Russia is taking US proposals for a cease-fire in Ukraine “seriously” but can’t accept the deal as it stands, a senior Russian diplomat said Tuesday — suggesting peace talks between the two

Russia's Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov discussed with his Chinese counterpart, Wang Yi, the situation on the Korean Peninsula as well as Iran's nuclear program, the Russian foreign ministry said late on Tuesday.

Russia has warned US that any military attack on Iran's nuclear sites would have "catastrophic" effects. Deputy Foreign Minister Sergei Ryabkov called for peaceful negotiations.

The Justice Department said Tuesday that Hossein Akbari and Rexa Amidi used aliases to buy parts intended for the Iranian military.

While Moscow has largely avoided direct criticism of Donald Trump, Vladimir Putin has prioritised strengthening ties with Washington, a development that has raised concerns in Ukraine and among European allies.

Amid growing friction between the US and many of its European allies, the intelligence community is ominously warning that adversaries like Russia, Iran, North Korea and China are increasingly

President Trump said he could impose tariffs on nations that buy oil from Russia if it thwarts negotiations for a peace deal in Ukraine. He suggested the same step was possible for Iran.

WTI Oil is a type of Crude Oil sold on international markets. The WTI stands for West Texas Intermediate, one of three major types including Brent and Dubai Crude. WTI is also referred to as “light” and “sweet” because of its relatively low gravity and sulfur content respectively.