Mr. Dmitry Medvedev was sworn in as Russia's new president this week, promising protection of "civil and economic freedoms" and "a true respect for rule of law." For most new leaders, such language would suggest a break with the policies of his predecessor, but Russia's former president, Mr. Vladimir Putin, is merely moving his office: Mr. Putin, who became the new prime minister, will work with — rather than for — Mr. Medvedev. While the two men insist that this arrangement will operate smoothly, it is far from clear how it will work out in practice.

Mr. Medvedev is considered by most observers to be a placeholder: one who will occupy the Kremlin so that Mr. Putin can say that he respected the constitution's prohibitions on a third term. He should be commended for that. But installation of Mr. Putin as prime minister when the president owes so much to him looks like the mere appearance of a transfer of power. Many worry who will prevail if the two men's views differ or who will be in charge in a crisis. Will the siloviki — the security services alumni who have risen to key positions throughout the Russian economy and bureaucracy — back the president or their former colleague in the event of a clash?

Mr. Medvedev and Mr. Putin insist that they share views and will work together, as they have for over a decade. They both agree that Russia should have a greater international presence and should use its considerable natural resources to defend and assert its national interests. They agree with many outside observers on the challenges that Russia faces. But they part ways when it comes to dealing with critics.