One of President-elect Donald Trump’s most controversial Cabinet picks, Exxon Mobil CEO Rex Tillerson as secretary of State, sought Wednesday to allay fears about his close ties to Russia. In opening remarks at his Senate confirmation hearing, Tillerson said it was necessary to remain “clear-eyed” about Russia. Tillerson, who has acknowledged a close relationship with Russian President Vladimir Putin, took a harder line on Moscow than Trump has. “Russia must know that we will be accountable to our commitments and those of our allies," Tillerson said. "We must also be clear-eyed about our relationship with Russia,” Tillerson said.

Source: Los Angeles Times January 11, 2017 15:04 UTC