TODAY:  Escalation of ethnic unrest in Kyrgyzstan prompts government to seek Russian help; Kremlin sends paratroopers; Kazakhstan concerns about politics of customs union; missile sales to Iran to stay on ice. Trifonova death cause established; polio returns to Russia for first time in decade; Yabloko FSB rally dispersed.  Robin Hood gang members killed after siege; Gen Plan hits Moscow  

In the wake of growing unrest which has seen scores of people killed, the Kyrgyz provisional government has appealed to Russia for its help in quelling confrontations and restoring order.  According to the New York Times, it is thought that Russia will decide today on a response in discussion with other members of the CSTO.  The BBC reports that Russia may be loath to intervene in what it describes as an ‘internal conflict’.  Apparently as many as 650 paratroopers may have been sent to safeguard Russia’s military facilities in the restive country.  The Russian Emergencies Ministry has sent an Il-76 transport plane to transport injured citizens on the orders of President Dmitry Medvedev.  RFE/RL has a video report on the escalating tensions.