Russian airpower joins Syrian army offensive against Islamic StateApril 3, 2018 - 12:35 AMT PanARMENIAN.Net - Russian warplanes have joined in on a new operation against Islamic State forces by the Syrian army and allied paramilitary groups aimed at clearing jihadist fighters from the western countryside of Deir ez-Zor province, Al-Masdar News reports. According to military-affiliated sources, Russian airpower is conducting precision strikes against deceptively well-hidden IS tactical positions and tunnel entry points as well as terrorist movements throughout the vast desert space being cleared west of the Euphrates River. With regards to tactical positions, sources on the ground note that the militant group’s trenches and fire support positions are so well blended in to the landscape of the east Syrian desert that government troops do not often identify them until within ten or so meters (i.e. point blank range). The operation currently underway is the result of the Syrian army high command 'becoming tired' of endless Islamic State attacks against its positions at cities and bases across western Deir ez-Zor – this matter now going on for around four months. 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 |