VLADIMIR PUTIN

Oil executives are stuck between the White House and a cold place, between sanctions and enticing prospects in the Russian Arctic.

Georgia's ex-Premier Bidzina Ivanishvili has a lucrative relationship with Vladimir Putin, who will pay big money for political aims.

A general cites a "drastic" rise in military flights near U.S. territories, Korea and Japan.

U.S. and EU measures against Russia are sending companies to China for financial partnerships.

The pro-Russian protesters stormed into a police headquarters in Odessa, demanding the release of pro-Russian protesters.

"It will be impossible to convince them to lay down arms," says Putin spokesman Dmitri Peskov.

Some long for "the good old days," while others fear them.

Detainees may face charges of inciting riots and murder for Friday's violence in eastern Ukraine.

Participants in the unrest show the state of Ukraine on its bloodiest day since February.

Sergei Lavrov goes to Latin America to make new friendships, rekindle old ones and thank Russia's supporters in the Ukraine crisis.

Ukraine says pro-Russians defending their grip on eastern city of Slavyansk have shot down two helicopters, killing at least one pilot.

Separatists have seized government buildings in Eastern Ukraine. But this action, if confirmed, would be the first big response by Kiev.

Workers held banners proclaiming support for President Putin after the seizure of territory from neighboring Ukraine.

Russia President Putin said the withdrawal of Ukrainian military units, ending violence and launching a national dialogue are key issues.

"Our Church is not succumbing to any political temptations and refuses to serve for any political positions," Patriarch Kirill said.

New U.S. and EU sanctions packages, announced with fanfare, were seen as so mild that Russian share prices rose in relief.

The former German chancellor's actions illustrate why Russia's role as Europe's energy provider is making it difficult for the EU to impose sanctions.

Sanctions? What sanctions? Western oil majors yawn at the West's sanctions against Rosneft CEO and other Putin allies.

Wall Street Bank representatives are heading to Russia for a conference. It's not political, it's just business.

Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov slammed U.S. and EU sanctions over the Ukraine crisis Tuesday, saying they defied common sense.

The Europeans, unlike the Americans, are not hitting the head of Russia's state-owned oil company, Rosneft, with sanctions.