2008 has been ushered in throughout Russia – the county's eleven time zones have seen in the New Year. People in Eastern Siberia and the Far East were the first to see in 2008. Those in Kaliningrad in central Europe were the last to raise their

Celebrations in Chukotka region and the Kamchatka peninsula in the Far East are already coming to an end. These were the first Russian regions to enter 2008.

As of now 2008 has hit both the Russian capital and St. Petersburg. Celebrations there are in full swing.

The main starting venue for celebrations in Moscow was Red Square, where thousands of people gathered to take part in the festivities. They say the atmosphere there was special, with a chance to welcome the New Year at the heart of the capital.

Nobody seemed intent on an early night and revellers of all ages partied with new friends as well as old in one of the world's biggest New Year parties.

No alcohol was allowed on the square and there was screening at all the major entrances. And for around 12,000 visitors at the square, there were 3,000 militia.