Russian President Dmitry Medvedev has sent his condolences to the people of Pakistan after a deadly attack that claimed at least 95 lives.

Iran claims it will produce its own nuclear fuel for a research reactor by the end of January if the West does not supply the material.

A massive fire has broken out at Marun, Iran

Russian pole vault queen Yelena Isinbayeva has soared to glory once more, being named athlete of the year for the second time in a row.

The New Year has brought a price rise for vodka in Russia - with the imposition of a minimum price of 89 rubles, or about three dollars, for half a liter.

Just a few years ago, the idea of a foreign spouse settling in Russia would have seemed perverse, as many locals saw an international marriage as their ticket out of the poverty and lawlessness of the post-Soviet era.

Russian Premier League side CSKA Moscow has given itself a New Year gift with an Asian twist, signing Japanese international Keisuke Honda from Dutch side VVV-Venlo.

A lot is expected from Russian figure skaters at the Olympics, with the return of veterans like Evgeny Pluschenko boosting gold medal prospects and a new breed of juniors blossoming just at the right time.

Starting January 1, Russia is heading the Commonwealth of the Independent States, taking its turn after Moldova.

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