Russia deploys air defense missile systems in Abkhazia, South OssetiaAugust 11, 2010 - 19:21 AMT PanARMENIAN.Net - Russiahas deployed S-300 air defense missile systems in Abkhazia, the commander of Russia's air force said on Wednesday. General Alexander Zelin also said that air defenses of other types had been deployed in South Ossetia, Reuters reported. "The task of these air defenses is not only to cover the territories of Abkhazia and South Ossetia, but also to avert violations of their state borders in the air and destroy any vehicle illegally penetrating their air space, whatever the goal of its mission," Zelin said. Georgia reacted promptly, accusing Moscow of "strengthening its image and role as an occupying country." "It shows ... not only thatRussiadoes not intend to withdraw its troops from Abkhazia and South Ossetia, but that it is actually strengthening its military control over these territories," Eka Tkeshelashvili, Georgia's National Security Council secretary, said. 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 | Court in Azerbaijan extends former Karabakh leader’s arrest by 5 months The Binagadi District Court in Azerbaijan has granted the prosecutor’s petition to extend the arrest of Arkady Ghukasyan. Ucom General Director joins High-Tech Development Panel Discussion The discussion was titled "The Role of International Corporations and Investors as Catalysts for Development of High-Tech Ecosystem." U.S. still believes “peace is possible” between Armenia, Azerbaijan The United States continues to believe that peace is possible between Armenia and Azerbaijan, Vedant Patel says. Dozens detained as antigovernment protest continue in Armenia At least 63 people demanding Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan’s resignation were detained on May 14 as they blocked streets in Yerevan. |