Mr Obama faces a tough fight in Congress, which has to approve permanent normal trade relations with Russia.

ECONOMIST: Russia and America

The PNTR, the Permanent Normal Trade Relations for Russia has passed through a couple of key committees on the Hill.

WHITEHOUSE: Press Briefing

Unfortunately, one top Democratic prospect, Congressman Baron Hill, has voted for a number of free-trade deals, including Permanent Normal Trade Relations with China.

NPR: The Nation: Bye Bayh, Bring On The Populists