Moscow police strengthening security ahead of Putin inaugurationMay 5, 2012 - 14:29 AMT PanARMENIAN.Net - The Moscow police have stepped up security across the city in preparation for the opposition March of Millions rally on May 6 and inauguration of President-elect Vladimir Putin on May 7, as well as the May 9 Victory Day parade. "Due to the political and sports events and the May holidays, the number of police officers on duty has been increased," RIA Novosti quoted a police source as saying. Moscow city authorities agreed on Thursday to permit the May 6 March of Millions protest, including a march from Kaluzhskaya Square and a demonstration on Bolotnaya Square. The authorities have warned those planning unsanctioned protests that they will not be tolerated. A day ahead of Vladimir Putin’s inauguration as Russian president on May 7, his All-Russia People's Front public movement will hold a mass rally dedicated to the first anniversary of its establishment, the organization’s website said. Several police buses are currently parked near Revolution Square in central Moscow, and OMON riot police vehicles are on duty near the Maly Theater. Other security service trucks are parked near the Moscow Mayor's administration building, and ten others are located at Pushkin Square, which has been the scene of several opposition rallies in the last six months. Metal barriers have been placed along Tverskaya Street, the main thoroughfare in downtown Moscow, which will be the route of the traditional May 9 Victory Parade. Large military vehicles including tanks, missile launchers and heavy guns will take part in the parade, and military aircraft will fly overhead. Top stories Authorities said a total of 192 Azerbaijani troops were killed and 511 were wounded during Azerbaijan’s offensive. In 2023, the Azerbaijani government will increase the country’s defense budget by more than 1.1 billion manats ($650 million). The bill, published on Monday, is designed to "eliminate the shortcomings of an unreasonably broad interpretation of the key concept of "compatriot". The earthquake caused a temporary blackout, damaged many buildings and closed a number of rural roads. Partner news | Czech-Armenian military cooperation discussed in Yerevan A delegation led by the Director General for the Industrial Cooperation Division of the Ministry of Defence of the Czech Republic visited Armenia. U.S. welcomes efforts to define Armenia-Azerbaijan border The United States welcomes efforts to define the border between Armenia and Azerbaijan, says Vedant Patel. Biden honors resilience of Armenian people on April 24 U.S. President Joe Biden has issued a statement on the 109th anniversary of the Armenian Genocide. Ex-Karabakh leader moved to solitary confinement cell in Baku, his son says David Vardanyan is the son of former Karabakh leader Ruben Vardanyan who who is currently imprisoned in Azerbaijan. |