Medvedev Elected Chief of Russia's Ruling Party

Russian President Vladimir Putin, right, and Prime Minister Dmitry Medvedev attend the United Russia party annual congress in Moscow, May 26, 2012.

Russia's ruling United Russia party has confirmed Prime Minister Dmitry Medvedev as its chief, at the behest of President Vladimir Putin.

Saturday, the party approved Medvedev unanimously, by a show of hands. There was no apparent opposition and no other candidate vying for the post.

In remarks at Saturday's party congress, Putin said he considers United Russia his "key ally and partner," while nominating Medvedev to head the party.

Medvedev also made remarks Saturday, calling for internal changes to the party to make it more relatable to ordinary Russian citizens.

Some information for this report was provided by AP, AFP and Reuters.