Anna Smolchenko

Correspondent for AFP in Moscow.

Comedian Zelensky wins Ukraine presidency in landslide

Article Oleksandr Savochenko & Anna Smolchenko - 21 Apr 2019

Volodymyr Zelensky, whose only previous political role was playing the president in a TV show, trounced incumbent Petro Poroshenko

Russia loses contact with Angolan satellite

Article Anna Smolchenko - 27 Dec 2017

The incident involving the Russian-made Angosat-1 followed a similar one in November when Russia lost contact with a weather satellite

Thousands march over death of Putin critic

Article Anna Smolchenko - 1 Mar 2015

Tens of thousands of people marched in central Moscow on Sunday to honour slain opposition leader Boris Nemtsov, who was gunned down near the Kremlin.

Russia’s falling stock market faces new sanctions

Article Anna Smolchenko - 27 Jan 2015

A day after a US ratings agency downgraded ?Russia to "junk" status, the country's index fell by 3%. Russia could also face new sanctions.

Russia prepares to cut Ukraine’s gas after talks fail

Article Anna Smolchenko & Dmitry Zaks - 16 Jun 2014

Europe could face gas supply disruptions after Ukraine failed to broker an 11th-hour deal with Russia.

Russians brave cold in bid to oust Putin

Article Anna Smolchenko - 4 Feb 2012

Tens of thousands of Russians are set to march through Moscow, braving freezing temperatures to challenge Vladimir Putin's grip on power.

Russia rocked by renewed mass anti-Putin rally

Article Anna Smolchenko - 25 Dec 2011

Russia came to terms with its second mass opposition rally within a month which was even bigger and more sharply critical of strongman Vladimir Putin.

Kremlin panel urges new polls, firing of election chief

Article Anna Smolchenko - 24 Dec 2011

In a damning statement, the Kremlin's rights panel has called for the resignation of Russia's election chief and snap parliamentary elections.

Medvedev wants new term, but won’t compete with Putin

Article Anna Smolchenko - 20 Jun 2011

President Dmitry Medvedev on Monday added to the uncertainty surrounding Russia's 2012 presidential polls, saying he wanted a second term.

Flying donkey’ shocks Russian holidaymakers

Article Anna Smolchenko - 21 Jul 2010

A donkey attached to a parasail and sent soaring above the beaches of southern Russia has stunned holidaymakers and prompted a police enquiry.

Press Releases

Special Reports

Introducing the new CSIR strategy and identity

special reports - 30 Oct 2020

This will guide the research, development and innovation organisation in its pursuit to conduct research that enables a capable state

Special Reports

Itec serves up high-tech integrated surveillance system for family food company

special reports - 27 Oct 2020

The system includes facial recognition software and a thermal screening solution that will provide instant temperature screening of all employees

Special Reports

Transport Month

[email protected] - 23 Oct 2020

An infrastructure-led recovery will help to stimulate demand in the South African economy, which is vital post the Covid-19 pandemic

Special Reports

Limpopo’s Economic Recovery Plan to fight Covid-19 impact

special reports - 23 Oct 2020

Billions have been set aside to help farmers and industries get back on their feet as part of the Limpopo Socio-Economic Recovery Plan

Special Reports

Disrupt the corrupt

special reports - 22 Oct 2020

Whistle-blowers should be seen as real heroes in the fight against corruption and we need a change in culture for this to happen

Special Reports

Corporates: A force for good for a sustainable future

special reports - 20 Oct 2020

In order to see people and nature thrive what is required is a strong focus on partnerships – we cannot act alone anymore

Special Reports

Combatting wildlife crime in Southern Africa activity annual programme statement (APS) No. 04

special reports - 20 Oct 2020

Concept papers are sought for implementating activities, for a multi-faceted programme that aims to reduce poaching and illegal trade in wildlife

Special Reports

The financial decisions made during your life journey, and their impact on your retirement outcome

special reports - 19 Oct 2020

The longer you save towards retirement the larger your retirement savings are expected to be due to the effect of compounding interest