as an act of terrorism from the side of the US. He pointed out that Tehran would take international measures to hold Washington responsible for the general’s murder.
The situation in the Middle East sharply worsened after the death of Soleimani. Tehran promised the United States a tough response and began to reduce the implementation of its obligations under the nuclear deal.
The actions of the Americans, who have been attacking Shiite groups in Iraq since December 29, have been criticized the Iraqi authorities and raised the question of the legitimacy of the coalition's actions led by Washington. On January 5, the Iraqi parliament adopted a resolution demanding the complete withdrawal of all foreign troops from the country. US President Donald Trump refused to do so, threatening Iraq with "unprecedented sanctions.".


tass--2020-01-07--President Putin gives Tikhvin icon to Transfiguration Cathedral in St. Petersburg

ST. PETERSBURG , January 7 .
/ TASS / .
Russian President Vladimir Putin presented the Tikhvin Icon of the Mother of God to the Transfiguration Cathedral of St. Petersburg on Tuesday at the Christmas services .
For more than half an hour , the President , along with other worshipers , took part in a nightly Divine Liturgy , after which he briefly talked with the Archpriest of the cathedral , Nikolai Bryndin , and presented him with an icon as a gift .
In response , the President received an icon of the Kazan Mother of Godv from @ @ @ @ @ @ @ President Putin wished those in attendance at the liturgy well .
`` I wish you a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year , be healthy and happy .
Happy holiday and thank you very much , '' he said .
In the Transfiguration Cathedral , Putin already celebrated Christmas in 2019 , as well as in 2012 , as Prime Minister .
Then the president told reporters that he was baptized at this cathedral as an infant .
The Transfiguration Cathedral of the whole guard in St. Petersburg was built by the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Square .
The cathedral was never closed for prayer ; however , the majority of the places of worship were seriously damaged in 1920s .

ST. PETERSBURG, January 7. / TASS /. Russian President Vladimir Putin presented the Tikhvin Icon of the Mother of God to the Transfiguration Cathedral of St. Petersburg on Tuesday at the Christmas services.
For more than half an hour, the President, along with other worshipers, took part in a nightly Divine Liturgy, after which he briefly talked with the Archpriest of the cathedral, Nikolai Bryndin, and presented him with an icon as a gift.
In response, the President received an icon of the Kazan Mother of Godv from Bryndin.
Before leaving the Cathedral, President Putin wished those in attendance at the liturgy well. "I wish you a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year, be healthy and happy. Happy holiday and thank you very much," he said. In the Transfiguration Cathedral, Putin already celebrated Christmas in 2019, as well as in 2012, as Prime Minister. Then the president told reporters that he was baptized at this cathedral as an infant.
The Transfiguration Cathedral of the whole guard in St. Petersburg was built by the architect Vasily Stasov in 1828 on Preobrazhenskaya Square. The cathedral was never closed for prayer; however, the majority of the places of worship were seriously damaged in 1920s.


tass--2020-01-07--Prime Minister Medvedev attends Christmas service at Christ the Savior Cathedral

MOSCOW , January 7 .
/TASS/ .
Russian Prime Minister Dmitry Medvedev and his spouse Svetlana are attending an overnight @ @ @ @ @ Christ the Savior Cathedral in Moscow on Tuesday .
The service , which started one @ @ @ @ @ officiated by Patriarch Kirill of Moscow and All Russia .
The service will last for @ @ @ @ @ worshippers gathered for the Christmas service at the Christ the Savior Cathedral .
The Prime @ @ @ @ @ surrounded by boys from the Orthodox school located in Trinity-Lykov and girls from the orphanage @ @ @ @ @ Christmas is one of the main Christian holidays .
Together with the Russian Orthodox Church @ @ @ @ @ , Georgian , Serbian Orthodox churches , as well as Athos monasteries , celebrate Christmas @ @ @ @ @ addition , Eastern Catholics and some Protestants , also living by the Julian calendar , @ @ @

MOSCOW, January 7. /TASS/. Russian Prime Minister Dmitry Medvedev and his spouse Svetlana are attending an overnight Orthodox Christmas service at the Christ the Savior Cathedral in Moscow on Tuesday.
The service, which started one hour before midnight, is officiated by Patriarch Kirill of Moscow and All Russia. The service will last for several hours.
Several thousand worshippers gathered for the Christmas service at the Christ the Savior Cathedral. The Prime Minister and his wife are surrounded by boys from the Orthodox school located in Trinity-Lykov and girls from the orphanage at the Pokrovsky convent. Christmas is one of the main Christian holidays. Together with the Russian Orthodox Church, the Jerusalem, Polish, Georgian, Serbian Orthodox churches, as well as Athos monasteries, celebrate Christmas on January 7. In addition, Eastern Catholics and some Protestants, also living by the Julian calendar, join them.


tass--2020-01-07--President Putin attends Christmas service at Transfiguration Cathedral in St. Petersburg

ST. PETERSBURG , January 7 .
/TASS/ .
Russian President Vladimir Putin is attending an overnight Orthodox Christmas service at @ @ @ @ @ Petersburg .
The service is held by the Cathedral ’ s dean , Nikolai Bryndin @ @ @ @ @ attended by Presidential Plenipotentiary Envoy to the Northwestern Federal District Alexander Gutsan and Governor of @ @ @ @ @ The Cathedral is full of believers , including many children .
Putin attended the Christmas @ @ @ @ @ in Russia ’ s second largest city in 2019 and in 2012 , when he @ @ @ @ @ Russian prime minister .
He told journalists at that time that he was baptized at @ @ @ @ @ .
The Transfiguration Cathedral was built in 1828 .

ST. PETERSBURG, January 7. /TASS/. Russian President Vladimir Putin is attending an overnight Orthodox Christmas service at the Transfiguration Cathedral in Saint Petersburg.
The service is held by the Cathedral’s dean, Nikolai Bryndin. The service is also attended by Presidential Plenipotentiary Envoy to the Northwestern Federal District Alexander Gutsan and Governor of St. Petersburg Alexander Beglov.
The Cathedral is full of believers, including many children.
Putin attended the Christmas service at the Transfiguration Cathedral in Russia’s second largest city in 2019 and in 2012, when he held the post of the Russian prime minister. He told journalists at that time that he was baptized at this Cathedral in his childhood.
The Transfiguration Cathedral was built in 1828.


tass--2020-01-07--Russia and China block UNSC statement on US embassy bombing in Iraq - Russian envoy

UN , January 6 .
/TASS/ .
Russia and China blocked the statement of the UN Security Council condemning the attack against the US Embassy in Iraq because it did not take into account the subsequent US air strike near the Bagdad airport , which resulted in killing of Iranian general Qasem Soleimani , Russia 's Permanent Representative to the UN Vasily Nebenzya said on Monday .
The US Permanent Mission to the UN said earlier that two permanent members of UNSC , Russia and China did not allow the statement to proceed .
`` I would like to inform @ @ @ @ @ @ @ a principle , we condemn strongly any attacks on any embassies , in any states , and we strongly condemn the attack on the American embassy in Baghdad , '' Nebenzya said .
The statement of UNSC was practically ready when the US air strike on January 3 followed and it was impossible not to take it into account , the Russian diplomat said , explaining the reasons why the statement was not adopted .
The UN Security Council has not yet discussed escalation of the conflict between Iran and the US and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ a common statement regarding the killing of Qasem Soleimani , Nebenzya noted .
`` We were not discussing that yet , especially today , and you perfectly well understand that the prospects of such statement are zero , '' he added .
The situation in the Middle East aggravated dramatically after the US missile strike near the Baghdad airport , killing head of the Iran ’ s Quds Force Qasem Soleimani .
Tehran promised a tough response to the US and started scaling down its obligations under the nuclear deal .
The parliament @ @ @ @ @ @ @ complete withdrawal of all foreign troops from the country on January 5 .
US President Donald Trump refused to do that and threatened Iraq with big sanctions .

UN, January 6. /TASS/. Russia and China blocked the statement of the UN Security Council condemning the attack against the US Embassy in Iraq because it did not take into account the subsequent US air strike near the Bagdad airport, which resulted in killing of Iranian general Qasem Soleimani, Russia's Permanent Representative to the UN Vasily Nebenzya said on Monday.
The US Permanent Mission to the UN said earlier that two permanent members of UNSC, Russia and China did not allow the statement to proceed.
"I would like to inform you, first of all, as a principle, we condemn strongly any attacks on any embassies, in any states, and we strongly condemn the attack on the American embassy in Baghdad," Nebenzya said. The statement of UNSC was practically ready when the US air strike on January 3 followed and it was impossible not to take it into account, the Russian diplomat said, explaining the reasons why the statement was not adopted.
The UN Security Council has not yet discussed escalation of the conflict between Iran and the US and will hardly be able to work out a common statement regarding the killing of Qasem Soleimani, Nebenzya noted.
"We were not discussing that yet, especially today, and you perfectly well understand that the prospects of such statement are zero," he added.
The situation in the Middle East aggravated dramatically after the US missile strike near the Baghdad airport, killing head of the Iran’s Quds Force Qasem Soleimani. Tehran promised a tough response to the US and started scaling down its obligations under the nuclear deal. The parliament of Iraq adopted the resolution calling for complete withdrawal of all foreign troops from the country on January 5. US President Donald Trump refused to do that and threatened Iraq with big sanctions.


tass--2020-01-07--EU formally confirms foreign ministers’ meeting on Iran

BRUSSELS , January 7 .
/TASS/ .
The European Union has officially confirmed that the foreign ministers ’ meeting on @ @ @ @ @ Brussels on January 10 , High Representative of the EU for Foreign Affairs and Security @ @ @ @ @ .
`` I called an extraordinary Foreign Affairs Council with our Member States on Friday @ @ @ @ @ to discuss recent developments on Iraq and Iran .
EU will play its full role @ @ @ @ @ in the region , '' he wrote .

BRUSSELS, January 7. /TASS/. The European Union has officially confirmed that the foreign ministers’ meeting on Iran will be held in Brussels on January 10, High Representative of the EU for Foreign Affairs and Security Josep Borrell tweeted on Monday.
"I called an extraordinary Foreign Affairs Council with our Member States on Friday afternoon, 10 January, to discuss recent developments on Iraq and Iran. EU will play its full role to seek de-escalation of tensions in the region," he wrote.


tass--2020-01-07--Telegram, affiliates do not take part in TON tokens sale - company

MOSCOW , January 7 .
/TASS/ .
Telegram and its affiliates are not involved in public sales or pre-sales of Gram digital tokens , the company said in its official statement on Monday .
`` It has come to our attention that certain websites appear to be offering Grams to the public .
These websites sometimes refer to the offers as `` token presales , '' and some pretend to be affiliated with Telegram .
As we 've warned you on numerous occasions , these are not official Telegram websites , they have no affiliation with Telegram , and no @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , '' Telegram said .
`` Neither Telegram nor any of its affiliates are involved in any public sales or presales of Grams , '' the company reported .
The Telegram Open Network ( TON ) blockchain platform , where Grams will function , is still at the beta-testing stage , Telegram said .
`` Grams do n't exist yet , nobody can buy or sell them before we announce the launch of TON Blockchain .
Do n't get scammed , '' the company said .
The US Securities and Exchange Commission filed @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Ton Issuer Inc. on October 11 of the last year .
Claims of the regulator pertain to the offering of Gram tokens by respondents .
Telegram owner Pavel Durov said at the turn of 2017 that the company plans to start monetization of the messenger .
It became known in January 2018 that Telegram plans to hold ICO .
The messenger raised about $ 1.7 bln according to results of two private preliminary rounds for offering of TON blockchain platform tokens .
The TON crypto currency is known as the Gram .

MOSCOW, January 7. /TASS/. Telegram and its affiliates are not involved in public sales or pre-sales of Gram digital tokens, the company said in its official statement on Monday.
"It has come to our attention that certain websites appear to be offering Grams to the public. These websites sometimes refer to the offers as "token presales," and some pretend to be affiliated with Telegram. As we've warned you on numerous occasions, these are not official Telegram websites, they have no affiliation with Telegram, and no Grams have been issued yet to anyone," Telegram said. "Neither Telegram nor any of its affiliates are involved in any public sales or presales of Grams," the company reported.
The Telegram Open Network (TON) blockchain platform, where Grams will function, is still at the beta-testing stage, Telegram said. "Grams don't exist yet, nobody can buy or sell them before we announce the launch of TON Blockchain. Don't get scammed," the company said.
The US Securities and Exchange Commission filed an action against Telegram Group Inc. and Ton Issuer Inc. on October 11 of the last year. Claims of the regulator pertain to the offering of Gram tokens by respondents.
Telegram owner Pavel Durov said at the turn of 2017 that the company plans to start monetization of the messenger. It became known in January 2018 that Telegram plans to hold ICO. The messenger raised about $1.7 bln according to results of two private preliminary rounds for offering of TON blockchain platform tokens. The TON crypto currency is known as the Gram.


tass--2020-01-07--Patriarch Kirill starts Orthodox Christmas service in Moscow

MOSCOW , January 7 .
/TASS/ .
Patriarch Kirill of Moscow and All Russia has started the overnight Christmas service @ @ @ @ @ Cathedral in Moscow .
Several thousand worshippers gathered for the Christmas service at the Christ @ @ @ @ @ , the clergy of the Moscow diocese and government officials are among attendants of the @ @ @ @ @ broadcast live by several national television channels , including Channel One and Rossiya-1 , and @ @ @ @ @ of the Russian Orthodox Church .

MOSCOW, January 7. /TASS/. Patriarch Kirill of Moscow and All Russia has started the overnight Christmas service at the Christ the Savior Cathedral in Moscow.
Several thousand worshippers gathered for the Christmas service at the Christ the Savior Cathedral. Bishops, the clergy of the Moscow diocese and government officials are among attendants of the service.
The service is broadcast live by several national television channels, including Channel One and Rossiya-1, and online on the official website of the Russian Orthodox Church.


tass--2020-01-07--Geopolitical tensions reaching peak in this century - UN Secretary-General

UN , January 7 .
/TASS/ .
The geopolitical strain across the globe is at the high , UN Secretary-General @ @ @ @ @ .
`` The New Year has begun with our world in turmoil , '' Guterres @ @ @ @ @ reporters after the killing of Iranian genera Qasem Soleimani and Iran ’ s termination of @ @ @ @ @ `` Geopolitical tensions are at their highest level this century , he added .
`` @ @ @ @ @ Even nuclear non-proliferation can no longer be taken for granted , '' Guterres said .
@ @ @ @ @ is leading more and more countries to take unpredicted decisions with unpredictable consequences and a @ @ @ @ @ '' the UN Secretary-General added .

UN, January 7. /TASS/. The geopolitical strain across the globe is at the high, UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres said on Monday.
"The New Year has begun with our world in turmoil," Guterres said in his statement to reporters after the killing of Iranian genera Qasem Soleimani and Iran’s termination of their nuclear deal commitments. "Geopolitical tensions are at their highest level this century, he added.
"This turbulence is escalating. Even nuclear non-proliferation can no longer be taken for granted," Guterres said.
"This cauldron of tensions is leading more and more countries to take unpredicted decisions with unpredictable consequences and a profound risk of miscalculation," the UN Secretary-General added.


tass--2020-01-07--World must prevent start of new war - UN

UN , January 7 .
/TASS/ .
UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres urged the world leaders to renew dialog and prevent @ @ @ @ @ war .
`` I have been following the recent rise in global tensions with great @ @ @ @ @ in his statement to reporters .
`` I am in constant contact with leading officials @ @ @ @ @ message is simple and clear : Stop escalation .
Exercise maximum restraint .
Re-start dialogue @ @ @ @ @ '' the Secretary-General said .
`` Let us not forget the terrible human suffering caused @ @ @ @ @ noted .
`` It is our common duty to avoid it , '' Guterres added @

UN, January 7. /TASS/. UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres urged the world leaders to renew dialog and prevent the start of a new war.
"I have been following the recent rise in global tensions with great concern," Guterres said in his statement to reporters.
"I am in constant contact with leading officials around the world. My message is simple and clear: Stop escalation. Exercise maximum restraint. Re-start dialogue. Renew international cooperation," the Secretary-General said. "Let us not forget the terrible human suffering caused by war," he noted. "It is our common duty to avoid it," Guterres added.


tass--2020-01-06--Gold spot prices at all-time high since 2013

MOSCOW , January 6 .
/TASS/ .
Gold prices on the spot market are at their highest since 2013 and @ @ @ @ @ Troy ounce during the trading session on Monday .
The palladium price has set a @ @ @ @ @ 2,030.28 dollars per Troy ounce , according to data from trading platforms .
The gold @ @ @ @ @ 1,561.21 per ounce and the palladium price is $ 2,025.054 per ounce .
The price @ @ @ @ @ aggravation of the situation in the Middle East after the US air strikes .

MOSCOW, January 6. /TASS/. Gold prices on the spot market are at their highest since 2013 and climbed to $1,588.13 per Troy ounce during the trading session on Monday. The palladium price has set a new record and reached $2,030.28 dollars per Troy ounce, according to data from trading platforms.
The gold price amounts currently to $1,561.21 per ounce and the palladium price is $2,025.054 per ounce.
The price hike is taking place against aggravation of the situation in the Middle East after the US air strikes.


tass--2020-01-06--LNA fully controls Sirte, including airport - TV

MOSCOW , January 6 .
/TASS/ .
The Libyan National Army ( LNA ) headed by Field Marshal Khalifa Haftar @ @ @ @ @ of Sirte , including the airport and the coastal port , Sky News Arabiya TV @ @ @ @ @ LNA forces are in the downtown and are ready to respond to any developments , @ @ @ @ @ Currently , Libya has two supreme executive authorities , namely the internationally-recognized Tripoli-based Government of @ @ @ @ @ Minister Fayez al-Sarraj , and the interim government of Abdullah al-Thani , seated in the @ @ @ @ @ along with the elected parliament , which is supported by the Libyan National Army headed @ @ @

MOSCOW, January 6. /TASS/. The Libyan National Army (LNA) headed by Field Marshal Khalifa Haftar established control over the city of Sirte, including the airport and the coastal port, Sky News Arabiya TV Channel reports on Monday.
LNA forces are in the downtown and are ready to respond to any developments, the TV Channel reports.
Currently, Libya has two supreme executive authorities, namely the internationally-recognized Tripoli-based Government of National Accord headed by Prime Minister Fayez al-Sarraj, and the interim government of Abdullah al-Thani, seated in the east of the country, along with the elected parliament, which is supported by the Libyan National Army headed by Haftar.


tass--2020-01-06--EU to hold extraordinary meeting of foreign ministers on January 10 - source

BRUSSELS , January 6 .
/TASS/ .
The European Union will hold an extraordinary meeting of foreign ministers on January @ @ @ @ @ the situation in Iraq and Iran , including the future of the nuclear deal after @ @ @ @ @ diplomatic source in Brussels told TASS on Monday .
`` The extraordinary meeting of the @ @ @ @ @ will take place on January 10 in Brussels .
It is planned to discuss escalation @ @ @ @ @ s actions on the nuclear deal , '' the diplomat said .
The situation in @ @ @ @ @ NATO headquarters at the extraordinary meeting of the North Atlantic Council at the ambassador level @

BRUSSELS, January 6. /TASS/. The European Union will hold an extraordinary meeting of foreign ministers on January 10 in Brussels to discuss the situation in Iraq and Iran, including the future of the nuclear deal after US air strikes, a diplomatic source in Brussels told TASS on Monday.
"The extraordinary meeting of the EU Council on foreign affairs will take place on January 10 in Brussels. It is planned to discuss escalation in Iraq and Iran’s actions on the nuclear deal," the diplomat said.
The situation in Iraq is currently discussed in NATO headquarters at the extraordinary meeting of the North Atlantic Council at the ambassador level.


tass--2020-01-06--US President ready to hold talks with Iran on nuclear deal reconsideration - White House

WASHINGTON , January 6 .
/TASS/ .
US President Donald Trump remains ready to renegotiate the nuclear deal with Iranian authorities , Senior White House Counselor Kellyanne Elizabeth Conway told reporters on Monday .
`` He [ President Trump - TASS ] said he 's open to meet .
If Iran wants to start behaving like a normal country ... sure .
Absolutely , '' Conway said .
Trump reiterated earlier that he is set for the dialog with Tehran and is ready to meet Iranian representatives without conditions precedent .
The US administration has stressed up to now that @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action in respect of the Iran ’ s nuclear program was signed by Iran with the UN Security Council permanent members ( Russia , the UK , China , the US , France ) and Germany in 2015 .
The deal restricted Tehran ’ s nuclear development in exchange for lifting the UN sanctions and the unilateral restrictions imposed by the US and the EU .
The future of the 2015 agreement on Iran ’ s nuclear program was called into question after the United States ’ unilateral pullout @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Washington ’ s oil export sanctions against Iran .

WASHINGTON, January 6. /TASS/. US President Donald Trump remains ready to renegotiate the nuclear deal with Iranian authorities, Senior White House Counselor Kellyanne Elizabeth Conway told reporters on Monday.
"He [President Trump - TASS] said he's open to meet. If Iran wants to start behaving like a normal country... sure. Absolutely," Conway said.
Trump reiterated earlier that he is set for the dialog with Tehran and is ready to meet Iranian representatives without conditions precedent. The US administration has stressed up to now that the proposal remains in force.
The Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action in respect of the Iran’s nuclear program was signed by Iran with the UN Security Council permanent members (Russia, the UK, China, the US, France) and Germany in 2015. The deal restricted Tehran’s nuclear development in exchange for lifting the UN sanctions and the unilateral restrictions imposed by the US and the EU. The future of the 2015 agreement on Iran’s nuclear program was called into question after the United States’ unilateral pullout on May 8, 2018, and Washington’s oil export sanctions against Iran.


tass--2020-01-06--Japan’s authorities seek extradition of ex-Nissan chief Ghosn - official

TOKYO , January 6 .
/TASS/ .
Japanese authorities are currently seeking extradition of former CEO of the French-Japanese automobile alliance Renault-Nissan-Mitsubishi Carlos Ghosn from Lebanon through diplomatic channels , Chief Cabinet Secretary Yoshihide Suga said on Monday on the air with the Japanese television .
`` We are employing various diplomatic resources and taking all the required efforts [ for extradition of Carlos Ghosn , '' Suga said , cited by the Kyodo news agency .
As reported earlier , an international order to arrest the ex-businessman was received in Lebanon from Interpol .
According to Kyodo , Japanese @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
Carlos Ghosn fled Japan where he had been under house arrest facing a court trial in Tokyo .
On December 31 , 2019 , Ghosn confirmed that he was in Lebanon .
Carlos Ghosn and former Nissan executive director Greg Kelly were arrested on November 19 , 2018 , on suspicion of violating Japan 's financial laws .
Investigators said that Ghosn failed to declare his reward of nine billion yen ( over $ 80 million ) , when he was the chair of Nissan Board of Directors between 2010 and 2018 @ @ @ @ @ @ @ as well .
In March 2019 , Ghosn was released from the Tokyo District Prison on bail of one billion yen ( around $ 9 mln ) , but was taken into custody again on April 4 after additional charges were filed .
In late April 2019 , a court in Tokyo ruled to release him on bail of 500 million yen ( approximately $ 4.5 million ) .
Under the terms of the bail , Ghosn had no right of leaving his apartments in Tokyo and meeting with his wife without a @ @

TOKYO, January 6. /TASS/. Japanese authorities are currently seeking extradition of former CEO of the French-Japanese automobile alliance Renault-Nissan-Mitsubishi Carlos Ghosn from Lebanon through diplomatic channels, Chief Cabinet Secretary Yoshihide Suga said on Monday on the air with the Japanese television.
"We are employing various diplomatic resources and taking all the required efforts [for extradition of Carlos Ghosn," Suga said, cited by the Kyodo news agency.
As reported earlier, an international order to arrest the ex-businessman was received in Lebanon from Interpol. According to Kyodo, Japanese authorities made the relevant request to Interpol.
Carlos Ghosn fled Japan where he had been under house arrest facing a court trial in Tokyo. On December 31, 2019, Ghosn confirmed that he was in Lebanon.
Carlos Ghosn and former Nissan executive director Greg Kelly were arrested on November 19, 2018, on suspicion of violating Japan's financial laws. Investigators said that Ghosn failed to declare his reward of nine billion yen (over $80 million), when he was the chair of Nissan Board of Directors between 2010 and 2018. Other charges were brought against him as well.
In March 2019, Ghosn was released from the Tokyo District Prison on bail of one billion yen (around $9 mln), but was taken into custody again on April 4 after additional charges were filed.
In late April 2019, a court in Tokyo ruled to release him on bail of 500 million yen (approximately $4.5 million). Under the terms of the bail, Ghosn had no right of leaving his apartments in Tokyo and meeting with his wife without a permission.


tass--2020-01-06--Iran will never have nuclear weapons - US President

US to hit 52 Iranian sites very fast in response to any potential attack , Trump warns US President noted @ @ @ @ @ will be hit very hard ''

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tass--2020-01-06--US seeking to get approval for their actions in Iraq from NATO members - source

BRUSSELS , January 6 .
/TASS/ .
The United States endeavors to have approval voiced by NATO member-states for their @ @ @ @ @ the killing of Iranian general Qasem Soleimani , a diplomatic source in Brussels told TASS @ @ @ @ @ US side demands support for anti-terrorist actions of the Pentagon in Iraq and Syria , @ @ @ @ @ , in its contacts with allies [ NATO member-states - TASS ] , '' the @ @ @ @ @ US underscores importance of keeping the unity of the anti-terrorist coalition in Iraq and Syria @ @ @ @ @ of Atlantic solidarity , '' the source added .
An extraordinary meeting of the North @ @ @ @ @ level was called in Brussels earlier on Monday to discuss the dramatic aggravation of the @ @ @ @ @ .

BRUSSELS, January 6. /TASS/. The United States endeavors to have approval voiced by NATO member-states for their actions in Iraq, including the killing of Iranian general Qasem Soleimani, a diplomatic source in Brussels told TASS on Monday.
"The US side demands support for anti-terrorist actions of the Pentagon in Iraq and Syria, including the latest air raids, in its contacts with allies [NATO member-states - TASS]," the source says.
"The US underscores importance of keeping the unity of the anti-terrorist coalition in Iraq and Syria and adhering to the principle of Atlantic solidarity," the source added.
An extraordinary meeting of the North Atlantic Council at the ambassador level was called in Brussels earlier on Monday to discuss the dramatic aggravation of the situation in the Middle East.


tass--2020-01-06--Russia remains committed to Iranian nuclear deal - Foreign Ministry

MOSCOW , January 6 .
/TASS/ .
Russia remains fully committed to the nuclear deal after the next step made by Iran in reducing its obligations and urges other participants to do the same , the Russian Foreign Ministry says in a comment on Monday .
`` The Russian side remains fully committed to the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action ( JCPOA ) and goals set forth therein , and we are ready to continue working in order to achieve them , '' the Foreign Ministry said .
Participants in the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action ( JCPOA ) should @ @ @ @ @ @ @ sustainable implementation , the Russian Foreign Ministry says on Monday .
`` Decisions taken by the Iranian side on January 5 regarding the necessitated continuation of suspension of voluntary obligations ensuing from the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action for settlement around the Iranian nuclear program is the consequence of contradictions accumulated within the agreements , and all the currently participating countries should continue to working intensively in order to overcome them .
We do not see any other effective recipe to rescue the nuclear deal .
We assume that keeping of comprehensive agreements @ @ @ @ @ @ @ remain a priority task for all partners , '' the Ministry says .
Tehran ’ s abandonment of restrictions in developing its uranium enrichment capabilities does not pose any threat in itself in terms of proliferation of nuclear weapons , the Ministry noted .
`` Iran is carrying all its activities in close cooperation and under ongoing control by IAEA , '' the Russian Foreign Ministry said .
`` We note the commitment to cooperate with the Agency stated by the Iranian leaders and readiness to maintain it at the prior level , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and depth of inspections , '' it added .

MOSCOW, January 6. /TASS/. Russia remains fully committed to the nuclear deal after the next step made by Iran in reducing its obligations and urges other participants to do the same, the Russian Foreign Ministry says in a comment on Monday.
"The Russian side remains fully committed to the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA) and goals set forth therein, and we are ready to continue working in order to achieve them," the Foreign Ministry said.
Participants in the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA) should endeavor to keep the agreement and its sustainable implementation, the Russian Foreign Ministry says on Monday.
"Decisions taken by the Iranian side on January 5 regarding the necessitated continuation of suspension of voluntary obligations ensuing from the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action for settlement around the Iranian nuclear program is the consequence of contradictions accumulated within the agreements, and all the currently participating countries should continue to working intensively in order to overcome them. We do not see any other effective recipe to rescue the nuclear deal. We assume that keeping of comprehensive agreements and provision of their sustainable implementation shall remain a priority task for all partners," the Ministry says.
Tehran’s abandonment of restrictions in developing its uranium enrichment capabilities does not pose any threat in itself in terms of proliferation of nuclear weapons, the Ministry noted.
"Iran is carrying all its activities in close cooperation and under ongoing control by IAEA," the Russian Foreign Ministry said. "We note the commitment to cooperate with the Agency stated by the Iranian leaders and readiness to maintain it at the prior level, which is unprecedented in terms of scale and depth of inspections," it added.


tass--2020-01-08--Russian military in Syria defend their own homes from terrorism - Putin

MOSCOW , January 8 .
/TASS/ .
Russian military personnel in Syria not only provides help to Syrians but also defend their motherland from terrorists , Russian President Vladimir Putin said in Damascus when visiting the headquarters of the Russian Armed Forces ’ group stationed in Syria .
`` Here , in Syria , you are not only addressing the task of helping the Syrian people in liberating [ them ] from terrorist groups and gangs .
Here , in Syria , you are also protecting your own homes , preventing fighters from infiltrating Russia and our neighbor states , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ The video of the speech was uploaded to the Telegram channel of the Syrian president .
Putin thanked the command and personnel of the Russian Armed Forces ’ group in Syria for fulfilling military duties in good faith .
`` Russia and your relatives are proud of you and wish you all the best , '' he underlined .
`` The Russian navy personnel near the Syrian coast continue to defend our national interests in the Mediterranean , '' the president said .
Moreover , he specifically extended gratitude to the military medical @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Damascus on Tuesday .
He was greeted by Syrian President Bashar al-Assad at the headquarters of the Russian forces .
The leaders heard reports on developments in various regions across Syria with bilateral talks taking place later .
After that , the presidents visited the medieval Umayyad Mosque situated in the old part of the capital .
Putin then headed to the Orthodox Mariamite Cathedral of Damascus where he had a meeting with John X of Antioch , primate of the Greek Orthodox Patriarchate of Antioch and All The East .

MOSCOW, January 8. /TASS/. Russian military personnel in Syria not only provides help to Syrians but also defend their motherland from terrorists, Russian President Vladimir Putin said in Damascus when visiting the headquarters of the Russian Armed Forces’ group stationed in Syria.
"Here, in Syria, you are not only addressing the task of helping the Syrian people in liberating [them] from terrorist groups and gangs. Here, in Syria, you are also protecting your own homes, preventing fighters from infiltrating Russia and our neighbor states," Putin addressed the Russian military.
The video of the speech was uploaded to the Telegram channel of the Syrian president.
Putin thanked the command and personnel of the Russian Armed Forces’ group in Syria for fulfilling military duties in good faith. "Russia and your relatives are proud of you and wish you all the best," he underlined.
"The Russian navy personnel near the Syrian coast continue to defend our national interests in the Mediterranean," the president said. Moreover, he specifically extended gratitude to the military medical officers.
Putin paid a visit to Damascus on Tuesday. He was greeted by Syrian President Bashar al-Assad at the headquarters of the Russian forces. The leaders heard reports on developments in various regions across Syria with bilateral talks taking place later. After that, the presidents visited the medieval Umayyad Mosque situated in the old part of the capital. Putin then headed to the Orthodox Mariamite Cathedral of Damascus where he had a meeting with John X of Antioch, primate of the Greek Orthodox Patriarchate of Antioch and All The East.


tass--2020-01-07--Putin arrives to Istanbul from Damascus to launch TurkStream on January 8

ISTANBUL , January 7 .
/TASS/ .
Russian President Vladimir Putin has arrived in Istanbul .
Putin press service clarified @ @ @ @ @ planned for evening of January 7 , the working agenda is full for the next @ @ @ @ @ In particular , the Russian leader will take part in the official ceremony of launching @ @ @ @ @ Wednesday .
Putin travelled to Istanbul from Damascus where he had a meeting with Syrian @ @ @ @ @ the headquarters of the Russian Armed Forces ’ group in the country and driven along @ @ @ @ @ The Kremlin press service earlier reported that Putin has talks with Turkish President Recep Tayyip @ @ @ @ @ to Turkey .
It is expected that issues of further development of the Russian-Turkish cooperation @ @ @ @ @ be discussed , including developments in Syria and Libya , the press service added .

ISTANBUL, January 7. /TASS/. Russian President Vladimir Putin has arrived in Istanbul. Putin press service clarified that no public events are planned for evening of January 7, the working agenda is full for the next day, January 8.
In particular, the Russian leader will take part in the official ceremony of launching the TurkStream gas pipeline on Wednesday.
Putin travelled to Istanbul from Damascus where he had a meeting with Syrian President Bashar al-Assad, visited the headquarters of the Russian Armed Forces’ group in the country and driven along the streets of Damascus.
The Kremlin press service earlier reported that Putin has talks with Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan planned for his visit to Turkey.
It is expected that issues of further development of the Russian-Turkish cooperation and current international problems will be discussed, including developments in Syria and Libya, the press service added.


tass--2020-01-07--Syrian leader talks plans to eliminate terrorists in Idlib with Putin

BEIRUT , January 7 .
/TASS/ .
Syrian President Bashar al-Assad and his Russian counterpart Vladimir Putin have discussed plans @ @ @ @ @ the Idlib Province that pose a threat to peaceful civilians , the SANA news agency @ @ @ @ @ president ’ s office .
`` The presidents talked about the latest developments in the @ @ @ @ @ plans to eliminate terrorists in Idlib that threaten security and peaceful life of Syrians , @ @ @ @ @ `` The situation in north Syria was thoroughly discussed as well as measures taken by @ @ @ @ @ '' According to the agency , Putin and al-Assad `` backed political process in Syria @ @ @ @ @ conditions for it . ''
SANA reports that the leaders travelled around Damascus and visited @ @ @ @ @ in the old part of the capital .
The Russian leader left a note in @ @ @ @ @ of this historic monument .

BEIRUT, January 7. /TASS/. Syrian President Bashar al-Assad and his Russian counterpart Vladimir Putin have discussed plans to eradicate terrorist groups in the Idlib Province that pose a threat to peaceful civilians, the SANA news agency reported Tuesday citing the Syrian president’s office.
"The presidents talked about the latest developments in the Middle East as well as plans to eliminate terrorists in Idlib that threaten security and peaceful life of Syrians," the statement reads. "The situation in north Syria was thoroughly discussed as well as measures taken by Turkey in this region."
According to the agency, Putin and al-Assad "backed political process in Syria and laying down the necessary conditions for it."
SANA reports that the leaders travelled around Damascus and visited the medieval Umayyad Mosque situated in the old part of the capital. The Russian leader left a note in the book of famous visitors of this historic monument.


tass--2020-01-08--Putin offers condolences to Zelensky over Ukrainian plane crash in Iran

All passengers and crew killed in Ukrainian plane crash near Tehran MOSCOW , January 8 .
/TASS/ .
Russian President @ @ @ @ @ to President of Ukraine Vladimir Zelensky , expressing condolences over the tragic crash of a @ @ @ @ @ , the Kremlin press service said on Wednesday .
`` Head of the Russian state @ @ @ @ @ support to the families and friends of the victims , '' the press service said @

All passengers and crew killed in Ukrainian plane crash near Tehran
MOSCOW, January 8. /TASS/. Russian President Vladimir Putin sent a telegram to President of Ukraine Vladimir Zelensky, expressing condolences over the tragic crash of a Ukrainian passenger plane near Tehran, the Kremlin press service said on Wednesday.
"Head of the Russian state offered words of sympathy and support to the families and friends of the victims," the press service said.


tass--2020-01-08--Ukraine International Airlines confirms death of 176 people in Tehran plane crash

`` Nine crew members and 167 passengers died , '' he told reporters at a briefing on Wednesday .
Dykhne said that there were no Russian citizens among the victims .
`` Two citizens of Ukraine are among the victims , '' he said .
KIEV , January 8 .
/TASS/ .
President of Ukraine International Airlines Evgeny Dykhne confirmed death of 9 crew members and 167 passengers in the airline ’ s plane crash in Tehran .
Minister of Foreign Affairs of Ukraine Vadim Pristayko said earlier that citizens of seven countries died in the crash of Ukraine International @ @ @ @ @ @ @ death toll reached 176 people .
`` Now we know the following information about the countries of origin of the victims of the PS 752 [ flight ] disaster : Iran - 82 ; Canada - 63 ; Ukraine - 2 + 9 ( crew ) ; Sweden - 10 ; Afghanistan - 4 ; Germany - 3 ; United Kingdom - 3 .
We express our condolences .
The Ukrainian authorities are continuing the investigation , '' he wrote .
Earlier on Wednesday , Ukraine International Airlines Boeing 737 crashed in the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ take-off from the Imam Khomeini International Airport .
Ukraine International Airlines has suspended flights to Tehran indefinitely due to the crash of its aircraft .

"Nine crew members and 167 passengers died," he told reporters at a briefing on Wednesday. Dykhne said that there were no Russian citizens among the victims. "Two citizens of Ukraine are among the victims," he said.
KIEV, January 8. /TASS/. President of Ukraine International Airlines Evgeny Dykhne confirmed death of 9 crew members and 167 passengers in the airline’s plane crash in Tehran.
Minister of Foreign Affairs of Ukraine Vadim Pristayko said earlier that citizens of seven countries died in the crash of Ukraine International Airlines Boeing 737 in Tehran, the death toll reached 176 people.
"Now we know the following information about the countries of origin of the victims of the PS 752 [flight] disaster: Iran - 82; Canada - 63; Ukraine - 2 + 9 (crew); Sweden - 10; Afghanistan - 4; Germany - 3; United Kingdom - 3. We express our condolences. The Ukrainian authorities are continuing the investigation," he wrote.
Earlier on Wednesday, Ukraine International Airlines Boeing 737 crashed in the Iranian capital of Tehran shortly after its take-off from the Imam Khomeini International Airport. Ukraine International Airlines has suspended flights to Tehran indefinitely due to the crash of its aircraft.


tass--2020-01-08--NATO countries await Washington’s reaction to Iran missile attacks — source

BRUSSELS , January 8 .
/TASS/ .
European NATO nations await the United States ’ reaction to Iran ’ s @ @ @ @ @ bases in Iraq , a diplomatic source in Brussels told TASS .
`` The European @ @ @ @ @ ’ s retaliatory actions .
The alliance ’ s reaction will follow , '' the @ @ @

BRUSSELS, January 8. /TASS/. European NATO nations await the United States’ reaction to Iran’s missile strikes at US military bases in Iraq, a diplomatic source in Brussels told TASS.
"The European NATO allies are awaiting Washington’s retaliatory actions. The alliance’s reaction will follow," the source said.


tass--2020-01-08--Russia’s Air Transport Agency advises airlines not to fly over Iran, Iraq, Persian Gulf

MOSCOW , January 8 .
/TASS/ .
The Russian Federal Air Transport Agency advised Russian airlines not to use airspace over Iran and Iraq , as well as over the Persian and Oman gulfs , the Agency said on Wednesday .
`` Due to information on the existing risks to security of international flights of civil aircraft , the Federal Air Transport Agency recommends not using the airspace over the territories of Iran , Iraq , the Persian and Oman gulfs for flights of civil aircraft of the Russian Federation , including transit flights , until further notice , '' @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , Ukraine International Airlines Boeing 737 crashed in the Iranian capital of Tehran shortly after its take-off from the Imam Khomeini International Airport .
According to preliminary data , 180 passengers and crew on board were killed in the incident .
Ukraine International Airlines has suspended flights to Tehran indefinitely due to the crash of its aircraft .
The situation in the Middle East has recently deteriorated sharply after the Pentagon announced on January 3 that Commander of the Quds Force of the Islamic Revolutionary Guards Corps ( the elite wing of the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ been killed in a US airstrike near Baghdad airport .
The missile strike came on order of US President Donald Trump .

MOSCOW, January 8. /TASS/. The Russian Federal Air Transport Agency advised Russian airlines not to use airspace over Iran and Iraq, as well as over the Persian and Oman gulfs, the Agency said on Wednesday.
"Due to information on the existing risks to security of international flights of civil aircraft, the Federal Air Transport Agency recommends not using the airspace over the territories of Iran, Iraq, the Persian and Oman gulfs for flights of civil aircraft of the Russian Federation, including transit flights, until further notice," the message said.
Earlier on Wednesday, Ukraine International Airlines Boeing 737 crashed in the Iranian capital of Tehran shortly after its take-off from the Imam Khomeini International Airport. According to preliminary data, 180 passengers and crew on board were killed in the incident. Ukraine International Airlines has suspended flights to Tehran indefinitely due to the crash of its aircraft.
The situation in the Middle East has recently deteriorated sharply after the Pentagon announced on January 3 that Commander of the Quds Force of the Islamic Revolutionary Guards Corps (the elite wing of the Iranian military) General Qasem Soleimani had been killed in a US airstrike near Baghdad airport. The missile strike came on order of US President Donald Trump.


tass--2020-01-08--Ukrainian president urges to ‘refrain from speculations’ around Iran plane crash

KIEV , January 8 .
/TASS/ .
President of Ukraine Vladimir Zelensky urged to refrain from putting forward `` unverified @ @ @ @ @ with the crash of a passenger plane of Ukraine International Airlines in Tehran .
All @ @ @ @ @ Ukrainian plane crash near Tehran '' I ask everyone to refrain from speculating and putting @ @ @ @ @ disaster before official reports , '' he said on Wednesday .
Ukraine International Airlines Boeing @ @ @ @ @ and crewmembers crashed in the Iranian capital of Tehran shortly after its take-off from the @ @ @ @ @ Wednesday , killing everyone on board .

KIEV, January 8. /TASS/. President of Ukraine Vladimir Zelensky urged to refrain from putting forward "unverified versions" around the situation with the crash of a passenger plane of Ukraine International Airlines in Tehran.
All passengers and crew killed in Ukrainian plane crash near Tehran
"I ask everyone to refrain from speculating and putting forward unverified versions of the disaster before official reports," he said on Wednesday.
Ukraine International Airlines Boeing 737 plane carrying 180 passengers and crewmembers crashed in the Iranian capital of Tehran shortly after its take-off from the Imam Khomeini International Airport on Wednesday, killing everyone on board.


tass--2020-01-08--Ukraine International Airlines suspends flights to Tehran indefinitely

KIEV , January 8 .
/TASS/ .
Ukraine International Airlines has suspended flights to Tehran indefinitely due to the crash of its aircraft , the company ’ s press service announced on Wednesday .
`` Starting from today , Ukraine International Airlines has decided to suspend its flights to Tehran for an indefinite period , '' the press service said on Facebook .
The company noted it is doing everything possible to find out the causes of the crash .
`` The flight was carried out on a Boeing 737-800 NG aircraft with a registration number UR-PSR .
The aircraft @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the airline directly from the factory .
The aircraft last underwent scheduled maintenance on January 6 , 2020 , '' the airline said , adding that the aircraft on Wednesday `` disappeared from radars after a few minutes after departure from Tehran 's international airport . ''
The company assured that there will be a thorough investigation of the incident `` involving the aviation authorities of Ukraine , Iran , representatives of Boeing , the airline , as well as the National Bureau of Air Accidents Investigation of Ukraine '' .
Earlier on @ @ @ @ @ @ @ crashed after taking off in Tehran .
According to preliminary data , 168 passengers and 9 crew members died in the incident .

KIEV, January 8. /TASS/. Ukraine International Airlines has suspended flights to Tehran indefinitely due to the crash of its aircraft, the company’s press service announced on Wednesday.
"Starting from today, Ukraine International Airlines has decided to suspend its flights to Tehran for an indefinite period," the press service said on Facebook. The company noted it is doing everything possible to find out the causes of the crash.
"The flight was carried out on a Boeing 737-800 NG aircraft with a registration number UR-PSR. The aircraft was manufactured in 2016, received by the airline directly from the factory. The aircraft last underwent scheduled maintenance on January 6, 2020," the airline said, adding that the aircraft on Wednesday "disappeared from radars after a few minutes after departure from Tehran's international airport."
The company assured that there will be a thorough investigation of the incident "involving the aviation authorities of Ukraine, Iran, representatives of Boeing, the airline, as well as the National Bureau of Air Accidents Investigation of Ukraine".
Earlier on Wednesday, Ukraine International Airlines Boeing 737 crashed after taking off in Tehran. According to preliminary data, 168 passengers and 9 crew members died in the incident.


tass--2020-01-08--Putin visits Istanbul to attend TurkStream launch ceremony

ISTANBUL , January 8 .
/TASS/ .
Russian President Vladimir Putin on Wednesday will participate in the commissioning ceremony of the TurkStream gas pipeline in Istanbul .
Putin arrived in the city the day before from Damascus , where he met with Bashar al-Assad , visited the command post of the Russian Armed Forces group in Syria , toured the Great Mosque of Damascus and the Mariamite Cathedral of Damascus .
According to the Kremlin press service , the president ’ s working programme in Turkey is scheduled for January 8 .
Vladimir Putin will attend the ceremony for launching @ @ @ @ @ @ @ with Recep Tayyip Erdogan .
It is expected that the two sides will discuss the prospects for developing Russian-Turkish cooperation and current items on the international agenda , including the situation in Syria and Libya .
Ankara said earlier that the leaders of Bulgaria and Serbia will also attend the ceremony in Istanbul .
The TurkStream project is a gas pipeline consisting of two lines with a capacity of 15.75 bln cubic meters of gas per year each .
The first line is intended for the supply of Russian gas to Turkish consumers @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to the countries of Southern and Southeast Europe .
Gazprom considers Greece , Italy , Bulgaria , Serbia , and Hungary as potential markets .
Russian gas has already begun to flow to Bulgaria through the TurkStream gas pipeline from January 1 , and from January 5 , North Macedonia and Greece began to receive Russian gas through the new Strandja-2 compressor station in Bulgaria .
Negotiations between Bulgartransgaz and Russian company Gazprom Export on gas transit through the territory of Bulgaria ended in the last days of 2019 .
From a new @ @ @ @ @ @ @ station - Bulgaria will annually receive 2.9 bln cubic meters of gas .
Due to the fact that gas will now come to the country from Turkey , Sofia will be able to reduce transit costs by about 35 mln euro , and gas will become cheaper by 5 % .
Earlier , Turkish experts forecast that Syria and Libya could be the main topics of negotiations between the two leaders in Istanbul .
In recent days , the Turkish president talked more often about problems in the Syrian de-escalation zone in Idlib @ @ @ @ @ @ @ waves of refugees rushed from the region towards the Turkish border .
Erdogan claims that Ankara will no longer be able to deal with them alone .
Another important topic in the dialogue between the presidents of Russia and Turkey may be Libya , where the situation continues to escalate .

ISTANBUL, January 8. /TASS/. Russian President Vladimir Putin on Wednesday will participate in the commissioning ceremony of the TurkStream gas pipeline in Istanbul. Putin arrived in the city the day before from Damascus, where he met with Bashar al-Assad, visited the command post of the Russian Armed Forces group in Syria, toured the Great Mosque of Damascus and the Mariamite Cathedral of Damascus.
According to the Kremlin press service, the president’s working programme in Turkey is scheduled for January 8. Vladimir Putin will attend the ceremony for launching the TurkStream gas pipeline and will meet with Recep Tayyip Erdogan. It is expected that the two sides will discuss the prospects for developing Russian-Turkish cooperation and current items on the international agenda, including the situation in Syria and Libya.
Ankara said earlier that the leaders of Bulgaria and Serbia will also attend the ceremony in Istanbul.
New gas pipeline
The TurkStream project is a gas pipeline consisting of two lines with a capacity of 15.75 bln cubic meters of gas per year each. The first line is intended for the supply of Russian gas to Turkish consumers, the second - for gas supply to the countries of Southern and Southeast Europe. Gazprom considers Greece, Italy, Bulgaria, Serbia, and Hungary as potential markets.
Russian gas has already begun to flow to Bulgaria through the TurkStream gas pipeline from January 1, and from January 5, North Macedonia and Greece began to receive Russian gas through the new Strandja-2 compressor station in Bulgaria.
Negotiations between Bulgartransgaz and Russian company Gazprom Export on gas transit through the territory of Bulgaria ended in the last days of 2019. From a new gas supply point - the Strandja-2 compressor station - Bulgaria will annually receive 2.9 bln cubic meters of gas. Due to the fact that gas will now come to the country from Turkey, Sofia will be able to reduce transit costs by about 35 mln euro, and gas will become cheaper by 5%.
Expectations from talks
Earlier, Turkish experts forecast that Syria and Libya could be the main topics of negotiations between the two leaders in Istanbul.
In recent days, the Turkish president talked more often about problems in the Syrian de-escalation zone in Idlib. He repeatedly made statements that new waves of refugees rushed from the region towards the Turkish border. Erdogan claims that Ankara will no longer be able to deal with them alone.
Another important topic in the dialogue between the presidents of Russia and Turkey may be Libya, where the situation continues to escalate.


tass--2020-01-08--Ukrainian Embassy: Terrorism ruled out in Iranian air tragedy

KIEV , January 8 .
/TASS/ .
The version of a terrorist attack on the Ukrainian plane crashed at Tehran @ @ @ @ @ considered .
As the Ukrainian Embassy in Iran reported on Wednesday , engine problems could @ @ @ @ @ `` According to preliminary information , the plane has crashed as a result of an @ @ @ @ @ .
The version of an attack is ruled out , '' the report said .
@ @ @ @ @ , according to Ukraine International Airlines , 168 passengers purchased tickets for this flight .
@ @ @ @ @ whether there were Ukrainian citizens among them in addition to nine crew members - citizens @ @ @ @ @ Airlines Boeing 737 plane carrying 180 passengers and crewmembers crashed in the Iranian capital of @ @ @ @ @ from the Imam Khomeini International Airport on Wednesday .

KIEV, January 8. /TASS/. The version of a terrorist attack on the Ukrainian plane crashed at Tehran Airport is currently not being considered. As the Ukrainian Embassy in Iran reported on Wednesday, engine problems could have caused the disaster.
"According to preliminary information, the plane has crashed as a result of an engine accident for technical reasons. The version of an attack is ruled out," the report said.
The diplomatic mission added that, according to Ukraine International Airlines, 168 passengers purchased tickets for this flight. It is now being determined whether there were Ukrainian citizens among them in addition to nine crew members - citizens of Ukraine.
Ukraine International Airlines Boeing 737 plane carrying 180 passengers and crewmembers crashed in the Iranian capital of Tehran shortly after its take-off from the Imam Khomeini International Airport on Wednesday.


tass--2020-01-08--80 people dead in Iran's missile attack on US bases in Iraq — Reuters

MOSCOW , January 8 .
/TASS/ .
80 people were killed in Iran ’ s missile attack on US bases @ @ @ @ @ with reference to Iran ’ s state television .
Earlier , CNN said citing sources @ @ @ @ @ the Iranian side hit the part of the Ain al-Asad air base in Iraq where @ @ @ @ @ .

MOSCOW, January 8. /TASS/. 80 people were killed in Iran’s missile attack on US bases in Iraq, Reuters reported with reference to Iran’s state television.
Earlier, CNN said citing sources that the missiles launched by the Iranian side hit the part of the Ain al-Asad air base in Iraq where no American troops were stationed.


tass--2020-01-08--All passengers and crew killed in Ukrainian plane crash near Tehran

`` The passengers and flight crew are deceased , '' the Ukrainian Foreign Ministry ’ s consular service said in a statement on Facebook .
KIEV , January 8 .
/TASS/ .
Passengers and crew of a Ukrainian plane crashed at Tehran Airport were killed , the Ukrainian Foreign Ministry said on Wednesday .
Citizens of seven countries died in the crash of Ukraine International Airlines Boeing 737 in Tehran , the death toll reached 176 people , Minister of Foreign Affairs of Ukraine Vadim Pristayko said on Twitter .
`` Now we know the following information about the countries @ @ @ @ @ @ @ PS 752 [ flight ] disaster : Iran - 82 ; Canada - 63 ; Ukraine - 2 + 9 ( crew ) ; Sweden - 10 ; Afghanistan - 4 ; Germany - 3 ; United Kingdom - 3 .
We express our condolences .
The Ukrainian authorities are continuing the investigation , '' he wrote .
Prime Minister of Ukraine Aleksey Goncharuk said that `` work to establish the causes of the tragedy has already been organized . ''
According to him , the Ukrainian consul is working at the scene @ @ @ @ @ @ @ created .
Earlier on Wednesday , reports appeared that the Boeing-737 of Ukraine International Airlines crashed after taking off from Tehran Airport due to a technical malfunction .
According to preliminary data , all people on board died .

"The passengers and flight crew are deceased," the Ukrainian Foreign Ministry’s consular service said in a statement on Facebook.
KIEV, January 8. /TASS/. Passengers and crew of a Ukrainian plane crashed at Tehran Airport were killed, the Ukrainian Foreign Ministry said on Wednesday.
Citizens of seven countries died in the crash of Ukraine International Airlines Boeing 737 in Tehran, the death toll reached 176 people, Minister of Foreign Affairs of Ukraine Vadim Pristayko said on Twitter.
"Now we know the following information about the countries of origin of the victims of the PS 752 [flight] disaster: Iran - 82; Canada - 63; Ukraine - 2 + 9 (crew); Sweden - 10; Afghanistan - 4; Germany - 3; United Kingdom - 3. We express our condolences. The Ukrainian authorities are continuing the investigation," he wrote.
Prime Minister of Ukraine Aleksey Goncharuk said that "work to establish the causes of the tragedy has already been organized." According to him, the Ukrainian consul is working at the scene, an operational crisis group has been created.
Earlier on Wednesday, reports appeared that the Boeing-737 of Ukraine International Airlines crashed after taking off from Tehran Airport due to a technical malfunction. According to preliminary data, all people on board died.


tass--2020-01-08--Zero chances of finding survivors of Ukrainian plane crash in Tehran — Red Crescent

TEHRAN , January 8 .
/TASS/ .
There are zero chances of finding survivors of a Ukrainian passenger jet crash @ @ @ @ @ Tehran , Head of Relief and Rescue Organization of Iran 's Red Crescent Society Morteza @ @ @ @ @ Fars news agency reported earlier in the day that a Boeing-737 of the Ukraine International @ @ @ @ @ crewmembers crashed in the Iranian capital of Tehran shortly after its take-off from the Imam @ @ @ @ @ are no chances that passengers have survived , '' Iranian news agency ISNA cited Salimi @ @ @

TEHRAN, January 8. /TASS/. There are zero chances of finding survivors of a Ukrainian passenger jet crash in the Iranian capital of Tehran, Head of Relief and Rescue Organization of Iran's Red Crescent Society Morteza Salimi said on Wednesday.
Fars news agency reported earlier in the day that a Boeing-737 of the Ukraine International Airlines carrying 180 passengers and crewmembers crashed in the Iranian capital of Tehran shortly after its take-off from the Imam Khomeini International Airport
"There are no chances that passengers have survived," Iranian news agency ISNA cited Salimi as saying.


tass--2020-01-08--Trump to make official statement on Iran missile attacks on Wednesday

`` Assessment of casualties & damages taking place now .
So far , so good !
We have the most powerful and well equipped military anywhere in the world , by far ! ''
the US president stated .
`` All is well !
Missiles launched from Iran at two military bases located in Iraq , '' Trump wrote in his Tweeter account .
WASHINGTON , January 8 .
/TASS/ .
US President Donald Trump will make an official statement on Wednesday morning on the Iranian missile attacks against military facilities in the west of Iraq , which host US-led @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Missiles launched from Iran at two military bases located in Iraq .
Assessment of casualties & damages taking place now .
So far , so good !
We have the most powerful and well equipped military anywhere in the world , by far !
I will be making a statement tomorrow morning .
Assistant to the US Secretary of Defense for Public Affairs Jonathan Hoffman said in a statement on early Wednesday that `` Iran launched more than a dozen ballistic missiles against US military and coalition forces in Iraq , '' adding @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and targeted at least two Iraqi military bases hosting U.S. military and coalition personnel at Al-Assad and Irbil . ''
The statement did not specify the damage or casualties following the missile attacks on the facilities with Hoffman saying : `` We are working on initial battle damage assessments . ''
The Islamic Revolutionary Guards Corps ( IRGC ) officially claimed the responsibility for the missile attacks stating that US forces , which are involved in acts of aggression against Iran , would be subjected to military attacks .
Iran ’ s news @ @ @ @ @ @ @ IRGC as saying that the operation in Iraq was code-named ‘ Martyr Soleimani.
’ The situation in the Middle East deteriorated sharply after the Pentagon announced on January 3 that Commander of the Quds Force of the Islamic Revolutionary Guards Corps ( the elite wing of the Iranian military ) General Qasem Soleimani had been killed in a US airstrike near Baghdad airport .
The missile strike came on order of US President Donald Trump .
According to the US Administration , the operation was defensive , as it was aimed at protecting @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
According to Washington , the attacks planned by the Iranian general could have led to the deaths of hundreds of Americans and Iraqis .
After the attack , Iran ’ s Supreme National Security Council vowed at an emergency session to exact `` severe revenge '' on those involved in the killing of Soleimani , blaming the US for the attack .

"Assessment of casualties & damages taking place now. So far, so good! We have the most powerful and well equipped military anywhere in the world, by far!" the US president stated.
"All is well! Missiles launched from Iran at two military bases located in Iraq," Trump wrote in his Tweeter account.
WASHINGTON, January 8. /TASS/. US President Donald Trump will make an official statement on Wednesday morning on the Iranian missile attacks against military facilities in the west of Iraq, which host US-led coalition personnel.
All is well! Missiles launched from Iran at two military bases located in Iraq. Assessment of casualties & damages taking place now. So far, so good! We have the most powerful and well equipped military anywhere in the world, by far! I will be making a statement tomorrow morning.
Assistant to the US Secretary of Defense for Public Affairs Jonathan Hoffman said in a statement on early Wednesday that "Iran launched more than a dozen ballistic missiles against US military and coalition forces in Iraq," adding that "missiles were launched from Iran and targeted at least two Iraqi military bases hosting U.S. military and coalition personnel at Al-Assad and Irbil."
The statement did not specify the damage or casualties following the missile attacks on the facilities with Hoffman saying: "We are working on initial battle damage assessments."
The Islamic Revolutionary Guards Corps (IRGC) officially claimed the responsibility for the missile attacks stating that US forces, which are involved in acts of aggression against Iran, would be subjected to military attacks.
Iran’s news agency ISNA quoted a statement from the IRGC as saying that the operation in Iraq was code-named ‘Martyr Soleimani.’
The situation in the Middle East deteriorated sharply after the Pentagon announced on January 3 that Commander of the Quds Force of the Islamic Revolutionary Guards Corps (the elite wing of the Iranian military) General Qasem Soleimani had been killed in a US airstrike near Baghdad airport. The missile strike came on order of US President Donald Trump.
According to the US Administration, the operation was defensive, as it was aimed at protecting US troops stationed in the Middle East. According to Washington, the attacks planned by the Iranian general could have led to the deaths of hundreds of Americans and Iraqis.
After the attack, Iran’s Supreme National Security Council vowed at an emergency session to exact "severe revenge" on those involved in the killing of Soleimani, blaming the US for the attack.


tass--2020-01-08--Ukrainian aircraft with 180 people aboard crashes after take-off in Tehran — media

MOSCOW , January 8 .
/TASS/ .
A Boeing-737 of the Ukraine International Airlines carrying 180 passengers and crewmembers crashed @ @ @ @ @ Tehran shortly after its take-off from the Imam Khomeini International Airport , Fars news agency @ @ @ @ @ to the agency , the passenger jet , which was en route from Tehran to @ @ @ @ @ , crashed due to technical problems .
A spokesman for the Ukraine International Airlines company @ @ @ @ @ no information about the crash of its aircraft in Iran .
`` We did not @ @ @ @ @ regard , '' the spokesman told TASS adding that `` the flight from Tehran took @ @ @ @ @ schedule and we have no more information . ''
Head of Relief and Rescue Organization @ @ @ @ @ Society Morteza Salimi that there were zero chances of finding survivors at the crash scene @ @ @ @ @ chances that passengers have survived , '' Iranian news agency ISNA cited Salimi as saying @

MOSCOW, January 8. /TASS/. A Boeing-737 of the Ukraine International Airlines carrying 180 passengers and crewmembers crashed in the Iranian capital of Tehran shortly after its take-off from the Imam Khomeini International Airport, Fars news agency reported on Wednesday.
According to the agency, the passenger jet, which was en route from Tehran to the Ukrainian capital of Kiev, crashed due to technical problems.
A spokesman for the Ukraine International Airlines company told TASS that it had no information about the crash of its aircraft in Iran.
"We did not receive any information in this regard," the spokesman told TASS adding that "the flight from Tehran took off in line with the schedule and we have no more information."
Head of Relief and Rescue Organization of Iran's Red Crescent Society Morteza Salimi that there were zero chances of finding survivors at the crash scene.
"There are no chances that passengers have survived," Iranian news agency ISNA cited Salimi as saying.


tass--2020-01-08--IRGC calls Israel ‘a US accomplice’ in assassination on General Soleimani — Fars news

Iran launches over a dozen ballistic missiles at US military facilities in Iraq — Pentagon TEHRAN , January 8 .
@ @ @ @ @ Guard Corps ( IRGC ) call Israel an accomplice of the United States in the @ @ @ @ @ Quds Force General Qasem Soleimani , Fars News Agency reported on Wednesday .
`` Within @ @ @ @ @ [ Soleimani ’ s assassination ] we in no way view Israel separately from the @ @ @ @ @ reported citing a statement from IRGC .

"Within the frames of this crime [Soleimani’s assassination] we in no way view Israel separately from the United States," Fars reported citing a statement from IRGC.
TEHRAN, January 8. /TASS/. The Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) call Israel an accomplice of the United States in the assassination of ex-commander of IRGC Quds Force General Qasem Soleimani, Fars News Agency reported on Wednesday.
The situation in the Middle East deteriorated sharply after the Pentagon announced on January 3 that Commander of the Quds Force of the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (the elite wing of the Iranian military) General Qasem Soleimani had been killed in a US airstrike near Baghdad airport. The missile strike came on order of US President Donald Trump.
According to the US Administration, the operation was defensive, as it was aimed at protecting US troops stationed in the Middle East. According to Washington, the attacks planned by the Iranian general could have led to the deaths of hundreds of Americans and Iraqis.
After the attack, Iran’s Supreme National Security Council vowed at an emergency session to exact "severe revenge" on those involved in the killing of Soleimani, blaming the US for the attack.


tass--2020-01-08--Several military aircraft destroyed in missile attacks at US facilities in Iraq — TV

Trump informed on missile attacks at US military facilities in Iraq CAIRO , January 8 .
/TASS/ .
Several US @ @ @ @ @ a result of missile attacks on Al Asad airbase in the west of Iraq , @ @ @ @ @ , Al Hadath television channel reported on Wednesday .
Al Mayadeen television channel reported that @ @ @ @ @ aircraft was destroyed on the landing stripe of the airbase , '' adding that `` @ @ @ @ @ . ''

Trump informed on missile attacks at US military facilities in Iraq
CAIRO, January 8. /TASS/. Several US military aircraft were destroyed as a result of missile attacks on Al Asad airbase in the west of Iraq, where American troops are deployed, Al Hadath television channel reported on Wednesday.
Al Mayadeen television channel reported that "one of the military aircraft was destroyed on the landing stripe of the airbase," adding that "the airbase requested medical assistance."