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Hundreds detained after Moscow anti-Putin protest - As it happened Hundreds detained after Moscow anti-Putin protest - Monday 5 March
(2 days later)
8.56am: Good morning. Vladimir Putin has claimed victory in the Russian presidential election, with exit polls giving him 58.3% of the vote. We'll be following the latest reaction as well as providing updates on the planned opposition protests.

Opposition activists have reacted furiously, claiming the vote was marred by widespread election fraud. The election took place against a backdrop of large demonstrations against Putin - the biggest since the fall of the USSR - and thousands of protesters are due to take to the streets today to express their discontent with the result.
8.56am: Good morning. Vladimir Putin has claimed victory in the Russian presidential election, with exit polls giving him 58.3% of the vote. We'll be following the latest reaction as well as providing updates on the planned opposition protests.

Opposition activists have reacted furiously, claiming the vote was marred by widespread election fraud. The election took place against a backdrop of large demonstrations against Putin - the biggest since the fall of the USSR - and thousands of protesters are due to take to the streets today to express their discontent with the result.
Putin has denied the allegations of voter fraud, with Stanislav Govorukhin, his campaign chief, proclaiming:Putin has denied the allegations of voter fraud, with Stanislav Govorukhin, his campaign chief, proclaiming:
These were the cleanest elections in all of Russia's history.These were the cleanest elections in all of Russia's history.
But the Guardian's former Moscow correspondent, Luke Harding, writes that Putin is catching up with notorious Soviet leaders of bygone days:But the Guardian's former Moscow correspondent, Luke Harding, writes that Putin is catching up with notorious Soviet leaders of bygone days:
Sunday night was Vladimir Putin's Brezhnev moment. It was when he ceased simply being an elected leader and segued towards a lifetime presidency. Having neatly sidestepped the rules by doing a stint as prime minister (no Russian leader can serve more than two consecutive presidential terms) Putin can now go on and on. Brezhnev did 18 years, Stalin 31. Despite the whispers of revolution lapping at the Kremlin's walls, who would bet against Vladimir matching Leonid?Sunday night was Vladimir Putin's Brezhnev moment. It was when he ceased simply being an elected leader and segued towards a lifetime presidency. Having neatly sidestepped the rules by doing a stint as prime minister (no Russian leader can serve more than two consecutive presidential terms) Putin can now go on and on. Brezhnev did 18 years, Stalin 31. Despite the whispers of revolution lapping at the Kremlin's walls, who would bet against Vladimir matching Leonid?
For a long time now, "elections" in Russia's ritualised imitation democracy have lacked one crucial element: drama. This was no different.For a long time now, "elections" in Russia's ritualised imitation democracy have lacked one crucial element: drama. This was no different.
Since he announced last autumn that he was standing for a third time to be president – taking his chair back from Dmitry Medvedev – Putin's victory was a foregone conclusion. It was achieved against a bunch of uninspiring hand-picked opponents, with the invincible advantage of 24-hour pro-Putin state television. There was never any doubt about the result.Since he announced last autumn that he was standing for a third time to be president – taking his chair back from Dmitry Medvedev – Putin's victory was a foregone conclusion. It was achieved against a bunch of uninspiring hand-picked opponents, with the invincible advantage of 24-hour pro-Putin state television. There was never any doubt about the result.
But the Putin who returns to the Kremlin in May faces a radically different Russia from the quiescent one he has ruled for the past 12 years. Although he still enjoys support in the provinces, for the protesters who will gather on Monday in their tens of thousands in Moscow's Pushkin Square he has become a figure of loathing and derision.But the Putin who returns to the Kremlin in May faces a radically different Russia from the quiescent one he has ruled for the past 12 years. Although he still enjoys support in the provinces, for the protesters who will gather on Monday in their tens of thousands in Moscow's Pushkin Square he has become a figure of loathing and derision.

In an editorial, the Guardian writes:

In an editorial, the Guardian writes:
After the collapse of the popularity of his party, United Russia, in December, Putin needs to build a party and a new consensus. It will have to be a coalition if it is to address the core issues that brought so many of Russia's best and brightest out on to the streets.After the collapse of the popularity of his party, United Russia, in December, Putin needs to build a party and a new consensus. It will have to be a coalition if it is to address the core issues that brought so many of Russia's best and brightest out on to the streets.
He has thus far made minimal concessions to the democratic awakening stirred in December. He had changed the laws on registering parties and candidates at future elections, but touched little else. Even his supporters do not know how Putin can avoid stagnation if he continues on the same path. But his opponents know one thing: the more Putin rubs his power into their faces, the more he risks provoking the explosion nobody in Russia wants.He has thus far made minimal concessions to the democratic awakening stirred in December. He had changed the laws on registering parties and candidates at future elections, but touched little else. Even his supporters do not know how Putin can avoid stagnation if he continues on the same path. But his opponents know one thing: the more Putin rubs his power into their faces, the more he risks provoking the explosion nobody in Russia wants.
9.08am: In a move likely to be greeted with scepticism, hot on the heels of Putin's contested victory, the Kremlin has extended an olive branch to its opponents, telling the prosecutor general to study the legality of 32 criminal cases including the jailing of the former oil tycoon Mikhail Khodorkovsky (pictured left).9.08am: In a move likely to be greeted with scepticism, hot on the heels of Putin's contested victory, the Kremlin has extended an olive branch to its opponents, telling the prosecutor general to study the legality of 32 criminal cases including the jailing of the former oil tycoon Mikhail Khodorkovsky (pictured left).
The outgoing Russian president, Dmity Medvedev, also told the justice minister to explain why Russia had refused to register the liberal opposition movement Parnas, whose leaders include the former Prime Minister Mikhail Kasyanov. From Reuters:The outgoing Russian president, Dmity Medvedev, also told the justice minister to explain why Russia had refused to register the liberal opposition movement Parnas, whose leaders include the former Prime Minister Mikhail Kasyanov. From Reuters:
Khodorkovsky headed what was Russia's biggest oil company, Yukos, and was once the country's richest man. He was arrested in 2003 and jailed on tax evasion and fraud charges after showing political ambitions and falling out with Putin.Khodorkovsky headed what was Russia's biggest oil company, Yukos, and was once the country's richest man. He was arrested in 2003 and jailed on tax evasion and fraud charges after showing political ambitions and falling out with Putin.
He received a new sentence in 2010 and is expected to stay in prison until 2016 in a case that Putin's opponents say is politically motivated.He received a new sentence in 2010 and is expected to stay in prison until 2016 in a case that Putin's opponents say is politically motivated.
Khodorkovsky's lawyer, Vadim Klyuvgant, told Reuters the true significance of Medvedev's initiative could be judged only when the outcome of the investigation was known. "There's been so many ... orders that you run out of words to comment," he said.Khodorkovsky's lawyer, Vadim Klyuvgant, told Reuters the true significance of Medvedev's initiative could be judged only when the outcome of the investigation was known. "There's been so many ... orders that you run out of words to comment," he said.
"But if ... the prosecutor and the president start to conform with the law, we will know it from the result. The lawlessness of this sentence is so glaring that there's nothing to study there.""But if ... the prosecutor and the president start to conform with the law, we will know it from the result. The lawlessness of this sentence is so glaring that there's nothing to study there."
9.14am: The Daily Telegraph's Moscow correspondent, Tom Parfitt, tweets that Putin's share of the vote was lower in Moscow, where opposition to him is strongest.9.14am: The Daily Telegraph's Moscow correspondent, Tom Parfitt, tweets that Putin's share of the vote was lower in Moscow, where opposition to him is strongest.
Putin has 64% of the vote after almost all ballots counted. He got only 47% in Moscow. Mikhail Prokhorov came second in the city on 20%.Putin has 64% of the vote after almost all ballots counted. He got only 47% in Moscow. Mikhail Prokhorov came second in the city on 20%.
— Tom Parfitt (@parfitt_tom) March 5, 2012— Tom Parfitt (@parfitt_tom) March 5, 2012
You can follow the Guardian's current Moscow correspondent, Miriam Elder and the Guardian's former Moscow correspondent, Luke Harding, on Twitter, for more election reaction.You can follow the Guardian's current Moscow correspondent, Miriam Elder and the Guardian's former Moscow correspondent, Luke Harding, on Twitter, for more election reaction.
9.24am: After the public outrage that followed reports of widespread falsifications in December's parliamentary poll, Putin ordered that live web cameras be fitted in each of the country's 91,000 polling stations. But opposition activists say it failed to stop fraud and some violations have been reported by the Russian media.

Interfax said 69 election violation reports were made in St Petersburg.
9.24am: After the public outrage that followed reports of widespread falsifications in December's parliamentary poll, Putin ordered that live web cameras be fitted in each of the country's 91,000 polling stations. But opposition activists say it failed to stop fraud and some violations have been reported by the Russian media.

Interfax said 69 election violation reports were made in St Petersburg.
And the results at a polling station in the Dagestani village of Tarumovka were annulled after staff were spotted by web cameras opening the ballot box before the approved time, Ria Novosti reports.And the results at a polling station in the Dagestani village of Tarumovka were annulled after staff were spotted by web cameras opening the ballot box before the approved time, Ria Novosti reports.
9.45am: Russia's opposition leaders are refusing to concede that Putin notched up a fair victory yesterday, Luke Harding writes.9.45am: Russia's opposition leaders are refusing to concede that Putin notched up a fair victory yesterday, Luke Harding writes.
Writing this morning Vladimir Milov (@v_milov) - a former deputy energy minister during Putin's first presidency - tweeted: "Don't give in to the mood 'let's recognise Putin won cleanly.' Yesterday was a day of mass organised voting. That's not victory." Milov says that the fraud was difficult to observe at individual polling station, but that the "picture of
falsification" became clearer when he got back to his party headquarters.
Writing this morning Vladimir Milov (@v_milov) - a former deputy energy minister during Putin's first presidency - tweeted: "Don't give in to the mood 'let's recognise Putin won cleanly.' Yesterday was a day of mass organised voting. That's not victory." Milov says that the fraud was difficult to observe at individual polling station, but that the "picture of
falsification" became clearer when he got back to his party headquarters.
Another opposition figure, Roman Dobrokhotov, (@dobrokhotov) points out
that the number of people who voted for Putin in Moscow was lower than
the official result for Putin's United Russia party in December's
parliamentary elections, widely seen as rigged. "How does the Kremlin
explain that?" he asks.
Another opposition figure, Roman Dobrokhotov, (@dobrokhotov) points out
that the number of people who voted for Putin in Moscow was lower than
the official result for Putin's United Russia party in December's
parliamentary elections, widely seen as rigged. "How does the Kremlin
explain that?" he asks.
Oleg Kozlovsky (@kozlovsky), another oppositionist, has his own
estimate of what the results were: "The real result for Pu [Putin] in
Moscow without ballot-box stuffing and carousel voting - 40 per cent
maximum. Across Russia up to 50 per cent. And that's not taking into
account pre-selection of 'rivals'."
Oleg Kozlovsky (@kozlovsky), another oppositionist, has his own
estimate of what the results were: "The real result for Pu [Putin] in
Moscow without ballot-box stuffing and carousel voting - 40 per cent
maximum. Across Russia up to 50 per cent. And that's not taking into
account pre-selection of 'rivals'."
9.53am: If anyone has any video evidence of fraud in the Russian election, please share it with us. You can post a link below the line, send me a link via Twitter or email me at haroon[dot]siddique@guardian.co.uk.9.53am: If anyone has any video evidence of fraud in the Russian election, please share it with us. You can post a link below the line, send me a link via Twitter or email me at haroon[dot]siddique@guardian.co.uk.
10.02am: Syrian state media has welcomed the return of Putin to the Russian presidency, AP reports.10.02am: Syrian state media has welcomed the return of Putin to the Russian presidency, AP reports.
Russia is one of Syria's few remaining allies after widespread condemnation of President Bashar al-Assad's bloody crackdown on the uprising against his rule. Russia, along with China, has twice vetoed UN security council resolutions condemning the Assad regime.Russia is one of Syria's few remaining allies after widespread condemnation of President Bashar al-Assad's bloody crackdown on the uprising against his rule. Russia, along with China, has twice vetoed UN security council resolutions condemning the Assad regime.
A headline in the Tishrin daily Monday reads: "Russia brings back the strong man to the Kremlin."A headline in the Tishrin daily Monday reads: "Russia brings back the strong man to the Kremlin."
In an editorial, the paper said Putin would reshape international relations to respect "countries' interests and unity and not interfere in their internal affairs".In an editorial, the paper said Putin would reshape international relations to respect "countries' interests and unity and not interfere in their internal affairs".
10.13am: Russia's controversial election chief Vladimir Churov has accused some international observers sent to Russia to monitor yesterday's polls of spying (link in Russian), Luke Harding writes.10.13am: Russia's controversial election chief Vladimir Churov has accused some international observers sent to Russia to monitor yesterday's polls of spying (link in Russian), Luke Harding writes.
Churov says the real purpose of their visit was to penetrate Russia's nuclear and military facilities. He claimed, without offering evidence, that there have been recent attempts to gain access to the country's secrets: "We are coming up against more and more unacceptable attempts to penetrate into border areas, to closed nuclear centre, to rocket centres and so on. The numbers of people wishing to do this is growing," he said.Churov says the real purpose of their visit was to penetrate Russia's nuclear and military facilities. He claimed, without offering evidence, that there have been recent attempts to gain access to the country's secrets: "We are coming up against more and more unacceptable attempts to penetrate into border areas, to closed nuclear centre, to rocket centres and so on. The numbers of people wishing to do this is growing," he said.
A hate figure for Russia's liberals, the opposition have called on Churov to be fired for his role in the blatant vote-rigging that took place in December's parliamentary elections. Churov has already pronounced yesterday's presidential poll to have been clean.A hate figure for Russia's liberals, the opposition have called on Churov to be fired for his role in the blatant vote-rigging that took place in December's parliamentary elections. Churov has already pronounced yesterday's presidential poll to have been clean.
10.26am: Miriam Elder has forwarded this video, by TV Rain, a liberal channel in Russia, of army trucks outside the kremlin walls in advance of tonight's opposition protest:10.26am: Miriam Elder has forwarded this video, by TV Rain, a liberal channel in Russia, of army trucks outside the kremlin walls in advance of tonight's opposition protest:

Thousands are expected to congegrate in Pushkin Square.

Thousands are expected to congegrate in Pushkin Square.
10.45am: The head of the major international election observer mission in Russia says there were "serious problems" in the vote that returned Vladimir Putin to the presidency.10.45am: The head of the major international election observer mission in Russia says there were "serious problems" in the vote that returned Vladimir Putin to the presidency.
Tonino Picula said in a statement:Tonino Picula said in a statement:
The point of elections is that the outcome should be uncertain. This was not the case in Russia.The point of elections is that the outcome should be uncertain. This was not the case in Russia.
He said that "there was no real competition, and abuse of government resources ensured that the ultimate winner of the election was never in doubt". Picula headed the short-term observer mission of the Organisation for Security and Cooperation in Europe (OSCE).He said that "there was no real competition, and abuse of government resources ensured that the ultimate winner of the election was never in doubt". Picula headed the short-term observer mission of the Organisation for Security and Cooperation in Europe (OSCE).
A brief synopsis of the mission's findings did not address Russian independent observers' contentions that there were widespread cases of people casting multiple ballots, but said the election "process deteriorated during the vote count, which was assessed negatively in almost one-third of polling stations observed".

This is just one of the videos of alleged ballot stuffing that have been posted by activists.
A brief synopsis of the mission's findings did not address Russian independent observers' contentions that there were widespread cases of people casting multiple ballots, but said the election "process deteriorated during the vote count, which was assessed negatively in almost one-third of polling stations observed".

This is just one of the videos of alleged ballot stuffing that have been posted by activists.

You can see more examples on our earlier Russian results live blog.

You can see more examples on our earlier Russian results live blog.
11.02am: Miriam Elder says that Putin is poised to win just under 64% of the vote nationally, according to the electoral commission. Opposition anger is such that some are considering an Occupy Moscow movement, she said:11.02am: Miriam Elder says that Putin is poised to win just under 64% of the vote nationally, according to the electoral commission. Opposition anger is such that some are considering an Occupy Moscow movement, she said:
The question right now is whether they are going to fight for fast change or whether they are looking for a more long term process, just looking for any signs of reform for Puting. You do have some aspects inside the protest movement that are radicals, calling for poeple to set up tents and do a sort of Occupy Moscow movement and try to force the Kremlin into change. And then a lot of the oppoosition leaders were saying last night 'We don't have any illussions, we don't think that things are going to change in two or three weeks. We just have to keep up the pressure and ensure as fair a political system as we can get over time'.The question right now is whether they are going to fight for fast change or whether they are looking for a more long term process, just looking for any signs of reform for Puting. You do have some aspects inside the protest movement that are radicals, calling for poeple to set up tents and do a sort of Occupy Moscow movement and try to force the Kremlin into change. And then a lot of the oppoosition leaders were saying last night 'We don't have any illussions, we don't think that things are going to change in two or three weeks. We just have to keep up the pressure and ensure as fair a political system as we can get over time'.
@MiriamElder on the Russian election and what"s next for the opposition (mp3)

On the tears Putin shed as he addressed supporters yesterday, Miriam said:

@MiriamElder on the Russian election and what"s next for the opposition (mp3)

On the tears Putin shed as he addressed supporters yesterday, Miriam said:

He's been trying to pass it off that it was from the wind but if you look, from the video he really does look very emotional and people here are taking it with a laugh or in a realy sad sort of way. I see people saying 'Where were Putin's tears when the children were killed in the terrorist act of Beslan? Where were his tears when the Kursk submarine sank?' But then a lot of people are citing this very famous Russian movie "Moscow doesn't believe in Tears" and that's looking at it as more of the theatre that he's built.He's been trying to pass it off that it was from the wind but if you look, from the video he really does look very emotional and people here are taking it with a laugh or in a realy sad sort of way. I see people saying 'Where were Putin's tears when the children were killed in the terrorist act of Beslan? Where were his tears when the Kursk submarine sank?' But then a lot of people are citing this very famous Russian movie "Moscow doesn't believe in Tears" and that's looking at it as more of the theatre that he's built.
11.33am: It may be wishful thinking but writing on the website of the British neoconservative think tank, the Henry Jackson society, Julie Pettengill says Putin's days are numbered despite his re-election:11.33am: It may be wishful thinking but writing on the website of the British neoconservative think tank, the Henry Jackson society, Julie Pettengill says Putin's days are numbered despite his re-election:
The success of today's [opposition] rally will be decisive in setting the tone for what follows. While Alexey Navalny's hopes of a 'tent city' protest may be scuppered by the cold weather and the population's distrust of anything veering into 'revolutionary' territory, Putin's attempts to reassert his legitimacy through today's questionable election results could be successfully challenged and eroded by a united and articulate protest movement.The success of today's [opposition] rally will be decisive in setting the tone for what follows. While Alexey Navalny's hopes of a 'tent city' protest may be scuppered by the cold weather and the population's distrust of anything veering into 'revolutionary' territory, Putin's attempts to reassert his legitimacy through today's questionable election results could be successfully challenged and eroded by a united and articulate protest movement.
In addition, if the opposition succeeds in staging large-scale peaceful protests this week, the government may choose to stage the type of violent crackdown it has thus far avoided. This is a dangerous tactic—one which may prove effective if it manages to remove the leadership of key components of the opposition, but which could also galvanise and radicalise public opinion against the Kremlin. On the other hand, if the government chooses a strategy of engagement and limited concessions, they may successfully co-opt enough elites to remain in power and placate the protestors; yet they may also initiate the ineluctable erosion of their monopoly on power.In addition, if the opposition succeeds in staging large-scale peaceful protests this week, the government may choose to stage the type of violent crackdown it has thus far avoided. This is a dangerous tactic—one which may prove effective if it manages to remove the leadership of key components of the opposition, but which could also galvanise and radicalise public opinion against the Kremlin. On the other hand, if the government chooses a strategy of engagement and limited concessions, they may successfully co-opt enough elites to remain in power and placate the protestors; yet they may also initiate the ineluctable erosion of their monopoly on power.
11.49am: My colleague Laura Oliver has passeed on another example of video evidence of apparent ballot stuffing.11.49am: My colleague Laura Oliver has passeed on another example of video evidence of apparent ballot stuffing.
A child appears to be involved in one of the incidents captured on this video.A child appears to be involved in one of the incidents captured on this video.
For further examples, see the 10.45am update.For further examples, see the 10.45am update.
12.20pm: In a meeting with three of the men he beat to the presidency - Sergei Mironov, Mikhail Prokhorov and Vladimir Zhirinovsky - Putin has assured them that he will investigate election violations, Ria Novosti reports.12.20pm: In a meeting with three of the men he beat to the presidency - Sergei Mironov, Mikhail Prokhorov and Vladimir Zhirinovsky - Putin has assured them that he will investigate election violations, Ria Novosti reports.
Putin is quoted as telling them:Putin is quoted as telling them:

I have not yet spoken to [Central Election Commission chief Vladimir] Churov… I will surely have a conversation with him and will ask him to thoroughly look into all possible violations that you spoke about.

I have not yet spoken to [Central Election Commission chief Vladimir] Churov… I will surely have a conversation with him and will ask him to thoroughly look into all possible violations that you spoke about.
Putin's assurance is unlikely to provide any comfort to the opposition. It is Churov who accused international observers of the election of being spies (see 10.13am). Churov also said his own independent observers were thrilled by yesterday's vote (Russian link).Putin's assurance is unlikely to provide any comfort to the opposition. It is Churov who accused international observers of the election of being spies (see 10.13am). Churov also said his own independent observers were thrilled by yesterday's vote (Russian link).
12.39pm: Hot on the heels of a story saying Putin told his defeated rivals for the presidency that he would investigate election violations (see 12.20pm). comes another one - via Interfax - quoting him as saying he is not interested in election violations.12.39pm: Hot on the heels of a story saying Putin told his defeated rivals for the presidency that he would investigate election violations (see 12.20pm). comes another one - via Interfax - quoting him as saying he is not interested in election violations.
12.48pm: The US senator, John McCain, has taken to Twitter to mock Putin once more.12.48pm: The US senator, John McCain, has taken to Twitter to mock Putin once more.
Dear Vlad, Surprise! Surprise! You won. The #Russian people are crying too!Dear Vlad, Surprise! Surprise! You won. The #Russian people are crying too!
— John McCain (@SenJohnMcCain) March 5, 2012— John McCain (@SenJohnMcCain) March 5, 2012
Last year Putin was moved to respond after a series of Tweets from the former US presidential candidate, saying McCain had gone "crazy" after being captured in the Vietnam war and spending time in a pit.Last year Putin was moved to respond after a series of Tweets from the former US presidential candidate, saying McCain had gone "crazy" after being captured in the Vietnam war and spending time in a pit.
12.52pm: Here's another video apparently showing the build up of security forces in Moscow ahead of tonight's planned opposition protest.12.52pm: Here's another video apparently showing the build up of security forces in Moscow ahead of tonight's planned opposition protest.
It shows a long line of military trucks.It shows a long line of military trucks.
1.04pm: Here's a summary of the main developments so far today:1.04pm: Here's a summary of the main developments so far today:
• Vladimir Putin has won a resounding victory in the Russian presidential election. With nearly all votes counted, he had just under 64% of the vote. But he won under 50% of the vote in Moscow, where the opposition movement is strongest.• Vladimir Putin has won a resounding victory in the Russian presidential election. With nearly all votes counted, he had just under 64% of the vote. But he won under 50% of the vote in Moscow, where the opposition movement is strongest.
International observers from the Organisation for Security and Cooperation in Europe said there were "serious problems" with the election, which meant that the result was "never in doubt". Opposition activists said there were widespread violations. International observers from the Organisation for Security and Cooperation in Europe said there were "serious problems" with the election, which meant that the result was "never in doubt". Opposition activists said there were widespread violations.
• The controversial head of Russia's Central Election Commission, Vladimir Churov, accused the international observers of being spies. He also said the election was the world's most honest.• The controversial head of Russia's Central Election Commission, Vladimir Churov, accused the international observers of being spies. He also said the election was the world's most honest.
Security forces have been amassing in Moscow ahead of a planned opposition protest in Pushkin Square. Thousands are expected to take to the streets in what some expect to be the biggest demonstration since the fall of the Soviet Union. Some protesters are believed to be considering setting up a camp along the lines of the Occupy movement.Security forces have been amassing in Moscow ahead of a planned opposition protest in Pushkin Square. Thousands are expected to take to the streets in what some expect to be the biggest demonstration since the fall of the Soviet Union. Some protesters are believed to be considering setting up a camp along the lines of the Occupy movement.
1.49pm: The video below of an alleged election violation, is featured on the blog of the oppostion leader, Alexey Navlany. It is from the republic of Tatarstan, where Putin got 83% of votes and the site is polling site #1840, where Putin allegedly got 94.83% of votes.1.49pm: The video below of an alleged election violation, is featured on the blog of the oppostion leader, Alexey Navlany. It is from the republic of Tatarstan, where Putin got 83% of votes and the site is polling site #1840, where Putin allegedly got 94.83% of votes.
Navlany writes (translation by Miriam Elder):Navlany writes (translation by Miriam Elder):
Watch this video, carefully looking at the bald man in a black jacket.Watch this video, carefully looking at the bald man in a black jacket.
Do you agree that this bald man is the source of power in Russia?Do you agree that this bald man is the source of power in Russia?
If not, then come out today at 7pmon Pushkin square (or to the square of your city) to say 'No' out loud.If not, then come out today at 7pmon Pushkin square (or to the square of your city) to say 'No' out loud.


This is another that shows apparent ballot stuffing.


This is another that shows apparent ballot stuffing.
2.01pm: The Communist leader, Gennady Zyuganov, has alleged that thousands of election commission members were involved in falsifications and that the election was "stolen", Interfax reports.2.01pm: The Communist leader, Gennady Zyuganov, has alleged that thousands of election commission members were involved in falsifications and that the election was "stolen", Interfax reports.
2.27pm: The British singer, Peter Gabriel (pictured left), lent his support to the Russian opposition movement in a YouTube video, recorded just before the election.2.27pm: The British singer, Peter Gabriel (pictured left), lent his support to the Russian opposition movement in a YouTube video, recorded just before the election.
He said:He said:
"I just wanted to add my name to the long list of supporters of these protests. It's very inspiring to see what you're doing. It takes a lot of courage to stand up and speak truth to power when those who've done exactly that or investigated wrongdoing or corruption have been brutally murdered. Names such as Anna Politkovskaya, Stanislav Markelov, Natasha Estemirova, Sergei Magnitsky, even Sasha [Alexander] Litvinenko, here in England have all been murdered and had their lives cut short."I just wanted to add my name to the long list of supporters of these protests. It's very inspiring to see what you're doing. It takes a lot of courage to stand up and speak truth to power when those who've done exactly that or investigated wrongdoing or corruption have been brutally murdered. Names such as Anna Politkovskaya, Stanislav Markelov, Natasha Estemirova, Sergei Magnitsky, even Sasha [Alexander] Litvinenko, here in England have all been murdered and had their lives cut short.
You are being very courageous but something is changing when we outsiders see your prime minister [Putin, before he was elected president] being booed by people who we would be expecting to support him, when we see you openly protesting in public, circling the city. It's really clear that fear and the threat of violence don't have the power they used to. They don't seem to be working in the same way."You are being very courageous but something is changing when we outsiders see your prime minister [Putin, before he was elected president] being booed by people who we would be expecting to support him, when we see you openly protesting in public, circling the city. It's really clear that fear and the threat of violence don't have the power they used to. They don't seem to be working in the same way."
2.42pm: Here are a couple of observations from people in the comments section:2.42pm: Here are a couple of observations from people in the comments section:
From RotatingBread:From RotatingBread:
I have no doubt that these elections were flawed by western standards, but is anyone really suggesting that the vote rigging was of such a scale that Putin did not win the election? I find that hard to believe, and in any case the guy who came second was a communist, would he really be preferable?I have no doubt that these elections were flawed by western standards, but is anyone really suggesting that the vote rigging was of such a scale that Putin did not win the election? I find that hard to believe, and in any case the guy who came second was a communist, would he really be preferable?
Of course I understand that opposition candidates were blocked from standing. But is there any evidence that the opposition movement seen on the streets of Moscow is really a broad based movement with significant support throughout Russia? Are we to ignore similar large demonstrations in favour of Putin or the communists?Of course I understand that opposition candidates were blocked from standing. But is there any evidence that the opposition movement seen on the streets of Moscow is really a broad based movement with significant support throughout Russia? Are we to ignore similar large demonstrations in favour of Putin or the communists?
The real tragedy in Russia is the environment that this election has taken place in, not the election itself. Little press freedom, human rights abuses, appaling corruption and curbs on democratic freedoms. In that kind of country this election was only ever going to have one outcome.The real tragedy in Russia is the environment that this election has taken place in, not the election itself. Little press freedom, human rights abuses, appaling corruption and curbs on democratic freedoms. In that kind of country this election was only ever going to have one outcome.
From Drifterrus:From Drifterrus:
I'm a 44 y.o. professional living and working in Moscow with many contacts outside Russia.
I did not - repeat, NOT - vote for Putin.
I would never vote for EdRo (United Russia), Nashi or their ilk.
I have never been bribed in my life. By anyone. Strange but true.
Maybe it's just that I'm a citizen of Russia and have a better idea of what is actually happening?
I'm a 44 y.o. professional living and working in Moscow with many contacts outside Russia.
I did not - repeat, NOT - vote for Putin.
I would never vote for EdRo (United Russia), Nashi or their ilk.
I have never been bribed in my life. By anyone. Strange but true.
Maybe it's just that I'm a citizen of Russia and have a better idea of what is actually happening?
2.51pm: The Associated Press has a useful guide to the violations reported during Sunday's ballot, based mainly on the testimony of independent Russian elections monitor Golos:2.51pm: The Associated Press has a useful guide to the violations reported during Sunday's ballot, based mainly on the testimony of independent Russian elections monitor Golos:
Voting outside designated polling stations:
According to Golos, many voters cast their ballots either right at their state-run enterprises or under their bosses' watchful eyes, while others were bused to polling stations where they were not on voter rolls and where there was little oversight over voting.

Use of absentee ballots:

Over 2 million absentee ballots were used in the election, and Golos monitors said that allowed for widespread violations. Many workers of state-controlled enterprises were forced to obtain absentee ballots and then vote under supervision. Absentee ballots were also used in multiple voting.
Voting outside designated polling stations:
According to Golos, many voters cast their ballots either right at their state-run enterprises or under their bosses' watchful eyes, while others were bused to polling stations where they were not on voter rolls and where there was little oversight over voting.

Use of absentee ballots:

Over 2 million absentee ballots were used in the election, and Golos monitors said that allowed for widespread violations. Many workers of state-controlled enterprises were forced to obtain absentee ballots and then vote under supervision. Absentee ballots were also used in multiple voting.
Voting more than once:
Golos said "carousel voting," in which busloads of voters are driven around to cast ballots multiple times, also was widespread. Often, the offenders walked into polling stations wearing ribbons around their arms or with special marks in their passports, which they presented as identification. Election officials then identified those people as carousel voters and gave them the ballots of voters who were unlikely to show up.
Voting more than once:
Golos said "carousel voting," in which busloads of voters are driven around to cast ballots multiple times, also was widespread. Often, the offenders walked into polling stations wearing ribbons around their arms or with special marks in their passports, which they presented as identification. Election officials then identified those people as carousel voters and gave them the ballots of voters who were unlikely to show up.
Ballot stuffing:
A web-camera video from a village in the southern province of Dagestan shows several men standing at an electronic ballot box and feeding dozens of ballots into it for several minutes. Central Election Commission chief Vladimir Churov described the incident as the local election officials' "fatal mistake." Churov explained that those ballots had been filled out by sick or elderly people voting at home and that election officials were merely depositing them in the ballot box. In the end, voting results at that polling station were annulled after the complaints.
Ballot stuffing:
A web-camera video from a village in the southern province of Dagestan shows several men standing at an electronic ballot box and feeding dozens of ballots into it for several minutes. Central Election Commission chief Vladimir Churov described the incident as the local election officials' "fatal mistake." Churov explained that those ballots had been filled out by sick or elderly people voting at home and that election officials were merely depositing them in the ballot box. In the end, voting results at that polling station were annulled after the complaints.
Paid to vote:
Another video shows an activist who signed up on an internet forum to take part in multiple (carousel) voting for 1,000 rubles ($33 dollars.) The video, shot by the activist, shows him meeting the organizers at a subway station and then being bused to a nearby polling station. The activist and a dozen other people are shown lining up to receive the ballots and then voting at the station. Their names appear on a separate list at the polling station.
Paid to vote:
Another video shows an activist who signed up on an internet forum to take part in multiple (carousel) voting for 1,000 rubles ($33 dollars.) The video, shot by the activist, shows him meeting the organizers at a subway station and then being bused to a nearby polling station. The activist and a dozen other people are shown lining up to receive the ballots and then voting at the station. Their names appear on a separate list at the polling station.
Not free of fair:
Andrei Buzin, an election expert at Golos, said that the falsifications were not widespread enough to have left Putin with less than 50% of the vote and require a run-off, but the vote was still skewed. "I wouldn't call these elections free or fair," Buzin said.
Not free of fair:
Andrei Buzin, an election expert at Golos, said that the falsifications were not widespread enough to have left Putin with less than 50% of the vote and require a run-off, but the vote was still skewed. "I wouldn't call these elections free or fair," Buzin said.
International Observers:
The Organisation of Security and Cooperation in Europe said "there was no real competition, and abuse of government resources ensured that the ultimate winner of the election was never in doubt". The watchdog noted that the election "process deteriorated during the vote count, which was assessed negatively in almost one-third of polling stations observed".
International Observers:
The Organisation of Security and Cooperation in Europe said "there was no real competition, and abuse of government resources ensured that the ultimate winner of the election was never in doubt". The watchdog noted that the election "process deteriorated during the vote count, which was assessed negatively in almost one-third of polling stations observed".
2.55pm: Protesters are gathering for the opposition protest in Pushkin square, in Moscow, journalists confirm.2.55pm: Protesters are gathering for the opposition protest in Pushkin square, in Moscow, journalists confirm.
already a few thousand here. Biggest police operation i've ever seen in moscow. Soldiers and riot police of all stripes all down tverskayaalready a few thousand here. Biggest police operation i've ever seen in moscow. Soldiers and riot police of all stripes all down tverskaya
— Shaun Walker (@shaunwalker7) March 5, 2012— Shaun Walker (@shaunwalker7) March 5, 2012
People starting to assemble for anti-#putin protest in central #moscow twitter.com/mschwirtz/stat…People starting to assemble for anti-#putin protest in central #moscow twitter.com/mschwirtz/stat…
— Michael Schwirtz (@mschwirtz) March 5, 2012— Michael Schwirtz (@mschwirtz) March 5, 2012
Pushkin square in #moscow filled. Protesters very sedate. And coldPushkin square in #moscow filled. Protesters very sedate. And cold
— Michael Schwirtz (@mschwirtz) March 5, 2012— Michael Schwirtz (@mschwirtz) March 5, 2012
Alyona, student: "in 12 years I'll be 32 and my best years will have been spent under #putin. We need a change."Alyona, student: "in 12 years I'll be 32 and my best years will have been spent under #putin. We need a change."
— Michael Schwirtz (@mschwirtz) March 5, 2012— Michael Schwirtz (@mschwirtz) March 5, 2012
3.12pm: Here's a brief summary of where things stand at present.3.12pm: Here's a brief summary of where things stand at present.
Thousands of Russians are gathering for a planned huge rally in Pushkin square, in Moscow, to challenge Prime Minister Vladimir Putin's victory in Russia's presidential election. Reports suggest an unprecedented presence of security forces, ahead of what is expected to be the biggest protest in Russia since the fall of the Soviet Union.Thousands of Russians are gathering for a planned huge rally in Pushkin square, in Moscow, to challenge Prime Minister Vladimir Putin's victory in Russia's presidential election. Reports suggest an unprecedented presence of security forces, ahead of what is expected to be the biggest protest in Russia since the fall of the Soviet Union.
With nearly all votes counted, Putin had just under 64% of the vote. But he won under 50% of the vote in Moscow, where the opposition movement is strongest.With nearly all votes counted, Putin had just under 64% of the vote. But he won under 50% of the vote in Moscow, where the opposition movement is strongest.
International observers from the Organisation for Security and Cooperation in Europe said there were "serious problems" with the election, which meant that the result was "never in doubt". Independent Russian election monitors said there were widespread violations including ballot stuffing and "carousel voting" - packing vans with voters and bussing them to several polling sites to cast numerous votes.International observers from the Organisation for Security and Cooperation in Europe said there were "serious problems" with the election, which meant that the result was "never in doubt". Independent Russian election monitors said there were widespread violations including ballot stuffing and "carousel voting" - packing vans with voters and bussing them to several polling sites to cast numerous votes.
The controversial head of Russia's Central Election Commission, Vladimir Churov, accused the international observers of being spies. He also said the election was the world's most honest.The controversial head of Russia's Central Election Commission, Vladimir Churov, accused the international observers of being spies. He also said the election was the world's most honest.
4.20pm: Police in Moscow say there have been 50 arrests at an unsanctioned protest on Lubyanka Square (home to the FSB, and KGB before that) and Reuters is reporting 50 arrests at an unsanctioned protest in St Petersburg.4.20pm: Police in Moscow say there have been 50 arrests at an unsanctioned protest on Lubyanka Square (home to the FSB, and KGB before that) and Reuters is reporting 50 arrests at an unsanctioned protest in St Petersburg.
5.20pm: While saying Washington stands ready to work with Putin, the US State Department has issued a statement urging Russia to conduct an independent investigation into "all reported electoral violations".5.20pm: While saying Washington stands ready to work with Putin, the US State Department has issued a statement urging Russia to conduct an independent investigation into "all reported electoral violations".
6.05pm: Police are reportedly moving into clear the crowd in central Moscow, who had earlier been urged by Alex Navalny to put up Occupy-style tents.6.05pm: Police are reportedly moving into clear the crowd in central Moscow, who had earlier been urged by Alex Navalny to put up Occupy-style tents.
Still taking people away. Very rough but no serious violence. @navalny still freeStill taking people away. Very rough but no serious violence. @navalny still free
— Michael Schwirtz (@mschwirtz) March 5, 2012— Michael Schwirtz (@mschwirtz) March 5, 2012
6.33pm: Good evening. This is Ben Quinn picking up the blog.6.33pm: Good evening. This is Ben Quinn picking up the blog.
6.34pm: Russian riot police have detained the opposition figurehead Alexei Navalny, Reuters are reporting.6.34pm: Russian riot police have detained the opposition figurehead Alexei Navalny, Reuters are reporting.
"Hello everyone from the police van," Navalny, an anti-corruption blogger, said on Twitter. At least one other protest leader was detained, witnesses at the scene said."Hello everyone from the police van," Navalny, an anti-corruption blogger, said on Twitter. At least one other protest leader was detained, witnesses at the scene said.
6.41pm: Riot police have detained hundreds of protesters along with Alexei Navalny, says the Guardian's Moscow correspondent, Miriam Elder. She reports:6.41pm: Riot police have detained hundreds of protesters along with Alexei Navalny, says the Guardian's Moscow correspondent, Miriam Elder. She reports:
Navalny, backed by hundreds of supporters, had refused to quit central Moscow's Pushkin Square after a 90-minute long demonstration that had gathered around 25,000 people loudly shouting for Putin to resign.Navalny, backed by hundreds of supporters, had refused to quit central Moscow's Pushkin Square after a 90-minute long demonstration that had gathered around 25,000 people loudly shouting for Putin to resign.
After the crowd dispersed, around 1,000 people, including Navalny and leftist opposition leader Sergei Udaltsov, moved towards a fountain in the middle of the square, refusing to leave.After the crowd dispersed, around 1,000 people, including Navalny and leftist opposition leader Sergei Udaltsov, moved towards a fountain in the middle of the square, refusing to leave.
Riot police, wearing camoflauge and black helmets, moved in to encircle them, before roughly dragging them away into waiting arrest vans during an operation that took more than an hour.Riot police, wearing camoflauge and black helmets, moved in to encircle them, before roughly dragging them away into waiting arrest vans during an operation that took more than an hour.
Protesters shouting "Russia without Putin!" flooded onto Tverskaya Street, Moscow's main throughway that leads straight to the Kremlin. They were chased by columns of riot police, blocking traffic, in a chaotic scene long unseen in the Russian capital.Protesters shouting "Russia without Putin!" flooded onto Tverskaya Street, Moscow's main throughway that leads straight to the Kremlin. They were chased by columns of riot police, blocking traffic, in a chaotic scene long unseen in the Russian capital.
Another 50 people were detained during an unsanctioned rally of around 3,000 people in St Petersburg, and 50 at an earlier unsanctioned protest in Moscow.Another 50 people were detained during an unsanctioned rally of around 3,000 people in St Petersburg, and 50 at an earlier unsanctioned protest in Moscow.
Some protest leaders had threatened an escalation in protest methods, but did not put the move to the greater crowd that had gathered earlier. Many protesters had said they were ready to march on the Kremlin if opposition leaders called on it.Some protest leaders had threatened an escalation in protest methods, but did not put the move to the greater crowd that had gathered earlier. Many protesters had said they were ready to march on the Kremlin if opposition leaders called on it.
7.17pm: The BBC's Daniel Sandford has tweeted that another opposition leader, Sergei Udaltsov, was also among those detained in Pushkin Square.7.17pm: The BBC's Daniel Sandford has tweeted that another opposition leader, Sergei Udaltsov, was also among those detained in Pushkin Square.
7.27pm: The Committee to Protect Journalists has issued a statement expressing alarm that three journalists and one blogger covering opposition protests in Russia are being held without charge in a Moscow police station:7.27pm: The Committee to Protect Journalists has issued a statement expressing alarm that three journalists and one blogger covering opposition protests in Russia are being held without charge in a Moscow police station:
"We call for the immediate release of Pavel Nikulin, Maria Klimova, Andrei Stenin, and Arkady Babchenko, who were doing their job as reporters covering an opposition protest," said CPJ Europe and Central Asia Program Coordinator, Nina Ognianova."We call for the immediate release of Pavel Nikulin, Maria Klimova, Andrei Stenin, and Arkady Babchenko, who were doing their job as reporters covering an opposition protest," said CPJ Europe and Central Asia Program Coordinator, Nina Ognianova.
"Russian authorities must adhere to their international press freedom and freedom of expression commitments, and allow the media to cover events around the presidential vote without fear of reprisal.""Russian authorities must adhere to their international press freedom and freedom of expression commitments, and allow the media to cover events around the presidential vote without fear of reprisal."
CPJ has confirmed that Pavel Nikulin, reporter with Moskovskiye Novosti daily; Maria Klimova, reporter with the news website Ridus; Andrei Stenin, photojournalist with RIA Novosti news agency; and popular blogger Arkady Babchenko were rounded up when covering an opposition protest close to Lubyanka metro station in Moscow earlier today.CPJ has confirmed that Pavel Nikulin, reporter with Moskovskiye Novosti daily; Maria Klimova, reporter with the news website Ridus; Andrei Stenin, photojournalist with RIA Novosti news agency; and popular blogger Arkady Babchenko were rounded up when covering an opposition protest close to Lubyanka metro station in Moscow earlier today.
7.43pm: Shaun Walker, Moscow Correspondent for the Independent tweets that police are putting the number of arrests at more than 200.7.43pm: Shaun Walker, Moscow Correspondent for the Independent tweets that police are putting the number of arrests at more than 200.
7.50pm: I've just spoken to Miriam Elder, who says that tonight's protest has largely been dispersed now.7.50pm: I've just spoken to Miriam Elder, who says that tonight's protest has largely been dispersed now.
She came across a group who had been pushed towards a metro station, where a woman was telling riot police lined up in front of her: "This is Moscow - not Chechnya. Who are you protecting?"She came across a group who had been pushed towards a metro station, where a woman was telling riot police lined up in front of her: "This is Moscow - not Chechnya. Who are you protecting?"
8.00pm: David Cameron has been on the phone to Vladimir Putin this evening, according to a spokesman for the British prime minister.8.00pm: David Cameron has been on the phone to Vladimir Putin this evening, according to a spokesman for the British prime minister.
Tim Gatt, ITV's News Digital Output Editor, has tweeted what else the spokesman had to say about the conversation:Tim Gatt, ITV's News Digital Output Editor, has tweeted what else the spokesman had to say about the conversation:
The Prime Minister said that he had been following the Russian elections closely. He looked forward to working with Mr Putin to overcome the obstacles in the relationship between Britain and Russia and build deeper political and trade links.The Prime Minister said that he had been following the Russian elections closely. He looked forward to working with Mr Putin to overcome the obstacles in the relationship between Britain and Russia and build deeper political and trade links.
The leaders agreed on the importance of building a stronger relationship, without disguising differences and areas of concern.The leaders agreed on the importance of building a stronger relationship, without disguising differences and areas of concern.
"The Prime Minister and Mr Putin also discussed Syria and the need for united international action to bring an end to the violence and prevent the situation deteriorating into civil war."The Prime Minister and Mr Putin also discussed Syria and the need for united international action to bring an end to the violence and prevent the situation deteriorating into civil war.
8.11pm: Opposition leaders said that at least 500 people were arrested at the Pushkin Square rally, according to the latest Reuters report.8.11pm: Opposition leaders said that at least 500 people were arrested at the Pushkin Square rally, according to the latest Reuters report.
However, police put the number at 250 and said 14,000 people had attended the rally, rather than the opposition's figure of 20,000.However, police put the number at 250 and said 14,000 people had attended the rally, rather than the opposition's figure of 20,000.
The news agency adds that at least a further 350 people were detained by riot police - about 300 at unsanctioned protests in the northern city of St Petersburg, Putin's home town, and 50 at Moscow's Lubyanka Square, the seat of the Soviet-era KGB. Up to 3,000 people turned out in St Petersburg, witnesses said.The news agency adds that at least a further 350 people were detained by riot police - about 300 at unsanctioned protests in the northern city of St Petersburg, Putin's home town, and 50 at Moscow's Lubyanka Square, the seat of the Soviet-era KGB. Up to 3,000 people turned out in St Petersburg, witnesses said.
8.16pm: The New York Times describes the reaction in Washinton to Putin's election as "strikingly muted, even restrained".8.16pm: The New York Times describes the reaction in Washinton to Putin's election as "strikingly muted, even restrained".
It observes:It observes:
The White House did not comment, and the State Department put out a written statement congratulating the Russian people and saying the United States "looks forward to working with the President-elect after the results are certified and he is sworn in."The White House did not comment, and the State Department put out a written statement congratulating the Russian people and saying the United States "looks forward to working with the President-elect after the results are certified and he is sworn in."
Not only did the Obama administration avoid criticism of Mr. Putin's return to power; it said it was encouraged by the aspects of election, by the turnout and by public protests of those "exercising their constitutional right to free assembly and expressing their views peacefully about the political and electoral processes."Not only did the Obama administration avoid criticism of Mr. Putin's return to power; it said it was encouraged by the aspects of election, by the turnout and by public protests of those "exercising their constitutional right to free assembly and expressing their views peacefully about the political and electoral processes."
8.59pm: We've picked out a range of comments on the election from international figures. Here are a few :8.59pm: We've picked out a range of comments on the election from international figures. Here are a few :
"Wishing President Putin and his team all the best, the Venezuelan government reaffirms its strong commitment to deepening strategic relations between the two countries."
Venezuelan government of Hugo Chavez
"Wishing President Putin and his team all the best, the Venezuelan government reaffirms its strong commitment to deepening strategic relations between the two countries."
Venezuelan government of Hugo Chavez
Dear Vlad, Surprise! Surprise! You won. The #Russian people are crying too!
American senator John McCain on Twitter

"These elections were unfair, despite some innovations in the election process and unhindered possibilities for campaigning. Broadcast media was clearly biased in favour of one candidate and did not provide fair coverage of the other candidates."
Tonino Picula, head of the OSCE election observer mission
Dear Vlad, Surprise! Surprise! You won. The #Russian people are crying too!
American senator John McCain on Twitter

"These elections were unfair, despite some innovations in the election process and unhindered possibilities for campaigning. Broadcast media was clearly biased in favour of one candidate and did not provide fair coverage of the other candidates."
Tonino Picula, head of the OSCE election observer mission
"The election has not been exemplary. That is the least you can say. Putin has been re-elected by a large majority, so France, and her European partners will pursue its partnership with Russia."
Alain Juppé, France's foreign minister
"The election has not been exemplary. That is the least you can say. Putin has been re-elected by a large majority, so France, and her European partners will pursue its partnership with Russia."
Alain Juppé, France's foreign minister
"The EU ... noted the significant civic engagement in the campaign and that authorities allowed protests to take place without undue interference, but also identified shortcomings and irregularities in the preparations and conduct of these elections and that voter choice was limited."
Catherine Ashton, the EU's high representative for foreign affairs

"I congratulate him [Putin], as well as the friendly government and nation of [Russia] ... for being elected president of the Russian Federation."
Iranian President Mahmoud Ahmadinejad
"The EU ... noted the significant civic engagement in the campaign and that authorities allowed protests to take place without undue interference, but also identified shortcomings and irregularities in the preparations and conduct of these elections and that voter choice was limited."
Catherine Ashton, the EU's high representative for foreign affairs

"I congratulate him [Putin], as well as the friendly government and nation of [Russia] ... for being elected president of the Russian Federation."
Iranian President Mahmoud Ahmadinejad
"Russia needs to continue modernising itself, and in the opinion of the ­chancellor, that cannot merely be an economic or technical modernisation ... It must be a political and social modernisation."
Spokesman for the German chancellor, Angela Merkel
"Russia needs to continue modernising itself, and in the opinion of the ­chancellor, that cannot merely be an economic or technical modernisation ... It must be a political and social modernisation."
Spokesman for the German chancellor, Angela Merkel
9.05pm: Alexei Navalny, who was detained by police earlier following a rally in Moscow's Pushkin Square, has been released, according to Reuters.9.05pm: Alexei Navalny, who was detained by police earlier following a rally in Moscow's Pushkin Square, has been released, according to Reuters.
10.07pm: This blog is being wrapped up now but you can read the latest overview by the Guardian's Moscow correspondent, Miriam Elder, here.10.07pm: This blog is being wrapped up now but you can read the latest overview by the Guardian's Moscow correspondent, Miriam Elder, here.
Also, here is a brief summary of developments over the course of the day.Also, here is a brief summary of developments over the course of the day.
• Hundreds of protesters who had gathered to express their fury at Vladimir Putin's return to the Kremlin were detained by riot police on Monday night in one of the biggest protests in the Russian capital for years. The opposition leader Alexei Navalny was among those arrested.
He and hundreds of supporters had refused to leave Pushkin Square in central Moscow after a demonstration that attracted about 25,000 people.
• Hundreds of protesters who had gathered to express their fury at Vladimir Putin's return to the Kremlin were detained by riot police on Monday night in one of the biggest protests in the Russian capital for years. The opposition leader Alexei Navalny was among those arrested.
He and hundreds of supporters had refused to leave Pushkin Square in central Moscow after a demonstration that attracted about 25,000 people.
• With nearly all votes counted, Putin had just under 64% of the vote. But although he portrayed his return to the presidency as a triumph over opponents who were trying to usurp power, he won under 50% of the vote in Moscow, where the opposition movement is strongest.• With nearly all votes counted, Putin had just under 64% of the vote. But although he portrayed his return to the presidency as a triumph over opponents who were trying to usurp power, he won under 50% of the vote in Moscow, where the opposition movement is strongest.
• International observers from the Organisation for Security and Cooperation in Europe said there were "serious problems" with the election, which meant that the result was "never in doubt". Independent Russian election monitors said there were widespread violations including ballot stuffing and "carousel voting" - packing vans with voters and bussing them to several polling sites to cast numerous votes.• International observers from the Organisation for Security and Cooperation in Europe said there were "serious problems" with the election, which meant that the result was "never in doubt". Independent Russian election monitors said there were widespread violations including ballot stuffing and "carousel voting" - packing vans with voters and bussing them to several polling sites to cast numerous votes.
• The controversial head of Russia's Central Election Commission, Vladimir Churov, accused the international observers of being spies. He also said the election was the world's most honest.• The controversial head of Russia's Central Election Commission, Vladimir Churov, accused the international observers of being spies. He also said the election was the world's most honest.