A RIA Novosti study revealed significant differences in car affordability across Russian regions. The worst situation is observed in the North Caucasus republics, where only a small proportion of families can afford to purchase and maintain a new car on credit.
The United States does not see any complications in its mediation between Azerbaijan and Armenia due to the joint military exercises being conducted in Armenia. 175 Armenian and 85 American soldiers take part in them. When asked about Russia's dissatisfaction with these exercises in Armenia, US State Department spokesman Matthew Miller said: "Given that Russia has invaded the territory of two of its neighbors, it should not be lecturing countries in the region about security."
The State Department also noted that the peace process between Azerbaijan and Armenia continues, and the parties are ready to return to Washington to continue the dialogue. The first step towards achieving lasting peace is to resolve the humanitarian situation in Karabakh.