Russia warns US over sanctions bill

Russia has warned that a new US law authorising fresh sanctions against Moscow could damage relations between the two countries "for a long time".

 

Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov made the comments in a phone call with his American counterpart John Kerry.

Note
The new US legislation, aimed mainly at Russia's defence industries, gives President Barack Obama the power to impose further sanctions if he chooses - though no action has yet been taken as a result of the bill.
It would also allow Mr Obama to provide lethal and non-lethal military assistance to Ukraine.