Topic: Russian Navy

With Russia's $650 billion rearmament plan, the bear sharpens its teeth

If Russia can reduce reliance on its aging Soviet-era nuclear missile deterrent, analysts say it could create a 'whole new ball game.'

With Ukraine's blessing, Russia to beef up its Black Sea Fleet

Moscow's upgrade to its Black Sea Fleet – headquartered with Ukraine's blessing at Sevastopol – could make waves around the Black Sea, where NATO has a strong presence.

Why Russia covets the Black Sea naval base of Sevastopol

Ukraine recently agreed to extend Russia's naval base lease for its Black Sea Fleet until 2042. One visit to Sevastopol, the port in Ukraine where the fleet is based, and it's immediately clear why Russia would be loathe to ever give up the base.

Ukraine-Russia relations: Why Kiev made a dramatic U-turn back toward Moscow

President Viktor Yanukovich was elected in February on pledges to restore Ukraine-Russia relations. But he has acted more swiftly than anyone imagined, reversing the pro-West moves of the Orange Revolution.

Eggs flying in Parliament, Ukraine approves deal for closer Russia ties

The Ukraine parliament approved a deal today to extend a Russia naval lease on Sevastopol in exchange for cheaper gas, despite an egg-throwing fracas by enraged opposition members.

Ukraine heads back into the arms of Mother Russia

Despite a dispute over fraud allegations in the wake of Sunday's presidential vote in Ukraine, pro-Russian candidate Viktor Yanukovich is set to become the next president in what will be a dramatic shift back to pro-Kremlin policies.

France agrees to arm Russia with assault ships

France's agreement to sell amphibious assault ships to Russia raises concerns from the US and former Soviet satellites, including Georgia.

Ukraine election result -- a balancing act

The likely presidential winner, Viktor Yanukovich, was once the villain of the 'Orange Revolution.' He needs to bridge deep divisions at home and abroad -- and revive a badly beaten economy.

Ukraine braces for political showdown

Ukraine votes Feb. 7 in a runoff between bitter rivals Yulia Tymoshenko and Viktor Yanukovych that some say could destabilize the democratic process.

Ukraine presidential race revives bitter rivalry

After voters on Sunday rejected incumbent President – and 'Orange Revolution' hero – Viktor Yushchenko, the Feb. 7 second round will revolve around the starkly differing styles of rivals Yulia Tymoshenko and Viktor Yanukovich.

Russia denies mystery ship was carrying missiles to Iran

Speculation that the Arctic Sea cargo ship seized in the Baltic in July was carrying weapons or other illicit cargo continues to swirl.

Intrigue swirls around missing Russian ship

Has piracy really returned to Europe's waters after 100 years, or is something else afoot?

International news roundup – Jan. 29

Ukraine needlessly pokes Russia

Kiev is provoking Russia in the gas crisis and other ways. It's a backfire strategy.

Russian sub accident points to Navy's shortcomings

At least 20 people died on the sub, which media reports say was to be handed over to India.

World

Key question lingers: Who started the war in Georgia?

As EU monitors arrive, new details contradict Russia's assertion that Georgia invaded South Ossetia first.

Cold war echo: Russian military maneuvers with Venezuela

Russia sent two long-range bombers to Venezuela Wednesday and will send warships and soldiers for joint exercises in November.

Russia courts old allies, steps up defiance of the West

President Dmitry Medvedev said Saturday that Russia is 'a nation to be reckoned with.'

Russian troops slow to leave Georgia

NATO said Tuesday that it 'cannot continue with business as usual' with Russia until Russia removes its troops. Meanwhile, Georgians struggle to stay safe and get food.

'New Europe' urges West to rethink Russian ties

Seizing on the conflict in Georgia, East European countries are pushing for strong measures against an aggressive Moscow they say they know all too well.

Post-Soviet 'frozen conflicts' heat up as big-power interests collide

Tensions are growing as NATO and a resurgent Russia divide over future of breakaway statelets.