U.S. general: Russian military likely reluctant participant in UkraineJuly 25, 2014 - 09:20 AMT PanARMENIAN.Net - Russia's military is likely a reluctant participant in Ukraine's conflict, the top U.S. military officer said on Thursday, July 24, adding that although he had not spoken to his Moscow counterpart in about two months he was keeping an open line of communication, Reuters reported. "I think the Russian military and its leaders that I know are probably somewhat reluctant participants in this form of warfare," General Martin Dempsey said, noting Russia's use of both conventional forces along the border and of proxies inside the country. His comments came as the United States accused Russia of firing artillery across its border with Ukraine to target Ukrainian military positions in the conflict with pro-Russian armed groups. "I think it does change the situation," Dempsey said, speaking at a security forum in Aspen, Colorado. He added that instead of de-escalating, Russia's president Vladimir Putin has "actually taken a decision to escalate." Dempsey, chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, voiced concerns about the implications of Russia's actions on its ties with the United States and with Europe. "My real concern is that having lit this fire in an isolated part of eastern Europe, it may not stay in eastern Europe. And I think that's a real risk," Dempsey said. "I'm keeping an open line of communication with my counterpart and he's doing the same with me." 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. |