CORRUPTION CHARGES STILL LOOM OVER MILITARY COMMANDER.

Despite the fact that the Prosecutor’s Office in Russia’s Far East has closed the case, both Russian defense minister Igor Rodionov and the State Duma are said to be interested in re-examining charges of embezzlement leveled against Far Eastern Military District commander Viktor Chechevatov. The Col. General, who was earlier rumored to be a candidate for the defense minister post, is accused of transferring some 3 billion rubles in state funds to commercial interests. (Argumenty i fakty, August 27)

Russia Waits on Embassy in Afghanistan.