Posted on 06/16/2006 2:08:19 PM PDT by DAVEY CROCKETT
LOL, you are going to have fun.
You might as well start now on a JFK thread for Oct or Nov.
I was taught, that for a cold ride on a motorcycle, you are to drink Blackberry Brandy, just a little at a time.
It is also a good flu killer, go to bed, drink all you can handle, before you go to sleep, and you will wake up without a cold.
Had a boss, buy me a bottle one time, when only he and I had worked about a week straight, to keep the cafe open, I did as he said and it worked.
But to this day, my daughter insists that I had a drinking problem, as she came to wake me up and saw the bottle....
LOL, might have been the only bottle of B.B. brandy I ever owned.
Bill's doctor, took him off cough syrups and put him on Peach or Apricot Brandy, a good slug, before bedtime, it stopped the colds....they had almost killed him with all the doctor medicine.
Dubai to Control Offshore Oil Fields 08.06.2006, 09:20 PM
The government of Dubai will assume control of its offshore oilfield operations next year under a deal announced Sunday.
ConocoPhillips said its Middle East unit Dubai Petroleum Co. will cede control of the fields to the government's Dubai Petroleum Establishment effective April 2, 2007. The state will then be in charge of all offshore oil and natural gas production.
Dubai Petroleum Co. is wholly owned by ConocoPhillips and part of the DPC/Dubai Marine Areas Limited consortium involving interests from France's Total SA, Spain's Repsol YPF, German's RWE Dea AG, a subsidiary of RWE AG and Wintershall AG, a subsidiary of BASF AG.
DPC first produced oil in 1969 and has been operating four large offshore oil fields, according to the company's Web site.
"DPC would like to thank the government of Dubai for the unique opportunity we have had to be involved in the growth and success that Dubai has experienced over the last 40 years", said Bill Arnold, president, Dubai Petroleum Co. "DPC will do its part to successfully facilitate the handover of the operations to the government."
The relation between the consortium and the Dubai government dates to 1961.
"This relationship has served Dubai well over the years and we are grateful to ConocoPhillips, Total, Repsol YPF, RWE Dea and Wintershall for the role they have played in building the new Dubai," said Abdulla Abdul Karim, Dubai government representative.
"Forty years later, it is clear that production will now far outlast the period of the concession agreement, and all parties agree that it is appropriate to initiate a transition of operatorship to the government at this time and to begin a new era."
[more on the russia/Israel/Turkey situation, history]
CNS Resources on the Missile Crisis over Cyprus
Sale of the Russian S-300PMU-1 Missile System to Cyprus:
Selected CNS Missile Database Abstracts
The Sale of Russian S-300PMU-1 Missile Systems to Cyprus:
Selected CNS Missile Database Abstracts
1995
Doc. Code: 5840
Bibliography: Executive News Service, 12/20/95
Headline: U.S. To Go Ahead With Missile Sale To Turkey
Orig. Source: Reuters, 12/19/95
ABSTRACT:
On 12/19/95, the Clinton Administration announced that the U.S. intends to proceed with a $132 million sale of 120 Army Tactical Missile Systems (ATACMS) to Turkey. The U.S.'s Loral Vought Systems manufactures the ATACMS surface-to-surface missile [1]. ATACMS has a range of 100 miles (160 km) and can carry a warhead with 950 cluster bombs. According to U.S. government officials, Turkey had previously been denied access to ATACMS technology because of concerns about a possible MTCR violation [1]. Although ATACMS has a range below the MTCR threshold, the missile system can be modified to travel 300 km [2]. U.S. sources state that the ATACMS systems to be sold to Turkey will be equipped with "special software to block modification of the missile to increase its range" [1]. The U.S. ATACMS sale to Turkey was announced by the administration following the expiration of a 15-day congressional notification period, and it will be the first of its kind to a foreign country [3]. Turkey's 11/29/95 request to co-produce the missile with the U.S. was denied because of American concerns about complying with the MTCR [1].
The government of Cyprus has registered a complaint with the U.S. State Department over the sale of ATACMS to Turkey and has requested guarantees from Washington that the missiles will not be used against Cyprus. The ATACMS is capable of striking targets in Cyprus from Turkey [4]. U.S. State Department spokesman Nicholas Burns said that the U.S. agreement with Turkey includes "substantial contractual restrictions" which limit such usage. In 12/28/95, it was reported that the government of Cyprus is contemplating the purchase of anti-missile systems and "multimissile systems with improved strike capability" to defend against ATACMS [4].
Although several members of Congress have complained about the missile sale by citing Turkey's poor human rights record, the administration has responded by asserting that the missiles are "unsuitable for internal use against Kurdish dissidents." In 12/95, 35 members of the U.S. House of Representatives "urged President Clinton to reconsider the sale" [5]. U.S. administration officials defended the ATACMS sale by referring to Turkey's proximity to states such as Iran and Iraq.
According to Lora Lumpe, director of the Federation of American Scientists' monitoring project, the ATACMS sale "undermines U.S. efforts to curb the spread of ballistic missiles" and will probably escalate the arms race between Turkey and Greece [3].
Supporting Sources:
[1] Theresa Hitchens, Defense News, 12/4/95-12/10/95, p. 6, "Turkey Missile Buy Clears Major U.S. Hurdle."
[2] Arms Sales Monitor, 12/5/95, p. 1, "Admin. Proposes Year End Missile Sale To Turkey."
[3] Washington Post, 12/15/95, p. 29, "Missile Sale To Turkey."
[4] Charlie Kharalambous, Cyprus Mail (Nicosia) , 12/28/95, p. 3; in FBIS- TAC-96-002, 12/28/95, "Cyprus: Government Wary Of U.S. Missile Sales To Turkey."
[5] Cyprus Newsletter, 12/31/95, pp. 1-2, "Demilitarization Timetable Needed."
[6] Flight International, 11/29/95-12/5/95, p. 17, "ATACMS For Turkey."
<<>>
1996
Doc. Code: 6485
Bibliography: FBIS-WEU-96-182, 9/18/96
Headline: Cyprus: U.S. Said Pressuring National Guard To Cancel Arms Program
Orig. Source: I Simerini (Nicosia), 9/18/96, p. 1, by Ioannis Kharalambidhis
ABSTRACT:
"According to our informants," the US and the UK are seeking to stop the Greek Cypriot National Guard from acquiring the Russian S-300 anti- missile system. Unnamed military sources attribute the American and British opposition to fears that the acquisition of the S-300 and "the completion of the military airport in Paphos, which will be accompanied by the permanent presence of the Greek Air Force in Cyprus," will significantly alter the balance of power on the island by destroying Turkey's current air advantage.[1] The same sources have suggested these steps may trigger a Turkish preemptive strike to prevent achievement of these goals. According to unnamed "informants," the National Guard's purchase of the S-300 will proceed as planned, despite efforts by "third parties" to block it.[2]
Supporting Sources:
[1] Ioannis Kharalambidhis, I Simerini (Nicosia), 9/5/96, p. 18; in FBIS- WEU-96-173, 9/5/96, "Cyprus: Deal On Russian S-300 Missile Purchase Said Closed."
[2] Makarios Dhrousiotis, O Filelevtheros (Nicosia), 9/18/96, p. 1; in FBIS-WEU-96-182, 9/18/96, "Cyprus: Pressure Said Applied To 'Downgrade' Nikiforos '96 Exercise."
<<>>
Doc. Code: 6819
Bibliography: FBIS-WEU-96-246, 12/19/96
Headline: Russia Said Ready To Sign Missile System Contract
Orig. Source: Cyprus Broadcasting Corporation Radio Network, 12/19/96
ABSTRACT:
During a diplomatic visit to Russia, Turkish Foreign Minister Tansu Ciller failed to convince Moscow not to sell the S-300 [NATO designation SA-10 'Grumble'] SAM system to the Greek Cypriot government. Ciller arrived in Moscow on 12/17/96.[1] Regarding the missiles, Russian Foreign Minister Yevgeniy Primakov said that he does not consider them to be an offensive weapon.[2] Russian Prime Minister Viktor Chernomyrdin, who met with Ciller, said: "Russia will never supply offensive weapons to anyone. We will only sell what is necessary for a country's national defense."[3]
Even before Ciller's visit, diplomatic sources in both Moscow and Nicosia said that the visit would have no effect on the S-300 sale.[4] The sources also stressed that Cyprus has the right to purchase the arms it needs for defense.[4] After returning to Turkey, Ciller said that Chernomyrdin had assured her the sale would not go through. However, a Russian diplomat who attended the Ciller-Chernomyrdin meeting denied any such promise had been made. Several days before Ciller's trip to Moscow, Cypriot Defense Minister Konstandinos Iliadhis said that the country's arms program would continue as planned, in spite of Turkish reactions.[5] When asked about Ciller's visit to Moscow, Cypriot government official Ioannis Kasoulidhis stressed that Russian arms exporters see the sale as a commercial issue and not a political one.[6]
Supporting Sources:
[1] Elif Unal, Reuters, 12/16/96; in Executive News Service, 12/18/96, "Turkey's Ciller to Russia Amid Missile Worries."
[2] Segodnya (online edition), 12/19/96, "Turkey Unable to Stay Russo-Cypriot Arms Deal."
[3] Rossiskaya gazeta, 1/6/97, p. 4; in Oborona i bezopasnost, 1/9/97, p. 9, "Russia to Supply Cyprus with Modern Air-Defense Complexes."
[4] Cyprus Broadcasting Corporation Radio Network, 12/13/96; in FBIS-WEU-96-242, 12/13/96, "Russia To Discuss Missiles If Ciller Raises Issue."
[5] Cyprus Broadcasting Corporation Radio Network, 12/12/96; in FBIS-WEU-96-241, 12/12/96, "Defense Minister Satisfied With Athens Meetings."
[6] Cyprus Broadcasting Corporation Radio Network, 12/13/96; in FBIS-WEU-96-241, 12/13/96, "Spokesman Comments On Ciller's Trip To Moscow."
<<>>
1997
Doc. Code: 6820
Bibliography: OMRI Daily Digest, 1/6/97, by Scott Parrish
Headline: Russia, Cyprus Conclude Arms Deal
Orig. Source:
ABSTRACT:
On 1/4/97, a delegation from the Russian arms exporter Rosvoorouzhenie, signed a multi-million dollar arms contract with the Greek Cypriot government. The contract, which was signed in Nicosia, will include 20 S-300 [NATO designation SA-10 'Grumble'] SAM systems at a cost of $660 million according to unconfirmed Cypriot sources. However, delegates from both sides refused to comment on the size of the arms deal.
The contract signing led to a rash of varied reactions from the international community. Turkish Cypriot leader Rauf Denktash qualified the purchase of S-300 missiles by Cyprus as not only "physical danger" but also a "threat."[1] He also said the purchase would hinder any negotiated settlement to the Cyprus issue.[1] Turkey was also quick to condemn the arms deal. Turkish Defense Minister Turhan Tayan said it would "undermine peace in the region."[2] Turkey has said it will react militarily if the missiles are deployed on the island.[3] The United States and the United Kingdom also reacted in kind. US State Department spokesman Nicholas Burns said: "The United States regrets this step.... It will complicate efforts to achieve a lasting Peace in Cyprus (and introduce) a new and destabilizing element on this island."[4] UK Foreign Secretary Malcom Rifkind called the planned missile purchase a "big step in the wrong direction," and the British Foreign Office said that the decision to buy the Russian missiles would destablize an already heavily militarized area of the world.[5] Rifkind described the militarization of the island as "absurdly high and dangerously high."[5]
On 1/7/97, US President Bill Clinton sent a written message to Greek Cypriot President Glafcos Clerides warning that he would "withdraw his personal commitment to the Cyprus solution if the Cypriot government proceeds with the purchase of the Russian missiles."[6] Clerides, however, said the modernization of the Cypriot army will continue as planned, despite the negative reaction.[6] The UN also showed concern for the Russo-Cypriot arms deal. UN peace-keeping force spokesman Waldemar Rokoszewski said: "The military build-up in Cyprus has underscored what the UN Security Council has pointed out for so long, that the status quo in Cyprus is most unstable and is not tenable."[7]
Russia and Cyprus were quick to defend the arms deal. Rejecting US criticism, Cypriot government spokesman Yiannakis Cassoulides said: "There is no issue of cancelling the agreement. The criticism is totally unfair."[8] On national television, Greek Cypriot government spokesman Iaoannis Kasoulidhis said the missiles will only be used if Cyprus is attacked by the Turkish air force in support of its ground troops.[9] Gennadiy Tarasov, head of the Russian Foreign Ministry Press and Information Department, said: "It is groundless to describe the purchasing by the lawful and internationally recognized government of Cyprus of some type of defensive armaments as a threat to anyone. Such purchases do not upset the balance of force."[10] Russian criticism of the US position was not limited to the Russian Foreign Ministry. Duma Defense Committee Chairman Lev Rokhlin said the US censure is connected with Western efforts to "oust Russia from the world arms market," and Gennadiy Khormov, a Ministry of Defense Industry official, said the purpose of US criticism was to avoid drawing attention to Washington's intention to violate the 1972 ABM treaty.[11]
Greek National Defense Ministry officials announced that the US and Turkish reactions were to be expected.[12] They said that the US reaction was to be expected for two reasons: first, Greek Cypriots are purchasing Russian-made weapons to modernize their armed forces; and second, the purchase of S-300 missiles all but obligates Greece to choose Russian anti-aircraft systems, rather than US anti-aircraft weapons.[12] Four days after the agreement was signed, Valeriy Pogrebenkov, press spokesman for Rosvoorouzhenie, announced that Russia is willing to sell S-300 missiles to NATO countries if requested, since the missiles are "purely defensive."[13] The S-300 missile system is operated by a six-man crew and can hit targets flying as low as 10 m above the ground or as high as aircraft flight ceilings.[13] It has a range of up to 150 km for airplanes and 40 km for ballistic missiles.[13]
After the Russian announcement, Turkish officials were supposedly seeking to purchase S-300 missiles from Russia and had made a proposal to the Russian ambassador to Turkey, Vadim Kuznetsov.[14]
Supporting Sources:
[1] Reuters, 1/6/97; in Executive News Service, 1/8/97, "Denktash Says Cyprus Missile Deal Hinders Talks."
[2] New York Times, 1/6/97, p. A6, "Cyprus Greeks In Missile Deal With Russians."
[3] Celestine Bohlen, New York Times, 1/18/97, p. 2, "On Divided Isle of Cyprus, Missile Deal Widens Rift."
[4] Reuters, 1/6/97; in Executive News Service, 1/8/97, "U.S. Faults Cyprus for Buying Russian Missiles."
[5] Reuters, 1/6/97; in Executive News Service, 1/8/97, "Britain Worried by Planned Cyprus Missile Purchase."
[6] O Agon, 1/8/97, p. 1; in FBIS-WEU-97-005, 1/8/97, "Kliridhis Refuses U.S. 'Demarche' on Clinton Support."
[7] Cyprus News Agency, 1/6/97; in FBIS-WEU-97-004, 1/6/97, "UN Voices Concern Over Purchase of Russian S-300 System."
[8] Michele Kambas, Reuters, 1/7/97; in Executive News Service, 1/8/97, "Cyprus Rebuffs U.S. Over Criticism of Missiles."
[9] Cyprus Broadcasting Corporation Radio Network, 1/8/97; in FBIS-WEU-97-005, 1/8/97, "Spokesman Says U.S. Ambassador's Position 'Extreme.'"
[10] Itar-Tass, 1/7/97; in FBIS-SOV-97-004, 1/7/97, "Spokesman, Experts Defend Cyprus Deal; Burns Comments Noted."
[11] Scott Parrish, OMRI Daily Digest, 1/9/97, "Russian Officials Slam Western Objections to Cyprus Missile Deal."
[12] Y. Tsakiris, Elevtherotipia, 1/7/97; in FBIS-WEU-97-004, 1/7/97, "Cyprus: Officials: U.S. Reaction to Missile Purchase 'Expected.'"
[13] Agence France Presse, 1/8/97; in FBIS-SOV-97-005, 1/8/97, "Moscow Considers Selling S-300 Missiles to NATO States."
[14] Yeni Gunaydin, 1/13/97; in FBIS-WEU-97-011, 1/13/97, "Turkey Allegedly Seeks to Acquire S-300 Missiles from Russia."
<<>>
Doc. Code: 6827
Bibliography: Washington Times, 1/11/97, p. A8, by Andrew Borowiec
Headline: Turks Rattle Their Swords Over Cypriot Missile Plan
Orig. Source:
ABSTRACT:
Turkey has threatened a preemptive strike if the Greek Cypriot government goes ahead with the S-300 [NATO designation SA-10 'Grumble'] SAM systems purchase from Russia. It "dusted off" plans for a preemptive strike that had been drafted 22 years previously. Turkish Foreign Minister Tansu Ciller said that Turkey could destroy any SAM defense system that Cyprus deploys. According to the Turkish plan, there are two possible scenarios: first, if aircraft from Greece land at the airport near Paphos, the airport and the Exocet missiles located nearby will be destroyed; and second, if any components of the Russian S-300 SAM systems are delivered to Cyprus, they will be destroyed in port before they can be installed.
On 1/9/97, the Turkish state news agency announced: "Ankara is seriously considering an operation against the missile launchers when the time comes if Turkey's warnings to the Greek Cypriot administration are not heeded."[1] US State Department spokesman Nicholas Burns said: "This is no time for the Turkish government to be making wild and dramatic statements which will not be supported by any sensible member of the international community. It would be completely out of bounds for Turkey to take this action."[1] On 1/18/97, the Greek General Staff decided that the Greek air force and navy would protect Russian ships delivering the SAM systems to Cyprus.[2]
Supporting Sources:
[1] Washington Times, 1/10/97, p. A13, "Turkey Threatens Attack If Cyprus Sets Up Missiles."
[2] Teoman Turan, Zaman, 1/21/97, p. 5; in FBIS-WEU-97-013, 1/21/97, "Greek Support For Transportation Of Missiles To Cyprus Noted."
<<>>
Doc. Code: 6821
Bibliography: New York Times, 1/14/97, p. 6
Headline: Pledge On Missiles Eases Cyprus Crisis Envoy Says
Orig. Source:
ABSTRACT:
On 1/13/97, US State Department official Carey Cavanaugh announced that the missile crisis on Cyprus had been "significantly postponed" because the Greek Cypriot government has given assurances that it would not deploy Russian S-300 [NATO designation SA-10 'Grumble'] SAM systems for at least 16 months. Cavanaugh met with Greek Cypriot president Glafcos Clerides for over an hour. Clerides told Cavanaugh, "not a single component of those missile systems will be brought to this island in the next 16 months," and thus, the purchase need not be "a crisis issue."[1] In Washington, US State Department spokesman Nicholas Burns said the fact that "concrete assurances" had been obtained by Cavanaugh "effectively, in the view of the United States, defuses this atmosphere of crisis over the missiles in Cyprus."[2]
Turkish Cypriot leader Rauf Denktash also welcomed the 16-month delay but disagreed with the optimistic assessment of the situation by the United States.[3] During talks with Cavanaugh, Denktash said: "The Greeks must say that the missiles will never be deployed. To say that the missiles will not be on the island for another 16 months, as Clerides did, is neither a sacrifice nor a positive gesture."[4] According to Denktash, nothing had been resolved.[4]
Less than two days after Cavanaugh left Cyprus for talks with government officials in Greece and Turkey, Clerides denied reports that Cyprus had promised to delay the purchase of the S-300 missile systems during talks with Cavanaugh.[5] Clerides said that the 16-month delay was required by Russia to complete its part of the estimated $600 million deal.[5] An official at the Cypriot embassy in Moscow also reiterated Nicosia's position saying that the assurances given to the United States are "not a concession. Cyprus, as a sovereign and free state recognized by the international community, reserves the right to defend itself. The contract is still valid."[6] Soon after, Denktash spoke on Turkish-language television and radio condemning the assurances made by Clerides as nothing but deception.[7] He also claimed that Cyprus planned to bring in S-300 components from Russia through Syria.[7]
As a result of the tensions, Belgium has postponed plans to sell SAMs to Turkey.[8] A French company had been negotiating the sale of surplus Belgian and Dutch SAMs to Turkey.[3] In the past, Cyprus has purchased arms primarily from the French and Yugoslavs, but Russia has been entering markets previously closed to it.[8]
Although Cavanaugh's diplomatic visits to Cyprus, Greece, and Turkey did not impede the sale of the S-300 missiles, they did work toward relieving tension in the region. The insistence by the Greek Cypriots that the missiles not be delivered for 16 months shows the government's hopes for international help in Cypriot unification.[1] It also gives ample time for a workble solution to the long-standing problem.[3] However the Greek Cypriots will still take delivery of the missiles in 1998, if a solution is not found.[3] This fact shows that the Greek Cypriot government still sees the missiles as a "bargaining chip."[3] Cavanaugh said the United States continues to view the missile deployment as a "mistake" although the delayed delivery period would give all parties time to find a resolution.[4]
Supporting Sources:
[1] Andreas Hadjipapas, John Barham, and Kerin Hope, "Cyprus: Moves To Calm Dispute Over Missiles," Financial Times, [Online] http://www.ft.com/hippocampus/2b622.html, 1/14/96.
[2] The Washington Times, 1/15/97, p. A12, "U.S. Stand Opposes Missiles."
[3] Michael Theodoulou, "Creek Cypriot Vow On Missiles Eases Tension," The Times, [Online] http://www.sunday- times.co.uk/news, 1/14/97.
[4] Jane's Defence Weekly, 1/22/97, p. 4, "Critics Fail To Block Cypriot S-300 Buy."
[5] Jamestown Foundation Monitor, 1/15/97, "Cyprus Denies Delay In Missile Purchase."
[6] Izvestiya, 1/15/97, p. 3; in Oborona i bezopasnost, 1/17/97, p. 13, "Russian Anti-Aircraft Missile System Will Be Delivered To Cyprus In 16 Months."
[7] Bayrak Radio, 1/17/97; in FBIS-WEU-97-012, 1/17/97, "Denktas Says Greeks Trying To Get Missile Parts Through Syria."
[8] CAAT News, 2/97, p. 10, "Arms Trade News."
<<>>
Doc. Code: 6849
Bibliography: RIA Novosti, 2/4/97
Headline: S-300 Antiaircraft Missiles At Shooting Practice Hit All The Targets Khabarovsk
Orig. Source:
ABSTRACT:
Russia conducted a five-day exercise of firing S-300 [NATO designation SA-10 'Grumble'] SAMs. The firing practice was carried out by a missile unit of the 11th Separate Guards' Army.[1] Colonel Andrey Varaksin commanded the brigade.[1] The exercise took place "in particularly complex weather conditions," and the missiles hit every target, according to a RIA Novosti report. The S-300s were targeted "at sea-based cruise missiles not only on head-on courses, but also in pursuit of the targets." The missiles proved capable of maneuvering and flying at a height of 25 to 50 m. The exercise was held in the Far Eastern Military District. Specifically, the firings were conducted in a new Kaliningrad range.[1]
The S-300 is scheduled to be exported to Cyprus. In addition, Russia intends to provide Cyprus with Tuman electronic-warfare systems which "'blind' low-flying planes and force them to rise higher."
Supporting Sources:
[1] Krasnaya zvezda, 11/20/96, p. 2; in FBIS-TAC-97-001, 11/20/96, "Missile Exercise Held On New Kaliningrad Range."
<<>>
Doc. Code: 7466
Bibliography: Kommeresant-DAILY, 9/3/97
Headline: Turkish Planes Can Be Destroyed Immediately After Takeoff
Orig. Source:
ABSTRACT:
Yuriy Rodin-Sova, director-general of the financial-industrial group Oboronitelnyye Sistemy (Defense Systems), Rosvoorouzhenie's general contractor for air-defense systems, said that the Russian S-300 air defense missile system is virtually a strategic weapon. Rodin-Sova said "for example, installing the [Russian] system in Cyprus automatically means that Turkey will lose its advantage in the air. If necessary, its aircraft can be destroyed immediately after taking off from its bases. Nevertheless, the S-300 system is not an attack weapon, but a defense system."
Rodin-Sova noted that due to such capabilities, this system cannot be sold without intergovernmental agreement and special government permission. He said the directors of Defense Systems are concerned by Turkish announcements regarding the S-300 missile sale, and have asked for information regarding delivery guarantees from Rosvoorouzhenie.
<<>>
Doc. Code: 7467
Bibliography: FBIS-WEU-97-247, 9/4/97
Headline: Measures Against Missile-Carrying Ships In Straits Viewed
Orig. Source: Yeni Yuzyil (Ankara), 9/4/97, p. 6
ABSTRACT:
Turkish coast guard officials have halted and searched ships entering the Bosporus that were suspected of carrying S-300 missile parts sold by Russia to Cyprus. The "Diamont-H," the "Volga," and the Egyptian- registered "Ras Muhammad" and "Al Husayn," were reportedly suspected to be carrying missiles. Turkish authorities warned that "ships carrying missiles to hostile countries will be regarded as a cause of war," and that Turkey is determined to "attack" such vessels. Officials of the Turkish General Staff, the coast guard, the Ministry of Internal Affairs, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, and the Naval Command Headquarters met on 9/4/97 to discuss new security and safe-passage regulations for the straits.
The Turkish foreign ministry recommended that controls not be overdone, because they could not be carried out indefinitely and might weaken before S-300 missiles are actually transported.[1] Turkish Maritime undersecretariat officials disclosed on 9/4/97 that "Diamont-H" crossed the Bosporus without being searched, when the captain disclosed that it carried 10,000 tons of iron.[2]
Russian Foreign Ministry spokesman Gennadiy Tarasov said in a news conference that Russia would raise the question with Turkey of whether such searches violated the 1936 Montre [as written] Convention.[3] An unidentified Russian embassy spokesman in Cyprus assured that S-300 missiles would be delivered only as contracted, that is, in the middle of 1998.[4]
A Greek Cypriot newspaper, "I Makhi," was said by the Ankara newspaper "Yeni Yuzyil" to have reported that 27 S-300 missiles had arrived in Limmasol through the strait, but the report was received with skepticism by Turkish officials.[5]
Satellite intelligence regarding transport of Russian missiles was reportedly provided by the United States to Turkey.[6]
"Yeni Yuzyil" warned that Russian S-300 missiles may be acquired by four of Turkey's neighbors. It noted in addition to Cyrpus, Syria is reportedly negotiating their purchase with Russia; that US intelligence and news sources indicate that S-300s will be transferred to Iran; and that missiles able to strike Turkey have been provided by Russia to Armenia.[7]
Turkish F-16 aircraft have reportedly been equipped with ALQ-178 electronic warfare equipment to locate and jam the frequencies employed by S-300 missiles. Turkish pilots have trained at an electronic warfare center in Israel to combat S-300 missiles.[8]
Supporting Sources:
[1] Adhesmevtos Tipos (Athens), 9/2/97, p. 12, in FBIS-WEU-97-246, 9/3/97, "US Presses To Prevent Missile Deployment To Cyprus."
[2] Izvestiya (Moscow), 9/2/97, p. 3, by Gennadiy Charodeyev, in FBIS- TAC-97-246, 9/3/97, "Turks Search Egyptian Ship For Russian Missiles For Cyprus."
[3] ITAR-TASS (Moscow), 9/4/97, by Arseny Mironov, in FBIS-SOV-97-248, 9/5/97, "Moscow Against Turkish Plans To Inspect Ships In Black Sea."
[4] Milliyet (Istanbul) 9/5/97, p. 14, by Mustafa Bakacak, in FBIS-WEU- 97-248, 9/5/97, "Turkish Paper Reports 'Diamont-H' Crosses Bosphorus."
[5] Yeni Yuzyil (Ankara), 9/4/97, p. 6, by Ozlem Hersan, in FBIS-WEU- 97-247, 9/4/97, "Turkish Paper Cites Cypriot Daily Saying Missiles Arrived."
[6] Sabah (Istanbul), 9/6/97, by Fatih Cekirge, in FBIS-WEU-97-250, 9/7/97, US Satellites Said Informed Turkey On Missile Movement."
[7] Yeni Yuzyil (Ankara), 8/29/97, p. 13, by Suat Taspinar, in FBIS- WEU-97-245, 9/2/97, "Threat To Turkey From Neighbor's Arms Programs Viewed."
[8] Sabah (Istanbul), 9/5/97, p. 13, by Kemal Yurteri, in FBIS-WEU-97- 250, 9/7/97, "Turkey: F-16 Planes Said Capable Of Intercepting S- 300 Missiles."
<<>>
Doc. Code: 7291
Bibliography: Izvestiya, [Online] www.online.ru/rproducts/izvestiya, 9/13/97, by Gennadiy Charodeyev
Headline: Turks Threaten To Blockade Cyprus And To Boycot The EU
Orig. Source:
ABSTRACT:
Ankara has forbidden all ships flying Cypriot flags from docking at Turkish ports. Any ships owned by Cypriot citizens or companies operating on the island will also be refused docking privileges. Turkish officials maintain that the action has nothing to do with the sale of Russian S-300 [NATO designation SA-10 'Grumble'] SAMs to southern Cyprus but rather is a response to the embargo that Greek Cypriots have placed on Turkish northern Cyprus. However, Greek Cypriot diplomats called the "economic war" an "integral part" of a Turkish plan to foil the Russian missile sale to southern Cyprus. Moreover, Ankara plans on continuing the blockade until the Greek Cypriots break off the S-300 deal with Russia.
Turkish Prime Minister Mesut Yilmaz said that the S-300s threaten regional peace and called upon all parties concerned, especially the United States, "to take an active role in the developing situation." Yilmaz also called on Russia to look beyond the several hundred million dollars involved in the deal and consider its strategic interests as well. Meanwhile, Russian Press Secretary Sergey Yastrzhembskiy announced at a Moscow press conference that Russia is prepared to rethink its S-300 sale if the "illegally based" Turkish soldiers are withdrawn from northern Cyprus. The pending missile sale has led Turkey to reexamine its defense strategy.[1] According to the Turkish newspaper "Milliet", Ankara intends to purchase specialized air defense missile systems from China that would make up part of the Mediterranean air defense system.[1] At the same time, Turkish officials from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs are developing a new strategy for inhibiting the delivery of the S-300s based on diplomatic measures and initiatives aimed at blocking passage through the Bosporus and Dardanelles Straits.[2]
According to the Turkish newspaper "Khyurriet", the Turkish Chiefs of Staff have decided to establish a "missile group", which will also include members of the civilian government, to monitor the situation surrounding the S-300 sale and delivery to Cyprus.[2] The missile group will be established in northern Cyprus.[2] The Russian Ministry of Foreign Affairs responded to the Turkish initiatives and released an official statement reiterating that Turkey has repeatedly tried to put a stop to the deal by threat. The statement also reiterated the fact that the missiles are "purely defensive."[3] According to the announcement, Turkish news media had taken the issue to "absurd proportions" alleging that the missiles could carry nuclear, chemical, and biological warheads.[3] The official announcement also stated that the military sales to Cyprus are the result and not the cause of the unresolved conflict.[3]
In a live interview on Cypriot television, Russian Ambassador to Cyprus Gregoriy Muradov was quoted as saying: "Any attack by Turkey on Russian vessels delivering S-300s to Cyprus will be deemed a causus belli (grounds for war) by Moscow."[4] Days after the interview was aired, the official Greek press agency announced that any Turkish attacks on Greek ships would be considered grounds for war.[4] Later, leading newspapers in Athens and Ankara said that the official Greek announcement was based on Muradov's comments.[4] However, Russian embassy Press Atache Vladimir Maystrenko said in an interview with the Russian daily "Izvestiya" that Muradov never said such a thing and that the video recording of the interview proves it.[4]
Supporting Sources:
[1]Krasnaya zvezda, 9/16/97, p. 3, "Turkey To Form 'Mediterranian Army'."
[2]Krasnaya zvezda, 9/19/97, p. 3, "Ankara To Form 'Missile Group'."
[3]Rossiiskaya gazeta, 10/1/97, p. 7, "The Demilitarization Of Cyprus Will Solve All Problems."
[4]Gennadiy Charodeyev, Izvestiya, [Online] http://win.www.online.ru/rproducts/izvestia-izvestia-year/14-Oct-97/25.rhtml , 10/14/97, "Attempts To Pull Russia Into The Greco-Turkish Conflict".
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Doc. Code: 7497
Bibliography: FBIS-WEU-97-260, 9/17/97
Headline: Turkish Military Commanders' Meetings Noted
Orig. Source: Yeni Yuzyi (Istanbul), 9/16/97, p. 8, by Kemal Yurteri
ABSTRACT:
In meetings on 9/16-17/97 at Turkey's General Staff Headquarters, Chief of the General Staff General Ismail Hakki Karadayi and other military officers discussed the Greek Cypriot purchase of S-300 missiles from Russia and the missile threat from Iraq, Iran, Armenia, and Syria.
In response to the missile purchase, the general staff was instructed by the government to make "all possible military plans, including the `last resort option' of striking at the missiles." Prime Minister Mesut Yilmaz said that "Turkey may resort to every measure to ensure its security." Though the government will make final decisions on the military plans, the "Missile Working Group", formed within the Office of the Chief of the General Staff, will prepare options.[1]
During a briefing given on 9/19/97 at the prime minister's residence, officers described the threats posed by the missiles: "If the Greek Cypriots deploy the missiles on their territory, their range may extend as far as Isparta. If Greece deploys the missiles on the Greek island in the Aegean, even Ankara would be within their range. If nuclear, biological, or chemical weapon warheads are mounted on the missiles, a possible attack on Turkey could result in the deaths of approximately 70,000 people in an area of 250 square km." The officers also described possible deterrent measures: "the military force in the TRNC [Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus] may be expanded from a division to an army, air and naval bases may be built in the TRNC, a military unit equipped with radar technology...may be deployed, [and] a Mediterranean army may be formed in southern Turkey." If these deterrents are insufficient, Turkish fighter-bombers could render the missiles ineffective by hitting them in the air.[1]
In reference to the missile threat posed by Turkey's neighbors, military officers said that the most effective measure would be for Turkey to acquire similar missiles. Due to the fact that most countries around Turkey possess short- and medium-range ballistic missiles and two have large stockpiles of chemical and biological weapons, the threat is increasingly serious. Towns and dams in eastern Anatolia are threatened by the 500-600 km range of Iran's and Syria's missiles. No-Dong missiles, with a range of 1,000 km, are being jointly produced by Iran and North Korea and financed by Tehran. They are expected to be installed in Iran and Syria in the near future. If Syria bases the No-Dong missiles in Aleppo, they could launch them against Istanbul and other cities in western Turkey.[2]
Military officers also argued that installing and maintaining an active defense system would be very expensive, and that it would not be effective in defending a large country like Turkey. The Istanbul newspaper "Yeni Yuzyi" concluded that "it will be useful if Turkey, considering the MTCR parameters, makes initiatives to acquire missiles from appropriate sources."[2]
Supporting Sources:
[1]Sezai Sengun and Zeynep Guracanli, Hurriyet (Istanbul), 9/20/97, p. 8, in FBIS-WEU-97-260, 9/17/97, "Turkish Deterrent To Cypriot Missiles Detailed."
[2]Sukru Elekdag, Milliyet (Istanbul), 9/15/97, p. 19, in FBIS-WEU-97-258, 9/15/97, "Turkey Urged To Buy Missiles From 'Appropriate Sources."
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Doc. Code: 7326
Bibliography: Defense News, 9/22-28/97, p. 10, by Brooks Tigner
Headline: Turkey Plans Robust Procurement Spending
Orig. Source:
ABSTRACT:
NOTE: This article includes a table detailing Turkey's defense procurements plans.[1]
Turkey expects to finance defense contracts worth $31 billion over the next 10 years in its massive new procurement program, including direct-buy, co- production, and modernization projects. Chief of the Turkish General Staff, Gen. Ismail Hakki Karadayi, said that Turkey's procurement plan for the armed forces in 1998 and the next 10 years includes, among other items, the production of medium-range missiles and the acquisition of integrated communication systems with early warning systems. Vevsel Yayan, of the undersecretariat of defense industries (SSM), said on 9/2/97 that "Turkey could spend as much as $150 billion on arms programs through 2030."
The SSM coordinates Turkey's large-scale and foreign defense industry procurement programs. It was created as an autonomous agency within the Defense Ministry in 1985. Its annual fund, the Defense Industry Support Fund (SSDF), is generated by consumer taxes on imported goods, gasoline, tobacco, alcohol, and gambling. The SSM and Defense Ministry each contribute approximately 40% toward Turkey's annual spending on defense procurement. This is accompanied by a policy of local production or full offset arrangements. For example, the $100 million unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) system and $500 million command, control, communications, and computer (C4) systems programs will involve local production with foreign partners, while the $850 million program for four airborne early warning aircraft will involve direct procurement from abroad.[1]
Currently, the SSM and Defense Ministry are reportedly locked in a power struggle for financial and political control over Turkey's defense programs. While the military and Defense Ministry argue that it should be brought under their control as an ordinary department, the pro-SSM faction seeks to guarantee efficiency and cost-effectiveness by creating an "autonomous, civilian-staffed purchasing agency similar to that in many European countries". Diplomatic and industry sources say privately that SSM civilian experts are more attuned to standard business and contractual procedures, making them more budget-minded than military officials in dealing with defense companies.[1]
The allocation of Turkey's increased defense budget will depend on the military's assessment of security in the region, the reliability of foreign defense suppliers, and the government's rationale for developing domestic defense industry. With Russia no longer posing an immediate threat to Europe, Turkey's perceived importance as a key strategic partner has diminished and bilateral aid has fallen. Turkish officials believe that the potential threats to the nation's security have grown more complex, and multidirectional, with the end of Communism. Relations with Iraq, Iran, and Syria are not good, while relations with Greece have deteriorated since its purchase of Russian-made S-300 missiles by Cyprus. Seyfi Tashan, director of the Turkish Foreign Policy Institute, said that "the need for stable and secure supplies of defense equipment will be an increasingly important consideration, both in [Turkey's] relationship with foreign partners and as we develop our own indigenous defense industry. [Turkey] cannot be at the whim of US congressional pressures for our strategic needs."[2]
The United States, which held up a lease agreement for provision of three "Perry"-class frigates and four SH-60 Seahawk helicopters to Turkey until it signed a non-aggression pact with Greece in August 1997, is now debating whether to allow the transaction to proceed. This delay is hampering bilateral relations. "It's a major program and human rights will certainly be a factor," said a US official about the lease agreement, but "there's no question in my mind that the Turks can acquire capable systems from other suppliers." Turkey is among the world's largest arms importers , and received $1.2 billion worth of weapons for the United States in 1996. Turkish Defense Minister, Ismet Sezgin, warned that if the US wants to "tap into the $150 billion Turkey plans to spend on weapons during the next 30 years, it had better guarantee the political debate in Washington does not clog the arms flow."[3]
Supporting Sources:
[1]Brooks Tigner, Defense News, 9/22-28/97, pp. 8, 22, "Local Production Key To Increase In Turkish Budget."
[2]Umit Enginsoy and Brooks Tigner, Defense News, 9/22-28/97, pp. 8, 22, "Shifting Policies Alter Turkish Military Stance."
[3]Jeff Erlich and Umit Enginsoy, Defense News, 9/22-28/97, p. 12, "U.S. Hesitance On Arms Deals Frays Turkish Ties."
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Doc. Code: 7333
Bibliography: FBIS-WEU-97-190-S, 10/1/97
Headline: Russia: Contract Of The Month: Cyprus Is Purchasing Russian Air Defense Systems
Orig. Source: Eksport obychnykh vooruzheniy (Moscow), 10/1/97, pp. I6-I10
ABSTRACT:
Little is publicly known about the terms of the Rosvooruzhenie contract to supply Russian S-300PMU-1 [NATO designation SA-10B `Grumble'] air-defense systems to Cyprus. Both sides refuse to comment on contract details, in contrast to previous transparency in Russian-Cypriot military-technical cooperation. The Cypriot deal demonstrates Russia's penetration into a primarily Western-controlled export market and diversification of its own weapon exports; the opportunity for increased Russian-Greek military-technical cooperation; and possible creation of additional demand for future models of arms, such as anti-missile systems and means of combating precision weapons.
Western sources estimate the deal to be worth $600 million. However, Takis Hajidimitriu, chairman of the Cypriot Parliamentary Commission on Defense, said the contract was valued at approximately $410 million. Others estimate the contract closer to $150-200 million. Cypriot defense expenditures in 1996 were only $356 million, however, and it is doubtful that the Cypriot economy has sufficient financial resources for the S-300 contract unless it receives funding from abroad, for example from Greece.
The number of systems being sold is also unclear. Russian media sources report "deliveries of three batteries of S-300 PMU-1's", noting that a battery is "one complex, which under the T/O & E includes 12 launchers and one computer complex." Other Russian sources close to the military leadership said that "only one complex will be delivered to the island, but its configuration will surpass the authorized one and have 20 or 24 launchers." The time period for payments, possible offset condition, or barter arrangements are unknown to the press.
The Turkish community on Cyprus has superiority in offensive weapons, including its 30,000 man corps and 265 US-made M-48 tanks. Turkey increased its supply of modern weapons in 1996 with the purchase of 41 Russian T-80 tanks. The delivery of modern air-defense system to Cyprus will change the balance of power on Cyprus, as it will end Turkish air superiority, but without increasing the Greek Cypriot offensive. Placing S-300 missiles on Cyprus will allow control over important air routes.
The Cypriot missile contract contributes to Russia's entry into a promising segment of the market of anti-missile weapons and means of combating precision weapons. This redresses the poor geographic and commodity balance of previous arms sales. Two-thirds of Rosvooruzheniye deliveries from Russia are heavily located in two countries, India and China. With Russia penetrating a new market previously controlled by Western supplies, other countries, such as Greece, are expressing interest in weapons and fighters. The more countries that buy a weapon system from Russia, the easier it is to sell them to other clients. The Cyprus sale aids in promoting SAM sales on the world market.
Mehmet Ali Birand, a columnist for the newspaper "Sabah" in Istanbul, said that Russian officials have welcomed the free publicity for their missiles: "The S-300 missiles were unheard of in the past but they have now drawn everyone's attention, thanks to Turkey's reaction."[1]
Greek Cypriot President Glavkos Kliridhis said that Russian officials must hand over the missiles in Cyprus, and that they will not be paid for until delivered.[1]
Supporting Sources:
[1]Mehmet Ali Birand, Sabah (Istanbul), 10/3/97, p. 14; in FBIS-WEU-97-276, 10/3/97, "Turkey: Birand Article Discusses Missiles' Delivery."
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Doc. Code: 7318
Bibliography: FBIS-WEU-97-283, 10/10/97
Headline: Russian Envoy's Warning Against Attack On S-300 Carrier
Orig. Source: Cyprus Broadcasting Corporation Radio Network (Nicosia), 10/10/97
ABSTRACT:
Russian Ambassador to Cyprus Geogiy Muratov said that an attack by Turkey on the ship carrying S-300 [NATO designation SA-10 `Grumble'] missiles from Russia to Cyprus would be grounds for war. The statement was made on the Cyprus Broadcasting Corporation television program Proektasis on 10/9/97.
The S-300 missile sale has been a source of conflict in Turkish-Russian relations, which have deteriorated due to covert Turkish military support for Chechen separatists and Russian aid to Kurdish separatists in Turkey.[1]
The widely-circulated Istanbul newspaper "Milliyet" characterized Western opinion as supporting Turkey's position in the missile crisis.[2]
Supporting Sources:
[1]Paul Anast, Washington Times, 10/13/97, p. 13, "Greek Military Forces On Full Alert."
[2]Sami Kohen, Milliyet (Istanbul), 10/10/97, p. 18, in FBIS-WEU-97-283, 10/10/97, "Commentary Views 100 Days of Turkish Foreign Policy."
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Doc. Code: 7310
Bibliography: FBIS-WEU-97-286, 10/13/97
Headline: Turkish Defense Minister Views Cyprus, Greek Relations
Orig. Source: Elevtherotipia (Athens), 10/31/97, p. 7, by Aris Ambatzis
ABSTRACT:
In an interview with the Athens newspaper "Elevtherotipia" on 10/13/97, Turkish Deputy Prime Minister and National Defense Miniser Ismet Sezgin stated that Turkey will not allow a change in the military balance in Cyprus from that of the past 23 years. Sezgin said that Greek Cypriot acquisition of Russian-made S-300 missiles is designed to change the stability and military balance, and to prevent Turkey from providing air defense to the Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus (TRNC). After analysis of the capabilities of the S-300 missiles, Turkish officials determined that the missiles could be used as an offensive weapon against Anatolia and the TNRC. If the Greek Cypriots should install the S-300 missiles, Sezgin said, Turkey would be obliged to acquire "modern weapons to strike at the missiles."
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Doc. Code: 7311
Bibliography: FBIS-WEU-97-287, 10/14/97
Headline: Holbrooke's Proposals On Cyprus Said Rejected By Turkey
Orig. Source: Yeni Yuzyil (Istanbul), 10/14/97, p. 5, by Ozlem Hersan
ABSTRACT:
US Special Representative to Cyprus Richard Holbrooke called for an "indefinite ban on military flights over Cyprus" during his visit to the island on 10/13/97. He reportedly proposed that Turkish officials agree to a ban in exchange for Cyprus agreeing to refrain from accepting Russian S- 300 missiles. Holbrooke held talks with Turkey's Deputy Prime Minister Bulet Ecevit, President Suleymen Demirel, Prime Minister Mesut Yilmaz, General Cevik Bir, Minister of Foreign Affairs Ismail Cem, and Minister of State Sukru Sina Gurel. Holbrooke was told that Turkey will "definitely not agree on such a ban," and that Turkey rejected use of the S-300 missiles as a bargaining chip.
In a television interview on 10/12/97, Cem said that Turkey will not allow the missiles to be used as a "trump card" against Turkey. He said that "it is impossible for us to make concessions to prevent the deployment of the missiles."[1]
Supporting Sources:
[1]Kurtul Altug, TRT Television Network (Ankara), 10/12/97, in FBIS-WEU-97- 286, 10/13/97, "Turkey: Cem Comments On Foreign Relations."
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Doc. Code: 7316
Bibliography: FBIS-WEU-97-295, 10/22/97
Headline: Greece Minister on Violations, Threats
Orig. Source: Elevtheros Tipos (Athens), 10/20/97, pp. 6-7, by Olga Tremi
ABSTRACT:
In a interview with the Athens newspaper "Elevtheros Tipos", Deputy National Defense Minister Dhimitrios Apostolakis elaborated on the Greek reaction to a possible Turkish attack. When asked about the Greek response to a "heated incident or operation plan," Apostolakis said that if incidents began, "no one is in a position to know if the situation will remain under control." It was his opinion that Greece would avoid reaching the point of a general war with Turkey.
Apostolakis said it was "unthinkable" that an attack against Greek national independence or sovereignty would remain unanswered, and that such threatening issues would be dealt with at any cost. If the ships transporting the Russian S-300 missiles to Cyprus were being attacked or if Turkey occupies a Greek island, Greece would react at any cost.
Greece is spending four percent of its gross domestic product on defense, which includes stepping up military preparation in response to its disputes with Turkey over borders and Cyprus. On 10/22/97, the first shipment of a 40- aircraft buy from Lockheed Martin Tactical Aircraft Systems was delivered, with the rest of the aircraft due by the end of 1998.[1]
Supporting Sources:
[1]Steve Rodan, Defense News, 10/6-12/97, p.18, "Turkish, Greek And Cypriot Leaders Consider S-300 Position."
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Doc. Code: 7379
Bibliography: FBIS-WEU-97-299, 10/26/97
Headline: Turkish Paper Views S-300 Crisis, Warns Against Piracy
Orig. Source: Yeni Yuzyil (Istanbul), 10/23/97, p. 15, by Mensur Akgun
ABSTRACT:
Mensur Akgun, columnist for the Istanbul newspaper "Yeni Yuzyil," described how Turkey is analyzing the capabilities of the S-300 PMU-1 missile systems purchased by Cyprus from Russia. Turkey believes that the Greek Cypriots have bought 24 launchers, which would theoretically enable Cyprus to hit 72 military aircraft simultaneously in an attack. The S-300s would thus allow Cyprus to interfere with Turkish air supremacy. The S-300 missiles are expensive air defense missiles, and Akgun said that it would therefore make no sense to use them as surface-to-surface missiles.
Akgun said that Turkey will be forced to take all necessary measures against the missiles, including commando operations and possible action against the Greek Air Force, to avoid losing its strategic superiority in a crisis. In attacking Greek air bases, Turkey would have to place its pilots and military aircraft in danger, and risk war in the Aegean. To prevent such a war, Akgun said Turkey must maintain military determination and enlist the help of another county in an attempt to block the installation of the missiles. Negotiating a solution could require Turkish withdrawal of military units from the island, which mean a final diplomatic defeat.
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Doc. Code: 7375
Bibliography: FBIS-WEU-97-310, 11/6/97
Headline: Cyprus Protests As Turks Blast Mock Missile Sites
Orig. Source: Cyprus Mail (Nicosia), 11/6/97, p. 3, by Jean Christou
ABSTRACT:
On 11/5/97, the final day of the Toros military exercises, Turkish military forces blew up mock S-300 sites in Cyprus. Thirty Turkish commandos landed from two helicopters and placed explosive charges around four model missile launchers. Military official said that the batteries could also be destroyed by aircraft or tanks.
As Turkish F-16 jets staged bombing runs on other mock targets near Morphou, F-4 fighter-bombers staged a mock invasion of the coast of the island from a landing craft used in the 1974 invasion.
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Doc. Code: 7906
Bibliography: Jerusalem Post, 12/9/97, by Arieh O'Sullivan [Online] http://www.jpost.co.il/
Headline: Defense Ties With Turkey Bolstered
Orig. Source:
ABSTRACT:
Israeli Defense Minister Yitzhak Mordechai and Turkish Chief of General Staff Gen. Ismail Karadayi met in Turkey on 12/8/97 to discuss new weapons contracts and enhancement of the Israel-Turkey strategic alliance. "When we lock hands, we form a powerful fist," said Mordechai. He added, however, that defense cooperation between Turkey and Israel was not directed at any third party. Their meeting took place at the same time as the Islamic conference in Teheran, which is expected to condemn the Turkish-Israeli relationship.
Mordechai told Karadayi that he was willing to share Israel's advanced weapons technology to combat joint threats. Israel is also offering to upgrade some of Turkey's old weaponry as well as sell some new weapons. Turkish defense officials were interested in the Arrow missile. Both sides confirm that it was agreed in principle to jointly produce the Arrow. However, Israeli officials said that negotiations were not yet finalized, and that Washington's approval was needed because the United States pays a large portion of the Arrow's development costs. Mordechai said that advanced Israeli weapons technology would not end up in the wrong hands, and that if Israel sold the weapons, it would have better control over their use.
Israeli Defense Ministry advisor David Ivri said that Israel is open to cooperation on technologies and weapons systems. He explained that while the United States was willing to assist Turkey with an industrial base for production or assembly of fighter planes or armored vehicles, it 'balked' when Turkey sought technological know-how.[1] An agreement was also reached between Karadayi, Mordechai, and Turkish Defense Minister Islet Sezgin on cooperation relating to space, after Turkey expressed an interest in joint space research.[2]
Russian Foreign Minister Yevgeny Primakov has expressed concern about Turkish-Israeli relations. He complained to Israeli Foreign Minister David Levy about the aid that Israel was giving Turkey in its efforts to prevent deployment of Russian S-300 missiles to Cyprus. Although Turkey views these missiles as a threat to its security, both Mordechai and Levy denied that Israel had any objection to the deployment of the S-300 missile on Cyprus.[3]
Israeli analyst Svi Bar'el wrote in "Ha'aretz" that Turkey is prepared to treat Israel as a strategic partner on the condition that Israel "delivers the goods-the goods that depend on a solid Israeli status in the United States. A chastised Israel that treats American requests with contempt and causes it regional damage cannot be a strategic asset even for Turkey."[4] Israel has reportedly interceded with the United States to 'unfreeze' deals between the United States and Turkey.[5]
Supporting Sources:
[1] Jerusalem Post, pp. 1-2, by Arieh O'Sullivan, in FBIS-NES-97-344, 12/10/97; "Yilmaz Meets Mordekhay, Invites Netanyahu."
[2] Amnon Barzilai, Ha'aretz, 12/10/97, "Israel And Turkey Look To The Stars As Strategic Ties Deepen," [Online] http://www3.haaretz.co.il/.
[3] Ha'aretz, 12/8/97, "Allies With Ankara," [Online] http://ww3.haaretz.co.il/.
[4] Zvi Bar'el, Ha'aretz, 12/14/97, "A Turkish Love Story," [Online] http://www3.haaretz.co.il/.
[5] Qol Yisra'el (Jerusalem), 12/8/97, "Mordekhay To Urge US-Israel-Turkey Cooperation;" in FBIS-TAC-97-343, 12/9/97.
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1998
Doc. Code: 7972
Bibliography: FBIS-TAC-98-014, 1/14/98
Headline: Plan For Deliver Of Russian S-300 SAMs To Cyprus 'On Schedule'
Orig. Source: Izvestia (Moscow), 1/13/98, p. 3, by Gennadiy Charodeyev
ABSTRACT:
Representatives of Russia's defense export agency Rosvooruzheniye stated on 1/13/98 that their delivery of S-300 PMU-1 surface-to-air missiles (SAMs) to Cyprus will occur on schedule. This and similar statements from the Russian Foreign Ministry contradict earlier rumors that Russia was prepared to suspend the S-300 contract. The Russian-Cypriot deal has drawn strong criticism from Turkey. Although Cypriot president Glavkos Kliridhis insists that the S-300 is a defensive weapon intended to enhance the capabilities of the Cypriot National Guard, Turkish authorities had threatened to block delivery of the missiles, or to use airstrikes to destroy them if delivered.
On 1/17/98, Turkish Prime Minister Mesut Yilmaz stated that Turkey would not interfere with delivery of the missiles or attack them, citing assurances from the United States that the Cypriots could not actually use the missiles, and concern that an attack on the missiles could escalate tensions between Turkey and Greece to the point of conflict. Although Turkish civilian officials are said to be in agreement with Yilmaz's decision, some military officials express doubts.[1]
Britain remains opposed to delivery of the missiles and on 1/16/98, according to the Cypriot newspaper "O Filelevtheros." The newspaper reported that a foreign diplomatic source had confirmed to Cypriot security authorities that Britain was building a jamming system to interfere with the S-300's radar. The facility is reportedly being built in Troodhos on the Turkish side of Cyprus. On 1/17/98 the Cypriot government dismissed the report, while the British High Commission has yet to comment on the issue.[2]
Turkey is concerned that the missiles will give Greece superior anti-air defense in the region. Greece is currently considering purchasing the S-300 or US-produced Patriot missiles as part of its armed forces modernization program. The Cypriot purchase of the S-300 makes the Russian system a more attractive option for Greece. British-Turkish opposition to the S-300 deal is similar to that of 1965, when a British, US, and Turkish coalition prevented delivery of SAMs to Cyprus.[3]
In addition to reports of British interference, the Cypriot government is concerned that Israel may be relaying intelligence information to Turkey to help it impede deployment of the S-300s. Israeli Defense Minister Yitzhak Mordechai denies that Israel is involved in the S-300 issue, and Russian Foreign Minister Yevgeny Primakov has reportedly warned Israel not to intervene.[4]
According to a 2/3/98 report in the Cypriot daily "O Agon," plans for deployment of the S-300s continue, with 52 Greek-Cypriot officers training in Moscow on the use, maintenance, and launch procedures of the S-300. Russian experts are also scheduled to visit Cyprus in the next few days to determine where the missiles should be based.[5]
On 1/28/98 Russian Ambassador to Cyprus, Geogy Muratov, said that Russia is a participant in all United Nations efforts to resolve Cyprus's political disputes, and that delivery of the S-300s does not interfere with that effort. Muratov also reiterated that Russia favors Cyprus's demilitarization, but in the absence of such action, delivery of the S-300s will continue as scheduled.[6]
The issue of the S-300s and plans to build an airbase on the island for use by Greek military aircraft are particularly contentious because the European Union (EU) intends to open accession negotiations with the Cypriot government in 3/98. Turkey has threatened to integrate the Turkish-occupied section of the island if the Greek-Cypriot portion becomes a member of the EU. NATO and the EU consider the confrontation between Greece and Turkey over Cyprus to be one of the most serious threats to security in the region.[7]
Supporting Sources:
[1] Zeynep Gurcanli, Hurriyet (Istanbul), 1/17/98, p. 16, "Turkey Said To Agree Not To Attack Greek Cypriot Missiles;" in FBIS-WEU-98-021, 1/21/98.
[2] Cyprus Mail (Nicosia), 1/17/98, p. 3, "Report On UK Intentions On Troodos Radar Base Refuted;" in FBIS-WEU-98-017, 1/17/98.
[3] Makarios Dhrousiotis, O Filelevtheros (Nicosia), 1/16/98, p. 1, "UK Said Preparing Infrastructure To Neutralize S-300;" in FBIS-WEU-98-016, 1/16/98.
[4] Yosi Melman, Haaretz (Tel Aviv), 2/9/98, p. A9, "Israel Denies Involvement In Cypriot Missile Controversy;" in FBIS-TAC-98-040, 2/9/98.
[5] Milliyet (Ankara), 2/3/98, p. 18, "Greek Cypriot Officers Said Training In Russia;" in FBIS-WEU-98-040, 2/9/98.
[6] CyBC Television Network (Nicosia), 1/28/98, "Russian Ambassador: S-300 Agreement With Cyprus Still On;" in FBIS-WEU-98-028, 1/28/98.
[7] Lionel Barber, Financial Times, 1/28/98, p. 4. "Russia Stands By Missile Sale."
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Doc. Code: 8222
Bibliography: FBIS-WEU-98-086, 3/27/98
Headline: Russia Protests Pangalos' Proposal To United States
Orig. Source: Elevtheros Tipos (Athens), 3/27/98, p. 9, by Yeoryios Kharvalias
ABSTRACT:
On 3/26/98, the Russian government began a diplomatic initiative to seek an explanation of Greek Foreign Minister Theodoros Pangalos' proposal to US Secretary of State Madeleine Albright that a no-fly zone for Turkish fighter aircraft be formed over Cyprus, in exchange for halting delivery of Russian S-300 missiles to the island. The Russian ambassador to Greece, Valentina Matvienko, met with Greek Deputy Foreign Minister Ioannis Kranidhiotis, and said that delivery of the S-300 missiles was an issue of vital importance to Russia as well as to Cyprus.
On 3/26/98 the US State Department issued a statement rejecting Pangalos' proposal in favor of a complete moratorium on Greek and Turkish military flights over Cyprus.[1]
The Cypriot government has rejected the US-proposed moratorium, and on 3/29/98, Cypriot Defense Minister Ioannis Omirou stated that "the Pathos military airport will essentially become useless if any moratorium on the flights of military aircraft in Cyprus is imposed."[2]
On 3/26/98, Greek government spokesman Dimitris Reppas said Greece does not consider the proposed moratorium as a significant step toward Cyprus' demilitarization.[3]
Supporting Sources:
[1] Elliniki Radhiofonia Radio Network (Athens), 3/26/98, "Greek Foreign Minister Views US Initiative On Cyprus;" in FBIS-WEU-98-085, 3/26/98.
[2] N. Khasapopoulos, To Vima Tis Kiriakis (Athens), 3/29/98, p. A33, "Cypriot Defense Minister Rejects Flight Moratorium;" in FBIS-WEU-98-088, 3/29/98.
[3] Athens News Agency, 3/27/98, "Greek Spokesman Comments On US Proposal For Moratorium;" in FBIS-WEU-98-086, 3/27/98.
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Doc. Code: 8223
Bibliography: FBIS-WEU-98-088, 3/29/98
Headline: Cyprus Denies Greek Press Reports On S-300
Orig. Source: Cyprus Broadcasting Corporation Radio Network (Nicosia), 3/29/98
ABSTRACT:
On 3/29/98, Cyprus government sources denied reports that appeared in two Athens newspapers that Greece was contemplating taking delivery of the Russian S-300 missiles purchased by Cyprus. According to government sources, delivering the missiles to Greece instead of Cyprus was never discussed, and the missiles will be delivered to Cyprus, barring an agreement on the island's demilitarization. Responding to the reports, Greek National Defense Minister Akis Tsokhatzopoulos said the Cypriot government has exclusive authority to make decisions regarding the destination of the S-300s.
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Doc. Code: 8281
Bibliography: FBIS-WEU-98-097, 4/7/98
Headline: Paper Says More Russian Missiles To Be Bought By Cyprus
Orig. Source: Elevtherotipia (Nicosia), 4/7/98, p. 1, by Makarios Dhrousiotis
ABSTRACT:
Cyprus' Ministry of Defense has begun consultations with the Russian government for purchase of medium-range surface-to-air missiles in the event that Italy continues to suspend delivery of Aspide missiles to the island. One missile under consideration as a replacement to the Aspide is the Russian BUK M1, a missile the Cypriot government had considered purchasing before it opted for the S-300 air-defense missile.
The Greek National Defense Ministry is considering a similar option, whereby it would propose that Cyprus replace the Aspide with Russian Tor missiles.[1]
On 4/7/98, Cyprus' Defense Minister Ioannis Omirou emphasized that Cyprus will purchase whatever weapons it requires for its security and will turn to alternative suppliers if necessary. He also said that Cyprus has fulfilled all of its contractual obligations regarding the Aspide contract, and hopes that Italy will also honor its commitments.[2]
After meeting with Cyprus' Foreign Minister Ioannis Kasoulidhis on 4/7/98, Italian Deputy Foreign Minister Pierro Fassino denied reports that Italy had imposed a weapons embargo on Cyprus. He said that the implementation of the agreement for the Aspide missiles had been interrupted so that the Italian government could examine whether delivering the missiles to Cyprus would contribute to further militarization of the island.[3]
Supporting Sources:
[1] Yiannos Kharalambidhis, I Simerini (Nicosia), 4/7/98, p. 1, "US 'Imposing' Military Embargo on Cyprus;" in FBIS-WEU-98-097, 4/7/98.
[2] Cyprus Broadcasting Corporation Radio Network, 4/7/98, "Cypriot Defense Minister On Italy's Refusal To Sell Arms;" in FBIS-WEU-98-097, 4/7/98.
[3] Andhreas Skordhis, O Logos Television Network (Nicosia), 4/7/98, "Italian Official Denies Arms Embargo On Cyprus;" in FBIS-WEU-98-097, 4/7/98.
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Doc. Code: 8282
Bibliography: FBIS-WEU-98-096, 4/6/98
Headline: Greek Daily Reports Burns Intervention On Pangalos' Idea
Orig. Source: To Vima Tis Kiriakis (Athens), 4/5/98, p. A30, by N. Marakis
ABSTRACT:
The United States is re-examining Greek Foreign Minister Theodoros Pangalos' proposal for a US-enforced, no-fly zone for Turkish military aircraft over Cyprus, in exchange for halting delivery of Russian S-300 surface-to-air missiles to the island. The US State Department's decision to reconsider the proposal, which it originally rejected, is reportedly due to the efforts of US Ambassador to Greece Nicholas Burns.
According to US political observers, the initial rejection of the Greek proposal was "made rather hastily and obviously because of instant reaction from Ankara."[1]
On 3/31/98, US officials conveyed to members of Cyprus' government a proposal to pay the purchase price of the missiles to Russia in exchange for cancellation of its contract with the Cypriot government. Russia has rejected the proposal, stating that the delivery of the missiles to Cyprus will proceed as planned.[2]
Supporting Sources:
[1] D.P. Dhimas, Elevtherotipia (Athens), 4/1/98, p. 12, "Greek Daily Views US Rejection Of Pangalos' Statement;" in FBIS-WEU-98-091, 4/1/98.
[2] Loukis Loukaidhis, O Agon (Nicosia), 3/31/98, p. 1, "US Reportedly Tried To Buy S-300s From Russia;" in FBIS-WEU-98-090, 3/31/98.
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Doc. Code: 8291
Bibliography: Middle East International, 4/10/98, pp. 12-13, by Wes Jonasson
Headline: Greece Turns To Russia
Orig. Source:
ABSTRACT:
In late 3/98, Greek Defense Minister Akis Tsohatzopoulos visited Moscow to discuss Greek and Cypriot weapons purchases from Russia. Tsohatzopoulos met with Russian President Boris Yeltsin and received his assurance that the S-300 air-defense missiles purchased by Cyprus would be delivered as planned. Tsohatzopoulos also indicated that Greece may purchase S-300s and Sukhoi Su-27UB fighter aircraft. During his visit, Tsohatzopoulos toured arms factories where possibilities for Russian-Greek military technical cooperation was discussed.
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Doc. Code: 8298
Bibliography: Jerusalem Post, 4/15/98, by Jay Bushinsky, [Online] http://www.jpost.co.il
Headline: Israel Denies Spying On Cyprus
Orig. Source:
ABSTRACT:
On 4/14/98, Israeli officials confirmed that on 4/8/98, Israel Air Force F-16 aircraft failed to transmit the signal required by the international Flight Information Regime during their approach to Cyprus’ airspace. However, Israel rejected the report of a Cypriot newspaper that claimed the Israeli aircraft were on a mission to photograph sites where Russian-made S-300 surface-to-air missiles are to be deployed on Cyprus. According to the newspaper account, the photographs were to be relayed immediately to Turkish military intelligence. Cypriot Ambassador Euripedes Evriades said that no violation of Cyprus’ airspace occurred, and that his country continues to have excellent relations with Israel.
Standard procedure would have been for the lead F-16 pilot to inform Cyprus’ civil aviation authority that its radar airspace was about to be penetrated. For an unknown reason, the F-16 pilots failed to do so on as they approached Cyprus on 4/8/98.[1]
Supporting Sources:
[1] Amnon Barzilai, "Anatomy Of An Event Over The Mediterranean," Ha’aretz (Tel Aviv), [Online] http://www3.haaretz.co.il, 4/16/98.
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Doc. Code: 8403
Bibliography: FBIS-SOV-98-120, 4/30/98
Headline: Russia Presents Cyprus Demilitarization Proposals At UN
Orig. Source: ITAR-TASS (Moscow), 4/30/98, by Sergey Baibakov
ABSTRACT:
On 4/30/98, Sergey Lavrov, Russia’s permanent representative to the United Nations (UN), submitted Russia’s proposal for the demilitarization of Cyprus to UN Secretary General Kofi Annan. Russia included a proposal to have Greece, Turkey, and the Greek and Turkish communities on Cyprus sign an UN agreement to end arms acquisitions by the Greek and Turkish Cypriot communities. If enacted, the demilitarization proposal would lead to the cancellation of the delivery of Russian S-300 missiles to the Greek Cypriot government.
Russia plans to deliver the S-300s to Cyprus in mid-8/98, rather than 9/98 or 10/98 as originally expected. Despite international pressure to cancel the sale of the missiles to Cyprus, Yevgeny Ananyev, director of Rosvooruzheniye, says the Russian company will fulfil its contract with the Cyprus government on schedule.[1]
Ananyev also said that the missiles have not yet been manufactured, but will be shipped at the end of 7/98.[2]
A 4/21/98 article in the Turkish newspaper "Yeni Yuzyil" said that Turkey was angered by Russia’s decision to conduct negotiations with the Greek Cypriot government for the purchase of Russian-built Su-34 fighter aircraft and T-80 tanks. According to Nazif Borman, the Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus’ ambassador to Turkey, the objective of the proposed arms purchases is to "disrupt the balances not only in Cyprus but also in the entire region."[3]
Supporting Sources:
[1] "Russia: S-300s To Be Delivered In August," Turkish Daily News Electronic Edition, [Online] http://www.TurkishDailyNews.com, 4/29/98.
[2] Interfax, 4/28/98, "Russia To Supply Air-Defense Systems To Cyprus In August."
[3] Ozlem Hersan, Yeni Yuzyil (Ankara), 4/21/98, p. 15, "Turkey Reacts To Russia Selling Fighter Planes To Cyprus;" in FBIS-WEU-98-111, 4/21/98.
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Doc. Code: 8410
Bibliography: FBIS-WEU-98-126, 5/6/98
Headline: Turkey Favors Missile Deployment To Greece, Not Cyprus
Orig. Source: AFP, 5/6/98
ABSTRACT:
On 5/6/98 an unidentified Turkish government official said that Turkey would not object to a Greek plan to purchase the Russian-made S-300 destined for Cyprus and instead deploy them on Crete. According to the official, Turkey’s chief concern is to prevent the missiles’ deployment on Cyprus, which would upset the balance of power on the island. The Russian firm Rosvoorouzheniye is scheduled to begin delivery to Cyprus in mid-8/98.
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Doc. Code: 8425
Bibliography: Monitor, 5/15/98, [Online] http://www.jamestown.org
Headline: Turkey Uses Carrot And Stick Approach On Russian Missile Sale To Cyprus
Orig. Source:
ABSTRACT:
Turkish armed forces general staff chief General Ismail Karaday will visit with Russian military officials in Moscow during the week of 5/17/98-5/23/98. During his visit, Karaday is expected to emphasize to Russian officials that by canceling the plan to sell the S-300 air-defense system to Cyprus, Russia could pave the way for lucrative defense contracts with Turkey. Turkish Defense Minister Ismet Sezgin has hinted that unless the S-300 contract is cancelled, Russia will be excluded from bidding for Turkish military procurement tenders.
On 4/8/98 Vladimir Chizhov, the Russian Foreign Ministry’s commissioner for Cyprus, said the S-300 deal could "give an impulse to an active discussion of the idea of demilitarization of Cyprus."[1]
Supporting Sources:
[1] Interfax, 4/8/98, "Russian Weapons May Help Demilitarize Cyprus – Diplomat."
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Doc. Code: 8432
Bibliography: Globes, 5/21/98, by Dror Marom, [Online] http://www.globes.co.il
Headline: Russian Missile Supply To Cyprus Endangers Israeli-Russian Offer In Turkey
Orig. Source:
ABSTRACT:
Turkey is likely to reject a joint Israeli-Russian bid to supply Turkey with 145 attack helicopters, due to its strong opposition to Russia’s plan to sell its S-300 air-defense missile system to Cyprus. The Israeli-Russian bid is a collaboration between Israeli Aircraft Industries (IAI) and a Russian helicopter manufacturer to fulfill Turkey’s $3.5 billion tender for attack helicopters. According to IAI chairman Yanush Ben-Gal, the helicopter being developed for the Turkish bid will also be marketed to South East Asia, Latin America, and Europe.
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Doc. Code: 8441
Bibliography: FBIS-WEU-98-142, 5/22/98
Headline: Denktas Says Negotiations To Stop If Missiles Deployed
Orig. Source: Anatolia (Ankara), 5/22/98
ABSTRACT:
On 5/22/98, Rauf Denktas, the President of the Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus, told reporters that his government will not negotiate on a two-state basis with the Greek Cypriot government of Cyprus if it deploys the S-300 surface-to-air missiles it has ordered from Russia. Denktas said that if the missiles are deployed, "the consequences will be that the negotiations and shuttle diplomacy will stop. Cyprus is not the backyard of the Greek Cypriots and the Greeks."
On 5/25/98, Turkish Deputy Prime Minister and National Defense Minister Ismet Sezgin denied reports that S-300 components have been shipped to Cyprus.[1]
On 5/22/98, Cyprus’ Foreign Minister Ioannis Kasoulidhis reiterated to the US government his country’s firm need to deploy the S-300 system. He said that Cypriot President Glavcos Clerides' proposal for the demilitarization of the island would make deployment of the S-300 missiles unnecessary if it were accepted. However, Kasoulidhis also emphasized the intransigent position of Turkish Cypriot leader Rauf Denktas, and urged the US government not to reward Denktas’ stance.[2]
On 5/22/98, the Israeli newspaper "I Mahki" reported that the Israeli government, military, and intelligence services are concerned about the radar system with which the S-300 system is equipped. According to US sources, the S-300 system will be activated every time aircraft take off from Israel.[3]
Supporting Sources:
[1] Bayrak Radio (Nicosia), 5/25/98; in FBIS-WEU-98-145, 5/25/98, "Turkey’s Sezgin Denies S-300 Parts Deployed In Cyprus."
[2] Cyprus Broadcasting Corporation Radio Network (Nicosia), 5/22/98; in FBIS-WEU-98-142, 5/22/98,"Cypriot Minister Continues Contacts In Washington."
[3] I Makhi (Nicosia), 5/22/98, p. 1; in FBIS-WEU-98-142, 5/22/98, "Cypriot Daily Says Israel Also Concerned About S-300s."
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Doc. Code: 8446
Bibliography: FBIS-WEU-98-155, 6/4/98
Headline: Greek Daily Views Greece-Cyprus Joint Defense Doctrine
Orig. Source: I Kathimerini (Athens), 6/4/98, p. 1, by K.I. Angelopoulos
ABSTRACT:
On 6/4/98, Greek political commentator K.I. Kathimerini wrote that the Cyprus-Greece joint defense doctrine is essentially useless if it cannot provide Cyprus with effective air cover and anti-aircraft defense. Kathimerini argues that the Russian S-300 air-defense missile system purchased by Cyprus is crucial to providing Cyprus with effective anti-aircraft protection, and to maintaining the joint defense doctrine.
On 6/3/98, Cypriot Defense Minister Ioannis Omirou condemned efforts to reduce Cyprus' political concerns to the single issue of the S-300 missiles.[1]
Also on 6/3/98, Dhimitrios Khristofias, Secretary General of Cyprus' Restorative Party of the Working People (AKEL), accused the United States and the United Kingdom of using the S-300 issue to foment a crisis that amounted to political-economic blackmail. According to Khristofias, the two countries are using the press to terrorize Cyprus' citizenry and damage the island's tourist industry.[2]
Supporting Sources:
[1] Cyprus Broadcasting Corporation Radio Network (Nicosia), 6/3/98 in FBIS-WEU-98-154, 6/3/98, "Cypriot Minister: Turkey Will Not Chose Road Of Insanity."
[2] Cyprus Broadcasting Corporation Radio Network (Nicosia), 6/3/98; in FBIS-WEU-98-154, 6/3/98, "US, Britain Said Behind Artificial Crisis In Cyprus."
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Doc. Code: 8518
Bibliography: Washington Times, 6/9/98, p. 13, by Jim Wolf
Headline: Cohen Mulls ‘No-Fly’ As Idea For Cyprus
Orig. Source:
ABSTRACT:
After meeting with Greek Defense Minister Akis Tsohatzopoulos on 8/7/98, United States Secretary of Defense William Cohen announced that the United States is willing to consider a no-fly zone over Cyprus as a means of reducing tension on the island. According to Cohen, "the no-fly zone is one possibility that could be explored, but we have not made any determination on what the results should be in terms of how we achieve this reduction in tensions." Greek Foreign Ministry spokesman Theodoros Theodorou described the announcement as "a very positive development."
Cypriot government spokesman Khristos Stilianidhis said that Cyprus supports the proposal and that it would be part of Cyprus’ common policy and strategy with Greece.[1]
Supporting Sources:
[1] AP Worldstream, 9/7/98, "Greek Cypriots To Support No-Fly Zone Over Island."
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Doc. Code: 8483
Bibliography: FBIS-WEU-98-173, 6/22/98
Headline: Greek, Cypriot Officers To Attend S-300 Show In Russia
Orig. Source: To Vima Tis Kiriakis (Athens), 6/21/98, p. A22
ABSTRACT:
In late 6/98, 200 Russian military officers will visit Cyprus to prepare deployment sites for the Russian S-300 surface-to-air missiles that will be arriving on the island. Russia has announced that it may delivery the missiles to Cyprus via aircraft rather than by ship. Although the missiles had been scheduled to arrive in late 7/98 or early 8/98, the Cyprus Security Council has decided to delay deployment of the missiles until 10/98 as a gesture of goodwill toward resolving the S-300 issue with Turkey and the Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus (TRNC).
On 6/22/98, Russian Foreign Ministry spokesman Valeriy Nesterushkin said he has no indication that the Foreign Ministry will recommend suspending the S-300 contract with Cyprus.[1]
On 6/20/98, Greek Defense Minister Akis Tsohatzopoulos commented on the arrival of Greek fighter aircraft at Cyprus’ Paphos airbase. He said that the aircrafts’ arrival was within the framework of the training policy of Cyprus and Greece as part of their joint defense doctrine.[2]
On 6/19/98, Turkish Prime Minister Mesut Yilmaz said that "the deployment of Russian missiles in Cyprus would not only disrupt peace in Cyprus but would also upset the general balances in the eastern Mediterranean. This does not concern Turkey alone. Turkey, however, will adopt the countermeasures that concern it without any hesitation."[3]
Also on 6/19/98, Turkish Minister of State Sukru Sina Gurel said that European Union negotiations for the full membership of the Greek Cypriot government in the organization would disrupt all previous agreements reached between the Greek and Turkish communities of Cyprus. Gurel also said that Greece’s attempts to establish naval and air bases on Cyprus threaten Turkey as well as the TRNC.[4]
Supporting Sources:
[1] Interfax (Moscow), 6/22/98; in FBIS-SOV-98-173, 6/22/98, "Spokesman Has No Official Stance On Cyprus Missile Contract."
[2] Athens News Agency, 6/20/98; in FBIS-WEU-98-171, 6/20/98, "Greek Defense Minister Defends Presence of Greek Planes."
[3] TRT Television Network (Ankara), 6/19/98; in FBIS-WEU-98-170, 6/19/98, "Spokesman, Yilmaz On Readiness To Takes Steps In Cyprus."
[4] Anatolia (Ankara), 6/19/98; in FBIS-WEU-98-170, 6/19/98, "Minister Gurel Links Cyprus Problem To EU Membership."
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Doc. Code: 8503
Bibliography: FBIS-WEU-98-182, 7/1/98
Headline: Turkish Paper Claims Turkey Acquired ATACMS Missiles
Orig. Source: Hurriyet (Ankara), 7/1/98, p. 3, by Metehan Demir
ABSTRACT:
Due to the tension created by Cyprus’ purchase of Russian S-300P surface-to-air missiles, Turkey has moved to speed delivery of the 72 Army Tactical Missile Systems (ATACMS) it ordered from the United States in 1996. According to Turkish defense officials, the Turkish armed forces recently received 42 of the 150km-range missiles. Turkey’s acquisition of the missiles is reportedly intended to reduce its unease over missile threats emanating from Cyprus, Iran, Iraq, and Syria. The missiles will be deployed near border areas, in accordance with Turkey’s defense conception of its external threats.
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Doc. Code: 8523
Bibliography: Independent, 10 July 1998, by Phil Reeves, [Online] http://www.independent.co.uk
Headline: Cypriots Test New Missile In Russia
Orig. Source:
ABSTRACT:
On 9 July 1998, Cypriot servicemen test launched surface-to-air missiles with the S-300 air defense system purchased from Russia by Cyprus. The test launches took place at a test range near Astrahkan, Russia, and involved intercepting target rockets. A spokesman for the Russian Defense Ministry, which trained the Cypriot servicemen to use the S-300 system, said that they "shot down several targets with nearly 100 percent practice firing efficiency."
On 13 July 1998, during his meeting with Russian President Boris Yeltsin in Moscow, Cyprus President Glavkos Clerides confirmed that Russia will deliver the S-300 system to Cyprus by the end of 1998. Clerides said, however, that he would consider delaying the arrival of the missiles if talks with the Turkish Cypriots on Cyprus' reunification resumed and made progress.[1]
Supporting Sources:
[1] "Cyprus Confirms Missile Deal," BBC, [Online] http://news.bbc.co.uk, 13 July 1998.
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Doc. Code: 8535
Bibliography: FBIS-WEU-98-191, 10 July 1998
Headline: Milliyet Sees US Formula On S-300 Missiles
Orig. Source: Milliyet (Istanbul), 10 July 1998, by Takis Vervirakis
ABSTRACT:
According to a 10 July 1998 report in the Turkish newspaper "Milliyet," United States Secretary of State Madeleine Albright has proposed that Cyprus purchase Russian SA-15 surface-to-air missiles as an alternative to the Russian S-300 air-defense missile system that is due to be deployed on the island by 1999. The SA-15 missile has a shorter range than the 150km-range S-300 system, which Turkey has said it will attack if it is deployed on Cyprus. US Secretary of Defense William Cohen reportedly discussed the proposal with Greek Defense Minister Akis Tsohatzopoulos on 8 July 1998 in Washington. US Department of State special envoy to Cyprus Thomas Miller has reportedly undertaken efforts to persuade Russia to agree to the proposal. In talks in Athens with Cypriot officials, Russian officials said they would not object to delaying delivery and deployment of the S-300 system, as long as it is paid for in full.
On 9 July 1998, Cypriot government spokesman Khristos Stilianidhis confirmed that Cyprus President Glavkos Clerides had sent a reply to Albright. Stilianidhis said that Clerides did not want to publicize the content of the reply, and that Cyprus' views on the S-300 issue remained unchanged despite Albright's proposal.[1]
According to a 10 July 1998 report in the Greek newspaper "Exousia," Clerides' reply to Albright contains three proposals for resolving the crisis. According to one proposal, delivery of the S-300 could be delayed if Greek Cypriot and Turkish Cypriot talks on resolving the Cyprus problem resume, and the delivery could be cancelled if these talks make significant progress. According to the second proposal, delivery of the missile system could be delayed if negotiations for Cyprus' demilitarization begin, or cancelled if significant progress is made towards the island's demilitarization. Clerides' third proposal is to cancel the delivery of the S-300 system if a US-or UN-guaranteed no-fly zone is established over Cyprus. Clerides also said that if a non-guaranteed no-fly zone were established, the S-300 system could be delivered to Cyprus but not deployed.
According to a 10 July 1998 "Milliyet" report, Greek and Cypriot officials view the no-fly zone proposals favorably, while Turkish officials are opposed to it.[3] Commenting on the no-fly zone proposal on 10 July 1998, Turkish Deputy Prime Minister Bulent Ecevit said that "we cannot bargain on our security."[4] In a similar statement, Turkish Foreign Ministry spokesman Sermet Atacanli said that "our stand with regards to the missiles has not changed. We will not engage in any negotiations on the issue."[5]
Supporting Sources:
[1] Andreas Khatzikiriakos, O Filelevtheros (Nicosia), 10 July 1998, p. 1; in FBIS-WEU-98-191, 10 July 1998, "Russian, US, Other Positions On S-300s Discussed."
[2] Anni Podhimata, Exousia (Athens), 10 July 1998, pp. 4-5; in FBIS-WEU-98-191, 10 July 1998, "More On Cypriot President's Letter To Albright."
[3] Milliyet (Istanbul), 10 July 1998; in FBIS-WEU-98-191, 10 July 1998, "Turkey Said To Oppose No-Fly Zone Over Cyprus."
[4] Hurriyet (Istanbul), 10 July 1998; in FBIS-WEU-98-191, 10 July 1998, "Turkish Bargaining On Missiles In Cyprus Rejected."
[5] Anatolia (Ankara), 10 July 1998; in FBIS-WEU-98-191, 10 July 1998, "Ankara Says Missiles Must Not Be Bargaining Chips."
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Doc. Code: 8528
Bibliography: Jerusalem Post, 14 July 1998, by Arieh O'Sullivan, [Online] http://www.jpost.com
Headline: Turks Didn't Train Against SAMs Here
Orig. Source:
ABSTRACT:
Israeli and Turkish officials have denied a report in the Turkish newspaper "Hurriyet" that alleged that in late June 1998 a squadron of six Turkish F-16 fighter aircraft trained in Israel's Negev desert to destroy Russian-built S-300 air defense missile system soon to be deployed on Cyprus. Avi Benayahu, a spokesman for Israeli Defense Minister Yitzhak Mordechai, said that the report was "total nonsense." Benayahu confirmed that Turkish air force pilots do train with their aircraft in Israel, but that the training is based on "humanitarian cooperation" and is not directed against anyone. Israeli Foreign Ministry spokesman Aviv Shir-on also denied that the Turkish aircraft had been training to destroy the S-300 system. Turkish military officials confirmed that Turkish fighter pilots had recently trained in Israel, but said that they had not conducted assault exercises on anti-aircraft missiles.
The 13/7/98 "Hurriyet" report said that Turkish F-16 pilots conducted exercises at Israel's Shdema training center that were designed to destroy the S-300 system under conditions in which it would be deployed on Cyprus. According to the report, Turkish military officials were satisfied with the results and said that "Turkish pilots are capable of fixing and eliminating any threat."[1]
On 13 July 1998, Greek government spokesman Dimitris Reppas said that if reports of the Turkish air force exercises in Israel are correct, it could damage relations between Greece and Turkey and peace and security in southeast Mediterranean.[2]
Also on 13 July 1998, the Turkish Foreign Ministry denied reports that an air base in eastern Turkey had been used by Israel for spying purposes. Turkey's growing ties with Israel have drawn criticism from several Arab countries, who are concerned that a strong Israeli-Turkish alliance could upset the regional balance of power.[3]
On 12 July 1998, Turkey announced that it will increase the number of its military attaches in Israel from one to three. Turkish navy and army attaches will join the air force attache in Israel in late August or early September 1998. Turkish defense sources said that Israel and Turkey will hold another round of joint naval maneuvers with the United States by the year 2000. According to the Israeli newspaper "Jerusalem Post," Turkish F-16 fighter aircraft recently completed training exercises in Israel's Negev desert.[4]
Supporting Sources:
[1] "Turkey Holds Exercises To Destroy S-300 Missiles In Israel," CNN, [Online] http://customnews.cnn.com, 13 July 1998.
[2] "Greece Unhappy Over Turkish Warplanes' Training In Israel," CNN, [Online] http://customnews.cnn.com, 13 July 1998.
[3] "Turkey Denies Reported Israeli Use Of Airbase," CNN, [Online] http://customnews.cnn.com, 13 July 1998.
[4] Arieh O'Sullivan, "Turkey To Post Third Military Attache," Jerusalem Post, [Online] http://www.jpost.com, 13 July 1998.
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Doc. Code: 8543
Bibliography: FBIS-NES-98-198, 17 July 1998
Headline: Paper Claims Israeli Planes Used North Cyprus Airbase
Orig. Source: MENA (Cairo), 17 July 1998
ABSTRACT:
According to 17 July 1998 report in the Kuwaiti newspaper "Al Siyassa," Israeli military aircraft have been using the Turkish Cypriot military airbase on Cyprus since mid-June 1998. The report quoted British defense sources who said that Israeli aircraft were conducting spy missions over the island in order to inform Turkey where the Greek government of Cyprus plans to deploy the S-300 air-defense missile system it has purchased from Russia.
On 17 July 1998, Israel's Defense Ministry refuted a statement by the Israel Air Force (IAF) commander that Israel was considering attacking the S-300 system. The Israeli Embassy in Cyprus said that Israel has no involvement in the deployment of the S-300 system and that Israel does not consider it a threat.[1]
Cypriot Foreign Minister Ioannis Kasoulides said on 16 July 1998 that "Israel does not see Cyprus as country that causes any kind of problem."[2] Kasoulides also said that Israel's official government position is that "it is not disturbed and is not affected by the reinforcement of our own defense with any weapons system."[3]
On 16 July 1998, NATO Secretary General Xavier Solana said that NATO is prepared to monitor a no-fly zone over Cyprus. The establishment of a no-fly zone has been proposed as an alternative to the deployment of the S-300 system.[4]
Supporting Sources:
[1] Cyprus Broadcasting Corporation Radio Network (Nicosia), 17 July 1998; in FBIS-WEU-98-198, 17 July 1998, "Israel Denies Turkish Media Reports On Cyprus."
[2] Cyprus News Agency (Nicosia), 16 July 1998; in FBIS-WEU-98-197, 16 July 1998, "Israel's Stand On Cyprus Defense Capabilities Noted."
[3] Andreas Khatzikiriakos, O Filelevtheros (Nicosia), 17 July 1998, p. 24; in FBIS-WEU-98-198, 17 July 1998, "Cypriot Official Responds To Report On IAF Warning."
[4] Demetris Apokis, Cyprus News Agency (Nicosia), 16 July 1998; in FBIS-WEU-98-197, 16 July 1998, "NATO Willing To Monitor No-Fly Zone Over Cyprus."
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Doc. Code: 8568
Bibliography: FBIS-WEU-98-198, 17 July 1998
Headline: Russian Paper Quoted On S-300 Transport From Atlantic
Orig. Source: Milliyet (Istanbul), 17 July 1998
ABSTRACT:
Russia has reportedly decided to transport the S-300 air-defense missile system purchased by Cyprus to the island on Russian warships sailing from the Atlantic Ocean through the Strait of Gibraltar en route to naval exercises in the Indian Ocean. Russia has abandoned plans to ship the missile system via the Black Sea and Bosporus to avoid escalating tensions with Turkey, which has vowed to attack the missiles if they are deployed on Cyprus. According to the Russian newspaper "Ruskii Telegraf," the missiles will be transported by a Russian navy fleet, which includes the aircraft carrier Admiral Kuznetsov and missile frigate Peter the Great, as it makes its way to the Indian Ocean for naval exercises in September 1998. Pilots of the 36 SU-27 fighter aircraft carried aboard the Admiral Kuznetsov have reportedly been authorized to conduct "war flights" to protect the fleet from attack. After delivering the S-300s, the fleet is scheduled to remain in Cyprus temporarily to perform protective duties as the missiles are deployed on the island.
According to a 17 July 1998 broadcast on Russia's "NTV," the S-300 missile system will arrive in Cyprus in August 1998 and will arrive completely assembled.[1]
Also on 17 July 1998, Russian ambassador to Cyprus Georgiy Muratov said that Russia will not give in to any pressure to cancel the S-300 deal with Cyprus. According to Muratov, in the absence of international efforts to enforce a no-fly zone, deployment of the S-300 system is the best way for Cyprus to guarantee a no-fly zone over the island.[2]
On 20 July 1998, Russian State Duma speaker Gennadiy Seleznev said that the S-300 deal with Cyprus is a strictly commercial agreement. He also emphasized that the S-300 is a defensive system that cannot be used for offensive purposes.[3]
Supporting Sources:
[1] NTV (Moscow), 17 July 1998; in FBIS-TAC-98-198, 17 July 1998, "NTV Says Russia To Ship Missiles To Cyprus 'Intact."
[2] Loukas Fourlas, Cyprus Broadcasting Corporation Television Network (Nicosia), 17 July 1998; in FBIS-WEU-98-198, 17 July 1998, "Russia's Muratov Says S-300s 'Guarantee' For Cyprus."
[3] Anatolia (Ankara), 20 July 1998; in FBIS-WEU-98-201, 20 July 1998, "Seleznev - S-300s To Arrive In Cyprus."
<<>>
Doc. Code: 8577
Bibliography: FBIS-WEU-98-205, 24 July 1998
Headline: Greece Will 'Get Involved' If Turks Attack In Cyprus
Orig. Source: NET Television Network (Athens), 24 July 1998
ABSTRACT:
On 23 July 1998, Greek Defense Minister Akis Tsokhatzopoulos and Greek Foreign Minister Theodoros Pangalos criticized German and US policy on Greek-Turkish relations. They said that the policies of the United States and Germany are helping Turkey provoke an incident in Cyprus before the arrival of Russian-built S-300 air-defense missiles on the island.
On 24 July 1998, Greek diplomatic sources noted that the United States is working on a plan that could lead to postponement of delivery of the S-300 missiles until spring 1999.[1]
On 27 July 1998, Greek Prime Minister Konstandinos Simitis defended his view that the ultimate decision on the fate of the S-300 system can only be made by Cypriot President Glavkos Clerides. Simitis had earlier accused Clerides of "deciding to buy the S-300 missiles without thoroughly considering the situation" and was apparently angered by Clerides' suggestion that a decision to delay or cancel the delivery of the missiles should be jointly reached by the Greek National Council and Cypriot leaders. Simitis is reportedly worried that tension surrounding the S-300 issue could lead to conflict with Turkey, making impossible Greece's participation in the European Union's monetary union.[2]
On 29 July 1998, Cypriot government spokesman Christos Stilianidis denied reports of a rift between Cyprus and Greece over the S-300 issue. Stilianidis said that buying the S-300 system "was a decision which conforms to the Pact on joint defense signed by the two countries."[3]
Supporting Sources:
[1] Ioannis Loverdhos, I Kathimerini (Athens), 24 July 1998, p. 5; in FBIS-WEU-98-205, 24 July 1998, "Greece: US Assists Turkish 'Provocative Act' In Cyrus."
[2] Takis Vervirakis, Milliyet (Istanbul), 27 July 1998, p. 17; in FBIS-WEU-98-208, 27 July 1998, "Greek, Greek Cypriot Leaders Said Disputing Over Missiles."
[3] CNN News, 29 July 1998, "Cyprus' Decision To Buy Russian Air-Defense Guns Coordinated," [Online] http://cnn.cnn.com.
<<>>
Doc. Code: 8598
Bibliography: Bayrak TV (Nicosia), 4 August 1998
Headline: Denktas Says Missiles No Obstacle To Relations With Russia
Orig. Source:
ABSTRACT:
On 4 August 1998, Turkish Cypriot leader Rauf Denktas told Russian envoy Vladimir Tchizov that once the S-300 air-defense missile system ordered by Cyprus from Russia has been deployed on the island, any action taken against it cannot be considered to be directed against Russia.
On 6 August 1998, Russian ambassador to Greece Valentina Matvienko told Greek Deputy Foreign Minister Yannos Kranidiotis that Russia would guarantee safe transport of the S-300 system to Cyprus.[1]
On 5 August 1998, the Cypriot House of Representatives approved a bill to increase the country's defense levy from the current three percent to four percent. The increased tax revenues are expected to provide an additional $80 million for the defense budget. House speaker Spyros Kyprianou said that the bill "sends the message that the people of Cyprus and their representatives are determined to back all efforts for the island's defense, for as long as Turkey continues to occupy part of Cyprus and continues its threats."[2]
Supporting Sources:
[1] CNN News, 6 August 1998, "Russia Will Guarantee Safe Transportation Of Missiles To Cyprus, Says Ambassador," [Online] http://www.cnn.com.
[2] Xinhua, 5 August 1998, "Cyprus To Increase Defense Levy."
<<>>
Doc. Code: 8709
Bibliography: Cyprus Mail, 26 August 1998, by Martin Hellicar, [Online] http://www.cynews.com
Headline: Stylianides Quashes Speculation Of Rift
Orig. Source:
Date: 26 August 1998
ABSTRACT:
Greek Government spokesman Christos Stylianides said on 26 August 1998 that "there has been no overturning, at any point, of the essence of the common strategic course of Greece and Cyprus." Stylianides' statement was in response to speculation that Greece was faltering in its support for Cyprus' plan to deploy the Russian-built S-300 air-defense missile system on the island. Greek Foreign Minister Theodoros Pangalos said on 24 August 1998 that the S-300 issue concerned Cyprus alone. However, according to Stylianides, Pangalos' comments had been misconstrued and were actually intended signal support for Cyprus' decision to acquire the S-300 system. Greek Defense Minister Yiannakis Omirou also emphasized that Greece still fully supports its joint defense pact with Cyprus. Andreas Christou, spokesman of Greece's Akel party, said that there are too many "grey areas" in the defense agreement with Cyprus, while House Speaker Spyros Kyprianou said that Pangalos' statements demonstrate that Cyprus and Greece differ on foreign policy issues.
Also on 24 August 1998, Pangalos urged the United States to pressure Turkey to remove US-produced arms it has deployed in the Turkish-occupied area of Cyprus.[1]
Supporting Sources:
[1] "Greece Urges U.S. To Pressure Turkey Over Arms," Xinhua, 24 August 1998; in CNN News, [Online] http://www.cnn.com, 25 August 1998.
<<>>
Doc. Code: 8710
Bibliography: FBIS-WEU-98-233, 21 August 1998
Headline: Turkish Paper: Cyprus' S-300 Delivery Could Be Postponed
Orig. Source: Milliyet (Istanbul), 20 August 1998, p. 19, by Takis Vervirakis
Date: 20 August 1998
ABSTRACT:
According to Turkey's "Milliyet" newspaper, Cyprus and Greece are planning to postpone delivery of the Russian-built S-300 air-defense missile system to Cyprus. According to the report, in September Cyprus and Greece will announce that as a goodwill gesture they are postponing delivery of the missile system until after the April 1999 elections in Turkey. In mid-August 1998, Cypriot President Glavkos Clerides said that "progress should not be expected on the Cyprus problem until elections are held in Turkey."
On 21 August 1998, Clerides said that "we have not made any plans for a postponement." According to Clerides, the S-300 system will arrive on Cyprus in November 1998, as scheduled.[1]
The Cyprus newspaper "Alithia" reported on 21 August 1998 that Turkey's rejection of a no-fly zone over Cyprus, as proposed by US envoy to Cyprus Thomas Miller, will prompt Clerides and Greek Prime Minister Konstandinos Simitis to consider delaying the S-300's delivery during their 27 August 1998 meeting in Athens.[2]
On 20 August 1998, Cyprus' interim Charge d'Affaires in Moscow, Sophoclis Sophocli, said that although the S-300 system was originally scheduled to be delivered to Cyprus between mid-July to mid-August, none of its components have been deployed on the island.[3]
On 21 August 1998, Turkey's "Cumhuriyet" newspaper reported that Russia had informed the Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus (TRNC), that it does not intend to retaliate if Turkish forces attack the S-300 system purchased by Cyprus.[4]
Supporting Sources:
[1] Andreas Khatzipapas, Cyprus Weekly (Nicosia), 21 August 1998, pp. 1, 3; in FBIS-WEU-98-233, 21 August 1998, "Cypriot Paper Views Various Aspects Of S-300 Issue."
[2] Yeoryios Kallinikou, Alithia (Nicosia), 21 August 1998, pp. 1, 4; in FBIS-WEU-98-233, 21 August 1998, "Cypriot Daily Sees No-Fly Zone 'In The Garbage."
[3] Interfax (Moscow), 20 August 1998; in FBIS-TAC-98-232, 20 August 1998, "Cypriot Diplomat Denies Russian Missiles On Island."
[4] Lale Sariibrahimoglu, Cumhuriyet (Istanbul), 21 August 1998, p. 7; in FBIS-WEU-98-233, 21 August 1998, "Russia Not To Retaliate To Attack On Missiles In Cyprus."
<<>>
Doc. Code: 8711
Bibliography: CNN News, 19 August 1998
Headline: US Envoy In Turkey For Cyprus No-Fly Talks
Orig. Source: Reuters, 19 August 1998
ABSTRACT:
US special envoy to Cyprus Thomas Miller visited Turkish leaders in Ankara on 19 August 1998 to seek to persuade them to accept a moratorium on military flights over Cyprus in exchange for the Cypriot government delaying its deployment of the Russian-built S-300 air-defense missile system on the island. Miller was expected to meet with Turkish Foreign Minister Ismail Cem and Deputy Prime Minister Bulent Ecevit. Turkey has apparently rejected the flight moratorium proposal. Foreign Ministry spokesman Necati Utkan told reporters "our position is that we will not allow anything to be used as a bargaining chip on the S-300s. The S-300s are the Greek Cypriots problem. They created it and they have to solve it." An unnamed senior Turkish foreign policymaker added that "we do not accept a moratorium in any way." According to Turkish sources, the proposed flight moratorium would reward the Cypriot government for delaying deployment of the S-300 system, which Turkey has vowed to attack if deployed.
Greek Deputy Foreign Minister Yannos Kranidiotis said that Turkey's rejection of the flight moratorium is "very disappointing." He also said that there is still time to negotiate on the missile issue since the S-300 system will not be deployed before November. According to Kranidiotis, the start of talks on Cyprus' demilitarization or the resumption of dialogue between Cyprus' Greek and Turkish communities on resolving the Cyprus problem could prompt the Cypriot government to abandon its plan to deploy the missiles.[1]
According to the "Cyprus News Agency," on 19 August 1998, representatives from the Cypriot Foreign Ministry spoke with the permanent five members of the United Nations Security Council and the chief of the United Nations Force in Cyprus (UNFICYP) concerning an alleged buildup of Turkish forces on Cyprus. UNFICYP spokesman Waldemar Rokoszewski said that "the Chief of Mission passed this demarche on to Secretary General Koffi Annan with our own independent assessment." An unidentified Cypriot defense source said that Turkish forces on the island were being reinforced with artillery and an unspecified number of US-built M48 tanks. According to the source, "this has been going on for some time and until last week they were bringing armaments."[2]
Supporting Sources:
[1] "Greece Says Cyprus Dialogue May Hold Off Missiles," CNN News, [Online] http://www.cnn.com, 18 August 1998.
[2] "Cyprus Says Turkey Building Up Firepower In North," CNN News, [Online] http://www.cnn.com, 19 August 1998.
<<>>
Doc. Code: 8712
Bibliography: FBIS-WEU-98-217, 5 August 1998
Headline: Holbrooke Reportedly Mediates To Defuse Greek-US Crisis
Orig. Source: Exousia (Athens), 30 July 1998, p. 5, by Aris Viketos
ABSTRACT:
According to unidentified sources, in early August 1998 US envoy to Cyprus Richard Holbrooke conferred with Greek Prime Minister Konstandinos Simitis and Cypriot President Glavkos Clerides about a flight moratorium over Cyprus. Holbrooke reportedly said that if the Cypriots accept the flight moratorium and cancel delivery of the Russian-built S-300 air-defense missile system to the island, the United States is willing to pressure Turkey to convince Turkish Cypriot leader Rauf Denktas to unconditionally return to talks between the island's Greek and Turkish communities. Cypriot Foreign Minister Ioannis Kasoulidhis has denied reports that Cyprus has accepted "in principle and with satisfaction" the flight moratorium proposal, and said that the Cypriot government does not expect any developments on the issue before Miller's visit to Turkey later in the month.
On 5 August 1998, Cyprus' "I Simerini" newspaper reported that Clerides told close associates that the S-300 missile system will be delivered to Cyprus in late September or early October 1998. He also said that due to Italy's suspension of the delivery of its Aspide surface-to-air missiles to Cyprus, negotiations are underway to purchase medium-range missiles from Greece. Clerides reportedly discussed ways to safely deliver, install, and operate the system during his recent visit to Russia. Russian officials are believed to have told Clerides that they will do all they can to support Cyprus' deployment of the missile system and will veto any United Nations effort to extend recognition to the Turkish-occupied portion of the island.[1]
Supporting Sources:
[1] Kharalambos Kharalambidhis, I Simerini (Nicosia), 30 July 1998, p. 1; in FBIS-WEU-98-217, 5 August 1998, "Cypriot President Said Determined To Bring S-300 Missiles."
<<>>
Doc. Code: 8736
Bibliography: FBIS-WEU-98-243, 31 August 1998
Headline: Greek Paper Views Postponement Of S-300s' Deployment
Orig. Source: To Vima Tis Kiriakis (Athens), 30 August 1998, p. A25, by Alexis Papakhelas
Date: 30 August 1998
ABSTRACT:
According to information obtained by Greece's "To Vima tis Kiriakis" newspaper, Cypriot President Glavkos Clerides is expected to announce in early October 1998 that the delivery of the Russian-built S-300PMU-1 air-defense missile system to Cyprus will be delayed. It is unclear how long the system's delivery will be postponed, but it is believed that it will not be delivered until after elections have been held in Turkey in April 1999. Clerides met with Greek Prime Minister Costas Simitis in late-August 1998 to discuss the S-300 problem, but several aspects of the issue remain unresolved. The two leaders reportedly did not reach a decision as to whether the S-300 system would be stored in Russia with the understanding that it was Cypriot property, or whether a change in the contract for the system would be made so that the more than $400 million allocated to the contract could be spent on other equipment.
According to the Greek report, statements by Cypriot and US officials indicate that Cyprus will soon purchase medium-range anti-aircraft missiles from Russia. The 15km-range SA-15 missile is considered to be the most likely candidate and a suitable missile to protect Cyprus' airspace. Purchasing SA-15 missiles would also help silence critics who might accuse Clerides of abandoning the S-300 system.
On 28 August 1998, the secretary-general of Greece's AKEL political party, said that "I believe that the delivery of the missiles will be cancelled after it is postponed a few times.[1]
On 30 August 1998, the "Cyprus Broadcasting Corporation Television Network" reported that Clerides' associates were working on a large-scale campaign at the summit of the Non-Aligned Movement (NAM) to shift the focus of attention on Cyprus from the S-300 issue, to resolving the overall Cyprus problem. The report also said that US envoy to Cyprus Thomas Miller is expected to conduct a new series of negotiations with Greek and Turkish leaders in early September 1998.[2]
Supporting Sources:
[1] Stelyo Berberakis, Yeni Yuzyil (Istanbul), 29 August 1998; in FBIS-WEU-98-241, 29 August 1998, "Turkish Report Sees Cypriots, Greeks Caving In On S-300s."
[2] Kostans Yennaris, Cyprus Broadcasting Corporation Television Network (Nicosia), 30 August 1998; in FBIS-WEU-98-242, 30 August 1998, "Cyprus, Greece Start Diplomatic Campaign In NAM Margin."
<<>>
Doc. Code: 8746
Bibliography: Reuters, 11 September 1998, by Jean Christou
Headline: Cyprus Considering Second Russian Missile Deal
Orig. Source:
Date: 11 September 1998
ABSTRACT:
Cypriot Defense Minister Yiannakis Omirou reportedly briefed a Cypriot government parliamentary committee on 11 September 1998 concerning the possible purchase of Russian-built SA-15 Gauntlet surface-to-air (SAM) missiles, if an agreement to purchase additional Italian-built Aspide Mk 1 SAM missiles cannot be reached. According to Cypriot defense sources, the purchase of the Aspide missiles is awaiting a final export license from the Italian government. According to the Cyprus Broadcasting Corporation (CyBC), the Cypriot government is anxious to install either the 18km-range Aspide or 12km-range SA-15 system before November 1998, when the Russian-built S-300PMU-1 SAM system is scheduled to be deployed on the island. According to Cypriot defense sources, either missile system would be used to protect the S-300PMU-1 system from attack by Turkish forces. However, a Cypriot National Guard source told CyBC that the Aspide or SA-15 system did not necessarily need to be deployed before the S-300PMU-1 system. According to the CyBC report, the SA-15 system would cost around $120 million, while additional Aspide missiles would cost approximately $60 million. Cypriot defense sources said that the Cypriot government has already signed an agreement with Aspide manufacturer GEC-Alenia to purchase an unspecified number of the missiles, and that the SA-15 purchase will not be necessary if Italy approves export of the Aspide missiles.
However, Omirou reportedly told the parliamentary committee that the government has completed all the required procedures to quickly purchase SA-15 missiles from Russia, if the Aspide deal falls through.[1]
Supporting Sources:
[1] Cyprus Broadcasting Corporation Radio Network (Nicosia), 11 September 1998; in FBIS-WEU-98-254, 11 September 1998, "Cyprus To Buy Russian Missiles If Italy Refuses Aspide."
<<>>
Michael Barletta and Erik Jorgensen, September 1998.
© Center for Nonproliferation Studies,
Monterey Institute of International Studies
Return to the Cyprus home page.
This is the link for the last long post, had trouble posting it:
http://cns.miis.edu/research/cyprus/abstract.htm#7379
Where it came from:
http://cns.miis.edu/research/cyprus/absheads.htm
CNS Resources on the Missile Crisis over Cyprus
Sale of the Russian S-300PMU-1 Missile System to Cyprus:
Selected CNS Missile Database Abstracts1
1995
12/20 "U.S. to Go Ahead with Missile Sale to Turkey"
1996
9/18 "U.S. Said Pressuring National Guard to Cancel Arms Program"
12/19 "Russia Said Ready to Sign Missile System Contract"
1997
1/6 "Russia, Cyprus Conclude Arms Deal"
1/11 "Turks Rattle Their Swords over Cypriot Missile Plan"
1/14 "Pledge on Missiles Eases Cyprus Crisis, Envoy Says"
2/4 "S-300 Antiaircraft Missiles at Shooting Practice Hit All the Targets"
9/3 "Turkish Planes Can Be Destroyed Immediately after Takeoff"
9/4 "Measures against Missile-Carrying Ships in Straits Viewed"
9/13 "Turks Threaten to Blockade Cyprus and to Boycott the EU
9/17 "Turkish Military Commanders' Meetings Noted"
9/22-28 "Turkey Plans Robust Procurement Spending"
10/1 "Contract of the Month: Cyprus Purchasing Russian Air-defense Systems"
10/10 "Russian Envoy's Warning Against Attack On S-300 Carrier"
10/13 "Turkish Defense Minister Views Cyprus, Greek Relations"
10/14 "Holbrooke's Proposals on Cyprus Said Rejected by Turkey"
10/22 "Greek Minister on Violations, Threats"
10/26 "Turkish Paper Views S-300 Crisis, Warns against Piracy"
11/6 "Cyprus Protests as Turks Blast Mock Missile Sites"
12/9 "Defense Ties with Turkey Bolstered"
1998
1/14 "Plan for Delivery of Russian S-300 SAMs to Cyprus 'On Schedule"
3/27 "Russia Protests Pangalos' Proposal to United States"
3/29 "Cyprus Denies Greek Press Reports on S-300"
4/6 "Greek Daily Reports Burns Intervention on Pangalos' Idea"
4/7 "Paper Says More Russian Missiles to be Bought by Cyprus"
4/10 "Greece Turns to Russia"
4/15 "Israel Denies Spying on Cyprus"
4/30 "Russia Presents Cyprus Demilitarization Proposals at UN"
5/6 "Turkey Favors Missile Deployment to Greece, not Cyprus"
5/15 "Turkey Uses Carrot and Stick Approach on Russian Missile Sale to Cyprus"
5/21 "Russian Missile Supply to Cyprus Endangers Israeli-Russian Offer in Turkey"
5/22 "Denktas Says Negotiations to Stop if Missiles Deployed"
6/4 "Greek Daily Views Greece-Cyprus Joint Defense Doctrine"
6/9 "Cohen Mulls 'No-Fly' as Idea for Cyprus"
6/22 "Greek, Cypriot Officers to Attend S-300 Show in Russia"
7/1 "Turkish Paper Claims Turkey Acquired ATACMS Missiles"
7/9 "Cypriots Test New Missile in Russia"
7/10 "Milliyet Sees US Formula on S-300 Missiles"
7/14 "Turks Didn't Train Against SAMs Here"
7/17 "Paper Claims Israeli Planes Used North Cyprus Airbase"
7/17 "Russian Paper Quoted on S-300 Transport from Atlantic"
7/24 "Greece Will 'Get Involved' If Turks Attack In Cyprus"
8/4 "Denktas Says Missiles No Obstacle to Relations with Russia"
8/5 "Holbrooke Reportedly Mediates to Defuse Greek-US Crisis"
8/19 "US Envoy In Turkey For Cyprus No-Fly Talks"
8/21 "Turkish Paper: Cyprus' S-300 Delivery Could Be Postponed"
8/26 "Stylianides Quashes Speculation of Rift"
8/31 "Greek Paper Views Postponement Of S-300s' Deployment"
9/11 "Cyprus Considering Second Russian Missile Deal"
Sources:
1. This is a selection of abstracts regarding the S-300PMU-1 sale to Cyprus included in the International Missile Database of the Center for Nonproliferation Studies (CNS). This database was created in 1990, and contains over 8,500 abstracts of information regarding international sales and development of ballistic and cruise missiles, missile-defense systems, and missile components and technologies. Access to the full collection is available only by subscription. For subscription information click here.
Michael Barletta and Erik Jorgensen, September 1998.
© Center for Nonproliferation Studies,
Monterey Institute of International Studies
http://cns.miis.edu/research/cyprus/index.htm
Return to the Cyprus home page.
Very good question I wonder what got you on all those pipelines. Hold on let me put my tin foil hat in place..........................................
OK now my theory has always been that "THEY" want to keep the US as "pristine" as possible so they can live here and have all the working middle to lower class live in all the third world countries.
Did you know the US has more wilderness than any other place in the world?<<<<
You know that I never know what is going to set me off, I think of it as "God tapped me on the shoulder and said "look at this one".....and so many times I am ahead of the game.
It looks as tho russia is not a friend of Israel.
The last post has clinton stuff in it.
My computer went into overload, so I had to dump it all and re-boot, or else, I would be looking at the other things on that site, LOL, may anyway.
"Forty years later, it is clear that production will now far outlast the period of the concession agreement, and all parties agree that it is appropriate to initiate a transition of operatorship to the government at this time and to begin a new era." <<<<
I read that as " you have made us rich, beyond our biggest dreams, now go away, while we get richer.
On your tinfoil thought, not needed at all on the clinton, locking up our resources.
He did and does.
The elite, lives in the finest of the closed areas, it has been openly reported.
All those abortions, has helped keep the use of them down.
All the illegals can be sent back to where they came from, a few slaves kept of course.
I laugh, when I hear people say they cannot get by without the illegals.
They want them to mow the lawn and clean the house.
Sorry, we always did our own.
GET OFF MY SOAPBOX, I FEEL A RANT COMING ON!!!!
On the half hour news it went kinda like this:
"XX number of people killed by the Israel forces..........."
[not a word about the dead in Israel]
Then the corker:
"The LA Times said today, that there were more murders by our troops than previousley known, something like 137 in almost a 20 year period."
Of course, not a word about the 58,000 Americans that died.
I have laughed before, that the announcer is one of the far left and no matter what Dr. Bill says, when he does the news, he will say the liberal version of the subject.
But this time, he out-did himself.
Sound like a brain that is named Bloom.
If so, he is a raging and admitted on the left.
He is often good on some subjects.
He does like muslims.
the authors who put that long post on the missiles togather:
http://www.google.com/search?q=Michael+Barletta&client=netscape-pp&rls=com.netscape:en-US
http://www.google.com/search?q=Erik+Jorgensen&client=netscape-pp&rls=com.netscape:en-US
N. Korea:
http://www.google.com/search?q=Center+for+Nonproliferation+Studies&client=netscape-pp&rls=com.netscape:en-US
http://www.google.com/search?q=Monterey+Institute+of+International+Studies+&client=netscape-pp&rls=com.netscape:en-US
This is everything and a couple might be interesting, would be good to play with:
http://www.google.com/search?q=Doc.+Code%3A&client=netscape-pp&rls=com.netscape:en-US
Yes, Brandy is one of the oldest medicines.
The doctors say you should have one drink a day for the heart.
For the heart and lungs, one drink, as you lay down, so the throat is coated and the alcohol kill s the germs that are there.
Bill kept his in the bedroom, or in a middle of the room closet, when you saw him tilt the bottle, you knew he would be sound asleep in 5 minutes.
He was not a drinker, as such, he had been as a youth/Army, but I was so against it, that we just did not drink much.
LOL, when you grow up with a bootlegger father, there is nothing glouius about booze.
N. Korea and China info/reports:
http://cns.miis.edu/research/korea/index.htm
I was right, that was Howard Bloom.
Do not get excited about the ethonol, Dr. Bill says that when the price of gas goes over $5.00 a gallon, then it will be worth looking at.
The people who dream big about it, do not allow for the fact that the Government gives subsidies to the corn growers.
Just as he told people that one day the price of oil would be high enough to work the oil sands in Canada and it is and they are now shipping it, in the pipeline.
The electric cars, take so much electric to charge the batteries, that they are not a real life saver in the fuel department, unless all of a sudden there are a bunch of nuclear electric plants springing up.
Solar, does not repay the cost for the building of the units, are a high maintance item and only work while the sun is shinning.
Wind power works, but is noisy and kills birds.
You might get natural steam heat, IF you are sitting on top of a volcano field.
End result is:
It is going to cost YOU.
the one before this is to you and I forgot to add:
wind power, when the wind blows.
http://www.krnv.com/Global/story.asp?S=5242903&nav=8faO
RENO
Flight Evacuated at Reno-Tahoe Airport
Aug 5, 2006 03:38 PM
Passengers and crew were evacuated from an America West Express flight at Reno-Tahoe International Airport Friday afternoon.
Airport authority officials say the flight was preparing to take off from Reno to Phoenix when smoke began filling the cockpit. The jet was halted and 79 passengers and crew were taken off the plane. The plane is out of service now.
Authorities say no one was hurt in the incident. The cause of the fire is under investigation.
Copyright 2006 KRNV News 4. All rights reserved.
Article published Aug 7, 2006
Family, friends honor Cpl. Baucus
By GWEN FLORIO
Tribune Capitol Bureau
WOLF CREEK — By the time the Chinook helicopter with the huge American flag streaming beneath it passed slowly over the ranch here, the protesters and their vile signs were gone, leaving Marine Cpl. Phillip E. Baucus to be put to rest in peace.
A July 29 suicide bombing in Iraq's Al Anbar province killed Baucus, the nephew of U.S. Sen. Max Baucus. He had been married less than a year.
"Every death is a shame, but even more so when one is so young and so intelligent and so vibrant and has so much to offer," said Anthony J. Preite, director of the Montana Department of Commerce, who attended the funeral.
He was among more than 500 people who drove from across Montana and neighboring states to attend the funeral at the sprawling Sieben Ranch, owned by his parents, John and Nina Baucus.
Baucus' status as a nephew of a U.S. senator also drew the attention of the Topeka, Kansas-based Westboro Baptist Church, whose members picket military funerals around the country. They believe the troops deserve to die because they fight on behalf of a government that, according to church beliefs, does not adequately condemn homosexuality.
Other groups have started staging silent counter-protests. On Sunday, Tom and Colleen Broeker of Great Falls took part in one here at the turnoff leading to the ranch.
"We are here to support a poor, young kid who had to die too young and whose family deserves a peaceful funeral," said Colleen Broeker.
Across the road, four members of Westboro Baptist — including 20-year-old Megan Phelps-Roper, daughter of its founder, the Rev. Fred Phelps — held up signs at the turnoff leading to the ranch.
"Thank God for dead soldiers," read one. "Soldiers Die, God Laughs," read another.
"They have a constitutional right to be here," sighed Lewis and Clark County Sheriff Cheryl Liedle, whose deputies were out in force Sunday.
"We're out here to make sure that nothing untoward happens to anyone, particularly to members of our community, and to keep the peace and tranquility for an honorable soldier," she said.
A procession of pickup trucks driven by well-dressed people with stony faces kicked up clouds of dust as they sped past.
"That's right. Don't even look at them," yelled Roy Banks, 54, of Helena, a disabled veteran. He was among about 15 people, including other veterans and members of church groups, who gathered to form a peaceful counter-protest to the Westboro Baptist contingent.
The church's actions spurred a measure, signed into law by President Bush on Memorial Day, that prohibits protests at or near national cemeteries. Baucus voted for the Respect for America's Fallen Heroes Act, hence Westboro's presence at his nephew's funeral, according to Westboro attorney Shirley Phelps-Roper. About 26 states have enacted similar laws, she said.
"What he got for his trouble ... is a dead nephew," Phelps-Roper, another of Phelps' daughters, said in a telephone interview.
At 2 p.m. sharp, when the funeral was to begin, the members of Westboro Baptist packed up their signs and left. The helicopter rattled into view a few moments later, the flag fluttering from its belly.
At the protest site, a bearded man holding a flag of his own tilted his head skyward, a tear tracing a path through the dust on his sun-reddened cheek.
Those at the funeral remembered Baucus' more lighthearted moments. Family members who recalled a scatterbrained youngster seemed surprised when Baucus' fellow Marines spoke of a supremely well-organized recruit, according to funeral pool reporter Charles S. Johnson of Lee Newspapers.
"He didn't become a hero when he died. He was a hero before then," said Baucus' older brother, John. He faced his brother's casket and raised his hand to his forehead.
"I'm saluting my brother and my hero. I'll miss you."
And the "free spirit, almost irreverence," of which his uncle, Max, spoke was on display at the end of the funeral. After the other ceremonies — the 21-gun salute; the presentation of the folded flag to his widow, Kathy; the bugled "Taps" and "Amazing Grace" on a bagpipe; the doves released by the Marines — there was one more, a Baucus family tradition that was Phillip's favorite.
There was a loud bang and a lot of smoke. An anvil flew through the air, landing about 30 feet from a car. The Baucuses send anvils flying at family events and on holidays. They used to use one pound of gunpowder to accomplish the feat; Phillip insisted up on two. That's what was used Sunday.
Some two hours after the service began, the pickups began their procession back toward the highway. As they left the ranch, they passed a sign taped to a fencepost. It bore a single word:
"Honor."
Contact Gwen Florio at 406-442-9493, or gflorio@greatfal.gannett.com
http://www.greatfallstribune.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20060807/NEWS01/608070304/1002&template=printart
[note the fake passports]
No pollution danger from dump fire
A fire that burned for more than a week at the Tagarades landfill in Thessaloniki did not have a lasting impact on air quality, the mayor of the northern city, Vassilis Papageorgopoulos, said yesterday. During a press conference at which he presented the air-pollution readings from the last few days, Papageorgopoulos said that the levels of suspended particles in the air were below the permissible limit. Scientists suggested that the fire had released dangerous dioxins in the air.
Airport scam
A 55-year-old Greek man was arrested at Athens International Airport after attempting to board a flight to Vienna with two Iraqi women and a child who had forged Greek passports, airport police said yesterday. Officers believe the man was part of a ring which helped immigrants travel to Scandinavian countries. The women and the child had been due to travel to Sweden from Vienna.
Lawyers disciplined
The Veria Bar Association yesterday called all the lawyers involved in the Alex Meshivili case to a disciplinary hearing to decide whether they were in breach of the lawyers’ code of ethics. The lawyers have repeatedly appeared on television in recent weeks to discuss the case of the 11-year-old’s disappearance from the northern city in February.
Young robbers
Two boys, aged 11 and 14, were arrested yesterday on suspicion of robbing a taxi driver, police said. Four boys allegedly threatened a cabbie with a screwdriver after he had taken them to Ano Liosia, northwestern Athens. The children beat the driver and stole 120 euros and his mobile phone, officers said. The boys had allegedly stolen 115 euros from a taxi driver a few days earlier. Police said they are looking for the two other boys who were in the cab at the time of the attack.
Roommate murder
Police said yesterday that the roommate of a 35-year-old Pakistani man found murdered on Wednesday in his apartment in Peristeri, western Athens, had confessed to killing the victim. The two men had been sharing the apartment for six years but became embroiled in an argument over personal differences, police said.
Drug peddler
A 56-year-old man was arrested yesterday on suspicion of selling drugs to addicts in Omonia Square, central Athens, police said. The unnamed suspect had 41 grams of heroin, 96 grams of methadone, 12 grams of cannabis and a weighing scale in his possession when he was caught, officers said.
Teenage fugitive
A 14-year-old suspected thief who escaped from police custody in Athens on Thursday morning was recaptured in central Greece yesterday, officers said. The boy had escaped from police headquarters in central Athens as he was being taken to face a prosecutor. He was caught in the village of Avlaki in Stylida.
http://www.foxnews.com/video2/player05.html?032406/032406_sr_brown&FNL&Warning%20Signs%3F&acc&Only%20on%20FOX&-1&exp
Video on somali men who are going to a truck driving school in the Ozarks, from Kansas City.
FBI is investigating and you need to see the video for the details, the men are being brought here for the training, something about 16 of them. or 16 %.
http://gatesofvienna.blogspot.com/2006/03/warning-sign.html
This is the video in a comment: [March 29, 2006]
Fox News had a video up tonight titled “Warning Signs.”
The FBI in Kansas City is said to be conducting an investigation into a truck-driving school in West Plains, Missouri.
So Central Career SchoolThe South Central Career Center, with its peeling sign out front, offers truck driving lessons. It seems to have attracted a large number of Somali Muslims from a community of Somalis in Kansas City. In the last 18 months, the majority of its students have been Somalians.
Should we be concerned? Probably. Why in the Midwest? Why the concentration of Somalis in this line of work? Is this anything like flight training school except you don’t have to learn to land? Are they bothering to learn how to brake one of those things?
Pay records for schoolIn a way, trucks are of more concern than planes. They are ubiquitous, a commonplace in our everyday landscape. They pass us all the time on the highway and we don't even notice. An 18 wheeler loaded surreptitiously with something explosively unstable could be a nightmare beyond the wildest imaginings of whatever concerns Dubai Ports raised.
The FBI is investigating, but it isn’t talking. I’ll bet a great many driving schools are under scrutiny. Fox News just happened upon one of them.
Dymphna | 3/29/2006 09:56:00 PM
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[interesting comments]
http://www.google.com/search?q=Somali+men+truck+driving+school&client=netscape-pp&rls=com.netscape:en-US
Thanks for this article.
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