Russia to allow US arms shipments to Afghanistan

MOSCOW (AP) - Russia said Friday it will allow the United States to ship weapons across its territory to Afghanistan, a long-sought move that bolsters U.S. military operations but potentially gives the Kremlin leverage over critical American supplies. The announcement by a top Kremlin aide came ahead of President Barack Obama's visit to Moscow next week, when the deal is expected to be signed during a summit aimed at improving the nations' strained relations. Russia's concession on arms shipments also came as the Obama administration is shifting the U.S. military's focus from Iraq to Afghanistan, where a massive American offensive is currently under way in Taliban-controlled areas of Helmand province. Russia has been allowing the United States to ship non-lethal supplies across its territory for operations in Afghanistan, and... [read full story]                    

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