Russia allows American spy suspect to stay in US

United States officials say Russia has decided not to pursue its prosecution of an American technician on charges of espionage.

The man, Richard Bliss, was arrested in southern Russia in November, but was allowed to go back to the United States for the Christmas holidays.

Officials in Washington and the man's company, Qualcomm, said Russia would not seek his return.

Both President Clinton and Vice-President Al Gore had intervened on his behalf and asked the Russian government to secure his release.

Mr Bliss's company said it would continue to work for his complete exoneration.

From the newsroom of the BBC World Service