Russian Prime Minister Vladimir Putin on Thursday accused U.S. Secretary of State Hillary Clinton that triggered anti-government demonstrations in the country, Interfax reports.
"She said that (the election - no) were neither free nor fair, although it had received reports of observers," said Putin.

"What the tone of political groups in our country, it transmitted a signal. They heard the signal from U.S. Secretary of State and started work," he added.

Russia should increase its vigilance against foreign groups attempt to influence the domestic politics of the country, and those groups should be prosecuted, said Putin.



As of Monday, demonstrations were held in the Russian capital to challenge the results of legislative elections on Sunday, which was won by United Russia.

Demonstrators protest against the fraud occurred during the electoral process.



National television stations largely ignored the protests, covering only the pro-Kremlin rallies.