Obama says Russia's isolation will worsen if it doesn't change course in Ukraine

WASHINGTON (Reuters) - U.S. President Barack Obama said on Monday both the United States and its European allies remain committed to finding a diplomatic solution to tensions with Russia over Ukraine.

"Even as we continue to work for a diplomatic solution we are making it clear again today that if Russia continues on its current course, which is ruining the Russia economy and hurting the Russian people, as well as having such a terrible effect on Ukraine, Russia's isolation will only worsen both politically and economically," he told a joint news conference after meeting with German Chancellor Angela Merkel.