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Despite Obama's Concessions, Russia Remains Unhelpful on Iran
Joshua Kucera
The Obama administration's announcement last month that it was scrapping plans to build missile defense sites in Poland and the Czech Republic removed a prime irritant in the U.S.-Russian relationship; Russians felt the missile defense network was targeted as much at them as against the purported threat, Iran. And the move appeared at first to pay dividends. However ...
Can United States Truly Press 'Reset' Button With Russia
Ian Bremmer and Alexander Kliment
Today, Moscow and Washington elites glower at each other over a host of global disputes, and Russia, far from blossoming into the pro-Western, market-oriented democracy that the 1990s shock therapists dreamed of, has developed into a quasi-authoritarian petro-state at home, guided by zero-sum revisionist ambitions abroad.
Russia - History Made to Order
Paul Greenberg
At the outset of the great break-up of the Soviet Union, many of us hoped Russia would emerge as a free country, if not an ally then a friend. Looking back, any outcome so idyllic was about as realistic as Russia's becoming something other than Russia. Instead, the new Russia that emerged looks a lot like an old one, specifically the tsarist one.
Obama's Missile Defense Concession Holds Opportunity for European Security
Paul J. Saunders
It's a concession, but it could present an opportunity as well. While the move highlights the unhappy geography and tough political choices facing Central European leaders, it could also create an important opportunity to strengthen European security. The administration would do well to use this chance to try to encourage new and different relationships between the former Soviet bloc and Russia.
Working Together, Brazil, Russia, China and India Increase Leverage
Ian Bremmer
In 2003, a report authored by Goldman Sachs economists popularized the term BRICs -- Brazil, Russia, India and China -- to describe a whole new category of emerging-market powerhouse. The report argued that with sound political leadership and relative international stability, the BRIC economies would together outpace the original G6 industrialized nations in dollar terms by 2040 -- a fundamental shift in the global balance of power. Since then, these four countries have assumed ever-greater importance in the international investment community's collective imagination.
Obama's Balancing Act With Russian Relations
by Joshua Kucera
Does President Obama's "reset" of Russian relations mean that Washington will sell out its allies in the region? But Biden's trip gave political leaders in Kiev and Tbilisi reasons for concern.
Heart of the Future Between Russia & United States
by Robert C. Koehler
Last week's announcement from Moscow, of a new treaty between the U.S. and Russia to begin cutting their nuclear stockpiles by a quarter to a third, is indeed "modest" and perhaps downright "disappointing" in its tentativeness, as critics have pointed out. Even so, the heart of the future beats here.
The West's Reckless Approach to Relations with Russia
by Wiliam Pfaff
The failure last week of Russian talks with the European Union on energy supplies to Europe is one more occasion for Russian-Western tension.
Michelin-Starred Chef to Create Gourmet Meal at Cote Jardin
Marc de Passorio, a distinguished chef with extensive international experience, is bursting with pride over his restaurant’s first Michelin star, which was awarded in March this year.
Mariinsky Stars Welcome Guests at the Royal Ballet
The Royal Ballet in London has invited two Mariinsky ballerinas as guest dancers this year. Following Yekaterina Osmolkina’s guest appearances in “Swan Lake” in March, another star, Yevgenia Obraztsova (who was in Cedric Klapisch’s 2005 film “Russian Dolls” as well as in Bertand Normand’s 2006 film “Ballerina”), appeared in “The Sleeping Beauty.
Trout Triumph
Following its success with the Stroganoff Steak House and Russian Vodka Room No. 1, the Svoi V Gorode restaurant group has opened Fish House, an upscale modern restaurant on Pereulok Grivtsova.
India through the ages
A new exhibition at the Stroganov Palace titled “The Modern Art of India: Pictorial Trajectories,” traces the development of modern Indian art with selected pieces from the late 19th century through to the beginning of the 21st century.
Chernov’s choice
Marc Almond returns to St. Petersburg to give a glimpse of his second “Russian” album, called “Orpheus in Exile.” Due to perform at Zal Ozhidaniya on Sunday, Almond will pay homage to the late St.
Life of a lion
“Revolutionary Lion,” a new exhibition at the Museum of Political History, pays tribute to the life and work of Leon Trotsky.
Putin’s Vertical of Corruption
I have been wondering lately: How much of Russia’s gross domestic product is lost to bribes taken by government officials? Consider an ordinary example — the price of housing.
The Perfect Fall Guy
History has seen many cases of the ruling elite leading society into a dead end while convincing the people all of the time that the road is leading toward a bright future.
Banks Take Control of RosEuroDevelopment
A consortium of Gazprombank, Goldman Sachs and Citibank has taken control of RosEuroDevelopment, a major commercial real estate developer, because of the company’s debt.
Illegal Additions to Historic Homes
MOSCOW — As housing in Moscow gets more and more cramped, some homeowners are looking upward for extra space. The construction of mansards, or stylized roof extensions giving room for an extra loft, has become popular among homeowners as a cheap and effective way to increase the area of their apartments.
State Plans To Develop Low-Rise Housing
Builders say they are pleased with a government plan to develop the construction of low-rise housing, which they plan to offer for no more than 30,000 rubles ($1,050) per square meter.
Putin Seeks Consolidation For Petrochemicals Sector
MOSCOW — The government will encourage consolidation in the petrochemicals industry because it is too fragmented to become globally competitive, Prime Minister Vladimir Putin said late Tuesday, Reuters reported.
Report: Russia No. 1 in Economic Crime
MOSCOW — Companies in Russia experienced more economic crime this year than anywhere else in the world, according to a report released Thursday, which underscores the difficulties facing an ambitious Kremlin plan to curb corruption and lawlessness.
Central Bank Averts $44M Pension Fund Heist
MOSCOW — The Central Bank has foiled an attempt to steal 1.25 billion rubles ($44 million) from the state’s Pension Fund using counterfeit documents, a scheme that bankers say couldn’t have been carried out by ordinary criminals.
Ukraine Seeks Amendment to Gas Agreement
MOSCOW — Ukraine is seeking an amendment to its accord with Russia to waive fines for buying less gas than contracted this year, Ukrainian President Viktor Yushchenko said in a letter to Russian counterpart Dmitry Medvedev.
Energy Minister Says RusHydro Will Manage Dam Alone
MOSCOW — RusHydro is taking full control of management to complete building the Boguchanskaya dam, and the hydropower firm will be able to raise up to $660 million selling shares to the private sector next year, Energy Minister Sergei Shmatko said Wednesday.
Face of Nevsky Changes As Rental Rates Decrease
St. Petersburg’s central thoroughfare looks set to cease being a street of boutiques, as mid-range clothing stores and restaurant chains replace luxury brands.
Speedy Entry to WTO Sought
Russia remains committed to joining the World Trade Organization and wants to complete membership talks as quickly as possible, alone or with trade partners Belarus and Kazakhstan, President Dmitry Medvedev said Wednesday.
Shooting of 'Bonebreaker' Sparks Violence in Moscow
MOSCOW — A simmering confrontation between far-right youths and anti-racist activists has erupted into Moscow’s streets after the fatal shooting of an anti-racist activist known as “The Bonebreaker.
Hermitage Lawyer Dies in Custody
MOSCOW — A 37-year-old lawyer jailed amid a heated tax dispute between Hermitage Capital, once the largest investment fund in Russia, and the Interior Ministry died abruptly in Moscow’s Matrosskaya Tishina detention center.
TV Campaign Against Gazprom Tower Mounts
The controversial Gazprom Tower found itself under harsh attack last week on Russia’s main state television, Channel One, for the third time in the past four weeks — and its supporters struggled to offer any good reason to back the 403-meter-tall skyscraper in close proximity to the city center.
In Brief
Charity Presentation ST. PETERSBURG (SPT) — The Swedish medical center Ekolsund is hosting a charity event this weekend in conjunction with The Petersburg Balls Fund.
Russia Crashes Out of Soccer World Cup
MARIBOR, Slovenia — A first-half goal from Zlatko Dedic earned Slovenia a place at next year’s World Cup finals in South Africa, eliminating Russia on the away goals rule.
Constitutional Court Rules for Ban on Death Penalty
In a much-anticipated ruling, the Constitutional Court on Thursday introduced a permanent ban on capital punishment in Russia.
State Lays Claim to Geography Society
MOSCOW — Prime Minister Vladimir Putin’s passion for geography was on full display Wednesday as he became head of the Russian Geographical Society’s board of trustees, a day after Emergency Situations Minister Sergei Shoigu unexpectedly became the group’s president.
The St. Petersburg Times
Issue #1528 (90), Friday, November 20, 2009
Price is right for nude grocery shoppers
In a Russian supermarket in the provincial town of Kolomna, customers have been allowed to take home any item for free if they came into the shop without wearing clothes.
‘Too young’ and ‘too old’ Europeans pushed to sidelines of life
Despite the increasing awareness among EU citizens of their rights, levels of age discrimination have risen considerably in the Union. The new opinion survey released by the European Commission has some alarming figures.
The ins and outs of the British prison system
As the UK’s general election looms closer, the Tory’s are using every Labour weak spot to secure votes. Their latest line of attack criticizes an ‘incompetent’ prison service. But what is the Tory’s solution?
Cannibals survived brain disease epidemic thanks to a mutation
Survivors of the deadly epidemic of prion disease kuru, which was transmitted through cannibalistic rituals, share a particular genetic mutation. Researchers call it a striking example of human evolution in action.
In condoms we trust: can contraceptives cool the planet?
As global leaders begin the herculean task of cooling a warming planet, one UN group has suggested free contraceptives and family planning seminars to reduce the planet’s numbers.
Corruption clouds ability to address economic reform
Key addresses by Russia’s political leaders have underlined economic reform’s place on the national agenda. But corruption will limit their ability to face up to that reform unless it too is addressed.
Masked gunman kills priest in Moscow
A criminal investigation is underway following a shooting in southern Moscow yesterday. One priest, Father Daniil, was killed and another, Father Vladimir, critically wounded.
Easy on the gas!
Russia and Ukraine have reached an agreement on gas deals, which may mean that last year’s gas crisis in Europe will not be repeated.
Israeli Bedouin accepted for first time as member of kibbutz
For the first time in the century-old history of the Israeli kibbutz, a Bedouin has been accepted as a member of one.
Youth group vows to get “Putin’s granny” out of psychiatric clinic
Activists from Nashi – a pro-Kremlin political youth movement - have stepped up their efforts to help Natalia Karpova, an 83-year old ardent admirer of Vladimir Putin, out of a mental institution.
Russia-Germany: strategic partners in Europe and Asia
Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov has met with his German counterpart, Guido Westerwelle, who is on his first official visit to Moscow.
National anthem not a hymn, say communists
Russian communists proposed on Tuesday to change the text of the Russian national anthem to exclude the mention of God.
ROAR: “Saakashvili will devour Yushchenko’s tie”
The Ukrainian president’s “political game” is hindering the cooperation of Moscow and Kiev in the gas sphere, the media say.
Fusion power project launch date doubted
ITER, the international project to concept proof nuclear fusion technology, may be postponed. The agreed date of launch was put in doubt by some members.
Sarkozy apologizes for Henry’s handball skills
French president Nicolas Sarkozy has apologized before Irish Prime Minister Brian Cowen for the way his country qualified for South Africa 2010.
RT
RT
Keep an Eye on the Balkans
Trouble is brewing.
Germany and Russia's Pipeline Plans Progress
Wary View of Democracy in Eastern Bloc
A poll shows Ukrainians becoming more pro-Russian.
Nations of the East Agree to Unite
Asia made good progress toward creating an Asian trading community at the latest Asian summit.
Russia-China Relations Reaching New Highs
Vladimir Putin’s visit to Beijing reveals Russia and China to be on the fast track to allegiance.
Iran Close to Building Nuke, Say Press Leaks
Iran could be close to creating a fully functioning nuclear missile—with Russia’s help.
EU Report Condemns Georgia
Europe’s report on the 2008 Georgia war legitimizes Russia’s actions, giving further proof of a German-Russian deal.
Iran Nuclear Crisis Will Not Be Solved by the UN
Russia will make sure the UN is a lame duck, leaving only one other major player left to solve the issue.
Russia and India Committed to Strategic Partnership
Japan Wants East Asian Community
Japan’s new Prime Minister Yukio Hatoyama is pushing for an East Asian community. This will mark a new phase for Asia.
China and Russia Undermining U.S. Power
The giants of the East are positioned to upset U.S. sanctions on Iran by supplying Tehran with gasoline.
America's Fatal European Policy
The current American administration has just enacted its most disastrous foreign-policy decision to date.
Venezuela Recognizes Pro-Russian Breakaway Provinces of Georgia
Russian influence expands in America’s backyard.
World Leaders Believed German Reunification Would Lead to World War III
Documents released leading up to the 20th anniversary of the fall of the Berlin Wall contain a powerful warning for us today.
The World Shakes, America Slumbers
America’s wispy presence at this week’s 70th-anniversary commemoration of the start of World War II did not go unnoticed.
Russia Reacts to Japanese Elections
Russian Investors Save German Shipyard
The German-Russian relationship strengthens.
Russia's Ghost Ship Reemerges
The missing freighter has been located, but we’re still searching for the truth.
Russia Woos Ukraine's People
The Kremlin’s gentle takeover
Russia Is Stirring. Time to Watch Germany
Russia’s war against Georgia August last year taught us that it is unlikely the Kremlin will create a crisis without first consulting Berlin.
Russia Plays Hardball With America
Two Russian subs sighted off America’s East Coast serve as a reminder of just how Russia views the current U.S. administration.
Russia Returns to America's Back Door
As the struggling U.S. administration thrashes around to save a sinking U.S. ship, an old enemy sails up to its back door.
World Prepares to Dump the Dollar
American economists think the world can’t afford to let go of the dollar’s reserve currency status. The world is about to teach them differently.
Russia Reaffirms Commitment to Deploy Missiles
Russia isn’t backing away from its opposition to the U.S.-planned missile shield in Eastern Europe.
Vladimir Putin 1, Barack Obama 0
Time will prove that Mr. Obama failed in his attempt this week to “push the reset button” with Russia.
theTrumpet.com: Russia
theTrumpet.com -- Understand your world.
Stock Indices in Ukraine: October
There are two indices that determine stock market development in Ukraine. The first was calculated beginning in 1995 and is called PFTS and the second is Ukrainian equity index UX which began in April this year. Now the main volume of operations at Ukrainian stock market is concentrated in UX...
EBRD says Moldova sorely affected by crisis
The small and medium-sized companies encountered considerable difficulties in raising loans from banks. The conclusions are contained in the transition report for the first six months of this year presented by the European Bank for Reconstruction and Development at the Summit of the Central European Initiative in Bucharest Info-Prim Neo...
Azerbaijan President welcomed on official visit
The President of Azerbaijan Ilham Aliyev has been given an official welcome on 12 November in Minsk at the Presidential palace the AzerTaj state news agency reported.
The President of Belarus Alexander Lukashenko has suggested to Azerbaijan President Ilham Aliyev that the two countries should aim for joint projects of a...
Russias Sberbank may open big credit line for Belarus
Russias Sberbank may open a big credit line for Belarus which would allow the country to satisfy its needs in external borrowing next year Finance Minister of Belarus Andrei Kharkovets told reporters on 12 November according to the Belarus News Agency. We have proposals from Russias Sberbank. We are studying...
Belarus Russia to jointly produce fuel chips and pellets
Belarus and Russia intend to set up the new joint company which will produce fuel chips and pellets Belarusian Forestry Minister Piotr Semashko told reporters on the eve of a regular session of the CIS forestry management council in Minsk on 12 November. We plan to set up a joint...
Natalia German chief negotiator with EU
Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs and European Integration Natalia Gherman was designated as chief negotiator on behalf of Moldova in the talks over the new cooperation agreement with the European Union. Prime Minister Vlad Filat was named chairman of the Commission while Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs...
Tymoshenko to apply to Constitutional Court
The government will apply to the Constitutional Court contesting the law on introducing amendments into the state budget for 2009 concerning increasing of the social standards in case of signing it by President of Ukraine Victor Yushchenko. According to an Ukraine National News Agency correspondent Prime Minister of Ukraine Yulia...
Putin vows to improve investment environment
Russian Prime Minister Vladimir Putin said the government will continue to adopt measures to better investment environment. At the annual plenary session of the Consultative Council on Foreign Investments Putin said the Russian government is cracking down on bureaucracy and would delegate part of its permission and licensing functions to...
US Russia continue arms reduction talks
The United States and Russia on 9 November began another round of talks over nuclear disarmament in the Swiss city of Geneva with diplomatic sources saying the talks could continue into mid-December.
German weekly Der Spiegel quoted Russian President Dmitry Medvedev as saying that there was a chance that a...
Russia hopes Renault will up stake in AvtoVAZ
Despite French carmaker Renaults earlier statement that it will not invest any more money in AvtoVAZ Deputy Prime Minister Igor Shuvalov was quoted by the press as saying on 10 November that the Russian government would consider any offer from Renault to increase its 25% stake in the troubled Russian...
Ukrainian hryvnia trends
The official exchange rate of the American dollar in Ukraine at the very beginning of October was equal to UAH 800.4/$100 from the 5-13 October the rate demonstrated stability UAH 801/$100. Then it started to decrease slightly and on the 19 October was at the minimum month level UAH 797/$100....
BEM president discharged
The president of Banca de Economii BEM Grigore Gacikevich was dismissed from post by the banks Board. Prime Minister Vlad Filat said a final decision will to be taken at the general assembly of shareholders Info-Prim Neo reports.
The Government holds over 56% of the stock in this bank. The...
H1N1 flu takes 7 lives in Belarus
Seven people had died of the A/H1N1 flu pandemic in Belarus the countrys Health Ministry said on 5 November. Over the past two weeks 19 people died of acute pneumonia in Belarus. Among them seven were confirmed as having the A/H1N1 flu virus the RIA Novosti news agency quoted Valentina Kachan...
Presidential campaign gets dirty
Hopes for a clean presidential election campaign in Ukraine have been dashed in its opening days as allies of the two main contenders trade accusations of rape and child abuse. Prime Minister Yulia Tymoshenko and her more Russia-friendly rival Viktor Yanukovich are expected to run neck-and-neck in the January 17th...
New president of National Trade Unions elected
Oleg Budza was elected as president of the National Confederation of Trade Unions of Moldova Alexandru Shkendra the head of the Confederations press office has told Info-Prim Neo. Oleg Budza had been the Confederations vice president but acted also as president on an interim basis after the former president Leonid...
Religious leaders vow to combat fighting
Dialogue between religious leaders is important to prevent wars Minsk and Slutsk Metropolitan All-Belarus Patriarch Filaret said. Interreligious dialogue began 20 years ago and is aimed at cooperation and mutual efforts to prevent wars he told journalists in Baku on 5 November. Earlier we held a conference on Religious Leaders...
Kudrin courts Eurobond investors
Russian Finance Minister Alexei Kudrin and Central Banks First Deputy Chairman Alexei Ulyukayev met around 50 investors in London on 5 November in a bid to persuade them Russia is not as risky as currently perceived.
But Kudrin said it was too early to provide specifics about an expected bond...
France Russia mull helicopter carrier deal
France is sending a warship to Russia ahead of a groundbreaking deal for the purchase of a helicopter carrier. The planned purchase of the French amphibious assault ship reaffirms Russias growing global reach and bid to beef up its forces.
Russias Navy General Staff Oleg Burstev told local media that the...
No more French money for AvtoVAZ
French carmaker Renault will not invest more money in troubled Russian market leader AvtoVAZ despite a threat by Russian prime minister Vladimir Putin to dilute Renaults 25% stake in the company should it refuse to do so. Russian media reports on 3 November cited Christian Esteve a member of Renaults...
Russia astonished over GM decision on Opel
The Russian government expressed its surprise on 4 November at the decision by US car giant General Motors to hold onto its European subsidiary Opel and not to sell it. Dmitry Peskov Interfax quoted a spokesman for Prime Minister Vladimir Putin as saying the decision had caused astonishment in Russia...
Belarus: lift sanctions
The European Unionrsquo;s foreign ministers will meet this month to decide whether economic and political sanctions on Belarus should be eased or removed. The decision will come even as Belarusrsquo; hard-line President Alexander Lukashenko has made the case his country is slowly moving toward democratic reforms and more openness although...
Putin urges EU to lend Ukraine at least $1 billion
Russian Prime Minister Vladimir Putin urged the European Union on 2 November to lend Ukraine at least $1 billion to help it pay for natural gas supplies from Russia and avoid another disruption of flows to Europe. Putin said Russia had done its part by paying transit fees of $2.5...
Moscow London try to thaw frosty ties
As the first top British diplomat to visit Moscow in recent five years British Foreign Secretary David Miliband wrapped up his two-day visit to Russia on 2 November where the he held talks with Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov. The latter hailed the talks with Miliband as ldquo;good and productive.rdquo;
The...
Rasmussen Putin discuss new climate deal
Russian Prime Minister Vladimir Putin said on 2 November that Moscow is willing to join a new agreement on climate change. But a global warming pact to be agreed next month in Copenhagen must take into account the carbon dioxide absorption potential of Russiarsquo;s sprawling forests Putin said after talks...
Tourism trends in Ukraine
Theoretically with national currency devaluation demand for Ukraine as for a touristy place should have gone up. But on the other hand the Ukrainian tourism market is not fully formed and has chaotic character.
The countryside still depends on its own infrastructure which needs modernization and the devaluation itself did not...
New procedure for electing head of state
The chairwoman of the parliamentary group of the PCRM said the project is obscure. I think it was adopted in order to delay the election of the head of state Maria Postoiko said.
The Parliament Thursday passed amendments to the procedure for electing the President of Moldova in first reading...
Belarus-Russia forum called by Putin
Russian Prime Minister Vladimir Putin on Wednesday will hold a meeting of the Council of Ministers of the Russian-Belarusian Union State. Taking part the meeting will be Belarusian Prime Minister Sergei Sidorsky State Secretary of the Union State Pavel Borodin and heads of the relevant ministries and departments of the...
90 projects on show at investment forum
More than 90 investment projects will be presented at the Belarusian investment and economic forum in Minsk on 12-13 November First Deputy Economy Minister of Belarus Piotr Zhabko told a press conference BelTA has learnt. He underlined that they are only those projects that will be showcased during the forum;...
Gas market framework
The Cabinet of Ministers of Ukraine at its sitting on 14 October 2009 approved a draft law On the Fundamentals for functioning of the natural gas market and submitted it to the Verkhovna Rada Parliament of Ukraine. The document was registered in the Verkhovna Rada of Ukraine on October 22...
IMFs assistance of $590 million
The Premier said the Moldovan authorities explained that the reestablishment of the relations with the foreign donors is a vital necessity for Moldova. The Government of Moldova and the mission of the International Monetary Fund IMF which had been in Chisinau between 13-28 October reached a preliminary agreement on a...
Putin Vanhanen discuss Nord Stream
Russian Prime Minister Vladimir Putin said on 25 October after talks with his Finnish counterpart Matti Vanhanen that he hopes the Nord Stream gas pipeline will be built on schedule. Nord Stream will be built within the time frame set before and we thank our Finish colleagues for that Putin...
Russia India China to cooperate against terrorism
Russia India and China agreed on 27 October to enhance cooperation in combating terrorism and expressed concern at the deteriorating security situation in Afghanistan. A joint communique issued after a meeting in Bangalore of the foreign ministers of the three countries said among the topics they discussed were the global...
BAA sells off Londons Gatwick airport
British airports operators BAA unveiled a deal on 21 October for the sale of Londons Gatwick airport to a US-based investment fund for GBP 1.5 billion $2.4 billion DPA reported. The agreement with Global Infrastructure Partners GIP came a year after BAAs Spanish owner Ferrovial put Gatwick up for sale...
Cadbury figures could make Kraft work
Cadbury has beaten sales forecasts and raised targets in a bumper third-quarter trading report. The figures may put pressure on US group Kraft to come up with a bigger bid to win its takeover battle RTE Ireland reported on 21 October. The UK confectionery group said its underlying sales rose...
Qatar sale fuels Sainsbury talk
Qatar has sold a GBP 1.4 billion stake in British bank Barclays fuelling market expectations that it will use a big profit to make a move on UK food retailer Sainsbury RTE Ireland reported on October 20. Qatar owns 26 percent of Sainsbury and the retailers shares jumped by a...
China ready to turn on $1 bln tap
The Chinese Ambassador to Moldova Shi Longzhuang said during his meeting with Moldovan Prime Minister Vlad Filat here on 23 October that the credit for $1 billion is close to confirmed.
The diplomat spoke out for broadening cooperation between the two nations and said his country had provided assistance worth 5...
IMF gives Belarus 700 million dollars praises Lukashenko
The International Monetary Fund IMF loaned Belarus 700 million dollars with fund managers praising the planning skills of the countrys authoritarian leader Aleksander Lukashenko the Belapan news agency reported on 22 October as cited by Deutsche Presse Agentur dpa . The IMF credit was the second tranche of a total...
Lukashenko says EU pressure on Belarus doesnt work
A European Union campaign to push for reforms in Belarus government will not produce results Belorussian President Aleksander Lukashenko said on 19 October. Pressuring any sovereign nation is a foolish idea and to pressure a country in the very heart of Europe is senseless Lukashenko said. Sanctions wont have any...
Moldovas output drops
The Moldovan transport companies cargoes constituted 40.8% against the same period of 2008. The Moldovan output in January-September constituted 16. 321 billion lei $1.47 billion - 75.7% against the same period of 2008. According to the National Bureau for Statistics this slippage was caused by a 32.4% decrease in the...
Volkswagen launches plant in Kaluga Region
Russian Prime Minister Vladimir Putin inspected on 20 October a Volkswagen plant in the Kaluga Region southwest of Moscow. His visit came on the day that the German automaker launched the assembly of complete knock-down kits. Putin arrived at the factory in a Volkswagen car. He was met by the...
Medvedev Tadic agree on several projects
Russian President Dmitry Medvedev arrived in Belgrade on 20 October with several major projects in the energy sector to demonstrate Moscows economic support and interests in fellow Christian Orthodox nation Serbia. After meeting with Serbian President Boris Tadic Medvedev said that the two leaders agreed on several projects that will...
Ukraine should be a neutral state says Yanukovich
Former Prime Minister Viktor Yanukovich announced his candidacy for the Ukrainian Presidency on 23 October saying the ex- Soviet republic should remain neutral between Russia and western nations. ldquo;I will give Ukraine a new foreign policy: Ukraine will be an unaligned state rdquo; Yanukovich said.
Reconciliation with Russia and improved...
Blatter praises Russian World Cup bid in Putin meeting
World football supremo Joseph Blatter met with Russian Prime Minister Vladimir Putin on 15 October with news reports quoting him as saying that he has a lot of sympathy for Russiarsquo;s 2018 and 2022 World Cup bid. Russia unveiled the bid two weeks ago pledging full government support and to...
Baltics push for EU debate on Molotov-Ribbentrop pact
The Baltic states pushed on 14 October for an international debate on the notorious 1939 Molotov-Ribbentrop Pact - which handed the region to Nazi Germany and the Soviet Union - as they held a conference at the European Parliament in Brussels. ldquo;In Poland we used to say that World War...
Group slams Siberian nuke storage
A Russian environmentalist group on 16 October criticized the way nuclear waste from Germany was being stored in the open air in restricted military areas in Siberia and appealed for awareness of the issue in Germany. Vladim Slivyak head of the Ecodefense environmental group said that barrels of nuclear wastes...
Euro 2012: Final match?
IN OCTOBER experts from UEFA will pay one more visit to check Ukrainian cities. Ivan Fedorov deputy director of Euro 2012 in Ukraine said that on 15 October experts would visit Ukrainian stadiums and on 26 October the airports. He added that there were no doubts that Euro 2012 would...
Moldova lowest salary
ALMOST a third of Moldovan workers and employees receive a salary lower than the minimum subsistence level.
Moldovas minimum salary is the lowest in Europe - around 0.21 per hour it was concluded during a round table discussion dedicated to the situation of the labour market organized by the National Trade...
Party membership means punishment
BELARUSIAN soldiers have been told that they must suspend their membership in political parties while serving in the military RFE/RLs Belarus Service reports.
Belarusian Defence Minister Leanid Maltsau said in Minsk on 8 October that any soldier who continues his or her political activities while in the ranks of the...
Solanas Ukraine statement raises Kiev questions
THE statement made by EU High Representative Javier Solana on Ukraine during his speech at Harvard University Kennedy School in New York more than a week ago has raised questions and even anger in Kiev.
Local media quoted Solana as saying that he did not see any membership prospective for...
Renault to help finance troubled automaker AvtoVAZ
FRENCH auto giant Renault is willing to invest in troubled Russian carmaker AvtoVAZ in which it has a stake Russian First Deputy Prime Minister Igor Shuvalov said on 6 October. Renault confirmed yesterday that it was prepared to invest in the development of AvtoVAZ including the provision of the most...
Russia News - New Europe News
Russia News - New Europe News: The European News Source.
Putin vows to improve investment environment
Russian Prime Minister Vladimir Putin said the government will continue to adopt measures to better investment environment. At the annual plenary session of the Consultative Council on Foreign Investments Putin said the Russian government is cracking down on bureaucracy and would delegate part of its permission and licensing functions to...
US Russia continue arms reduction talks
The United States and Russia on 9 November began another round of talks over nuclear disarmament in the Swiss city of Geneva with diplomatic sources saying the talks could continue into mid-December.
German weekly Der Spiegel quoted Russian President Dmitry Medvedev as saying that there was a chance that a...
Russia hopes Renault will up stake in AvtoVAZ
Despite French carmaker Renaults earlier statement that it will not invest any more money in AvtoVAZ Deputy Prime Minister Igor Shuvalov was quoted by the press as saying on 10 November that the Russian government would consider any offer from Renault to increase its 25% stake in the troubled Russian...
Kudrin courts Eurobond investors
Russian Finance Minister Alexei Kudrin and Central Banks First Deputy Chairman Alexei Ulyukayev met around 50 investors in London on 5 November in a bid to persuade them Russia is not as risky as currently perceived.
But Kudrin said it was too early to provide specifics about an expected bond...
France Russia mull helicopter carrier deal
France is sending a warship to Russia ahead of a groundbreaking deal for the purchase of a helicopter carrier. The planned purchase of the French amphibious assault ship reaffirms Russias growing global reach and bid to beef up its forces.
Russias Navy General Staff Oleg Burstev told local media that the...
No more French money for AvtoVAZ
French carmaker Renault will not invest more money in troubled Russian market leader AvtoVAZ despite a threat by Russian prime minister Vladimir Putin to dilute Renaults 25% stake in the company should it refuse to do so. Russian media reports on 3 November cited Christian Esteve a member of Renaults...
Russia astonished over GM decision on Opel
The Russian government expressed its surprise on 4 November at the decision by US car giant General Motors to hold onto its European subsidiary Opel and not to sell it. Dmitry Peskov Interfax quoted a spokesman for Prime Minister Vladimir Putin as saying the decision had caused astonishment in Russia...
Putin urges EU to lend Ukraine at least $1 billion
Russian Prime Minister Vladimir Putin urged the European Union on 2 November to lend Ukraine at least $1 billion to help it pay for natural gas supplies from Russia and avoid another disruption of flows to Europe. Putin said Russia had done its part by paying transit fees of $2.5...
Moscow London try to thaw frosty ties
As the first top British diplomat to visit Moscow in recent five years British Foreign Secretary David Miliband wrapped up his two-day visit to Russia on 2 November where the he held talks with Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov. The latter hailed the talks with Miliband as ldquo;good and productive.rdquo;
The...
Rasmussen Putin discuss new climate deal
Russian Prime Minister Vladimir Putin said on 2 November that Moscow is willing to join a new agreement on climate change. But a global warming pact to be agreed next month in Copenhagen must take into account the carbon dioxide absorption potential of Russiarsquo;s sprawling forests Putin said after talks...
Putin Vanhanen discuss Nord Stream
Russian Prime Minister Vladimir Putin said on 25 October after talks with his Finnish counterpart Matti Vanhanen that he hopes the Nord Stream gas pipeline will be built on schedule. Nord Stream will be built within the time frame set before and we thank our Finish colleagues for that Putin...
Russia India China to cooperate against terrorism
Russia India and China agreed on 27 October to enhance cooperation in combating terrorism and expressed concern at the deteriorating security situation in Afghanistan. A joint communique issued after a meeting in Bangalore of the foreign ministers of the three countries said among the topics they discussed were the global...
Volkswagen launches plant in Kaluga Region
Russian Prime Minister Vladimir Putin inspected on 20 October a Volkswagen plant in the Kaluga Region southwest of Moscow. His visit came on the day that the German automaker launched the assembly of complete knock-down kits. Putin arrived at the factory in a Volkswagen car. He was met by the...
Medvedev Tadic agree on several projects
Russian President Dmitry Medvedev arrived in Belgrade on 20 October with several major projects in the energy sector to demonstrate Moscows economic support and interests in fellow Christian Orthodox nation Serbia. After meeting with Serbian President Boris Tadic Medvedev said that the two leaders agreed on several projects that will...
Ukraine should be a neutral state says Yanukovich
Former Prime Minister Viktor Yanukovich announced his candidacy for the Ukrainian Presidency on 23 October saying the ex- Soviet republic should remain neutral between Russia and western nations. ldquo;I will give Ukraine a new foreign policy: Ukraine will be an unaligned state rdquo; Yanukovich said.
Reconciliation with Russia and improved...
Blatter praises Russian World Cup bid in Putin meeting
World football supremo Joseph Blatter met with Russian Prime Minister Vladimir Putin on 15 October with news reports quoting him as saying that he has a lot of sympathy for Russiarsquo;s 2018 and 2022 World Cup bid. Russia unveiled the bid two weeks ago pledging full government support and to...
Baltics push for EU debate on Molotov-Ribbentrop pact
The Baltic states pushed on 14 October for an international debate on the notorious 1939 Molotov-Ribbentrop Pact - which handed the region to Nazi Germany and the Soviet Union - as they held a conference at the European Parliament in Brussels. ldquo;In Poland we used to say that World War...
Group slams Siberian nuke storage
A Russian environmentalist group on 16 October criticized the way nuclear waste from Germany was being stored in the open air in restricted military areas in Siberia and appealed for awareness of the issue in Germany. Vladim Slivyak head of the Ecodefense environmental group said that barrels of nuclear wastes...
Renault to help finance troubled automaker AvtoVAZ
FRENCH auto giant Renault is willing to invest in troubled Russian carmaker AvtoVAZ in which it has a stake Russian First Deputy Prime Minister Igor Shuvalov said on 6 October. Renault confirmed yesterday that it was prepared to invest in the development of AvtoVAZ including the provision of the most...
Economy shrinks at slowest rate in nine months
RUSSIAS economy contracted in September at the slowest monthly pace in 2009 London-based VTB Capital announced in a report. Gross domestic product GDP shrank 2.1% in August from the same month last year after a 3.9% contraction in July. The economy shrank an annual 4.1% in the third quarter compared...
Medvedev warns of fatal oil dependence
RUSSIA must move beyond its dependence on oil exports and reorient its economy around technology President Dmitry Medvedev said on 6 October in a speech at a nanotechnology forum in Moscow. Our post-crisis economy should be based on knowledge and innovative technologies not on Russias potential in raw materials no...
Washington reassures Moscow on missile-shield plan
THE US on 9 October sought to reassure Russia that Washington had no plans to deploy radars or weaponry in Ukraine as part of its new missile- defence plan.
Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov earlier described a recent US suggestion that portions of an European anti-missile radar system might be based...
State to decrease stake in companies
Russian Prime Minister Vladimir Putin told investors on 29 September that he would reduce the states ownership of companies over the coming years to allow for better growth. We have to reflect on perfecting cooperation with foreign investors Putin told Russian and foreign investors at a Moscow business forum intended...
Medvedev examines newest energy-saving technologies
Russian President Dmitry Medvedev visited Moscows Kurchatov Nuclear Research Institute on 30 September to chair a joint meeting of the commission on the modernisation and technological development of the Russian economy and the Presidium of the presidents Council on Science Technology and Education Itar-Tass reported. Institute Director Mikhail Kovalchuk took...
EDF mulls South Stream stake
French power company Electricite de France SA EDF has just announced on 30 September that it may be acquiring a minority holding in Russian gas monopoly Gazproms South Stream gas pipeline project news agencies reported. Some reports have indicated that the EDF stake could possibly be as much as 10%...
Daimler moves to strengthen position in truck market
German vehicle group Daimler AG said on October 1 it had moved to boost its market presence in Russia with its Mercedes-Benz trucks offshoot and Russian truck maker Kamaz planning to forge a joint venture Deutsche Presse-Agentur dpa reported. Kamaz and Mercedes-Benz trucks signed a letter of intent to create...
Putin to visit China on October 12-14
Russian Prime Minister Vladimir Putin will visit China from October 12-14 to meet Chinese leaders and attend a Central Asian security summit Chinas Foreign Ministry said on 29 September. Putins visit was timed to coincide with the 60th anniversary of diplomatic relations between China and Russia and with a council...
Russia and Switzerland sign Visa and asylum seekers accords
During the first of the two-day visit to Switzerland Russian President Dmitry Medvedev signed with Swiss officials various accords including agreements on visa regulations for diplomats and issues pertaining to asylum seekers. There were also talks of possible free-trade deals further down the line as well as some backing from...
Medvedev Hu reaffirm strategic partnership
Russia President Dmitry Medvedev met his Chinese counterpart Hu Jintao separately on the sidelines of 64th General Debate of the United Nations General Assembly in New York US news agencies reported. They exchanged views on bilateral relations and issues of common interests.
During talks with Medvedev Hu said he hopes the...
Medvedev: No rift with Putin
Russian President Dmitry Medvedev moved to quash speculation of a rift with Prime Minister Vladimir Putin on 20 September telling CNN that the pair worked very well together. Putin who served the full permitted two terms as president before stepping down last year to become prime minister has recently stoked...
AvtoVAZ to cut one-quarter of its workforce
Russias biggest carmaker AvtoVAZ said that it will cut one-quarter of its workforce at its Tolyatti production plant as sales drop news agencies reported. Annual production will probably fall to 500 000 vehicles the Togliatti-based carmaker announced. Last year AvtoVAZ manufactured around 920 000 vehicles. The job cuts include 5...
Russia drops plans for missiles on Polish border
Russian President Dmitry Medvedev has confirmed that Russia will not place short-range missiles near its border with Poland Interfax reported on 26 September.
The Kremlin chief was speaking after the G20 summit innbsp; Pittsburgh. He said there was no longer a need for Russia to deploy Iskander missiles in the...
Writers and intellectuals urge Europe to stand up for Georgia
A group of European intellectuals and former politicians including former Czech president Vaclav Havel urged Europe on 22 September to back Georgia in its territorial conflict with Russia.
The signatories including French philosophers Bernard-Henri Levy and Andre Glucksmann made the call in an open letter as a European Union commission...
Putins energy D-Day
Prime Minister Vladimir Putin said Russia would welcome international oil and gas firms to join local companies to develop the energy-rich Arctic peninsula of Yamal in the latest sign Moscow is seeking to bolster foreign investment and expertise. In return Russia hopes its energy companies will move downstream gaining more...
MEPs address human right situation in Russia
In an urgent resolution adopted on September 17 in Strasbourg members of the European Parliament want Russia to shed light on the murders of four human rights campaigners Stanislav Markelov Natalia Estemirova Zarema Sadulayeva and Alik Dzhabrailov.
Parliament urged the Russian authorities ldquo;to investigate swiftly thoroughly and effectivelyrdquo; the murders...
Putin calls on Washington to lift trade barriers
Russian Prime Minister Vladimir Putin on September 18 challenged Washington to cancel all existing restrictions on trade with Russia and give the go-ahead to World Trade Organization membership for Russia Belarus and Kazakhstan news agencies reported. I very much hope that this right and brave decision will be followed up...
Aeroflot Gaz to cut thousands of jobs
Russias largest airline Aeroflot is to cut up to 6 000 jobs because of falling passenger numbers news agencies reported on September 17. Over the next half year alone 2 000 of Aeroflots 15 000 employees are to go said Interfax quoting company statements. In its first half-year report the...
Bulgaria mulls selling Belene stake to Russia
Russias Energy Minister Sergei Shmatko arrived in Bulgaria on September 18 to discuss the possible sale of the planned Belene nuclear power plant as the Balkan country is fishing for investors for its majority stake.
Bulgarias new government is considering selling part of its stake in the four billion-euro nuclear power...
Russia Venezuela boost energy military ties
During the visit of Venezuelan President Hugo Chavez to Moscow Russia and Venezuela signed on September 10 a package of deals including one to develop the Latin American countrys Orinoco oil belt with estimated reserves of 235 billion barrels of heavy oil RIA Novosti reported. Venezuelas state oil firm PDVSA...
Khordorkovsky resigned to life imprisonment
Mikhail Khordorkovsky expects to be jailed for life when his second trial ends the former Russian oil tycoon told the German news magazine Focus. They will attempt to keep me in prison for the rest of my life the former head of the now disbanded oil concern YUKOS said in...
Russian market faces a tougher autumn
Russias equity markets have been amongst the best performing in the world year-to-date Uralsib investor bank in Moscow said in a report. This is partly because valuations fell too far at the end of last year as investors feared a near-catastrophic scenario and also because of the recovery in the...
Saudis close to signing major arms deal with Russia
Saudi Arabia is close to signing a deal with Russian to buy arms worth USD two billion Interfax quoted a defense industry source as saying recently. The prospective purchase includes 150 helicopters more than 150 tanks and air defense systems the source said. If it comes off it would make...
Rosneft announces revenue decline confident for 2009
Russias number one oil producer Rosneft reported a 48.8 percent decline in revenue for the first half of 2009 though second-quarter results improved. Rosneft announced its revenue in the first half of 2009 fell USD 19.2 billion a 48.8 percent decline from the first half of 2008. The company blamed...
Russia India discuss trade nuclear cooperation
India and Russia on September 3 agreed to enhance the bilateral ties in spheres like trade peaceful use of nuclear energy and military-technical cooperation and vowed to tackle the menace of terrorism jointly. Visiting Indian President Pratibha Patil held wide-ranging talks with her Russian counterpart Dmitry Medvedev and both agreed...
Borisovs Blind Mans Bluff with Putin
Bulgaria attended the celebrations in Polandrsquo;s Gdansk on the occasion of the 70th anniversary of the outbreak of World War II but Sofiarsquo;s focus was on the meeting between Bulgarian Prime Minister Boyko Borisov and his Russian counterpart Vladimir Putin.
Borisov had a 30-40-minute talk with Putin on September 1 on...
Russia and Mongolia plan closer cooperation
Russia and Mongolia signed a series of agreements on the development of a strategic partnership during a two-day visit by Russian President Dmitry Medvedev to the capital Ulaanbaatar ending on August 26.
Medvedev met with Mongolian President Tsakhiagiin Elbegdorj Prime Minister Sanjaagiin Bayar and Speaker of Parliament Damdin Demberel. Regional security...
Russia files charges against Arctic Sea pirates
Russia has filed charges against eight men suspected of hijacking the Finnish freighter Arctic Sea which disappeared on a journey to North Africa in July. The men who were detained last month face charges of piracy and hostage-taking Deutsche Presse-Agentur dpa quoted chief Russian investigator Vladimir Markin as saying. One...
Bank lending conditions remain tough
Conditions for Russian banks remain tough the chairman of the second largest private lender in Russia MDM Bank Oleg Vyugin was quoted as saying by the press. Russias economy shrank more than 10 percent in the first half of 2009 as lending by state banks failed to offset the contraction...
Russia says recognition of South Ossetia Abkhazia legitimate
Russian President Dmitry Medvedev on August 26 hailed the first anniversary of the independence of the breakaway Georgian republics of Abkhazia and South Ossetia and said Moscows recognition of the two was absolutely legitimate. In remarks reported by Interfax Medvedev appealed to other countries to follow up with recognition and...
Russia remains invisible to most international funds
The latest fund flow data shows that Russia remains invisible to most international funds. Two weeks ago Russia funds reported outflows of USD four million practically no more than a rounding error Chris Weafer chief strategist at Moscows Uralsib bank wrote in a note to investors on August 24. There...
Russia News - New Europe News
Russia News - New Europe News: The European News Source.
Russian corruption fight explodes on YouTube
The month of November has been a poignant one for Russia and its fight against corruption -- arguably its biggest vice.
Russia beats Czechs 4-3 to clinch Karjala Cup
HELSINKI (AP) -- Russia won the four-nation Karjala Cup on Sunday after Alexei Morozov scored in overtime to clinch a 4-3 win over the Czech Republic.
Russia beats Forsberg, Sweden 4-1 in Karjala Cup
HELSINKI (AP) -- Forward Sergei Zinoviev scored twice to help a speedy Russia outclass Sweden 4-1 Saturday in the second round of the four-nation Karjala Cup, ruining Peter Forsberg's 100th game for the national team.
Darren Eliot: Russia rises again on world stage
There is a buzz surrounding Russian hockey like never before, at least not since pre-Glasnost days. Much of the anticipation has to do with Russia winning the World Championships in successive seasons heading into an Olympic campaign. So much of their promise comes from the talent level of their young core, many of whom have little if any knowledge of how it used to be.
Russia settles suit against U.S. bank for a pittance
A bizarre and troubling civil racketeering case filed against the Bank of New York Mellon by the Russian customs service -- ostensibly brought under U.S. law but filed in a Moscow court -- may be coming to an unexpectedly rational end.
Medvedev: U.S. blocking Russia's WTO entry
Russian President Dmitry Medvedev on Tuesday accused the United States of "blocking" Russia's accession to the World Trade Organization.
20 killed in Russia as truck plows into bus
At least 20 people were killed and 40 injured Friday as a result of a major road accident in southern Russia, officials said.
Gas pipe deal aims to end Russia's monopoly
Officials from six countries gathered Monday in Turkey and signed a deal to build a U.S.-backed pipeline, aimed at breaking Russia's near-monopoly on natural gas supplies to Europe.
Russia allows U.S. weapons shipments to Afghanistan
Russia will allow the United States to ship weapons across its territory to Afghanistan, Kremlin spokesman Alex Pavlov said Friday.
Russia vetoes U.N. mission in Georgia
The rift between Russia and Western powers over Georgia burst back into full view on the U.N. Security Council when Russia vetoed a resolution that would have extended the U.N. observer mission in Georgia.
Russia's bleak picture of health
In Russia, a country often associated with consumption of mass amounts of vodka, men have an average life expectancy of just 60 years -- one of the lowest in Europe.
Q&A: The return of the Russian superpower?
From the uncertainty that followed the breakup of the Soviet Union, a newly invigorated Russia has emerged, displaying unprecedented political, military and economic confidence that has, at times, put it on a collision course with the West.
Snapshots of Russia by train
In a special report for CNN's Eye on Russia week, Moscow Correspondent Matthew Chance travels across the vast country from the northern port of Murmansk in the Arctic to the southern city of Sochi on the Black Sea. Here Chance recalls some highlights from his epic journey.
Eye on Russia: Opportunity and Influence
CNN wants to hear from viewers in both English and Russian for its weeklong focus on modern Russia.
Russia edges US to reach worlds final
The United States lost to Russia 3-2 in the semifinals of the world hockey championships Friday, beaten on a power-play goal with less than two minutes left.
Canada attacks Russia for expulsion of diplomats
Canada will ask the Russian ambassador to explain why two Canadians who worked at the NATO Information Office in Moscow had their diplomatic accreditation revoked, Canada's foreign ministry said Wednesday.
Georgia foils mutiny at military base ahead of training activities
Georgian authorities foiled an attempted army mutiny that they believe was designed to disrupt planned NATO exercises in the former Soviet republic, the country's interior ministry said Tuesday.
Report: Russia detains 29 suspected pirates
Russian authorities detained 29 suspected Somali pirates in waters off the Horn of Africa, a Russian state-run news agency reported Wednesday.
Russia advances at World Championships
Defending champion Russia got the win it wanted and the tough match it needed with a 4-2 victory over Switzerland on Tuesday at the ice hockey world championship.
Russia declares end to Chechnya 'operation'
Russia declared an end Thursday to its 10-year anti-terror "operation" in the autonomous republic of Chechnya.
Russia to build 6 nuclear subs with cruise missiles
Russia will build at least six nuclear-powered submarines with long-range cruise missiles for its navy, a source in the Russian Defense Ministry told the Itar-Tass news agency.
Russia ready to help bring peace to Afghanistan
Russia said Friday it is ready to help normalize the situation in Afghanistan, where U.S.-led forces are battling the Islamic fundamentalist Taliban for control of the country.
Report: Russian bank hostages freed
A police operation freed five bank employees who had been taken hostage in central Russia, a regional governor told state TV.
Bank of New York in settlement talks with Russia
The good news is that a Moscow judge adjourned Tuesday's scheduled pretrial hearing in Russia's dubious $22.5 billion suit against the Bank of New York Mellon to allow the parties to pursue settlement talks. The agency bringing the suit, the Russian Federal Customs Service, had requested the talks in a short letter that the bank's lawyers received Friday.
Google's Russian threat
Arkady Volozh, CEO of Yandex, Russia's largest online-search company, is playing with a set of nesting dolls (for real!). Instead of the traditional folk decoration, though, these figurines are outfitted with the names of Internet companies doing business in Russia. The first and biggest doll has Yandex emblazoned on its belly in bold red and black letters. A smaller doll bears the Google logo, followed by one representing Rambler, Russia's other homegrown search engine. "We were charitable with these dolls," Volozh says. "If we had been honest, we would have left the second doll blank and made Google third. We're that much bigger than them."
Deaths rise in Russia nursing home fire
The death toll in a nursing home fire in northwestern Russia rose to 23 Sunday, as rescue workers discovered more bodies in the ruins, officials said.
U.S. can't confirm report on Russia easing missile stance
The United States cannot confirm a media report that Russia will not follow through on its threat to deploy missiles near Poland in response to a U.S. plan to place a missile defense system in the eastern European country, a state department spokesman said Wednesday.
Report: Russia to build naval base in rebel region
Russia will begin the construction of a new naval base this year in Georgia's pro-Russian separatist region of Abkhazia, according to a Russian media report Monday.
Security cameras film Russian killings
Russian investigators have no suspects in Monday's killings of a prominent human rights lawyer and a journalist despite round-the-clock efforts to find the gunman, officials said Wednesday.
Russia resumes gas flow to Europe
Russian energy giant Gazprom resumed pumping natural gas to Europe via Ukraine Tuesday, nearly two weeks after the flow was cut off, a Gazprom spokesman told CNN.
Human rights lawyer, journalist killed in Russia
A masked man shot and killed on Monday a Russian human rights lawyer known for his work on abuses by the Russian military in the breakaway region of Chechnya, Russian media reported.
Reports: Russia to open gas flow to Europe
Russia's Gazprom planned to resume gas supplies to Europe Tuesday, with lines to be reopened by 7 a.m. GMT (2 a.m. ET), Russian media quoted a Gazprom official as saying.
Russia, Ukraine agree to resume gas flow
The prime ministers of Russia and Ukraine reached an agreement early Sunday morning to resume gas supplies to Europe by early next week.
Russia: Gas flow to resume within days
Gas will resume flowing "in the next few days," Russian President Dmitry Medvedev told reporters following summit talks in Moscow aimed at resolving the ongoing dispute between Ukraine and Russia which has left many parts of Europe without natural gas.
Russia invites Europe to weekend gas talks
Russia is hoping for wide participation at talks this weekend in Moscow to resolve a gas dispute that has left parts of Europe stuck in the cold, Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov said Friday.
EU leaders slam 'brutal' gas stoppage
Frustrated European Union leaders lashed out Wednesday at Russian and Ukrainian energy companies whose dispute over natural gas has stopped supplies to Europe for the past week.
Russia to restore gas supply to Europe
Russia will start pumping natural gas to Europe again Tuesday after an interruption of nearly a week, energy giant Gazprom's deputy CEO Alexander Medvedev said Monday.
Russia to turn gas back on
Russia said Monday it would restore gas supplies to Europe after Ukraine, which has been engaged in a dispute with Russia, dropped conditions that had angered Moscow.
Russia backs off deal with Ukraine
Just as millions of Europeans struggling through cold winter temperatures thought a resolution had been reached in the Russia-Ukraine natural gas standoff, Russia said it will not proceed on a deal.
Russia, Ukraine to allow gas monitors
The European Union, Russia and Ukraine have agreed on allowing a team of independent investigators to monitor inflowing gas pipelines from Russia into Ukrainian territory to help end a dispute that has left millions short of gas supplies.
Ukraine, Russia cut off gas to Europe
Ukraine and Russia said the supply of natural gas to Europe was completely shut off Wednesday, but each side blamed the other for the cut-off, which comes as Europe faces a wave of freezing temperatures.
Oil caught in tug-of-war
Oil prices fluctuated wildly Tuesday then settled slightly lower after a handful of dismal economic reports countered signs that OPEC nations were starting to comply with planned output cuts.
Oil jumps 3.9% on supply worries
Oil prices rose nearly 4% on the first trading day of 2009, as fighting in the Middle East and Russia's energy dispute with Ukraine raised concerns about future supply disruptions.
12 dead in Russian mine blast
Twelve people were killed and six were injured in an explosion at an open-cast mine in Russia's northwest Murmansk region, a local emergency official said Friday.
U.S., Russia snub cluster bomb ban
The United States and Russia were absent Wednesday as representatives from countries from around the world gathered to sign a treaty banning the use of cluster bombs.
Blast kills 3 outside Russia subway station
Three people were killed when a car blew up near a subway station in Russia's second-largest city, St. Petersburg, on Tuesday, authorities said.
Magnitude 7.0 quake rocks Russia's far east
A magnitude 7.0 earthquake struck off the Kamchatka Peninsula in Russia's far east Monday evening, seismologists reported, but there was no immediate report of damage in the remote area.
Experts say overcrowding behind deadly sub accident
Naval experts have said overcrowding may have been behind an accident on a new Russian nuclear submarine that killed 20 people, agencies have reported.
20 killed on sub were poisoned
An accident that killed 20 people on a new Russian nuclear submarine was caused by a malfunctioning fire safety system that spewed out chemicals, according to an initial investigation, officials said Sunday.
Russia slams U.S., threatens missile deployment
Just hours after U.S. President-elect Barack Obama delivered his victory speech, Russia's leader delivered a scathing rebuke of U.S. policy and reminded Obama of some of the major foreign policy challenges he will face in office.
Bailout Could Turn Tables on Russia's Oligarchs
They amassed some of the world's biggest fortunes in the wild privatizations of Russia's post-Soviet chaos and the oil boom that followed. Now some of Russia's richest men are facing the choice of losing some of their empires or pleading at the Kremlin's doors for a bailout.
The case for emerging markets
Are emerging markets a bargain right now? The instinct is right, as developing-country indexes have taken a serious thumping this year. Year-to-date, Argentina's main index is down 51%. China's is down 63%. Russia is down 68%. Overall, the MSvCI Emerging Markets index is down 52% year-to-date, versus *just* a 34% drop for the S&P 500.
Russia, Iran, Qatar Discuss Gas Cartel
Iran, Russia and Qatar discussed the formation of an OPEC-style cartel among some of the largest natural gas producing nations on Tuesday
World Court to Rule on Georgia-Russia Case
The International Court of Justice plans to rule on whether to order Russia to take immediate steps to halt what Georgia calls ethnic cleansing in the breakaway regions of South Ossetia and Abkhazia
Russia: Rights lawyer in possible poison attempt
A prominent Russian human rights lawyer says she and her children are ill after a suspicious substance was found in their car in France.
Somalia asks Russia for help with pirates
The Somali government has asked Russia to intervene against pirates who have seized a Ukrainian cargo ship, the Somali ambassador to Russia said Wednesday.
Just how scary is Russia?
The Cold War was supposed to be history, a topic today's twentysomethings know about only from the classroom, not from doing duck-and-cover drills in elementary school, as their parents did. In the 17 years that have passed since the demise of the Soviet Union, any threat Russia posed had pretty much been relegated to defaulting on its debt.
Russian ships to visit Venezuela; naval exercises possible
Russia announced Monday it might hold joint military maneuvers with Venezuela in the Caribbean, and the United States said it is scrapping a once ballyhooed deal with Moscow on nuclear technology.
Russia agrees Georgia withdrawal deadline
Moscow has agreed to withdraw its forces from Georgia outside of its two breakaway provinces within one month, the presidents of Russia and France said Monday following the latest efforts to end the region's territorial crisis.
Russia to Keep Troops in Georgia
Russia said that it will station troops in two Georgian breakaway provinces for the foreseeable future
Russia to Send Ships, Planes to Venezuela
Russia's plan to deploy ships and warplanes to the Caribbean for joint military exercises with Venezuela is allowing President Hugo Chavez to capitalize on tensions between Moscow and the U.S. and showcase a growing military alliance
U.S. risks Russia row with Ukraine NATO backing
The United States has backed Ukraine's bid for NATO membership a day after similarly supporting Georgia, in a move which may further stoke tensions with Russia.
Cheney bashes Russia for 'brutality' in Georgia
Vice President Dick Cheney harshly criticized Russia's military incursion into Georgia on Saturday, calling the action "an affront to civilized standards."
U.S. may pull nuclear deal to punish Russia, source says
The Bush administration is poised to withdraw an agreement with Russia on nuclear trade as punishment for Russia's military action last month against U.S. ally Georgia, a State Department source said Friday.
Russia weighs response to NATO ships
Russian Prime Minister Vladimir Putin says it is weighing its options following the arrival of more NATO vessels in the Black Sea, according to reports.
Russia's MegaFon to Sell iPhone
MegaFon, Russia's third-largest mobile phone company, said Tuesday it will start selling Apple's iPhone 3G in Russia later this year
Putin Vows 'Answer' to NATO Ships
Prime Minister Vladimir Putin said Tuesday that Russia will respond calmly to an increase in NATO ships in the Black Sea in the aftermath of the short war with Georgia
Analysis: Can Europe stand firm against Russia?
Europe and Russia, says the EU's current chairman Nicolas Sarkozy, are at a crossroads. Heading for a 'crucial' meeting with Moscow's leaders on September 8, he said at the Brussels emergency summit that Russia had to decide whether it wanted isolation or co-operation with its 27 neighbors.
Russia Blocking Georgian Homes
Russian troops remaining in Georgian territory are effectively preventing Georgians from returning to their homes
Transcript: CNN interview with Vladimir Putin
CNN's Matthew Chance interviewed Russian Prime Minister Vladimir Putin on Thursday.
Zakaria: Russia overplayed hand in Georgia
Russian Prime Minister Vladimir Putin has accused the United States of orchestrating the conflict in Georgia to benefit one of its presidential candidates.
Georgia Ends Diplomacy with Russia
Georgia severed diplomatic ties with Moscow on Friday to protest the presence of Russian troops on its territory
The New Gambit: Moscow's View
A Putin insider explains Russia's new assertiveness as a reaction both to Western provocation and U.S. politics
Analysis: Is Ukraine the next domino?
Western politicians are currently scrambling for air tickets to Kiev. Britain's Foreign Secretary David Miliband rushed to Ukraine soon after Russia announced its recognition of South Ossetia and Abkhazia. U.S. Vice President Dick Cheney will follow.
The New (Old) Russian Imperialism
Moscow's hard line on the separatist provinces of Georgia suggests its
adventurism is far from over, but it may find the next episodes messier
Russia Flexes Its Muscles in Mideast
The re-emerging Cold War tensions are spreading, as Russia agrees to strengthen military ties with Syria
Analysis: A new Cold War -- or more hot air?
It was against the terms of the Russia/Georgia cease-fire, brokered by France's President Nicolas Sarkozy. It was directly in contravention of the request not to do it from President George W. Bush of the United States. But Russia's President Dimitri Medvedev has gone and done it anyway. He has made Russia the first country to recognize the independence of South Ossetia and Abkhazia.
Russia condemned for recognizing rebel regions
Western nations and organizations Tuesday condemned Russian President Dmitry Medvedev for recognizing the independence of South Ossetia and Abkhazia, two breakaway regions in Georgia.
US 'Appalled' at Russian Rebel Tie
The United States said Russia is behaving "appallingly" by granting formal diplomatic recognition Tuesday to two breakaway Georgian provinces
Russia Recognizes Georgian Rebels
President Dmitry Medvedev says Russia has recognized the independence of the breakaway Georgian territories of South Ossetia and Abkhazia
Russia Recognizes Georgian Regions
Russia's parliament voted unanimously Monday to urge the president to recognize the independence of Georgia's two breakaway regions, stoking further tensions between Moscow and the small Caucasus nation's Western allies
Bush warns Moscow over breakaway autonomy
U.S. President George W. Bush has urged Russia not to recognize the independence of Georgia's breakaway regions of South Ossetia and Abkhazia, saying he was "deeply concerned" by the Russian parliament's move toward recognition.
Supply worries nudge oil higher
Oil prices rose slightly Monday as a flat U.S. dollar countered worries that tensions with Russia could interrupt the flow of crude between Europe and Asia.
Huge fire as Georgian train hits landmine
A train carrying fuel hit a mine and burst into flames near the Georgian city of Gori Sunday morning, according to an Interior Ministry spokesman.
Russia: We've completed pullback
Russia said Friday that its forces have withdrawn from Georgia into South Ossetia, fulfilling its end of the cease-fire agreement reached last weekend.
Tbilisi: Russian troops hold Georgian checkpoints
Most Russian troops have withdrawn from eastern and western Georgia, but they still maintain some checkpoints in the country, a spokesman for Georgia's Interior Ministry said Saturday.
Georgia-Russia conflict brings back Cold War memories
For some Americans, the recent fighting between Georgia and Russia has recalled days of the Iron Curtain, bomb shelters and hiding under desks. Those Cold War memories are especially intense for some iReporters, U.S. veterans who served under the constant threat of nuclear war.
Oil Jumps $5 on US-Russia Conflict, Sliding Dollar
Oil prices shot up more than $5 a barrel Thursday, rising to the highest level in over two weeks as escalating tensions with Russia stoked fears of supply disruptions to the West
Russia Blocks Georgia's Main Port
Russian forces blocked the only land entrance to Georgia's main port city
Russia to Cut Military Ties with NATO
Russia has informed Norway that it plans to suspend all military ties with NATO, Norway's Defense Ministry said Wednesday
Breakaway region asks Russia to recognize independence
One of Georgia's breakaway regions has asked Russia to recognize independence, according to a report by the Russian news agency Interfax.
NATO: Russia not honoring cease-fire terms
NATO has accused Russia of failing to honor the full terms of the cease-fire agreement brokered by the European Union last week aimed at ending the fighting in Georgia.
Wounded NATO Grapples with Russia
Reeling after Moscow's Georgia offensive, the Atlantic Alliance is split over how to relate to Russia's resurgence
Rice, Allies to Discuss Russian Response
The U.S. will argue at a NATO ministers meeting for a unified response to punish Russia for invading Georgia, even as officials say Moscow has positioned missile launchers in the separatist South Ossetia province
Lawmaker hints at long stay in Georgia, despite cease-fire
Though Russia says it will begin pulling back its troops from Georgia on Monday, it's unclear how long the redeployment will take, and a Russian lawmaker has compared the situation to the U.S. presence in Iraq.
Russia To Begin Pullout Monday
Russia's president said troops would begin pulling out of Georgia on Monday
Georgia signs cease-fire with Russia
A grim Georgian President Mikheil Saakashvili said Friday that he signed a cease-fire agreement that requires the immediate withdrawal of all Russian forces from Georgian soil.
Samantha Power: A Question of Honor
Russia's assault on Georgia was wrong -- but predictable. How humiliation can shape national interest
Staring Down the Russians
Zbigniew Brzezinski says the West must show Moscow it won't tolerate any attempt to reassert control over Georgia
U.S. hopes to limit Russia's role in Georgia
Secretary of State Condoleezza Rice is taking a cease-fire document to Tbilisi, Georgia, that would limit the role of Russian troops there in the peace agreement reached this week, a senior State Department official said.
Russia: News & Videos about Russia - CNN.com
Find stories, videos, and photos about Russia from CNN.com.
Russian Priest Killed in Church
A Moscow Patriarchate official called the Rev. Daniil Sysoyev a “talented missionary” whose work among Muslims, including Tatars, might have been the motive for the shooting.
Russia's Imperial Crutches
The ghost of Stalin has reappeared in Moscow, but President Medvedev is holding him back.
Who Runs Russia, Anyway?
Is it Putin or Medvedev? Actually, it's both of them - they are just speaking to different constituencies
Gas Feud Escalates Between Russia and Ukraine
An aide to the Russian president called Ukraine’s warnings of a possible gas crisis “political blackmail” on Thursday.
Nationalists Suspected in Russian Activist’s Death
A young antiracist campaigner, identified by Russian news agencies as Ivan Khutorskoi, was shot in the head in front of his apartment building.
Moscow's Second Stage Revels in the Homegrown
The Stanislavsky and Nemirovich-Danchenko Music Theater in Moscow is showing a dynamic new "Hamlet" and an insightful staging of Donizetti's "Lucia di Lammermoor."
Lawyer Held in Tax Case in Russia Dies in Jail
A 37-year-old lawyer for Hermitage Capital Management died of toxic shock and heart failure in a pre-trial detention center Monday, Russia’s Interior Ministry announced on Tuesday.
Nuclear Plant Built for Iran Is Delayed, Russia Says
Russia’s energy minister said on Monday that a Russian-built nuclear power plant in Iran would not come online by the end of the year as planned.
Now or Never at Soccer's Last-Chance Saloon
The last nine places to qualify for the World Cup must be decided this weekend, and countries, big and small in soccer terms, are treating this as the last-chance saloon.
Russian Deal on Afghan Supply Route Not Done Yet
The difficulty in establishing a supply corridor for the Afghan war over Russian airspace is the latest hurdle in establishing cooperation with the U.S.
Germany Ends Probe of Suspect in Litvinenko Case
A businessman with links to Russian security services had been suspected of transporting a radioactive isotope used to poison a former K.G.B. agent three years ago.
Russian President Says Modernization Is Needed
President Dmitri A. Medvedev said in his state of the nation speech that Russia needed to reform its economy while strengthening its democratic institutions.
U.S. Indicts 8 in Worldwide Hacking Ring
Authorities say they’ve cracked a hacking ring that stole more than $9 million within 12 hours last November, securing indictments against eight people from Russia, Estonia and Moldova.
Who Controls Russia?
The conventional wisdom is that Putin runs the show. But Medvedev and his team are moving in.
Power for U.S. From Russia’s Old Nuclear Weapons
Fuel from dismantled nuclear bombs, including Russian ones, generates about 10 percent of America’s electricity.
NYT > Russia
Broad and multi-faceted coverage of Russia, updated by The Times's Moscow bureau; multimedia; travel; descriptions of Russian industry, and archival articles published in The New York Times.
BARVIKHA, MOSCOW REGION. Meeting with German Vice Chancellor and Foreign Minister Guido Westerwelle.
Photo: the Presidential Press and Information Office
MOSCOW. Dmitry Medvedev and his spouse congratulated Patriarch Kirill of Moscow and All Russia on his 63
Photo: the Presidential Press and Information Office
THE KREMLIN, MOSCOW. Meeting with transport ministers from 24 countries.
Photo: the Presidential Press and Information Office
THE KREMLIN, MOSCOW. Meeting with transport ministers from 24 countries.
Photo: the Presidential Press and Information Office
THE KREMLIN, MOSCOW. At a meeting with the leadership of the United Russia political party.
Photo: the Presidential Press and Information Office
THE KREMLIN, MOSCOW. At a meeting with the leadership of the United Russia political party.
Photo: the Presidential Press and Information Office
THE KREMLIN, MOSCOW. At a meeting with the leadership of the United Russia political party.
Photo: the Presidential Press and Information Office
MOSCOW. At First Global Ministerial Conference on Road Safety.
Photo: the Presidential Press and Information Office
MOSCOW. At First Global Ministerial Conference on Road Safety.
Photo: the Presidential Press and Information Office
MOSCOW. At First Global Ministerial Conference on Road Safety.
Photo: the Presidential Press and Information Office
MARIBOR, SLOVENIA. With President of Slovenia Danilo Turk.
Photo: the Presidential Press and Information Office
THE KREMLIN, MOSCOW. At a meeting with the leadership of the United Russia political party.
Photo: the Presidential Press and Information Office
THE KREMLIN, MOSCOW. At a meeting with the leadership of the United Russia political party.
Photo: the Presidential Press and Information Office
THE KREMLIN, MOSCOW. At a meeting with the leadership of the United Russia political party.
Photo: the Presidential Press and Information Office
THE KREMLIN, MOSCOW. At a meeting with the leadership of the United Russia political party.
Photo: the Presidential Press and Information Office
STOCKHOLM. With President of the European Commission Jose Manuel Barroso.
Photo by Sergey Guneev
STOCKHOLM. With Secretary-General of the European Union Council Javier Solana (left), President of the European Commission Jose Manuel Barroso, and Swedish Prime Minister Fredrik Reinfeldt before the start of the EU-Russia summit.
Photo: the Presidential Press and Information Office
STOCKHOLM, SWEDEN. News conference following Russian-Swedish talks.
Photo: the Presidential Press and Information Office
STOCKHOLM, SWEDEN. With Swedish Prime Minister Fredrik Reinfeldt.
Photo: the Presidential Press and Information Office
STOCKHOLM, SWEDEN. Russian-Swedish talks in expanded format.
Photo: the Presidential Press and Information Office
STOCKHOLM, SWEDEN. Russian-Swedish talks in expanded format.
Photo: the Presidential Press and Information Office
STOCKHOLM, SWEDEN. With Swedish Prime Minister Fredrik Reinfeldt.
Photo: the Presidential Press and Information Office
STOCKHOLM. With King Carl XVI Gustaf of Sweden and Crown Princess Victoria.
Photo by Sergey Guneev
STOCKHOLM. Meeting with members of the board of the EU-Russia Industrialists’ Round Table.
Photo by Sergey Guneev
STOCKHOLM, SWEDEN. With Swedish Prime Minister Fredrik Reinfeldt.
Photo: the Presidential Press and Information Office
GORKI, MOSCOW REGION. With Minister of Justice Alexander Konovalov.
Photo: the Presidential Press and Information Office
GORKI, MOSCOW REGION. Meeting of Board of Trustees of Charity Fund for Reconstruction of Voskresensky New Jerusalem Stauropegial Friary Monastery of the Russian Orthodox Church.
Photo: the Presidential Press and Information Office
Kremlin.Ru: Photo Chronicle
Photos from the Russian Presidential Press Service published on the official presidential website (last 30 photos)
Tour Basegi National Park
Russia is one of the most breathtaking destinations in the world, as nature enthusiasts have many national parks and reserves to choose from whilst exploring the wildlife and diversity of the country. In winter and in summer there are wonders waiting to be discovered, which are unique to each season. The Basegi National Park is a popular attraction in Russia and a park that overflows with a variety of animal life and different vegetation. Many visitors prefer to explore the Basegi National Park on hiking routes, while others join guides provided by tour operators to learn more about the Basegi region.
Sikachi-Alyan Village
There are not many traditional villages and tribes left in Russia as modernization has inevitably forced change on them or younger generations have moved away to find jobs and prosperity in the cities. Fortunately some have survived, and approximately forty kilometers from Khabarovsk is a small village by the name of Sikachi-Alyan. This picturesque destination in Russia has gained fame for the breathtaking landscapes that surround it, and for the ancient petroglyphs that tell the history of Sikchi-Alyan. It is here that visitors to Russia will discover the tranquil way of life of the Nanai.
Tolbachik Volcanic Massif
Rising up from the diverse Russian landscape is a fascinating volcanic massif. Located in the eastern region of Russia, in the Kamchatka Peninsula, Tolbachik still amazes and interests visitors, even though it has been lying dormant for over thirty years. Tolbachik consists of two volcanic peaks, each with its own unique features and characteristics. This magnificent massif and its interesting surrounding areas are frequently visited by tour groups and tourists and it is easy to see why, due to its beauty and silent form of danger that brings a little adventure to the site.
Valley of Geysers in Kamchatka
The greater part of Russia is still, in many respects, unknown and unexplored. The territory is vast and was virtually inaccessible for hundreds of years. In recent years, the creation of vast national parks in the area have helped us to become aware of just how special the natural treasures found in this part of Russia are. The Valley of Geysers in Kamchatka is one of those precious natural treasures.
The Garage Centre for Contemporary Culture in Moscow
Art and culture lovers visiting Russia should make sure that they don’t miss the Garage Centre for Contemporary Culture (GCCC) when touring Moscow. This fantastic venue offers visitors a chance to soak in local contemporary culture at an appealing and fashionable venue.
Travel to Salekhard
If you’ve ever wondered what it would be like to live on the polar circle, the best way to find out would be to visit the Russian town of Salekhard. This frosty administrative center not only serves the surrounding region but is a relatively interesting tourist destination due to its unique location – even if visitors don’t usually stay too long. Salekhard in Russia is believed to be the only town in the world that is located on the Polar circle.
Putyatin Island : Nature At Its Unspoiled Best
Russia is such a vast country that it would likely take more than a lifetime to explore its abundant natural beauty, discover its rich cultural heritage and learn about its extensive and fascinating history. Bearing this in mind, many who visit Russia choose which aspect of the country they would like to focus on and this helps them decide where to visit. For those who appreciate the rugged natural beauty of Russia, there are a myriad of destination choices to consider, including the charming Putyatin Island.
Russian Tourism - The Sky is Not the Limit
With the global economic crisis leaving no country untouched, Russia has made some adjustments to visa requirements in an effort to soften the blow to its vibrant tourism industry. Russian Prime Minister Vladimir Putin recently signed a resolution, to come into effect 20 May 2009, which allows foreign tourists arriving in Russia by ferry to remain in the country for a maximum of three days without a visa. This three day free visa concession already applies to passengers arriving by cruise ship.
Abakan – A Fascinating South Siberian City
Located in the majestic Altai-Sayan Mountains in the middle of Russia, the city of Abakan has a recorded history going back more than four thousand years and visitors to this lovely city will find evidence of that rich history all around them. Abakan is the capital city of Russia’s Khakassia Republic in South Siberia and is an important stop-over point on the Abakan-Taishet railway line which is connected to the renowned Trans-Siberian Railway.
Experience the Adventure of a Horse Riding Holiday in Russia
Many westerners tend to think of Moscow and St. Petersburg as being Russia, and while it’s true that these ancient cities have much to offer, especially with regard to fascinating history and magnificent architecture, Russia is a vast country of indescribable beauty which is just waiting to be discovered by the more adventurous traveler. There can be no better way to explore the less traveled regions of this great country than on horseback and there are countless options available for those who would like to experience a horse riding holiday in Russia.
Russia.com
Your Russia blog
Cheap Russian Vodka Becomes History
Moscow market of illegal vodka is estimated to be 25%. Outside Moscow it is as high as 50%. Experts believe that a significant part of illegal vodka is produced during the so-called "fourth shift," meaning, by the official manufacturers at night time. The price of illegal vodka is significantly lower than the price of licensed vodka. The minimum price of legal vodka in Moscow is 75 rubles ($2.6), while outside Moscow it is only 60 rubles (less than $2)
Gigantic Soviet Era Monument in Moscow Was Designed as Cult of Sanctuaries
To this day, All-Russia Exhibition Center (former VDNKh) is one of the largest Moscow attractions. This year the Center celebrates its 70th anniversary. The exhibition was established by Stalin’s decree on February 17, 1935 as the All-Union Agricultural Exhibition. The original design of the complex resembled the solar system. According to the architect’s plan, a huge statue of Lenin was to be placed in the center of the square
Russia Builds New Spaceport for Lunar and Martian Missions
Russia is equipping its spaceport at Kourou, the Space Center of French Guiana. This week it sent there two Soyuz rockets. They will be launched into space in 2010 along with the Russian boosters Vega. At the moment, a new launch pad is being built in the Guiana Space Center for launching Russian spacecraft. Why is Russia so interested in developing its space program in Guiana with its horrible climate and sad fame of a former French colony for incorrigible offenders?
Medvedev’s meeting with his American counterpart Barack Obama became the central political intrigue of the recent APEC Summit. Everyone was expecting the presidents to release landmark statements regarding the possibility to sign the new arms reduction treaty at the end of November. However, the presidents simply demonstrated their mutual friendliness and made several abstract statements
Pravda.Ru - Analitics
Pravda.Ru
Medvedev pins hopes on new EU president to boost ties
Russian President Dmitry Medvedev expressed hope on Friday that the appointment of Herman Van Rompuy as European Council President could boost Russia-EU ties.
Work on Bushehr continuing as scheduled - Russian contractor
Russian and Iranian officials confirmed on Friday that work to launch Iran's first nuclear power plant is going as scheduled, Russia's state nuclear power equipment and service export monopoly said.
CIS countries could scrap dollar in several years - Kudrin
CIS countries could drop the U.S. dollar in financial settlements and start using their national currencies within the next few years, the Russian finance minister said on Friday.
Turkey cancels tender for first NPP project
Turkey on Friday canceled a tender for the construction of its first nuclear power plant, Turkey's Electricity Trade Corp (TETAS) said.
Putin to travel to France next week
Russian Prime Minister Vladimir Putin will visit France on November 26-27, when a decision could finally be made on the purchase of a French Mistral-class helicopter carrier, a government spokesman said on Friday.
Russia launches Cosmos-series military satellite
Russia's Space Forces on Friday launched a Soyuz-U carrier rocket with a Cosmos-series military satellite, a SF spokesman said.
Russian patriarch warns on attributing blame for priest's murder
The head of Russia's Orthodox Church warned on Friday against rushing to accuse "individuals or groups" of the murder of a priest in Moscow.
Russian strategic bombers perform Arctic patrol mission
Two Russian Tu-95 MS Bear strategic bombers have accomplished a routine patrol mission over neutral waters of the Arctic and Pacific oceans and the Aleutian Islands, an Air Force spokesman said on Friday.
Foreign investment in Russia down 28% in 9M09
Foreign investment in the Russian economy in the first nine months of the year fell 27.8% year-on-year to $54.738 billion, the state statistics service said on Friday.
Child mortality rates drop in Russia - UNICEF report
The number of children dying before they reach the age of five in Russia fell by just over 50% between 1990 and 2008, a UNICEF report said.
Norilsk Nickel acknowledges pollution, says measures taken
Russia's metals giant Norilsk Nickel acknowledged on Friday Norway's accusations over pollution caused by the company, but said it has been tackling the problem.
Russia looks to new EU leaders to continue strategic ties
Russia expects a continuation of its strategic partnership with the European Union following yesterday's election of the bloc's first president, Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov said on Friday.
Murdered Russian priest received death threats - paper
A Russian Orthodox priest who carried out missionary work among immigrants from ex-Soviet republics received over a dozen death threats before his murder on Thursday, a Russian paper said.
Russia's largest carmaker to elect new board
Shareholders of AvtoVAZ, Russia's largest auto manufacturer, will meet on Friday to elect a new board of directors, as the company struggles amid mounting debt and low sales.
Russian ship breaks out of 'ice prison' in Antarctic
A Russian icebreaker that had become stuck in the Antarctic ice, has finally managed to leave the heavy ice zone, a spokesman for Russia's Far Eastern shipping company said on Friday.
Russian Orthodox priest killed in Moscow
An unidentified gunman killed a well-known Russian Orthodox priest and wounded another clergyman in a church in southern Moscow.
Ukraine, Russia set to ink new nuclear energy deal
Ukraine and Russia have prepared a strategic cooperation contract in the nuclear energy sphere until 2020, Ukrainian Prime Minister Yulia Tymoshenko said.
Putin says no gas crisis with Ukraine on New Year's
Russia and Ukraine will not face another gas crisis during New Year holidays as both countries pledged to fulfill their obligations on gas transit to Europe, Russian Prime Minister Vladimir Putin said.
Norwegians dump Norilsk Nickel shares over ecology threat
Shares of the Russian metals giant Norilsk Nickel have been excluded from the portfolio of the Government Pension Fund of Norway, the country's Finance Ministry said in a statement.
Main news of November 19
A roundup of what has happened in the past 24 hours
Putin highlights decline in trade with Ukraine
Russian Prime Minster Vladimir Putin drew attention on Thursday to a "very big" slump in trade turnover with neighbor Ukraine.
Ukraine will fulfill gas obligations - Tymoshenko
Ukraine will fulfill its obligations on the transit of Russian natural gas to Europe, Ukrainian Prime Minister Yulia Tymoshenko said after talks with her Russian counterpart Vladimir Putin on Thursday.
Russia confirms adherence to death penalty ban obligations
Moscow will stick to its commitments on the abolishment of the death penalty, the Russian Foreign Ministry said on Thursday.
Yushchenko gas message contains elements of 'blackmail' - Kremlin
A message on gas transit posted on Ukrainian President Viktor Yushchenko's website contains elements of political blackmail, a Russian presidential aide said Thursday.
Moscow backs Afghan leader Karzai, pledges further support
Moscow supports the plan of action outlined by Afghan President Hamid Karzai in his inauguration speech, the Russian foreign minister said on Thursday.
RIA Novosti
RIA Novosti
Medvedev Maintains Putins Policies, Little has Changed
Most of Putin’s foreign policies remain the same a year+ Medvedev has taken over as President.
After President Dmitry Medvedev was elected last year, then-President Vladimir Putin made a rather telling promise about his chosen successor.
“Medvedev is no less a Russian nationalist than I am, in the positive sense of the word, and I do not [...]
Somali Pirates Capture UK Ship with Ukrainian Crew
The UK-owned bulk carrier Ariana was sailing under the Maltese flag, and Somali pirates captured the vessel with 24 Ukrainian crew onboard.
Vasily Kirilitch, Ukraine’s Foreign Ministry press secretary, confirmed to Interfax that all the sailors are Ukrainian nationals. He said the country’s embassies were instructed to “take prompt measures to set constant contact with ship-owner, [...]
NATO Expelled Two Russian Diplomats Accused of Spying
By Tom Forrest –
A NATO diplomat claims the Russians were expelled over the case of Herman Simm, who was jailed for treason for handing over over 1,900 pages of information to Russia’s Intelligence Service.
Two Russian diplomats Victor Kochukov and Vasily Chizhov have lost their accreditation to NATO”S headquarters in Brussels. It is not clear [...]
Latvia wants to Collect $200 Billion from Russia
Latvia is a former Soviet republic, and has calculated the damage that Latvia suffered from the Soviet occupation after WWII. It has been 48 years and Latvia claims Russia owes Latvia $200 billion. The amount includes Latvia’s costs for the loss of its independence, the export of the population, the environmental damages and even [...]
Is the USA Violating the Rights of Foreign Nationals?
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Russian Defense Spending will Increase by 8% in 2010
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Russian Culture: At A Glance
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President of Ingushetia Survived the Attack
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USA Cancels Missile Defense System Russia Condemned as a Threat
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Russian Spy covering news and analysis on politics, business, culture and sport in Russia and the World, CIS and former Soviet Union
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Capital: Moscow
Russia, also the Russian Federation, is a transcontinental country extending over much of northern Eurasia. It is a semi-presidential republic comprising 84 federal subjects. Russia shares land borders with the following countries (counter-clockwise from northwest to southeast): Norway, Finland, Estonia, Latvia, Lithuania (Kaliningrad Oblast), Poland (Kaliningrad Oblast), Belarus, Ukraine, Georgia, Azerbaijan, Kazakhstan, China, Mongolia and North Korea. It is also close to the U.S. state of Alaska, Sweden and Japan across relatively small stretches of water (the Bering Strait, the Baltic Sea, and La Prouse Strait, respectively).
At 17,075,400 square kilometres (6,592,800 sq mi), Russia is by far the largest country in the world, covering more than an eighth of the Earths land area; with 142 million people, it is the ninth largest by population. It extends across the whole of northern Asia and 40% of Europe, spanning 11 time zones and incorporating a great range of environments and landforms. Russia has the world's largest mineral and energy resources, and is considered an energy superpower. It contains approximately one-quarter of the world's unfrozen fresh water and has the world's largest forest reserves.
The nation's history began with that of the East Slavs. The Slavs emerged as a recognizable group in Europe between the 3rd and 8th centuries AD. Founded and ruled by Vikings and their descendants, the first East Slavic state, Kievan Rus', arose in the 9th century and adopted Christianity from the Byzantine Empire in 988, beginning the synthesis of Byzantine and Slavic cultures that defined Russian culture for the next millennium. Kievan Rus' ultimately disintegrated and the Russian lands were divided. The most powerful successor state to Kievan Rus' was Moscow, which gradually came to dominate the cultural and political legacy of Kievan Rus'. By the 18th century, the Grand Duchy of Moscow had expanded through conquest, annexation and exploration to become the huge Russian Empire, stretching from Poland eastward to the Pacific Ocean.
Russia established worldwide power and influence from the times of the Russian Empire to being the preeminent constituent of the Soviet Union, the world's first and largest Communist state, and can boast a long tradition of excellence in every aspect of the arts and sciences. The Russian Federation was founded following the dissolution of the Soviet Union in 1991, but is recognized as the continuing legal personality of the Soviet Union. Russia is a permanent member of the United Nations Security Council and a leading member of the Commonwealth of Independent States and the G8. It is one of the five recognized nuclear weapons states and possesses the world's largest stockpile of weapons of mass destruction.
Source: Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Russia