President Dmitry Medvedev of Russia

For the first time, we’re able to call Vladimir Putin the FORMER President of the Russian Federation as he stepped aside today for his successor, President Dmitry Medvedev. Medvedev campaigned promising democratic reforms, some of which were repealed under Putin and while many in the US are maintaining their Cold War era prejudices against the Russian leader, the people of Russia are optimistic for their new leader.

Former President Vladimir Putin, who lead Russia to an economic and spiritual revival, was rewarded by Medvedev by being named his Prime Minister, giving the people of Russia yet another reason to be optimistic for their nation’s future.

Congratulations to President Dmitry Medvedev, to Prime Minister Vladimir Putin, and to the people of the Russian Federation!