Washington extends sanctions against MoscowMarch 3, 2016 - 15:59 AMT PanARMENIAN.Net - U.S. President Barack Obama has extended sanctions on Russia — imposed by Washington over Russia's involvement in the Ukrainian conflict — for another year, the Moscow Times reports citing a decree published on the White House's official website. Existing measures will stay in place as “Russia's actions continue to pose an unusual and extraordinary threat to the national security and foreign policy of the United States,” the decree reads. The sanctions will be prolonged until March 6, 2017, according to the document. Obama signed a decree introducing sanctions against a number of large Russian companies and members of President Vladimir Putin's inner circle in March 2014. Restrictions were also imposed by the European Union and some other Western countries. The U.S. has repeatedly said that sanctions against Moscow can be lifted after its full implementation of the Minsk peace agreement, aimed at stabilizing the situation in eastern Ukraine. The deal includes a complete ceasefire, withdrawal of heavy weaponry, restoration of Kiev's control over Ukraine's national borders and holding free elections in the region. Top stories Azerbaijani President Ilham Aliyev arrived in Moscow on April 22 to hold talks with Russian counterpart Vladimir Putin. 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". Partner news | SBP instant transfers now available from 190 Russian banks to Armenia To receive money from Russian banks, easywallet users need to go to their easywallet accounts. Armenia's Davit Chaloyan qualifies for Paris Olympics The Armenian boxer qualified for Paris Olympics after a series of successful bouts at the 2nd World Qualification Tournament. Lemkin Institute urges Armenia to respect people’s right to dissent The Lemkin Institute has urged the Armenian government to respect people’s fundamental human right to express their dissent. French-Armenian journalist returns to France after 41-day hunger strike Nicolian said on social media on Sunday, June 2 that he needs to improve his health in order to “continue the fight”. |