Embassy of the United States

(Dec-19-2006) Department of State Releases New Nixon-Ford U.S.-Soviet Relations Volumes. On December 19, the Office of the Historian released the first and third of five volumes in the Nixon-Ford subseries on the Soviet Union, 1969-1976. [Vol. XII: Jan 1969-Oct 1970] [Vol. XIV: Oct 1971-May 1972]

(Dec-19-2006) U.S and Russia Develop Action Plan to Enhance Global and Bilateral Nuclear Energy Cooperation. U.S. Secretary of Energy Samuel W. Bodman and Russian Federal Atomic Energy Agency (Rosatom) Director Sergey V. Kiriyenko last week submitted to U.S. President George W. Bush and Russian President Vladimir Putin a joint work plan that will provide a framework for further bilateral cooperation in the development of nuclear energy technology and deployment. The plan was completed and signed by both parties the week of December 11, 2006, as part of an agreement that stemmed from the G8 Summit in St. Petersburg, Russia, in July of this year. "The safe expansion of emissions-free nuclear energy provides a wealth of possibilities to developed and developing countries alike," Secretary Bodman said. "This agreement between our two nations will help further nuclear technology, but also the path to more securely expand the use of nuclear energy around the world."

(Dec-18-2006) Almost 600 Pounds of Highly Enriched Uranium Returned to Russia. With assistance from the Department of Energy's National Nuclear Security Administration (NNSA), more than 590 pounds of highly enriched uranium was returned from a former East German civilian nuclear facility to Russia. The shipment of 268 kilograms (over 590 pounds) of highly enriched uranium (HEU) is the largest shipment of Soviet-origin HEU ever conducted under a key NNSA nonproliferation program, the Global Threat Reduction Initiative (GTRI), since the inception of GTRI two-and-a-half years ago. The five-day operation took place at the Rossendorf nuclear facility near Dresden, Germany. The effort was completed in cooperation with Germany, the Russian Federation, and the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA). [More]

(Dec-11-2006) "The United States and Russia Must be Good Examples to the World." An interview of Ambassador Burns with Pavel Bykov of Ekspert Magazine, December 11, 2006. [More]

(Dec-07-2006) WTO and U.S.-Russian Relations. An article by Ambassador Burns on the benefits and challenges of Russia's WTO accession for Kommersant on December 7, 2006. [Text]

(Dec-06-2006) Interview with Mikhail Overchenko of Vedomosti. An interview of Ambassador Burns by Mikhail Overchenko on December 6 in Vedomosti. [Text]

(Dec-05-2006) Ambassador Burns Visits the North Caucasus. On December 4 and 5, Ambassador Burns traveled to the North Caucasus cities of Nalchik, Vladikavkaz, and Beslan. He laid a wreath at the Tree of Mourning in memory the 334 hostages killed by terrorists at Beslan's School Number One. [Press Release] [Photos]

(Dec-04-2006) Bringing the WTO Into the Relationship. An opinion editorial by Ambassador Burns published by The Moscow Times on December 4, 2006. [Text]

(Dec-01-2006) World AIDS Day: Solidarity and Partnership. An opinion editorial by Ambassador Burns published by Rossiyskaya Gazeta on the AIDS epidemic to commemorate World AIDS Day — December 1. [Text]

(Nov-30-2006) Journalist Urges More Enforcement of Laws Against Human Trafficking. November 30, 2006 — Victor Malarek discusses links between poverty, prostitution, organized crime. [More]

(Nov-28-2006) Remarks to the American Chamber of Commerce. As delivered by Ambassador William J. Burns to the American Chamber of Commerce in Russia on November 28, 2006 — WTO and U.S.-Russian Relations. [Text] [Video]

(Nov-24-2006) Ambassador Burns Visits St. Petersburg City AIDS Center. On November 24, Ambassador Burns paid a visit to the St. Petersburg City AIDS Center, components of which are funded by USAID. The City AIDS Center provides end of life care for AIDS patients as well as child care for parents who suffer from AIDS, a child abandonment prevention measure.

(Nov-22-2006) Ambassador Burns Interview with RBK TV — Video. A video recording in Russian of Ambassador Burns from a November 22 interview on U.S.-Russian relations by Yuriy Tamantsev of RBK TV. [Video]

(Nov-22-2006) "Moscow and Washington Share Unique Historical Responsibility." An interview of Ambassador Burns by Andrey Terekhov placed on November 22 in the Russian printed publication Nezavisimaya Gazeta. [Transcript]

(Nov-19-2006) U.S. and Russia Sign Bilateral Trade Pact. Presidents Bush and Putin exchange handshakes on Sunday, November 19 after the completion of a U.S.-Russian bilateral trade pact that supports Russia's accession into the World Trade Organization (WTO). The agreement was signed by U.S. Trade Representative Susan Schwab and Russia's Economy Minister German Gref on the side of the Asia Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) summit in Hanoi, Vietnam. White House photo by Eric Draper. [Transcript of Remarks] [Press Release and Fact Sheets]

(Nov-17-2006) Ambassador Burns Visits Volgograd. On November 16 and 17, Ambassador Bill Burns traveled to Volgograd in southern Russia. He toured the Museum of the Defense of Stalingrad and a Panorama commemorating the heroic resistance of the southern front by Soviet forces in World War II and visited Mamaev Kurgan where he laid a wreath in honor of Stalingrad's valiant defenders at the Pantheon of the Immortal Flame. Ambassador Burns expressed his deep admiration and respect for the extraordinary sacrifices of the defenders of Stalingrad, who played such a crucial role in the victory over Fascism. [More] [Photos]

(Nov-16-2006) Oil of Russia: the Present and Future. Remarks as delivered by Ambassador Burns on November 16 at the 4th International Forum "Oil of Russia: the Present and Future" (November 16-17, Moscow). [Remarks]

(Nov-15-2006) President and Mrs. Bush in Moscow. President and Mrs. Bush visited with President and Mrs. Putin at Moscow's Vnukovo Airport during a brief stop on November 15, 2006, to refuel Air Force One. Enroute to Singapore, the two Presidents will meet in Hanoi at the APEC summit, November 17-19. In this photo, President George Bush and President Vladimir Putin exchange handshakes as Laura Bush and Lyudmila Putina look on. White House photo by Eric Draper.

(Nov-10-2006) U.S. and Russia Work to Finalize Bilateral Negotiations. Washington — The United States and Russia have agreed in principle on a bilateral trade pact that will push Russia closer to becoming a member of the World Trade Organization (WTO), the Office of the U.S. Trade Representative (USTR) announced November 10. [Press Release] [Fact Sheet]

(Oct-30-2006) SUNY-MGU Partnership Anniversary. On Monday, October 30 Ambassador Burns hosted a reception in honor of the 30th anniversary of the State University of New York's educational partnership with Moscow State University. In their remarks, MGU Rector Viktor Sadovnichiy and SUNY Chancellor Emeritus Dr. John Ryan underscored the value of bilateral cooperation in education and research and their innovative approach to dual degree programs. The guests enjoyed an outstanding concert of American vocalist Arlee Leonard and the Ivanov Brothers jazz ensemble. [Photos]

(Oct-30-2006) Vesti-24 Television Interviews the Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff. On October 30, 2006 Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff General Peter Pace was interviewed by Igor Vykhukholev of Vesti-24 Television. [Text]

(Oct-27-2006) The 6th Russian Oil and Gas Week. Remarks delivered by Ambassador William Burns on October 27 at the International Energy Forum, Moscow. [Text]

(Oct-24-2006) NNSA Secures All Russian Navy Nuclear Sites. The National Nuclear Security Administration (NNSA) has completed security enhancements to protect against theft or terrorist attacks at 50 Russian navy nuclear sites two years ahead of schedule. This achievement signifies the completion of nuclear material protection, control and accounting upgrades at all Navy-affiliated sites in the Russian Federation that contain nuclear materials or warheads, and was completed two years ahead of schedule. "Denying terrorists access to nuclear material is our top priority. These upgrades to Russian navy sites make it that much harder for terrorists to get their hands on dangerous nuclear material," said NNSA Administrator Linton F. Brooks. "The fact that we have done this a full two years ahead of schedule shows the importance the administration places on securing nuclear weapons and material at the source and for nonproliferation work in general." [More]

(Oct-21-2006) Secretary of State Condoleezza Rice's Visit to Moscow (October 21-22, 2006). Secretary of State Condoleezza Rice traveled to Tokyo, Seoul, Beijing, and Moscow from October 17-22, 2006. In Moscow, Secretary Rice met with President Vladimir Putin, Minister of Foreign Affairs Sergey Lavrov and Minister of Defense Sergey Ivanov. Secretary Rice also offered her condolences to the colleagues and son of murdered Russian-American journalist Anna Politkovskaya and gave an exclusive interview to Novaya Gazeta. [More] [Photos]

(Oct-11-2006) Rewards for Justice Announces Reward for Adam Yahiye Gadahn. Secretary of State Condoleezza Rice has authorized the Rewards For Justice (RFJ) program to pay up to $1 million for information leading to the arrest or conviction of Adam Yahiye Gadahn, a California-born American believed to be a prominent member of the al-Qaeda organization. [Statement by the Spokesman for the Department of State]

(Oct-09-2006) Ambassador Burns Visits Novaya Gazeta and Conveys Condolences to the Colleagues of Murdered Journalist Anna Politkovskaya. On October 10 the U.S. Ambassador to Russia William J. Burns visited Novaya Gazeta's offices and conveyed his sympathy and the condolences of the American people to Editor-in-Chief Dmitriy Muratov and the friends and colleagues of Anna Politkovskaya, a very brave journalist and defender of human rights who was brutally murdered on Saturday, October 7. Ambassador Burns emphasized in a statement at the newspaper's offices that "like many Russians, Americans were shocked and saddened by this crime, and on behalf of the United States, I've come to Novaya Gazeta to convey our deepest sympathy. We have urged the Russian authorities to investigate this crime fully and punish those responsible. It is crucially important to protect all journalists." [Statement by the Spokesman for the Department of State] [Remarks by Ambassador Burns] [White House Statement]

(Oct-07-2006) National Basketball Association Reception at Spaso House. On October 7, some 450 people from Russia's sports, political, and arts worlds attended a reception hosted by Ambassador Burns at Spaso House in honor of the National Basketball Association. The NBA was represented at the event by Commissioner David Stern, the Los Angeles Clippers professional basketball team, basketball legends Elgin Baylor and Rick Barry, and WNBA star Taj McWilliams-Franklin. The reception capped a highly publicized week of activities by the Los Angeles Clippers, who were in Moscow September 29 — October 8 as part of the NBA's five-city/five-team "Europe Live" tour. It was the first such visit by an NBA team to Russia. In addition to conducting its training camp and playing games against Russian basketball giants CSKA and Khimki, the Clippers teamed up with their Russian counterparts to dedicate a new reading and learning center at a local orphanage, conduct a basketball clinic for local youngsters, and visit children at the Institute for Pediatric Oncology.

(Oct-05-2006) PUBLIC ANNOUNCEMENT — RUSSIA. This Public Announcement reminds American citizens traveling or living in Russia that there remains a heightened potential for terrorist actions, including attacks against civilians. This situation is likely to continue for some time. This supersedes the Public Announcement of April 4, 2006 and expires on March 31, 2007.

(Oct-03-2006) U.S. Government Guarantees Quality and Safety of U.S. Food Products Imported into Russia. On October 3, Moscow — Ambassador Burns held a briefing to launch an initiative, under the auspices of the U.S. Department of Agriculture, to inform Russian consumers of the high standards and safety measures taken to ensure U.S. food products that are safe for them and their families. The program and the Internet web site — www.usfoods.ru — should help Russian consumers discover the quality U.S. food products available in Russia today." [Press Release] [Photos]

(Sep-29-2006) Ambassador Burns: Expanding Business Opportunities in Russia's Regions. A Speech delivered by U.S. Ambassador William J. Burns on Friday, September 29, 2006 at the KUBAN forum on regional economic development in Sochi, Russia. [More]

(Sep-21-2006) Reception for the U.S. and Russian Davis Cup Teams at Spaso House (September 19). Guests included Head of the Federal Agency of Physical Culture and Sport Vyacheslav Fetisov, U.S. Tennis Association President Franklin Johnson, and Russian Tennis Federation President Shamil Tarpishchev, as well as numerous senior figures in Russia's sports and political circles. Russia and the United States are among four teams (Australia and Argentina are the other two) competing in the semifinal round of the Davis Cup, the world's largest and most prestigious international tennis team competition. The match between Russia and the U.S. takes place in Moscow's Olympic Stadium September 22-24. [Remarks] [Photos]

(Sep-19-2006) State Department Introduces the Electronic Visa Application Form (EVAF). Effective October 25, 2006, all U.S. visa issuing posts in the Russian Federation, except for the U.S. Consulates General in St. Petersburg and Yekaterinburg, will require that all applications for non-immigrant visas be prepared using the Electronic Visa Application Form (EVAF). This requirement also applies to applicants for fiancé(e) visas. [Press Release]

(Sep-19-2006) Soyuz carries new crew to the ISS. On September 18, 2006 at 10:09 a.m. (Baikonur time) the Soyuz TMA-9 spacecraft launched from the Baikonur Cosmodrome in Kazakhstan. It is carrying a new crew to the International Space Station, including Expedition 14 Commander, Michael Lopez-Alegria (American) and Soyuz Commander and Expedition Flight Engineer Mikhail Tyurin (Russian). Also lifting off on this flight was American businesswoman Anousheh Ansari. Ansari will spend nine days on the station under a commercial agreement with the Russian Federal Space Agency. Additional photos can be seen at the NASA website: www.nasa.gov. Photo Credit: "NASA/Bill Ingalls"

(Sep-15-2006) Rice Introduces Religious Freedom Report. Secretary of State and Ambassador at Large for International Religious Freedom John Hanford make public the 2006 Report on International Religious Freedom during a State Department briefing in Washington, Friday, September 15. The annual report to Congress is mandated by the International Religious Freedom Act of 1998 and seeks to examine barriers to religious freedom in 197 countries and territories, notes countries in which conditions have improved, and outlines U.S. actions to promote international religious freedom. The report consists of an Introduction, an Executive Summary, and Country Reports.

(Sep-15-2006) Democracy Dialogues on Freedom of Religion: Participants can learn about how nations protect religious groups' freedoms and the impact this has on democracy. The Dialogs are a global conversation that includes a range of perspectives and national experiences to promote informed reflection and debate about what makes for healthy democracies. [www.democracy.gov]

(Sep-12-2006) U.S. Embassy Announces a Third International Workshop: On September 12-13, 2006, a third International Workshop: Psychological and Medical Issues in HIV/AIDS Prevention Within the Military: The Ways of Solution will be held under the leadership of the Chairman of International Military Medicine Committee, Head of Main Military Medical Directorate of the RF Ministry of Defence, Surgeon General of the Armed Forces of the Russian Federation, General Colonel Igor Bykov and with participation of the U.S. Embassy Deputy Chief of Mission Daniel Russell and Defense Attaché BG Dan Eagle. The workshop is organized by the Ministry of Defense of the Russian Federation and the US Department of Defense. [Press Release] [Photos]

(Sep-12-2006) Ambassador Burns Visits Siberia. On September 12, Ambassador William J. Burns began his latest tour of Siberia, which included visits to Irkutsk and Krasnoyarsk, linked by a brief stop along the shores of Lake Baikal. [Press Release] [Photos]

(Sep-12-2006) Ms. Lisa Carty Applauds the Work of Russian Red Cross Visiting Nurses in the Fight Against the HIV Epidemic in Irkutsk. September 12, 2006 Irkutsk — Ms. Lisa Carty, wife of the American Ambassador to the Russian Federation William Burns, visited the Irkutsk branch of the Russian Red Cross and met with visiting nurses who provide counseling, psychological support and home-based care for people living with HIV/AIDS in Irkutsk. Ms. Carty praised the staff for their work to fight HIV/AIDS in the region saying that "The high HIV/AIDS prevalence in this region poses unique challenges and I commend you for your part in improving the lives of people infected with HIV. All of us — whether we are medical professionals, teachers, young people, parents, journalists or government officials — need to be doing more to help fight AIDS in our communities. Your work will certainly inspire others to become more involved." [More]

(Sep-11-2006) Embassy Staff Observe the 5th Anniversary of September 11: On Monday, September 11th, 2006, the Embassy of the United States in Moscow marked the fifth anniversary of the terrorist attacks in the United States with a ceremony for Embassy employees. This ceremony took place on the Embassy compound at 12:00pm. Ambassador William J. Burns led a gathering of American and Russian employees in a moment of silence and reflection in honor of the nearly 3,000 people killed on that day. Earlier in the day Ambassador Burns addressed a Memorial Service at the Church of St. Catherine the Great Martyr to mark the fifth anniversary of the tragic terrorist attacks of September 11, 2001. [Photos]

(Sep-11-2006) Ambassador Burns Signs MOU on Emergency Management: On Monday, September 11, 2006, Ambassador of the United States William J. Burns and Deputy Foreign Minister of the Russian Federation Sergey Kislyak held a signing ceremony to mark the extension of the Memorandum of Understanding between the U.S. and Russia on Cooperation in Emergency Management. This MOU was first signed in 1996. Since then experts in both the U.S. and Russia have focused on preventing disasters and ensuring that our highly skilled, well-equipped and experienced response and rescue teams are ready to take action.

(Sep-11-2006) Interview with TV Center — video. A video recording in Russian of Ambassador Burns from a September 11 interview by TV Center. [Video]

(Sep-07-2006) Tobey Takes Nonproliferation Reins at NNSA. Secretary of Energy Samuel Bodman administered the oath of office to William H. Tobey late this afternoon to be the Deputy Administrator for Defense Nuclear Nonproliferation at the National Nuclear Security Administration (NNSA).

(Sep-02-2006) U.S. and Russian Track Teams Meet at Luzhniki Sport Arena. On September 2, Ambassador Burns joined approximately 3,500 U.S. and Russian sports fans to applaud the athletes competing in the "Moscow Challenge" at the Luzhniki Sport Arena. His remarks at the Opening Ceremonies recognized the U.S. participation in this important track-and-field tournament as a concrete demonstration of American and Russian partnership through sports. Also participating were the Head of Federal Agency for Physical Culture and Sport Vyacheslav Fetisov, Chairman of the Moscow Sport Committee Mikhail Stepanyants and President of the Russian Track and Field Federation Valentin Balaknichev. The "Russian Challenge" track-and-field tournament revives the tradition of conducting matches between the United States and Russia. The first tournament was held in 1958 after an "agreement in the field of culture, technique and education between the USSR and the USA" was signed in Washington. [Remarks] [Photos]

(Aug-30-2006) U.S. Discusses Ballistic Missile Conversion with Russia. Washington — The United States is considering plans to convert several of its existing long-range ballistic missiles to carry conventional explosives instead of nuclear warheads, allowing for rapid, pre-emptive strikes against terrorist targets anywhere in the world. [More]

(Aug-26-2006) Ambassador Burns Visits Russian Far East. On August, 25, the Ambassador of the United States of America to the Russian Federation William J. Burns made his first visit to the Russian Far East, during which he traveled to Sakhalin oblast and Vladivostok. During the course of his visit the Ambassador met with Governor of Sakhalin oblast Ivan Malakhov and Governor of Primorskiy Kray Sergey Darkin. The parties discussed the regional development of Sakhalin and Primorye, opportunities for attracting additional American investment, and a number of other issues concerning the development of greater ties between the United States and the Russian Far East. [More] [New U.S. Consular Agency Office in Yuzhno-Sakhalinsk]

(Aug-14-2006) Embassy Moscow LEAPs in a New Direction of Civics Education. During the week of August 14-18, over 100 Russian university students from over 10 different cities gathered in Volgograd, Samara, and Nizhniy Novgorod for the first-ever Legislative Education and Practice Program (LEAP) Summer Institutes and Youth On-line Congress. Over the course of three days, the young participants simulated the Russian legislative process and examined, amended, and voted on bills focusing on public utilities, the rights of the disabled, and employment for ex-convicts. The program also included activities led by the LEAP Fellows, who provided input and guidance based on their six-month internships. [More]

(Jul-18-2006) Online Interactive Forum Features Ambassador Burns on State Department Site. July 18 — Ambassador William Burns answers questions relating to G8 Summit hosted in Saint Petersburg on July 15-17, 2006. [Text]

(Jul-14-2006) President Bush Attended 2006 Group of Eight (G-8) Summit in St. Petersburg. President Bush traveled to St. Petersburg to attend the G-8 Summit on July 15-17, 2006. The G-8 Summit included leaders from Canada, France, Germany, Italy, Japan, Russia, the United Kingdom, and the United States. The European Union also participated. As at previous G-8 Summits, the leaders discussed continued cooperation on a broad range of international economic, security, and political issues. [More] [Photos]

(Jul-13-2006) United States, Russia Closely Cooperating on Nuclear Security. July 12 — U.S. Secretary of Energy Samuel Bodman announces the release of the third report of the Senior Interagency Working Group on implementation of the February 2005 Bratislava Checklist. [Joint Report] [Press Release on Joint Statement]

(Jul-10-2006) Plane Crash in Siberian Region — U.S. Department of State (Office of the Spokesman, released on July 10, 2006). The United States extends our condolences to the government of the Russian Federation and to the families of the casualties of Sunday's plane crash in Irkutsk, Siberia. On this national day of mourning in Russia, our thoughts are with the Russian people and with all those who were touched by yesterday's tragic event.

(Jul-10-2006) Ambassador Burns' Interview with Ekho Moskvy (July 10). Interview by Ambassador of the United States to Russia William J. Burns with Aleksey Venedictov Ekho Moskvy Radio Station and Nargiz Asadova Kommersant Vlast Magazine. The interview was part of a joint project of Ekho Moskvy and Kommersant Vlast to invite all seven Ambassadors of G-8 countries before the G-8 summit to discuss bilateral relations of each respective member country with Russia. Photo: Ambassador Burns (left) and Aleksey Venedictov Ekho Moskvy Radio Station (right). [Text]

(Jul-08-2006) Russia: Anniversary of Klebnikov Murder. July 9 marks the second anniversary of the brutal murder of American citizen Paul Klebnikov, the former editor of Forbes Russia magazine. The U.S. Government continues to urge Russian authorities to do everything possible to find and prosecute all those responsible for this heinous act. We recognize the attention that the Russian government at the highest levels has devoted to this case and encourage it to rededicate itself to making resolution of this case a law enforcement priority. We reiterate our readiness to provide assistance to Russian authorities in bringing the perpetrators to justice. We also express the hope that the proceedings in the current appeal process concerning two of the alleged perpetrators will be fully transparent. The intimidation and murder of journalists is an affront to all who value democratic values and must not be tolerated.

(Jul-04-2006) July 4 Spaso House Reception Remarks by Ambassador Burns. "Soon our two countries will commemorate 200 years of the establishment of diplomatic relations. I am pleased with all that Russia and America have accomplished together, from building the international space station to reducing the threat of nuclear proliferation. These are only a few of the achievements we can accomplish, and I am confident that in the near future with the help of many of you assembled here today we will be able to reach our relationship's full potential." [Text] [Photos]

(Jul-03-2006) Ambassador Burns Remarks at Morgan Stanley Educational Signing Ceremony (July 3). "Morgan Stanley's scholarship initiative launch today is an example of the private sector's recognition of the importance of investing in human capital. I would like to commend the decision to invest in students of economics and technical sciences at two of Russia's leading institutions in those fields, the Moscow Institute of Physics and Technology and the Academy of National Economy." [Full Text]

(Jun-28-2006) Secretary Rice Travels to Russia. Secretary Rice traveled to Moscow for the Group of 8 G-8 ministerial meeting. The foreign ministers' discussions are part of the preparations for the G-8 summit in St. Petersburg in July, which will focus on cooperation in the areas of energy security, infectious diseases and education. While in Moscow, the Secretary will hold a number of bilateral discussions with Russian officials. Photo: Secretary Rice and Russian Minister of Foreign Affairs Sergey Lavrov have dinner at the Cippolino restaurant in Moscow. [More] [Photos]

(Jun-27-2006) Ambassador Burns: The Case for Energy Cooperation. An opinion editorial by Ambasador Burns placed in the English-language daily publication The Moscow Times on June 27, 2006. [Text]

(Jun-26-2006) U.S. Offers Condolences to Russia Over Murder of Diplomats by Al-Qaida. The Bush administration says it is "deeply saddened" by what it described as the "vicious murder" of four Russian diplomats who had been taken hostage by the al-Qaida terrorist organization in Iraq, and pledged to deepen its anti-terrorism cooperation with Russia and to help bring the perpetrators to justice. [More]

(Jun-26-2006) Ambassador Burns: Prospects for Partnership. Opinion editorial by Ambassador Burns published in Russian daily newspaper Vedomosti on June 26: "Less than one month from today, the G-8 Summit will convene in St. Petersburg. Energy security will loom large on the Summit's agenda. Never has there been a moment when the issue of energy has been more important to the future of the global economy and global security. Never has there been a moment when Russia's role in that energy future has mattered more." [Text]

(Jun-26-2006) A Proclamation: Independence Day, 2006. Text of President George Bush's Independence Day proclamation for 2006. [Presidential Proclamations]

(Jun-22-2006) Pre-departure Event Organized for Exchange Students. On June 22, Deputy Chief of Mission Daniel Russell hosted a first-ever pre-departure barbeque for more than 200 Russian exchange students and scholars of the Fulbright, Humphrey, Muskie, UGRAD and FLEX programs. This colorful event, held at the Embassy's dacha on the Moscow River, involved the participation of the Mission's junior officers, interns, and summer hires, who took questions on life in America: social mores, housing, and recreation. The event not only provided departing Russian students and scholars with valuable information on university life in the United States to make their stays more productive, but also underscored that all these programs – regardless of the organization administering them – are U.S. Government programs and form a vital part of public diplomacy efforts in Russia.

(Jun-08-2006) Ambassador Burns: HIV-AIDS in Eurasia and the Role of the G-8. Delivered at HIV-AIDs policy conference at the Duma on June 8. [Text]

(Jun-06-2006) Bush to Join G8 Leaders at July 15-17 St. Petersburg Summit. The White House formally announced June 6 that President Bush will attend the 2006 Group of Eight (G8) Summit, July 15-17 in St. Petersburg, Russia. According to a statement from press secretary Snow, Bush will be meeting with the leaders of Canada, France, Germany, Italy, Japan, Russia, and the United Kingdom, as well as a representative from the European Union. "As at previous G-8 Summits, the Leaders will discuss continued cooperation on a broad range of international economic, security, and political issues," the statement said.

(Jun-05-2006) U.S., Russian Space Station Residents Go on Six-Hour Spacewalk. Washington, June 2 — Residents of the International Space Station ventured outside their orbital home June 1 to conduct a six-hour, 31-minute spacewalk to repair, retrieve and replace hardware on the U.S. and Russian segments of the complex. [Press Release]

(Jun-05-2006) U.S. Reports on Trafficking in Persons. U.S. State Department releases Trafficking in Persons Report on June 5. [Russia Country Report]

(May-31-2006) New Higher Education Memorandum of Understanding Signed in Moscow. On May 31, Secretary Margaret Spellings and Russian Education and Science Minister Andrei Fursenko signed the Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) between the U.S. Department of Education and the Ministry of Education and Science of the Russian Federation on expanding cooperation and exchanges in the field of education. This Memorandum of Understanding is the first of its kind between the U.S. Department of Education and the Ministry of Education and Science of the Russian Federation. [Press Release] [Memorandum of Understanding]

(May-30-2006) Ambassador Burns: "Does Russia Need the West?" Remarks to the Gorbachev Fund/Carnegie Center Conference. Delivered on May 30, 2006. [Text]

(May-25-2006) Russians Complete Internships in U.S. State Legislatures. Washington, May 25 — Ten Russian professionals in the fields of law, journalism and education have completed their six-month internships in state capitals in the United States, offering them the opportunity to compare U.S. and Russian legislative processes. [More]

(May-22-2006) U.S. Ambassador Visits Novosibirsk. On May 18, 2006, Ambassador Bill Burns made his first trip to Novosibirsk since taking up his post. The visit was the Ambassador's first to Siberia, and one of a series of trips that he is making to cities and regions outside of Moscow. During his visit, the Ambassador met with Novosibirsk Polpred Anatoliy Kvashnin and Governor Viktor Tolokonskiy. The Ambassador also met with Novosibirsk Mayor Vladimir Gorodetskiy. On the occasion of the 49th Anniversary of the founding of Akadem Gorodok, the Ambassador participated in a roundtable meeting with Novosibirsk State University's Rector Nikolay Sergeyevich Dikanskiy, scientists from Akadem Gorodok, and leaders of Techno Park. [More] [Photos]

(May-16-2006) Proclamation by the President on Memorial Day. Washington, May 16 — To honor fallen heroes who paid the ultimate price in defense of freedom. [Presidential Proclamations]

(May-12-2006) Ambassador Burns: Remarks to the Moscow Helsinki Group 30th Anniversary Celebration. Delivered on May 12, 2006. [Text]

(May-11-2006) U.S. Hails Moscow Helsinki Group on 30th Anniversary. Washington, May 11 — The State Department applauds the 30th anniversary of the founding of the Moscow Helsinki Group, a nongovernmental organization (NGO) that works to protect human rights in Russia, citing its "three decades of pioneering contributions to the worldwide movement for human rights." [More]

(May-09-2006) NATO, Russia To Highlight Security Cooperation (May 9). Washington — Representatives from NATO's 26 member countries are embarking on NATO-Russia Rally 2006: What Binds Us Together, a two-week, 12,000-kilometer tour across Russia to highlight a new era of security cooperation between former Cold War adversaries. [More]

(May-08-2006) U.S. Urges Russia To Find and Prosecute Killers of Editor. Washington — The acquittal of two persons charged with the July 2004 murder of Paul Klebnikov, the former editor of Forbes Russia magazine, "unless overturned on appeal, means that those responsible for the murder remain at large," said State Department spokesman Sean McCormack May 5 after a Russian jury announced its verdict earlier in the day. [More]

(May-05-2006) Cheney Stands by Criticism but Stresses Russia Is Friend, Ally. Washington — Vice President Cheney said that despite his criticism of Russia in a speech May 4 during a summit of leaders from the Baltic and Black Sea regions, the United States sees Russia "as a strong friend and ally" but also wants to make clear that Russia's record on democracy and its energy policy are causes of concern. Cheney answered questions about U.S.-Russian relations during a joint press availability May 5 with Nursultan Nazarbayev, the president of Kazakhstan, whom he met with in the capital city of Astana, Kazakhstan. The vice president traveled to Kazakhstan following his stop in Vilnius, Lithuania, where he said Russia has a "choice to make" in moving toward democratic reform or further away from it. [Press Availability] [NBC News Interview]

(Apr-28-2006) Release of Country Reports on Terrorism 2005. An annual report developed jointly by the State Department and the National Counterterrorism Center, Country Reports on Terrorism 2005 is produced to provide Congress information on progress in the fight against al-Qaida and the 41 other identified terrorist groups active in the Americas, Africa, Europe and Asia. The report was released on April 28. [Russia Country Report]

(Apr-24-2006) Ambassador Burns: Remarks to the Conference on "Science, Technology and International Relations in the Era of Globalization". Remarks on the role of education and innovation — as delivered in Moscow on April 24, 2006. [Text]

(Apr-24-2006) Experts Address Implementation of U.S.-Russian MANPAD Pact. A joint statement on U.S.-Russian cooperation on enhancing control of man-portable air defense systems (MANPADS) was released by the Department of State April 21. [Media Note] [Joint Statement]

(Apr-19-2006) Ambassador Burns: Opening Remarks at the Fourth Russian Business Summit on AIDS (April 19). "HIV/AIDS poses as great a threat to international security and the global economy as terrorism and natural disasters. According to statistics, 36 million people are infected with HIV globally. This number could grow to 74 million by 2015. Clearly this is something we need to take seriously." [Text]

(Apr-18-2006) U.S. Ambassador Visits Samara. On April 17 and 18, 2006, Ambassador Bill Burns paid his first visit to Samara since taking up his post. This is the latest in a series of trips that the Ambassador has made to cities and regions outside of Moscow. [More]

(Apr-14-2006) State's Burns Visits Moscow To Discuss Iran, Upcoming G8 Summit. Under Secretary of State for Political Affairs Nicholas Burns visited Moscow April 18-20 to discuss the challenge of the Iran nuclear program as well as preparations for the July summit of the Group of Eight (G8) countries. On April 18, Burns represented the United States in discussions about Iran with representatives of the United Kingdom, France, Germany, the European Union, China, and Russia. They discussed the need for significant action by the United Nations Security Council in response to Iran's decision to accelerate enrichment research. [Press Release] [Press Conference — Russian Press] [Press Conference — Western Press]

(Apr-06-2006) PUBLIC ANNOUNCEMENT - RUSSIA. This public announcement updates security information and reminds American citizens traveling or living in Russia that there remains a heightened potential for terrorist actions, including attacks against civilians.

(Apr-06-2006) NFL Athletes Conduct Clinic with Russian Youth: Bryce Fisher, Patrick Kerney, and Max Starks IV, members of the Seahawks, Falcons, and Steelers, respectively, met with approximately 60 Russian youth and their coaches from two Moscow-based American football youth teams at the Novogorsk Sports Training Facility in Moscow. The athletes spoke about football in America, American culture and values, and engaged in a lively exchange with the youth. After the discussion, the athletes conducted two mini-clinics (one for offense, one for defense), showing proper technique for warming up, tackles, diet and training tips, defensive tactics, and demonstrated positions and tricks with several of the youth, as well as members of the MSG Detachment, who were also in attendance. After the event the athletes spent an hour signing autographs and talking with the youth. The event met with overwhelmingly positive feedback and enthusiasm, and the President of the American Football Federation encouraged further cooperation based on the meeting. The event was also covered by various television channels. During athletes' media interviews, they expressed their surprise and encouragement that a uniquely American sport was so well-received in Russia. More information can be found on the NFL website at: [NFL.com Day 3] and [NFL.com Day 4].

(Apr-05-2006) Department of State Releases Country Reports on Supporing Human Rights. U.S. efforts to advance human rights around the world are outlined in Supporting Human Rights and Democracy: The U.S. Record 2005-2006, released by the Department of State April 5. The congressionally mandated annual report, a companion to the State Department's Country Reports on Human Rights Practices, recaps the actions and programs the United States has taken to end human-rights abuses noted in the country reports.
[Russia Country Report]

(Mar-29-2006) Statement by U.S. Trade Representative Rob Portman Regarding Russia's WTO Accession. In a March 29 press release, Portman said he believes that the two sides are close to concluding bilateral negotiations over accession and asserted that the remaining issues are not new at all. [Text]

(Mar-29-2006) New Station Crew Launches From Baikonur. Commander Pavel Vinogradov and NASA Science Officer Jeffrey Williams, the 13th International Space Station crew, launched aboard their Soyuz TMA spacecraft on March 30 to begin a six-month stay in space. Their Soyuz capsule reached orbit a little less than nine minutes after liftoff from the Baikonur Cosmodrome in Kazakhstan. Russian flight controllers reported the spacecraft's solar arrays had deployed as scheduled, and that all appeared normal. In two days the Soyuz is scheduled to dock with the station. Expedition 13 crewmembers are scheduled to do two spacewalks. One will be by Williams and Reiter in U.S. spacesuits and the other by Vinogradov and Williams in Russian spacesuits. [More]

(Mar-27-2006) U.S. Ambassador William Burns: Remarks at the American-Russian Cancer Alliance Conference. Delivered at a joint conference of Russian and American clinicians and scientists at the N.N. Blokhin Cancer Center in Moscow on March 27, 2006. [Text]

(Mar-21-2006) U.S., Russia Sign Pact To Spur Commercial Satellite Launches. The United States and the Russian Federation have signed an agreement intended to facilitate Russian participation in a commercial satellite-launching venture known as "Sea Launch." The agreement, signed March 21 in Washington, provides for technology safeguards on activities associated with Sea Launch, a Boeing Company-led consortium with firms from Russia, Ukraine and Norway that provides commercial launch services for U.S. and foreign satellite payloads from a launch platform in international waters of the Pacific Ocean. [More]

(Mar-16-2006) Second Anti-Trafficking NGO Assembly. The State Duma Committee on Legislation's Working Group on Human Trafficking, and the U.S. Embassy are co-sponsoring a one-day conference on human trafficking at the Russian Academy for State Service in Moscow March 16, 2006. [More] [Remarks by Amb Burns]

(Mar-15-2006) Secretary Bodman Travels to Russia to Advance Energy Security. On March 15, U.S. Secretary of Energy Samuel W. Bodman began a two-day visit to Russia where he led a U.S. delegation to the G8 Energy Ministerial. During his visit the Secretary promoted greater energy security through the use of advanced energy technologies, the promotion of stable and transparent investment climates, and increased conservation and energy efficiency. Secretary Bodman also delivered remarks to the Carnegie Center on the Global Nuclear Energy Partnership (GNEP) and met with American business leaders and senior Russian government officials. [Secretary Bodman's Remarks at the G-8 Ministerial] [Secretary Bodman's Remarks at the Carnegie Endowment for International Peace: Moscow Center] [G-8 Energy Ministerial - Fact Sheet]

(Mar-13-2006) U.S. Officials in Moscow Say Free Market Can Cut High Fuel Costs. On March 13, Deputy Commerce Secretary David Sampson spoke in Moscow at the International Conference on Energy Security, which addressed issues related to the G8 ministerial. [Text]

(Mar-08-2006) 2005 Human Rights Reports Released. Secretary of State Condoleezza Rice announces the release of the State Department's 2005 Country Reports on Human Rights Practices, Wednesday, March 8 in Washington. The reports, provide analyses of the human rights conditions in 196 countries around the world. [Russia Country Report]

(Mar-07-2006) U.S., Russia Still Demanding Iran End Pursuit of Nuclear Weapons. Washington -- The United States and Russia remain united in rejecting any effort by Iran to enrich nuclear fuel within its territory, Secretary of State Condoleezza Rice said March 7 after meeting with Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov at the State Department. "The United States has been very clear that [uranium] enrichment and reprocessing on Iranian soil is not acceptable because of the proliferation risk," Rice said. She added that the United States and Russia "are both operating from the February 4th resolution" by the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) board of governors calling for the Iran issue to go to the United Nations Security Council. [Joint Press Availability]

(Mar-02-2006) U.S. Government Issues Redesigned $10 Note Beginning Today. Washington, D.C. - March 2, 2006 - The new U.S. $10 note will begin appearing internationally in the coming days and weeks following its introduction into circulation in the United States today. [More]

(Mar-02-2006) U.S. Ambassador William Burns: Interview on Ekho Moskvy. An interview of U.S. Ambassador William Burns by Russian Ekho Moskvy radio network correspondent Aleksey Venediktov, Moscow, March 02, 2006. [More]

(Mar-01-2006) U.S. Ambassador William Burns: Remarks to American Chamber of Commerce Annual Investment Conference. "I really do believe that, with vision and determination, Russia can grow into a stronger and stronger economic force, and a more and more attractive destination for American companies." Delivered on March 1, 2006. [Text]

(Mar-01-2006) 2006 International Narcotics Control Strategy Report. Assistant Secretary Patterson (Mar. 1): "During the past year, the international community has continued to combat the drug trade and the activities financed by drugs: terrorism and transnational crime." [Russia Country Reports]

(Feb-28-2006) Interview of Coordinator for International Intellectual Property Enforcement Chris Israel. February 28, 2006 - An interview of Coordinator for International Intellectual Property Enforcement Chris Israel by Russian NTV television network correspondent Fyodor Tavrovskiy. [Transcript]

(Feb-27-2006) Russian Space Command General Tours U.S. Air Bases in Colorado. Colonel-General Vladimir Popovkin, the commander of Space Forces of the Russian Federation, toured U.S. Space Command at Peterson Air Force base and Schreiver Air Force base in Colorado, on February 27, 2006. Photo: Colonel-General Vladimir Popovkin, left, discusses issues with U.S. Marine Corps General James Cartwright, the commander of U.S. Strategic Command, at Schriever Air Force Base, Colorado. Department of Defense photo by Technical Sergeant Ken Bergmann, U.S. Air Force. [More]

(Feb-17-2006) The Best Training the Best. In an innovative teacher exchange, twenty-four of Russia's best teachers will visit the United States for a six-week U.S.-Russia Teachers Training Teachers Program (3TP), departing from St. Petersburg on February 27, 2006. [More]

(Feb-17-2006) Ambassador Burns Remarks at Russia's Membership in the WTO International Congress (Moscow, Feb.  17). "Russia's accession to the WTO is a high priority both for the U.S. Embassy and the U.S. government as a whole. The United States has a crucial stake in the emergence of a strong, prosperous Russia — a  Russia integrated into global institutions like the WTO, which are guided by market principles and democratic values." [Text]

(Feb-16-2006) U.S. Ambassador William Burns: "The G-8 Meeting in St. Petersburg Will Be More Than Just Nice Lunches" February 16 - An interveiw of Ambassador Burns by "Profil" magazine. [Text]

(Feb-15-2006) Bush Administration Seeks To Finish WTO Negotiations with Russia. Washington, February 15 -- The Bush administration wants to complete World Trade Organization (WTO) accession negotiations with Russia, Ukraine, Kazakhstan and Vietnam in 2006 and get congressional approval for those agreements, U.S. Trade Representative Rob Portman says. [More]

(Feb-15-2006) Rice, Russian Foreign Minister To Meet in March. Washington, February 15 -- Secretary of State Condoleezza Rice welcomes the visit of Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov to Washington March 6-7, according to a State Department announcement. The two ministers will discuss a wide range of bilateral and regional issues of mutual concern, the announcement said. This will be the first official visit of Lavrov to Washington since assuming his post in 2004.

(Feb-08-2006) Ambassador's Statement on Afghan Debt Relief (Feb 7). On January 31 at the London Conference on Afghanistan, President Karzai announced Afghanistan's intention to seek debt relief from its international creditors through the Paris Club. An historic decision was taken with the United States, the Russian Federation, and the Federal Republic of Germany agreeing to act together to cancel the debt Afghanistan owes our respective countries. The world has recognized that a stable and democratic Afghanistan is in all our interests, and debt forgiveness represents a significant step towards the rebuilding of the Afghan economy. Russia's momentous decision to forgive a Soviet-era debt of 10 billion dollars will go a long way to help Afghanistan meet its development goals. The government of Russia is to be commended for its humanitarian gesture.

(Feb-07-2006) Ambassador Burns Visits Kazan. On Tuesday, February 7, 2006 Ambassador William Burns paid his first visit to Kazan since taking up his post. This is the latest in a series of trips that the Ambassador has made to better acquaint himself with life outside of Moscow. In Kazan, the Ambassador met with President Shaymiyev, Muslim Religious Board Chair Mufti Ishakov, and members of the Chamber of Commerce and Industry. He also visited the Kazan American Center, where he had the opportunity to speak with Minister of Culture Valeyeva and approximately fifty alumni of programs sponsored by the U.S. Government. At Kazan University, Ambassador Burns was introduced to the University's partnership with Rutgers University in the United States and visited the Center for Democratic Education. [Press Release] [Photos]

(Feb-06-2006) Protecting Our Most Vulnerable Citizens from Trafficking. February 6 - An opinion editorial by Ambassador Burns published in the Russian publication Izvestiya on the topic of trafficking in persons. [More]

(Feb-01-2006) Bush Discusses Iran with Russia's Putin. President Bush discussed the Iranian nuclear issue with Russian President Vladimir Putin by telephone February 1, White House press secretary Scott McClellan told reporters. [More]

(Jan-31-2006) In State of the Union Speech, Bush Urges U.S. Global Engagement. President Bush urged the United States to engage the international community as a means of building prosperity, security, freedom and hope around the world in his State of the Union address to the U.S. Congress and the American people. Speaking at the U.S. Capitol January 31, Bush said that in the "decisive year" of 2006, the United States must choose to exercise leadership in the world in order to secure peace and protect its citizens. (White House photo by Eric Draper) [Text]

(Jan-27-2006) U.S. Ambassador Participates in Who Global Plan to Stop TB. U.S. Ambassador William J. Burns today joined with the World Health Organization, representatives from the Duma, the Federation Council, the Ministry of Health and Social Development and the Russian Red Cross to launch the WHO Global Plan to Stop Tuberculosis (TB) 2006-2015. Similar events were scheduled in London, Paris, New York, and Ottawa. [Press release]

(Jan-26-2006) President's Statement on Holocaust Rememberance Day. A statement from the President in memory of the victims of the Holocaust (The White House, Washington, January 26, 2006).

(Jan-23-2006) Ambassador Burns Travels to Nizhniy Novgorod. On January 23-24, Ambassador William Burns traveled to Nizhniy Novgorod, where he met with Russian officials, journalists, students, educators, businessmen and alumni of U.S. exchange programs. During his visit, Ambassador Burns held a discussion with students at Nizhniy Novgorod State University and met with the University Rector and the Vice-Rector for International Relations. The Ambassador also held separate discussions with Alexander Konovalov, the Presidential Plenipotentiary Envoy to the Volga Federal District, and Vadim Bulavinov, the Mayor of Nizhniy Novgorod. The CEO of the Lear factory (a supplier of GM-AvtoVAZ), Roeland van Gestel, gave the Ambassador a tour of the company's production site. The Ambassador also toured the American Center in Nizhniy Novgorod, where he met with the Director and a number of U.S. exchange program alumni. He also held a roundtable discussion with a number of representatives of local and regional media based in Nizhniy Novgorod. [Photos]

(Jan-13-2006) Ambassador Burns Visits Moscow's Chabad Synagogue and Conveys Condolences to Those Wounded in the Attack. The U.S. Ambassador to Russia William J. Burns visited Moscow's Chabad Synagogue on January 13 and conveyed his sympathy and the condolences of the American people to Rabbi Yitzak Kogan and those wounded in the January 11 attack on the synagogue, their families, and the other members of the congregation. [More]

(Jan-13-2006) U.S., Russia Renew Science and Technology Cooperation Pact. The United States and the Russian Federation have extended for 10 years their bilateral Science and Technology Cooperation Agreement first signed in 1993. The extension, which was signed during a ceremony at the Russian Embassy in Washington January 13, provides for the exchange of scientific and technical knowledge, the pursuit of advanced and applied scientific and technical projects and the augmentation of scientific and technical capabilities, according to a Department of State media note. [More]

(Jan-12-2006) State Department Press Statement on Russian Non-Governmental Organization Law. Washington, January 19 - The United States urges the Russian Government to ensure that implementation of the Russian law on Non-Governmental Organizations (NGOs), which President Putin signed January 10 but was officially reported on January 17, not restrict the space for civil society in Russia. We have repeatedly conveyed our serious concerns about the legislation to the Russian Government and will continue to monitor implementation of the law and its impact on Russian civil society closely. In accordance with the Russian Government's international commitments concerning freedom of assembly and freedom of association, we urge it to enact regulations that eliminate the possibility for arbitrary implementation and facilitate, rather than hinder, the vital work of NGOs.