US eases fears over Aughinish jobs

The US has softened its position on sanctions against Russian metals company Rusal, easing the fears over jobs at the huge Co Limerick Aughinish smelting plant, and sparking a record plunge in aluminium prices.

For the first time, the US Treasury has discussed a path for lifting the sanctions on Rusal, saying it would provide relief if Oleg Deripaska relinquished control.