U.S. dubs Russia protests positive sign![]() December 13, 2011 - 20:12 AMT PanARMENIAN.Net - Anti-government protests staged in Russia over the weekend are a “positive sign” for democracy in the former Soviet republic, Washington said on Monday, December 12. “The demonstrations that occurred in Moscow and in many other Russian cities last Saturday, Dec. 10 represent a very positive sign to all those who support the democratic process,” White House spokesman Jay Carney told reporters. “Russian government authorities allowed the demonstrations to take place, and refrained from interfering in them,” he said. Tens of thousands of people gathered near the Kremlin on Dec. 10 to protest against alleged fraud at the December 4 parliamentary elections, which saw Prime Minister Vladimir Putin’s ruling United Russia party just maintain its parliamentary majority, RIA Novosti reported. Partner news The deal is estimated at $700mln-$1bln, Vedomosti newspaper reported citing sources in the Russian defense industry. Ahmadinejad will be replaced by Hassan Rowhani as president on August 3 following presidential elections last week. Petr Necas' decision will end his three-party coalition government, which was created after the 2010 parliamentary election. "Are these the people you want to support? Are they the ones you want to supply with weapons?” the Russian President said. Partner news |