George W. Bush

President Bush says Iran is waiting for the international coalition that opposes its nuclear program to crack.

In an interview broadcast Sunday on Germany's ARD television, Mr. Bush said Iran must see that the free world is unified in saying it must not have a nuclear weapon. He said Iranians need to understand that they will be isolated from the rest of the world

Mr. Bush said the diplomatic process is just beginning and that he is seeking to expand the international coalition.

German Chancellor Angela Merkel (left) with President Bush

On other major issues, Mr. Bush said he is absolutely serious about getting the United States off oil. He noted that scientists are close to a breakthrough on a battery he says will let drivers go as long as 64 kilometers without using gasoline.

And in a separate interview with Germany's Bild newspaper, Mr. Bush said Russia is sending "mixed signals" that raise questions about Moscow's commitment to "become a true democracy".

The president gave the interviews after a Washington visit by German Chancellor Angela Merkel.