State Duma Chairman Viacheslav Volodin noted that the number of Russian territorial subjects amounted to 89.

The politician commented on his Telegram channel that “the entry of the Donetsk, Lugansk, Zaporozhie and Kherson people’s republics into the Russian Federation is the only way to save the lives of millions of people from the criminal regime in kyiv. Stop the bombing of the civilian population, the elderly, women and children. Protect the right to one’s mother tongue, culture, history and one’s faith.”

Both chambers of the Russian parliament must ratify the accession of the new territories. The upper house, the Federation Council, will vote on the incorporation documents on Tuesday.

According to the ratified documents, two republics and two regions or oblasts will be formed, which will retain their current names and whose leaders will hold the rank of governors.

The Russian Constitutional Court confirmed on October 2, in four court rulings, that the incorporation documents meet the requirements of the constitution.

(With information from RT in Spanish)

Rusia ha reconocido la independencia de las regiones de Zaporozhie y Jersón, como se expresa en los decretos firmados hoy por el presidente ruso, Vladímir Putin.

En una nota, el portal oficial de información jurídica de Rusia destacó este viernes que Putin había rubricado los decretos que reconocen las independencia de las regiones de Jersón y Zaporozhie.

Los documentos señalan que el presidente ruso tomó esta decisión de acuerdo con los principios y normas generalmente aceptados del Derecho Internacional, reconociendo y confirmando el principio de igualdad de derechos y autodeterminación de los pueblos consagrado en la Carta de la ONU.

Igualmente se tuvo en cuenta la voluntad de los residentes de las regiones en los referendos.

Las independencias de las autoproclamadas repúblicas populares de Donetsk y Lugansk fueron reconocidas por Rusia en febrero de este año.

El presidente ruso, Vladímir Putin, afirmó este viernes durante la ceremonia de la firma de acuerdos sobre la incorporación a Rusia de las repúblicas de Donetsk y Lugansk y las provincias de Jersón y Zaporozhie que en los referendos la gente tomó una decisión “inequívoca”.

“Es la voluntad de millones de personas”, comentó el mandatario los resultados de las consultas populares. Según Putin, las consultas populares son “un derecho inalienable que está consagrado en el artículo 1 de la Carta de las Naciones Unidas, que se refiere explícitamente a la igualdad de derechos y a la autodeterminación de los pueblos”.

Putin prometió que Moscú reconstruirá todas las ciudades y localidades dañadas por los combates y desarrollará empresas, infraestructuras y sistemas de atención sanitaria. También aseguró que las autoridades rusas harán todo lo posible para que los residentes de los nuevos territorios “sientan el apoyo de todo el pueblo ruso”.

Además, el jefe de Estado se comprometió a proteger a los territorios del país “con todas las fuerzas y medios disponibles”. “Y haremos todo lo posible para que nuestra gente viva segura. Esta es la gran misión de liberación de nuestro pueblo”, manifestó.

Putin recordó que en 1991 las élites decidieron disolver la URSS sin consultar la voluntad de los ciudadanos, lo cual “se convirtió en un desastre nacional”. Según el jefe de Estado, los últimos dirigentes de la URSS arruinaron el país y pusieron al pueblo ante el hecho consumado. “Y de la noche a la mañana, la gente se encontró desconectada de su tierra natal. Esto desgarró nuestra unidad nacional y se convirtió en una catástrofe nacional”, lamentó.

Llamado a cesar el fuego y restablecer las conversaciones de paz
Asimismo, Putin instó a Kiev a restablecer las negociaciones de paz, agregando que la decisión de unirse a Rusia ya ha sido tomada por el pueblo y que Moscú no lo “traicionará”.

“Pedimos al régimen de Kiev que cese inmediatamente el fuego, todas las hostilidades, la guerra que desencadenó en 2014, y que vuelva a la mesa de negociaciones. Estamos preparados para ello. [...] Pero no vamos a discutir la elección de la gente en Donetsk, Lugansk, Jersón y Zaporozhie”, afirmó, subrayando que “la gente ha hecho su elección”.

“Las autoridades actuales de Kiev deben tratar esta libre expresión de voluntad con respeto y de ninguna otra manera. Solo así puede darse el camino hacia la paz”, continuó.

“Occidente deja en ruinas a países enteros”
Putin declaró que los países occidentales aspiran mantener su papel hegemónico en el mundo, por lo que están tratando de debilitar y desintegrar a Rusia, convertirla en su colonia, cobrarle una renta, igual que actúan con otros países. “Occidente deja en ruinas a países enteros que no aceptan ceder su soberanía a EE.UU.”, denunció.

“Occidente no escatima medios para preservar el sistema neocolonial que le permite parasitar, y, de hecho, robar al mundo mediante el poder del dólar y el dictado tecnológico, cobrar un verdadero tributo a la humanidad, extraer la principal fuente de riqueza no ganada, la renta hegemónica. La preservación de esta renta es el motivo clave, genuino y codicioso”, dijo.

Entre otras cosas, el jefe de Estado resaltó que EE.UU. “escupe sobre el derecho natural de miles de millones de personas, la mayoría de la humanidad, a la libertad y la justicia, a determinar su propio futuro”. “Ahora han pasado incluso a una negación radical de la moral, la religión, la familia”, indicó.

“Rusia es una gran potencia milenaria, un país de civilización”, destacó, agregando que su nación no vivirá según las reglas “amañadas” y “falsas” impuestas por los países occidentales. Las reglas de las que Occidente habla son “todo un engaño, doble o incluso triple rasero”, continuó.

“A los anglosajones ya no les basta con sanciones, pasaron a los sabotajes”
Comentando las emergencias en los gasoductos de Nord Stream que se produjeron esta semana, el presidente ruso responsabilizó a los “anglosajones”. “A los anglosajones ya no les basta con sanciones, pasaron a los sabotajes. Increíble, pero cierto. Al organizar las explosiones en los gasoductos internacionales Nord Stream, que pasan por el fondo del mar Báltico, prácticamente comenzaron la destrucción de la infraestructura energética paneuropea”, señaló.

“Es evidente para todos quién se beneficia de esto”, subrayó Putin, refiriéndose a los tramos dañados, que provocaron cuatro fugas de gas en las zonas económicas de Suecia y Dinamarca. “El que saca provecho es el que lo hizo”, concluyó.

(With information from Prensa Latina and RT in Spanish)

Both leaders expressed their satisfaction given the excellent state of bilateral relations and the strength of ties shared by the two peoples and governments.

They also noted progress being made on the economic-commercial front and agreement on the main topics of the international agenda.

During the meeting, Russia likewise reaffirmed its unconditional support for Cuba’s struggle for the lifting of the blockade.

(Granma)

Greetings from Army General Raúl Castro Ruz, first secretary of the Communist Party of Cuba Central Committee, were conveyed by President Díaz-Canel to the leader of this sister nation.

Following the private meeting between the two delegations, the two heads of state signed a joint statement on common positions in the international arena, reflecting the two governments’ high level of agreement on bilateral and global issues. Aspects of the political, economic, and social situation were addressed, as well.

“We propose increasing economic, commercial, and financial ties with the Russian Federation to the excellent level of our political relations,” Díaz-Canel commented to the press, in attendance for the occasion.

“Joint economic projects in the sectors of energy, transportation, metallurgy, and biotechnology are key to our plans for economic development, and still bear great potential,” he indicated.

Díaz-Canel described the talks with President Putin as useful, adding, “They allowed us to confirm the excellent state of bilateral relations.”

He recalled Putin’s productive 2014 visit to Cuba, and noted, “The high level exchanges have been consolidated and broadened,” reflecting the priority which both countries give to these bilateral relations and the intention to continue developing them.

“We are pleased with the level of agreement regarding different issues on the international agenda, particularly the defense of peace and the role of international institutions,” he stressed.

This visit, he said, has great significance for Cuba, “A visit, above all, to convey that within our concept of the continuity of the Cuban Revolution, true to the legacy of Comandante en Jefe Fidel Castro Ruz and Army General Raúl Castro Ruz, also present is the continuity and ongoing strengthening of relations between Cuba and Russia.”

Evoking the deep friendship shared by the two peoples for years, he stated, “I am sure that these conversations will mark a milestone in the development of our relations.”

He recalled that, precisely upon his arrival in Russia, “the first country to support Cuba in confronting the blockade,” the delegation received news of the UN victory, “giving the visit a special meaning.”

The Cuban President added, “I believe that at times chance historical coincidences also mark very important moments for everyone.”

He thanked the Russian government for its firm position against the U.S. economic, commercial, and financial blockade, and went on to emphasize the willingness expressed by President Putin to support the economic updating process underway in Cuba, reflected in the effective participation of the Russian government and enterprises in sectors of key importance to our development plans through 2030 and beyond.

Lastly, he reiterated the invitation to President Putin to make an official visit to Cuba next year, five years after his last trip to the island.

In his remarks, the Russian leader referred to “the holding of negotiations in a constructive, efficient, friendly manner,” which he stated, is “characteristic of talks between Russia and Cuba. Our peoples are traditionally united by ties of friendship, affection, mutual respect, and solidarity.”

He continued saying that the two leaders had assumed the responsibility to “adopt concrete measures to increase trade and expand cooperation in the area of investments,” emphasizing positive experiences in energy, industry, pharmaceuticals, and transportation, including the modernization of Cuba’s railroad system.

“We are ready to support the training of highly qualified Cuban professionals in different fields,” he stated.

He recognized Cuba as a popular destination for Russian tourists, with thousands visiting the island last year.

Referring to the regional and international agenda, Putin reaffirmed the similar visions of the two governments on the majority of key issues, confirming the mutual interest in continuing to coordinate actions in the international arena.

“Russia and Cuba have always advocated for adherence to all key principles of international law established in the UN Charter, including respect for the sovereignty and interests of all states, and the inadmissibility of the use of force, as well as the imposition of unilateral sanctions, and interference in the domestic affairs of a country,” he recalled.

The Russian head of state likewise stressed the country’s intention to expand dialogue with regional organizations and integration associations in Latin America and the Caribbean.

A highlight of the day was the conviction of both countries, reaffirmed by President Putin, that “What was agreed upon here will promote cooperation and our ties.”

A FRATERNAL MEETING

November 2 in Moscow was as busy as his days in Cuba for President Díaz-Canel, with several bilateral meetings taking place.

The Russian Federation State Duma – the lower house of the Russian legislature – was the first meeting place, where he held talks with Viacheslav Volodin, chairman of this body. Cuba is grateful to the Duma for several resolutions it has adopted against the U.S. blockade, and others calling for the freedom of our Five Heroes and supporting many other causes.

Díaz-Canel described the meeting in a tweet as another good opportunity to strengthen parliamentary relations.

It was, in fact, Viacheslav Volodin who led the Russian Federation delegation that joined Cubans to mourn the death of Fidel. He spoke in the Plaza de la Revolución at that time, saying, “Fidel has become a symbol of the struggle of many peoples, a struggle that culminated in success. We have the duty to recall that it is thanks to him that Cuba has been able to preserve the most valuable asset any state can have: its independence.

“Fidel’s contribution to the establishment and development of relations between Russia and Cuba is immense. Despite the distances that separate us, despite the problems we have faced, we have been, are, and will be united.”After this meeting came one with Gennady Zyuganov, leader of the Communist Party of the Russian Federation. A fraternal encounter which served to strengthen the relations that unite this Party and ours.

Around noon, Díaz-Canel was received in the headquarters of the parliament’s upper chamber, the Federation Council, by its speaker Valentina Matviyenko, who welcomed the Cuban President and his delegation saying, “Russia has always held cordial feelings toward the glorious people of Cuba and we will be close forever.”

Díaz-Canel responded saying that her words were very much appreciated, “since we know they come from someone who loves Cuba and has shown this during her efforts leading the Federation Council,” adding, “Russia continues to be a beloved land and we consider the Russian people a sister people.”

A REQUIRED TRIBUTE OUTSIDE THE KREMLIN

“Your name is unknown, your achievement immortal,” reads the granite plaque alongside the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier, in Moscow, a few meters from the Kremlin’s walls, visited by President Díaz-Canel Bermúdez, and the delegation accompanying him on his international tour.

This is a required tribute, a solemn walk in reverence to history, to the heroism of Soviet soldiers who gave their lives in the struggle against fascism in WWII.

The delegation advanced in front of exquisitely uniformed soldiers, as a somber melody was played, evoking memories of the war’s feats and battles, to honor the honorable, courageous men who made history,

First a floral wreath was placed by the President alongside the monument, then came a moment of silence, and finally, once again the notes of Cuba’s national anthem were heard in Moscow.

Thus, as the monument’s eternal flame flickered in the centre of a bronze star, the emotion erased awareness of the frigid temperatures the delegation had experienced throughout their days in this sister nation.

The Honor Guard marched away, and then the President and his delegation retired as well. As they left, in the background the notes of the July 26 Movement March could be heard, and once again everyone was moved, reminded of the deep ties that unite our people. This visit to an emblematic site was another demonstration of that friendship.

(Granma)

Speaking at a ceremony of presentation of credentials of ambassadors from more than a dozen countries, Putin congratulated the American people for the end of elections.

‘We have followed closely the whole American election campaign and the statements made by Trump, and although we know it will not be an easy road, we expect a reestablishment of normal relations with (the United States),’ Putin said.

‘The deterioration of ties was not our fault, but we are willing and wish to develop normal ties with the United States and, we repeat, we know it will not be an easy road, but we are willing to contribute on our part,’ he said.

‘We will do everything within our reach for a stable development of relations between Russia and the United States,’ said Putin.

‘That will be beneficial for Russia and the United States,’ he said.

‘But it will also help create a relaxed atmosphere in the international arena, taking into account the responsibility of both nations in their mission to ensure stability and security in the world,’ he said.

(Prensa Latina)

Putin stated that he recalled “with affection” his last visit to Cuba, in 2014. In addition, he described diplomatic relations between Russia and the Island as long and historic, with the 55th anniversary of the reestablishment of said ties to be celebrated this Friday.

The Army General, who entered the conference room moments before Putin and greeted the journalists gathered there in Russian, thanked the host President for inviting him on date as historic as that of “the great victory of the people of the former Soviet Union.” He reiterated that for him it was impossible no to be present for the festivities and commented on the activities being carried out in Cuba in honor of such an important date.

He made particular reference to the presence of Serguei Naryshkin, Chairman of the State Duma, currently visiting Havana. In addition, he recalled Putin’s visit to Cuba in July 2014, and the important agreements – signed on that occasion – regarding the promotion of bilateral relations in spheres ranging from culture, industry, health, international information security, trade and natural disasters relief, among others.

After these statements, which were immediately disseminated by the press, Raúl and Putin held a private meeting, accompanied by their respective delegations.

After the meeting, Raúl presented the Russian president with an art work by Alexis Leyva Machado (Kcho), which depicts an old PKP rifle (known as Pecheneg) with roses protruding from its barrel and which at its base, on three discs made from bullets, is written: “The Soviet victory over fascism is the foundation of the new Russia.”

On Friday, May 9, the Cuban President is scheduled to meet Patriarch Kirill I of Moscow, highest authority of the Russian Orthodox Church, as he did during his 2009 official visit.

Leticia Martínez, Granma

According to the presidential assistant, Putin and Obama agreed that a constructive solution to the situation is needed.

The entire conversation was about the intensification of the crisis in Syria, which is approaching civil war, with terrorist attacks, said Ushakov. “Our decision was clear when we reiterated that we condemn any type of terrorist action, no matters where it comes from, and we hope that the US will join this position,” he said.

In their talks, Putin and Obama summarily referred to Syrian President Bashad Al Assad, whom Washington demands step down, while Moscow believes that only the Syrian people can decide the political destinity of their country.

However, the conversation focused on the two resolutions regarding Syria, presented at the UN Security Council, one by Russia and China, and the other by the United States, United Kingdom, and France. The vote on those documents was postponed until today.

The resolution from Moscow and Beijing is aimed at extending the UN observers mission for another three months, while the Western powers want to impose more sanctions on Damascus and a possible implementation of the 7th article of the UN Chapter on the use of force.

Belarus, Germany, France, Uzbekistan, China and Kazakhstan, to discuss strategic ties, trade and the situation in Afghanistan, said the Kremlin. The first stop will be in Minsk, for a two-day official visit, where he will analize with his Belarus counterpart Alexander Lukashenko, the advancement of the unified state and the Common Economic Space (CES), brought into force with Kazakhstan in January this year.

Then he will travel to Berlin, on June 1, to meet with German Chancellor Angela Merkel, to discuss economic relations with the major trade partners of Moscow and the buyer number one of Russian gas.

On the same day, Putin will travel to Paris, to develop relationships with the new French President Francois Hollande, in another key country in the European Union (EU), which represents 53 percent of national foreign trade.

Accordign to Yuri Ushakov, Russian presidential assistant, the head of state will come back to Moscow on Saturday and he will attend on June 3 and 4 the Russia-EU summit in St. Petersburg. The next day he will make an official visit to Tashkent.

In his meeting with the Uzbek president Islam Karimov, the russian statements will address the situation in Afghanistan following the withdrawal of the Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO) in 2014, according to Tatiana Parjanova, from the Center of European Security.

With a Gross Domestic Product in 2011 of more than 2 trillion USD, Russia maintains a trade with Uzbekistan of over two billion dollars USD.