Russia Deploying Strategic Bombers To Crimea, Missiles To Kaliningrad
Russia's military has announced it was sending strategic bombers to the annexed Ukrainian territory of Crimea and will deploy advanced missiles to its exclave of Kaliningrad.
Russian news agencies TASS and Interfax cited defense officials March 17 confirming Tu-95 and Tu-22M3 strategic bombers, capable of carrying nuclear bombs, were being sent to Crimea as part of military exercises taking place around Russia.
The officials also said Iskander missiles would be sent to the Kaliningrad region, which borders NATO members Poland and Lithuania, as part of the military maneuvers.
Iskander missiles have a range of some 500 kilometers and can be equipped with conventional or nuclear warheads.
Polish Prime Minister Ewa Kopacz said, "Russia is making this gesture before the European Council meeting. It is trying to influence European Council decisions concerning extending or adding new sanctions."
Based on reporting by AP, Reuters, TASS, and Interfax
Ukrainian Parliament Approves Bill On Special Status For Rebel East
Ukrainian lawmakers have approved a draft law to grant special status to the rebel-held areas in the country’s east.
The Verkhovna Rada approved the bill on March 17.
The text of the bill outlines the boundaries of particular districts in the areas under pro-Russian separatist control that could be granted special status with limited self-rule.
That was a key part of the cease-fire deal reached in Minsk last month.
The bill also says rebel-held areas in Donetsk and Luhansk regions will be granted their special status after holding elections in accordance with Ukrainian law and under international observation.
Russia and the rebels sharply criticized the bill on March 16.
Russia’s Foreign Ministry said the proposals on special status put before Ukrainian deputies included "additional terms never previously discussed."
Denis Pushilin, a separatist leader in Donetsk region, described the bill as “a crude violation” of the Minsk deal.