Putin Annoints His Successor - Gazproms Head of The Board of Directors

Russia's first deputy prime minister, Dmitry Medvedev. Photograph: Sergei Karpukhin/Reuters

Having Dmitry Medvedev as president might allow Vladimir Putin to retain a grip on power

Italian and German political analysts said they were surprised by Vladimir Putin's backing of a 'strong' presidential candidate, rather than a loyal supporter who would let him keep the reins of power.

(Vladimir Rodionov/Presidential Press Service/Associated Press)

Dmitry Anatolyevich Medvedev

Energy, Energy, Energy!!!!!!
Resources, Resources, Resources!!!!!

Calculated move by Putin? You bet your bottom dollar.

Securing Russia's future is NOW even brighter.

This should REALLY tee off Javier Solana, The U.S and Israel.

Putin could even come back AFTERWARDS through his successor (insert ominous music here).

European Think Tank experts are surprised but encouraged.

It's gonna be an expensive and cold winter in Europe, brrrrrr!