Cooperation with Russia is absolutely essential, believes US Democrat Dennis Kucinich who, together with Republican Tom Price, has formed a Congressional Russia Caucus.
The body is meant to assure mediation between Congress and Russia's lower house of parliament.
Kucinich says Russia plays an important role in the major international issues, notably Afghanistan, Iran and Iraq.
“We should be getting Russia’s advice on Afghanistan. I mean if we listen to Russia on Afghanistan, we get out of it. Russia could help the United States in our dealing with Iran, in our policy in Iraq. Russia’s very important here. Russia’s important in energy policy. And Russia is absolutely essential in leading us towards a direction where we get rid of nuclear weapons. "