(Telecompaper) Russian mobile operators MTS and VimpelCom announced that they have submitted a joint letter to Tele2 chairman Mike Parton and CEO Mats Granryd, expressing their interest in the acquisition of Tele2 Russia. In the letter, MTS and Vimpelcom indicate they would be prepared jointly to acquire 100 percent of Tele2 Russia for USD 4.0-4.25 billion, including USD 1.15 billion of net debt. This represents a premium of up to 30 percent for Tele2, and its shareholders relative to the equity value of the recently announced offer from VTB Capital.