Russia's political leaders

Russia's political leaders, Medvedev and Putin, know of their countries struggling economy and weak democracy, but are not looking to rush change. Russia's dependence on raw materials has held them back from making successful steps forward in their economy, but are working to establishing new technologies in hopes of opening a more flexible political system. President Medvedev published a manifesto of Russia's failings expressing the change his country needs to see but has been criticized for not practicing what he preaches. Another problem Russia is facing is the split belief in who should run the country. Many citizens feel that the prime minister can run the country, and Putin has already began to under mind Medvedev 30 months before his term gets up. Russia has many hurdles ahead and dealing with international relations will be strong in the currents months.

By Paul Yuccas

http://www.economist.com/world/europe/displaystory.cfm?story_id=14460297