The Kremlin declined to deny a Wall Street Journal report claiming Iran has provided Russia with short-range ballistic missiles. While acknowledging the report, Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov emphasized the strong relationship between Russia and Iran, highlighting their ongoing trade, economic ties, and cooperation across various fields.
The US government has raised concerns about Russia’s alleged attempts to interfere in American elections, particularly ahead of the 2024 presidential race. The focus is on Russia Today (RT), a state-controlled media outlet accused of spreading Kremlin-backed narratives and influencing American public opinion. This article examines RT’s role, the tactics employed by Russia, and the US government’s efforts to counter this interference.
Russia has downplayed Joe Biden’s decision to withdraw from the 2024 US presidential race, stating that their focus remains on the ongoing conflict in Ukraine. Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov emphasized that achieving their objectives in the Ukraine conflict is a top priority, regardless of the US election outcome. Despite previously expressing preference for Biden, Russia now maintains that the US election is secondary to their military goals.
Russian President Vladimir Putin has reappointed Mikhail Mishustin as the country’s prime minister. Mishustin, a low-key technocrat, has served in the role for the past four years. His reappointment was widely expected by political observers, who noted that Putin has appreciated his skills and lack of political ambitions. The parliament’s lower house is expected to approve Mishustin’s candidacy later on Friday.
The Kremlin is reportedly searching for a successor to Chechen leader Ramzan Kadyrov, known for his unwavering loyalty to Russian President Vladimir Putin, following reports that he has been diagnosed with necrotizing pancreatitis, a terminal illness. Kadyrov’s illness, reportedly diagnosed five years ago, has raised concerns within the Kremlin as Putin aims to maintain control over Chechnya. The potential loss of Kadyrov could impact domestic support for the war in Ukraine, where he has deployed soldiers and been a vocal supporter of Putin. Among potential successors is Major General Apti Alaudinov, who oversees Chechen special forces and has close ties to Putin. Despite Kadyrov’s attempts to downplay the reports of his illness, some Chechens have expressed discontent with Putin’s war and have joined battalions aiding Ukraine in its defense.
Chechen strongman Ramzan Kadyrov, a key ally of Russian President Vladimir Putin, is reportedly suffering from pancreatic necrosis and is facing a grim prognosis. The Kremlin is said to be preparing for a change in power in Chechnya, as Kadyrov’s health continues to deteriorate. Despite denials from Kadyrov and his entourage, Russian media outlets have been reporting on his declining health and drastic weight loss since 2019.
