11.   Feeling the rising political pressure, the Clinton administration took action against Japan and Brazil for dumping steel, and negotiated an agreement to cut Russian exports.

12.   German prosecutors are investigating two former Mercedes-Benz executives in connection with allegations of fraud and embezzlement over a Russian export contract four years ago that never materialized.

13.   In addition, higher Russian exports of nickel will swell global supply, said Helen Williamson, research analyst at brokers Brandeis Group in London.

14.   In NEW YORK, platinum and palladium fell as traders await the resumption of Russian exports of the precious metals following a six-month lull.

15.   In recent weeks, halts in Russian exports helped platinum prices rebound from four-year lows to seven-year highs.

16.   In LONDON, palladium and platinum also fell amid uncertainty about the timing of renewed Russian exports.

17.   In NEW YORK, palladium and platinum fell for a third day amid speculation that Russian exports will resume soon.

18.   In NEW YORK, platinum and palladium fell as traders await the resumption of Russian exports after a halt of more than six months.

19.   In NEW YORK, platinum and palladium futures rose on a lack of clear indications that Russian exports will resume this month after a six-month lull.

20.   In NEW YORK, platinum and palladium futures slumped amid expectations that Russian exports of the metals, halted in December, will resume sooner than previously thought.