Topic: Alexander Lebedev

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Russian elections: Putin 4.0 at a crossroads

After Russian elections on Sunday, expect what amounts to a fourth term for Putin. But Putin 4.0 faces a tough choice. His KGB officer instincts call for tightening the grip. But Russia's future – and thousands of protesters – demand greater freedom and reforms.
Why Russia's Medvedev can't seem to deliver

While Russian President Dmitry Medvedev came into office advocating political and cultural reforms, so far he hasn't delivered significant change.
Alina Kabaeva on cover of Russia's Vogue in triumph of celebrity politics

Alina Kabaeva is gracing the January cover of Russian Vogue. Notable in her own right for being a Gold medalist and Russian parliamentarian, the spotlight instead is on her rumored affair with Prime Minister Vladimir Putin.
Russian journalist's beating signals looming Medvedev-Putin battle

Saturday's brutal beating of Oleg Kashin highlights not only a withering of press freedom in Russia but also a broader effort to silence dissent ahead of 2012 elections.
US, Russia spy swap: Why London is a hotbed of spies

The US-Russia spy swap today in Vienna was aimed at bringing a quick close to spy tales that have transfixed the media. But London – a magnet for Russians – is likely to remain a hotbed of spies.
Global News Blog
Activists decry Russia's latest case of 'managed democracy'

Opposition candidates are crying foul at official results from Sunday's controversial mayoral elections in Sochi, Russia, the venue of the 2014 Winter Olympics.
Global News Blog
Webmedev? Russian president's new blog gets earful from the masses

Medvedev launches a new blog just as the Kremlin cracks down on Internet free speech in Russia.
How governments bully newspapers

Support for independent world press is going to have to become an exercise in philanthropy.
Global News Blog
Medvedev picks Politkovskaya's paper for first interview

Is the Russian president making a peace offering to liberals by choosing Novaya Gazeta, four of whose journalists have lost their lives after probing corruption and human rights abuses?
Colorful candidates vie to lead Russia's Olympic city

The crowded race for Sochi mayor may signal a backlash against Putin's 'managed democracy.'