This is the Global News Podcast from the BBC World Service.

I'm Charlotte Gallagher and in the early hours of Saturday,

the 10th of December, these are our main stories.

The US warns that Russia and Iran are developing a full-scale defence partnership

with potential implications for Ukraine and the international community.

One of this year's Nobel Peace Prize winners says President Putin

must be held accountable for Russia's actions in Ukraine.

And our Germany correspondent visits the group linked to a coup plot in the country.

People who were corrupt, criminal or willing to be used thrive in the German system

and those with an honest heart who want to change the world for the better

in the interests of the common good don't have a chance.

Also in this podcast, the magical marine mammal being pushed to the brink of extinction.

And we meet Casper, the hero dog.

There are fresh concerns about the increasingly close relationship between Russia and Iran.

With the British foreign secretary claiming sordid deals between the pair

are threatening global security.

It follows the release of information by the US, showing Iran has become one of Russia's top

military backers.

Our correspondent in Washington, Nomiya Rikbal told me more about the US concerns.

The US has been in a situation where Russia is in a big red flag for America.

But they are worried that military ties a deepening and leads into this real

full fledged defense partnership to quote them.

...