Bitter cold keeps its grip on Russia, spreads to Europe

The bitter &to=http://english.pravda.ru/accidents/21/97/385/16759_frost.html' target=_blank>cold seizing Russia retained its icy grip Monday and severe freezing temperatures spread westwards into much of Europe.

More than 50 people have been reported killed by the cold wave in Russia, and scores of victims were recorded elsewhere in Europe over the weekend.