IRAQI OIL BAD NEWS FOR MOSCOW?

Analysts say that Iraq’s recent "oil-for-food" deal with the UN, strongly backed by Russia, could actually undermine profits earned by Moscow from some of its own oil exports. Russian Urals crude oil is said to be similar to Iraq’s Kirkuk blend, and the two were competitors in the Mediterranean before the imposition of sanctions. Baghdad’s reemergence could cost Russia customers and force Moscow to rethink the way it markets its oil, analysts say. (Reuter, December 18)

Russian Space Effort Depends on Foreign Money.