Moscow Calling – June 28
Putin declares an end to “one-sided games” with the West, justifies increased military spending
Vladimir Putin said that the “one-sided game” with the West is over and that Moscow is adequately coping with the need to cover military spending. Responding to questions from journalists, he stressed that the recognition of the independence of two regions of Ukraine was a turning point, after which the West began to ask questions, ignoring its own responsibility. “It’s as if they are babies who were born yesterday. This will not work. This one-sided game [with the West] is over,” Putin said, commenting on the reaction of Western countries. He also said that the growth of defense budgets in the West indicates their aggressive intentions. At the same time, Putin said that Russian military spending accounts for 6.3% of GDP, which he acknowledged was a lot, but stressed that the country was addressing these issues “in a dignified manner” (TASS).
Pashinyan’s political course jeopardizes relations with Russia, experts in Moscow warn
Moscow is watching with concern the growing political crisis in Armenia and the pressure on the Armenian Apostolic Church, an important spiritual institution that plays a key role in maintaining ties with the Armenian diaspora, according to an article on RIA Novosti. The article also cites Russian experts as saying that Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan’s actions against the Church and the opposition threaten stability in the country and could seriously complicate Armenian-Russian relations. The conflict surrounding Archbishop Mikael Ajapahian, who called on generals to support the uprising, has prompted an escalation. An attempt to arrest him sparked clashes at the spiritual center in Etchmiadzin. Earlier, Archbishop Bagrat Galstanyan was arrested on charges of plotting a coup. The authorities claim that he planned to form combat groups and seize parliament. According to the article on RIA Novosti, the opposition considers what is happening to be political repression, and political analysts warn that Pashinyan has crossed the Rubicon, which could lead to a new wave of mass protests and a deterioration in relations with Russia (ria.ru).
Peas, mung beans, and sous vide: Russia’s alternative to steak now in a can
Scientists at Vavilov University in Saratov, Russia, have developed innovative meat-containing canned foods with added legumes and pumpkin flour, which are high in protein and vitamins, TASS reports. The ingredients include chickpeas, mung beans, lentils, peas, and corn, which provide a balanced amino acid profile and high nutritional value. According to TASS, the product is intended to replenish protein deficiencies and improve digestion. The canned food is prepared using sous-vide technology – vacuum-sealed at a low temperature – to preserve taste, texture, and nutrients while guaranteeing microbiological safety and a long shelf life. According to the same information, the development was carried out as part of the Priority-2030 program and is aimed at creating affordable and healthy food amid deteriorating meat quality (TASS).