Russian ground troops "not taking part in Idlib operation"July 20, 2019 - 12:08 AMT PanARMENIAN.Net - The Russian ground troops are not participating in the upcoming Syrian Arab Army (SAA) attack along the Hama-Latakia axis, nor are they planning to launch an operation in the Idlib Governorate, an officer from the SAA’s 4th Armored Division said, according to Al-Masdar News. According to the officer, all reports claiming Russian ground troops are taking part in the Syrian Army’s operations are ‘lies’. The officer said the Russian Armed Forces sent military police to their posts in northern Hama, adding that this is a common occurance and has nothing to do with any operation. The rumors of Russian ground forces participating in the Syrian Army’s ongoing operation in northwestern Syria were spread by pro-militant channels. These pro-militant channels cited a Free Syrian Army commander. 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 | Cyprus parliament honors Armenian genocide victims Acting House President Zacharias Koulias noted that April 24 marks the “black anniversary” of the Armenian genocide. Armenia PM, France envoy discuss regional matters Issues related to the consistent development of Armenia-France cooperation were discussed. Azerbaijan razes historic Armenian church to ground Azerbaijan has demolished the historic Armenian Church of St. John the Baptist (known as Kanach Zham). Russia to begin assessing migrant workers' speaking skills Rosobrnadzor is planning to change the Russian language exam for migrant workers and include an assessment of speaking skills |