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Andrew Osborn

Is the Orthodox Church really in control of Russia?
25/01/2012 - RUSSIA

Is the Orthodox Church really in control of Russia?

Could the Kremlin be abandoned by the Russian Orthodox Church? When ordinary Russians began protesting against the Kremlin last year, Patriarch Kirill spoke of revolutions triggering a "blood bath". The Church tried to dissuade protesters from taking to the streets and openly supported the Kremlin. But now the wind seems to be changing...
Ultra-nationalist movements gain momentum
29/11/2011 - RUSSIA

Ultra-nationalist movements gain momentum

Xenophobic Russian groups have been flourishing since the fall of the Soviet Union twenty years ago, and growing social dissatisfaction is making nationalist ideology increasingly popular. Far-right groups are not allowed to take part in elections, but they know that some of their ideas and slogans are now being recycled by mainstream political parties. France 24's Moscow reporters spent time with one of their leaders.
Football and big investments to the rescue of Dagestan?
18/11/2011 - RUSSIA

Football and big investments to the rescue of Dagestan?

Cameroonian striker Samuel Eto’o caused a stir when he joined the Anzhi Makachkala football club, a small obscure outfit in the Russian Republic of Dagestan, the powder keg of the Russian North Caucasus. His salary is a whopping 20 million euros a year. But the club is not just a billionaire’s plaything - it is also a social project for developing a region which is using sport to fight terrorism.
Medvedev steps aside for Putin
26/09/2011 - RUSSIA

Medvedev steps aside for Putin

In the musical chairs of Russian politics, the same man appears to be once again landing in the hot seat. This weekend Russia's long-term strong man Vladimir Putin confirmed he will run for presidency in 2012. Political pundits say it's now clear that Dmitry Medvedev who's been President since Putin relinquished the post, was only keeping the seat warm for Putin who was barred by the constitution from running for a third term.
Medvedev vs Putin: will the protégé outshine the master?
12/07/2011 - RUSSIA

Medvedev vs Putin: will the protégé outshine the master?

With parliamentary and presidential elections just a few months away, the Russian political landscape has seen a number of interesting changes. Former President and current PM Vladimir Putin has created the All-Russian People's Front, a potential vehicle for a new presidential bid. Meanwhile, is successor, Dmitry Medvedev seems to be stepping out from under the shadow of his mentor. Is this a real rivalry, or a charade to convince voters they have a choice between the two?
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