Russians abandon illusion of democracy

The Russian President, Vladimir Putin, has said that there are many disillusioned people who have no stake in the new Russia -- despite Russian successes in building democracy.

In a speech marking the anniversary of Russia's symbolic independence from the Soviet Union in 1990, Mr Putin said it was the sacred trust of political leaders to show the way to the end of the tunnel, and to build a strong and united Russia.

Mr Putin said we now know how difficult it has been to reform the economy and the social sphere and create democratic institutions.

Ten years ago Russians, he said, people were more romantic and naive, thinking a new state could be built simply and quickly.

Now those illusions had been shattered.

From the newsroom of the BBC World Service