LONDON/WASHINGTON, Jan 30 (Reuters) - The United States and Russia could embark on an unrestrained nuclear arms race for the first time since the Cold War, unless they reach an eleventh-hour deal before their last remaining arms control treaty expires in less than a week.

The United States quietly cleared eight Boeing jets operated by Belarusian flag carrier Belavia for flights that can include routes to Russia, even as Washington maintains sanctions pressure over Minsk’s role in the war in Ukraine.

The rumor appeared to stem from a mistranslation of an interview on French news television.

MOSCOW, Jan 29 (Reuters) - Russia said on Thursday that there was still room for negotiation between Iran and the United States and warned that any use of force against Tehran would have dangerous consequences and cause chaos throughout the Middle East.