Putin agrees to become Prime Minister, Medvedev will be new President

Hi,

I don't think Putin becoming prime minister is a good thing. Perhaps this will move Russia forward but in the long run I think Putin isn't a positive influence on Russia. I don't think he's honest and that's a very important characteristic in my book.

I think Eventually people will realize this but it'll still take some time before they do.

I lived long enough in Russia to learn that main motive for Putin is to keep power. As a former general officer of soviet armed force I can write, that we ALWAYS hated KGB. First thing, which Putin did, when he became president, he changed armed forces commanders to former KGB people.

Now he changing the title, but wanted to remain the main and ONLY player.

Iran is pretty big trading partner for russia.money talks here...

Medvedev is more pleasant professor-like candidat, who was not a KGB agent, but is is only nice front picture. He is integral part of Putin "mafia" or team, whatever you prefer.

I do not feel and glimps of democatic movement in russia.

Most of new reaches in Russia made a deal with Putin team. The main requirements for businessman in Russia to be successfull is "share" with current establishment and do not support opposition or even better, to be not involved in political movement.

As long as gas and oil prices are high and people in Russia and quiet - do not expect any changes in Russia.

It is not quite european country, it is asian-european country with strong dicatatorship tradition.