PM hopeful of easing Russia tension

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Gordon Brown has written to Dmitry Medvedev to congratulate him on his landslide victory in the presidential poll.

The Prime Minister's spokesman said Mr Brown was "looking forward" to seeing Mr Medvedev at the G8 summit in July, and suggested there may be an "opportunity" to ease tensions between the powers.

"We have always said that we will look for opportunities to improve our relationship with Russia, and hopefully get Russian co-operation on a number of issues," the spokesman said.

"We should judge the new government on its actions."

The popular current inhabitant of the Kremlin, Vladimir Putin, who is now expected to become prime minister, endorsed Mr Medvedev, and there have been accusations that the poll was flawed.

While the eventual victor received extensive television news coverage throughout the campaign, the three other candidates were shown only infrequently, except during televised debates.

Mr Medvedev refused to take part in the debates, citing his busy schedule as first deputy prime minister. He is projected to have won more than 70% of the vote on a high turnout.

European observers declared that the elections were unfair - but still followed the will of the people.

Mr Medvedev has said that after taking over at the Kremlin in May he hopes to work in "effective tandem" with Mr Putin, who was barred by the Russian constitution from standing for a third term.