Putin denies Russia wants to re-integrate former Soviet statesOctober 18, 2011 - 09:28 AMT PanARMENIAN.Net - Russian Prime Minister Vladimir Putin denied that Russia has ambitions to re-integrate the former Soviet states. “We are not talking about political integration, about the revival of the Soviet Union, Russia is not interested in that today,” Putin said in an interview with three national TV channels seven weeks before parliamentary elections scheduled for December 4. “It is not interested in taking on excessive risks, taking excessive responsibility for the counties that for various reasons… remain close to us,” he said. Putin also dismissed Western media reports concerning Russia's “imperialist ambitions,” saying that Western experts who criticize Russia-CIS states integration policy should “mind their own business.” “Tackle rising inflation, state debt or at least obesity. Mind your own business,” the PM added, RIA Novosti reported. 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 | Pasadena to host Armenian Genocide commemoration event The Pasadena Armenian Coalition will host its community-wide Armenian Genocide Commemorative Event. Armenia: Opposition activist transferred to Investigative Committee Activist Samvel Vardanyan has been accused of insulting the lawmaker Hakob Aslanyan from the ruling Civil Contract party. Former Pashinyan envoy urges end to Genocide speculation Marukyan has urged authorities in Armenia stop discussions about verifying the names of 1.5 million victims. Azerbaijan, Jordan sign deal on defense cooperation Azerbaijan and Jordan have signed an agreement on cooperation in the field of defense, according to an official statement. |