Khodorkovsky & Lebedev Communications Center

Prime Minister Vladimir Putin has proposed giving Moscow a site similar to London's Hyde Park where people are always free to express their views.

Speaking to a group of university rectors, Putin stated: "In the future, we should follow the example of our neighbors in Europe and find some worthy place, like Hyde Park, and give everyone the chance to speak freely, openly on any issue, and media outlets could communicate that point of view to all citizens."

Meanwhile, the opposition has has to fight to hold demonstrations in some of the most visible parts of the city.