Dmitry Medvedev, formerly the first deputy prime minister of Russia, succeeded Vladimir Putin as president of the Russian Federation on May 7, 2008.

On March 2, 2009, it was reported that President Barack Obama sent a letter to Medvedev proposing that the United States would not proceed with a missile defense system in Eastern Europe, in exchange for Russia's help in stopping Iran's nuclear and long-range missile programs. The letter was said to have been sent about three weeks after Obama took office.The New York Times: Obama Offered Deal to Russia in Secret Letter (March 2, 2009)

1. Born: September 14, 1965
2. 1987: Graduated from St. Petersburg University law school
3. 1988: Baptized Russian Orthodox
4. March 2, 2008: Elected president
5. May 7, 2008: Inaugurated president
6. Formerly the First Deputy Prime Minister
7. 2000: Became Putin's deputy chief of staff
8. Worked as chairman of state-run Gazprom gas monopoly
9. Wife: Svetlana
10. Son: Ilya

On March 2, 2008 Dmitry Medvedev was elected President of the Russian Federation, reportedly receiving 70.28% of the vote with a 69.78% turnout of registered voters. The fairness of the election and accuracy of the results were contested, with monitoring groups giving conflicting reports. Most critics of the election argue that candidates did not receive equal access to the media during their campaigns, limiting their ability to reach voters.

Other irregularities were reported though no official allegations of fraud have been filed. The final conclusion is that, despite irregularities, the election results have reflected the will of the Russian people.

Medvedev, a former law professor, has been closely involved in Vladimir Putin's regime since 2000. Putin endorsed Medvedev as his preferred presidential candidate, a move widely thought to have ensured Medvedev the presidency.

Some believe, Medvedev's 'selection' as the next president of Russia by Putin has guaranteed Putin's continued influence over high level government decisions after the Constitution barred him from running for another term.

Others feel that Medvedev's background in law will lead to more expansive prosecution of corruption, as well as equal application of Russia's laws to all citizens.

On February 4, 2009, Medvedev announced Russia's intention to support the U.S. in stabilizing Afghanistan.BostonHerald.com: Russia says it wants to help US in Afghanistan