Date:05/12/2007 URL: http://www.thehindu.com/2007/12/05/stories/2007120553621001.htm

Opinion - Letters to the Editor

Spectacular win

This refers to the editorial “Spectacular electoral triumph” (Dec. 4). The thumping victory of United Russia, led by President Vladimir Putin, in the Russian parliamentary elections is good news for all those who advocate and support a multi-polar world order. A stable and strong Russia will do a lot of good to contain aggressive American hegemony. If Russia has bounced back today in full vigour economically, politically and militarily, it is because of Mr. Putin’s leadership and statesmanship. The electoral victory will further consolidate Russia’s position as a major global player.

Clarence Fernandes,

Mangalore

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As rightly mentioned in the editorial, the spectacular victory of United Russia is a powerful endorsement of Mr. Putin’s leadership. The increase in the percentage of popular votes compared with the last parliamentary elections amply demonstrates his popularity.

P.B. Sundara Rajan,

Hyderabad

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President Putin deserves the victory as one who gave a new image to the once impoverished Russia. The reason for Russia’s quick resurgence is its newfound strength in the energy sector. But it was Mr. Putin’s strategic and negotiating skill in conducting energy diplomacy that paved the way for the emergence of new Russia.

Y.N. Murthy,

Bangalore

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Not very long ago, Russia was a disintegrated nation with a shattered economy. Overcoming all the impediments, it has become a vibrant economy and grown in military strength. A large share of the credit for this transformation should go to Mr. Putin.

The landslide for United Russia is the reward given to Mr. Putin by the people for his outstanding role in Russian politics in the last eight years. The Russian voters deserve to be congratulated for giving him the well deserved and decisive victory.

Lvb. Selvaraj,

Chennai