I don't quite agree with the view that President Dmitry Medvedev is playing second fiddle to Prime Minister Vladimir Putin (“Russia: who will be the next President?” May 27). Agreed it is Mr. Putin who has been at the helm of affairs. But assigning Mr. Medvedev to a secondary position is to belittle his efforts. His adept handling of the missile issue with the U.S. and the dexterity with which he has projected Russia on the global scene are praiseworthy. The restraint shown by Russia in the U.N. Security Council is also worthy of note. And the overall improvement in the standard of living of Russians would not have been possible without Mr. Medvedev's contribution.
Sanjay Raj,
Patiala
The story of Mr. Putin, who rose from a humble background, is nothing short of a thriller. The way he brought back Russia's glory when the country was in a mess is inspiring. As President, he had over 70 per cent approval rating. Under him, there was a six-fold increase in Russia's GDP and poverty declined. He reined in the Chechen terrorists. There is no doubt that he will be the next President.
M.L. Pavan,
Shimoga
