MOSCOW - President Barack Obama called on Tuesday for Russia to forge a true partnership with the United States, promoting democracy and the rule of law but avoiding direct criticism of the Kremlin.
Obama was speaking after a first meeting with Russia's most powerful figure, Vladimir Putin, whom he had upset with pre-trip comments accusing the prime minister of keeping one foot in the past. U.S. officials called the talks "very successful."
In a carefully calibrated speech billed by the White House as a major set piece, Obama lavishly praised the achievements of Russian history and culture and said Washington wanted to see a "strong, peaceful and prosperous" partner in Russia.