Russian President Vladimir Putin says his country is prepared to help Kyrgyzstan's new leaders establish stability in the wake of a political upheaval.
Mr. Putin made his comments today (Saturday) following a telephone discussion with Kyrgyzstan's opposition leader, Kurmanbek Bakiyev, who was appointed by parliament to lead an interim government.
Kyrgyzstan's new leaders are trying to restore order after two days of massive looting and street violence that killed at least three people and injured many others.
Bishkek has been in turmoil since angry foes of ousted President Askar Akayev rampaged through the city on Thursday, seizing government buildings and forcing Mr. Akayev to flee. Russian officials say he arrived in Moscow today.
Mr. Akayev has said by e-mail that he is still Kyrgyzstan's legitimate president.
Meanwhile, Mr. Bakiyev has announced plans to run in a June election to replace Mr. Akayev.
Mr. Putin made his comments today (Saturday) following a telephone discussion with Kyrgyzstan's opposition leader, Kurmanbek Bakiyev, who was appointed by parliament to lead an interim government.
Kyrgyzstan's new leaders are trying to restore order after two days of massive looting and street violence that killed at least three people and injured many others.
Bishkek has been in turmoil since angry foes of ousted President Askar Akayev rampaged through the city on Thursday, seizing government buildings and forcing Mr. Akayev to flee. Russian officials say he arrived in Moscow today.
Mr. Akayev has said by e-mail that he is still Kyrgyzstan's legitimate president.
Meanwhile, Mr. Bakiyev has announced plans to run in a June election to replace Mr. Akayev.