Russia's lower house on Wednesday passed constitutional reforms in their final reading that include the possibility of President Vladimir Putin extending his rule for another two terms.

A total of 383 State Duma lawmakers voted in favour of the package of constitutional amendments, with 43 abstentions and none against.

The measures must now be approved by the upper house Federation Council and be put to a public vote scheduled for April 22.

Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/putin-pitches-for-constitutional-amendment-mps-back-package-of-changes-285487">Putin pitches for constitutional amendment, MPs back package of changes</a>

Putin announced the package of reforms in January, then repeatedly denied they were meant to extend his grip on power as he approaches the end of his fourth and final presidential term in 2024.

However, on Tuesday another amendment was introduced that would reset presidential terms, making it possible for Putin to run again if the constitutional court allows it.

The changes "are not just justified... they plan... for the strategy of the development of the country," Duma speaker Vyacheslav Volodin said after Wednesday's vote, Russian agencies reported.

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Other additions to the constitution include guarantees for pension payouts and minimum salaries, and giving parliament additional power to nominate the head of government.

They also give the president additional powers to fire judges in the country's higher courts and to reject laws passed by parliament.

Russia's lower house on Wednesday passed constitutional reforms in their final reading that include the possibility of President Vladimir Putin extending his rule for another two terms.

Russia's lower house on Wednesday passed constitutional reforms in their final reading that include the possibility of President Vladimir Putin extending his rule for another two terms. A total of 383 State Duma lawmakers voted in favour of the package of constitutional amendments, with 43 abstentions and none against. The measures must now be approved by the upper house Federation Council and be put to a public vote scheduled for April 22. Also read: Putin pitches for constitutional amendment, MPs back package of changes Putin announced the package of reforms in January, then repeatedly denied they were meant to extend his grip on power as he approaches the end of his fourth and final presidential term in 2024. However, on Tuesday another amendment was introduced that would reset presidential terms, making it possible for Putin to run again if the constitutional court allows it. The changes "are not just justified... they plan... for the strategy of the development of the country," Duma speaker Vyacheslav Volodin said after Wednesday's vote, Russian agencies reported. Watch: × Other additions to the constitution include guarantees for pension payouts and minimum salaries, and giving parliament additional power to nominate the head of government. They also give the president additional powers to fire judges in the country's higher courts and to reject laws passed by parliament.

Parliament passes reforms allowing Putin to run again

Vladimir Putin has supported a proposed constitutional amendment to tighten his grip on power in Russia since the middle of a decade, which would allow him to take another two terms in the Kremlin.

Today Tonight: Russia's political overhaul, Putin to be president for life?

In a speech in Parliament, Russian President Vladimir <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/vladimir-putin-replaces-powerful-top-prosecutor-275496">Putin</a> said that proposed amendment allowing him to run for president after 2024 would be possible if the country's Constitutional Court allows it.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/putin-submits-constitutional-amendment-package-to-parliament-275548">Also Read:&nbsp;Putin submits constitutional amendment package to Parliament</a>

"This would be possible... if the constitutional court rules such an amendment would not go against (the constitution)," Putin told the Parliament.

Russian MPs in the lower of Parliament on Tuesday backed Putin's proposed constitutional amendments. 382 MPs voted for the package of changes to the constitution with 44 abstaining.

Lawmakers will vote for measures for the third time on Wednesday.

In January, the Russian president had submitted a package of constitutional amendments to parliament after announcing reform in the political system.

A new bill proposed changes including the transfer of some power away from the presidency. The reforms included parliament to control the prime minister of the country and limiting the president to two terms, instead of two successive terms.

Putin, 67, is set to step down as president in 2024 with Russia set for parliamentary elections in 2021. Under the Russian constitution, a person cannot serve more than two successive presidential terms.

In a speech in Parliament, Russian President Vladimir Putin said that proposed amendment allowing him to run for president after 2024 would be possible if the country's Constitutional Court allows it.

In a speech in Parliament, Russian President Vladimir Putin said that proposed amendment allowing him to run for president after 2024 would be possible if the country's Constitutional Court allows it. Also Read: Putin submits constitutional amendment package to Parliament "This would be possible... if the constitutional court rules such an amendment would not go against (the constitution)," Putin told the Parliament. Russian MPs in the lower of Parliament on Tuesday backed Putin's proposed constitutional amendments. 382 MPs voted for the package of changes to the constitution with 44 abstaining. Lawmakers will vote for measures for the third time on Wednesday. In January, the Russian president had submitted a package of constitutional amendments to parliament after announcing reform in the political system. A new bill proposed changes including the transfer of some power away from the presidency. The reforms included parliament to control the prime minister of the country and limiting the president to two terms, instead of two successive terms. Putin, 67, is set to step down as president in 2024 with Russia set for parliamentary elections in 2021. Under the Russian constitution, a person cannot serve more than two successive presidential terms.

Putin pitches for constitutional amendment, MPs back package of changes

Turkey and Russia agreed to a cease-fire agreement in Syria's Idlib region on Thursday after talks in Moscow by their two leaders said a conflict that displaced nearly a million people in three months.

Turkey, Russia announces Idlib ceasefire after Moscow meeting between Erdogan & Putin

Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan will visit Russia on Thursday for a summit with his Russian counterpart Vladimir Putin to discuss the mounting tensions in Syria, his office said Monday.&nbsp;

"The president is due to pay a one-day visit to Russia on March 5," the Turkish presidency said in a statement.&nbsp;

Turkey confirmed on Sunday that it had launched a full military operation against Russian-backed Syrian forces following increasing clashes in the last rebel stronghold of Idlib.&nbsp;

Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/turkish-drones-kill-19-syrian-government-soldiers-as-tensions-soar-283645">Turkish drones kill 19 Syrian government soldiers as tensions soar</a>

Ankara, which backs Islamist fighters in the province, killed 19 Syrian soldiers in drone strikes on Sunday and downed two regime planes.&nbsp;

But it remains determined to avoid direct clashes with Moscow, with which it shares significant defense and trade ties.

Despite being on opposing sides of the conflict, Turkey and Russia have coordinated closely in the past.&nbsp;

Also see: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/refugees-stream-towards-greece-after-turkey-opens-gates-283696">Refugees stream towards Greece after Turkey opens gates</a>

They secured a deal in Sochi in 2018 that led to Turkey establishing 12 military observation posts in Idlib to prevent a Syrian offensive and a fresh flood of refugees into Turkish territory.&nbsp;

But Syria and Russia look increasingly determined to regain full control of the area and an offensive launched in December has displaced close to a million civilians, and seen increasing clashes between Turkish and Syrian forces.&nbsp;

The latest escalation followed the killing of 34 Turkish soldiers last week in an airstrike blamed on Damascus.

&nbsp;

Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan will visit Russia on Thursday for a summit with his Russian counterpart Vladimir Putin to discuss the mounting tensions in Syria, his office said Monday.

Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan will visit Russia on Thursday for a summit with his Russian counterpart Vladimir Putin to discuss the mounting tensions in Syria, his office said Monday. "The president is due to pay a one-day visit to Russia on March 5," the Turkish presidency said in a statement. Turkey confirmed on Sunday that it had launched a full military operation against Russian-backed Syrian forces following increasing clashes in the last rebel stronghold of Idlib. Also read: Turkish drones kill 19 Syrian government soldiers as tensions soar Ankara, which backs Islamist fighters in the province, killed 19 Syrian soldiers in drone strikes on Sunday and downed two regime planes. But it remains determined to avoid direct clashes with Moscow, with which it shares significant defense and trade ties. Despite being on opposing sides of the conflict, Turkey and Russia have coordinated closely in the past. Also see: Refugees stream towards Greece after Turkey opens gates They secured a deal in Sochi in 2018 that led to Turkey establishing 12 military observation posts in Idlib to prevent a Syrian offensive and a fresh flood of refugees into Turkish territory. But Syria and Russia look increasingly determined to regain full control of the area and an offensive launched in December has displaced close to a million civilians, and seen increasing clashes between Turkish and Syrian forces. The latest escalation followed the killing of 34 Turkish soldiers last week in an airstrike blamed on Damascus.

Turkish President Erdogan to meet Putin in Russia for Syria talks: Turkish presidency

Russian President Vladimir Putin said on Sunday that current oil prices were acceptable and that Russia had the tools to react to any negative effects of the spread of the coronavirus on the global economy, Russian news agencies reported.

Also Read:-<a href="https://www.wionews.com/opinions/russia-joins-gulf-states-in-coaching-sudans-military-227032">Russia joins Gulf states in coaching Sudan military</a>

Putin added that he sees the OPEC+ group as an effective mechanism to preserve long-term stability, adding that Russia had to be prepared for different scenarios on oil markets following a global fall in oil prices on coronavirus concerns.

 
&nbsp;

Russian President Vladimir Putin said on Sunday that current oil prices were acceptable and that Russia had the tools to react to any negative effects of the spread of the coronavirus on the global economy, Russian news agencies reported.

Russian President Vladimir Putin said on Sunday that current oil prices were acceptable and that Russia had the tools to react to any negative effects of the spread of the coronavirus on the global economy, Russian news agencies reported. Also Read:-Russia joins Gulf states in coaching Sudan military Putin added that he sees the OPEC+ group as an effective mechanism to preserve long-term stability, adding that Russia had to be prepared for different scenarios on oil markets following a global fall in oil prices on coronavirus concerns.

Russia's Putin says current oil prices acceptable

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Thousands rallied in central Moscow on Saturday to call on President Vladimir Putin not to stay in power indefinitely, in the first major protest by the Russian opposition since the Kremlin chief announced controversial plans to change the constitution.

The rally marked five years since the assassination of opposition politician Boris Nemtsov, but its organisers also want the event to send a message to Putin after he proposed major constitutional changes.

Organisers, including the country's most prominent opposition leader Alexei Navalny, called for a mass turnout to show Putin that he must not consider staying in power by any means when his current mandate ends in 2024.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/never-used-a-body-double-says-russian-president-vladimir-putin-283289">Never used a body double, says Russian President Vladimir Putin</a>

Moscow authorities gave permission to the rally -- after a succession of demonstrations urging fair elections last summer were roughly dispersed -- and the street was packed by a flow of protesters, an AFP correspondent said.

"The Putin regime is a threat to humankind," said the slogan on one placard next to a portrait of Nemtsov.&nbsp;

"Putin's policies are based on total lies," said another, quoting the liberal politician who was on assassinated in central Moscow on February 27, 2015.

"Russia without Putin!" the crowds chanted repeatedly as they began marching.

The White Counter monitor which counts attendance at protests said 22,300 people took part in the march. The interior ministry said 8,000 took part.

'Stay in power by any means'

Putin, who has dominated Russia for two decades, in January unleashed a political storm, proposing an overhaul of the constitution, the first changes to the basic law since 1993.

Analysts see the plan as beginning preparations for succession when Putin's fourth presidential term ends in 2024, while the opposition says the Kremlin strongman wants to remain leader for life.

"I think that this is a crime, that it is mocking the constitution," said Semyon Pevzner, a pensioner aged 75. "The only aim is to stay in power by any means possible."

Also see:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/world-news-trump-campaign-sues-new-york-times-over-russia-opinion-piece-283020">Trump campaign sues New York Times over Russia opinion piece</a>

Putin first came to power as prime minister in 1999 under Boris Yeltsin before becoming president in 2000. He served the maximum two consecutive terms between 2000 and 2008 before a four-year stint as prime minister.&nbsp;

He returned to the Kremlin in 2012 for a newly-expanded six-year mandate and was re-elected in 2018. But opponents fear he could remain Russia's number one even if the job of president nominally goes to someone else in 2024.

Kseniya Telmanova, a 21-year-old student, reflected that Putin had been president for her whole life, except her first few months. "Probably those were the best months of my life," she said, laughing. "The leaders should fear the fact they can lose power."

Russia is planning to hold a referendum on the constitutional amendments on April 22.

According to the Levada Center, an independent pollster, a quarter of Russians will back the constitutional proposals, while 56 per cent said they were still not sure why the changes were needed.

Forty-four per cent also said Putin should quit power in 2024, while 45 per cent said he should stay.

'Against political repression'

Around 2,000 people gathered for a similar demonstration in Russia's second city of Saint Petersburg on Saturday, clutching flowers, portraits of Nemtsov and banners reading "They feared you Boris".

"This is basically the only chance we have to go out and say that we are against what is going on in the country and against this police state," said Galina Zuiko, 55.

Nemtsov -- one of Putin's most vocal critics and a former deputy prime minister in the Yeltsin government -- was shot and killed on a Moscow bridge near the Kremlin.

In 2017, a court found a former security force officer from Chechnya guilty of his murder and sentenced him to 20 years in prison. Four other men were found guilty of involvement in the killing.

But Nemtsov's family and allies insist the authorities have failed to bring the masterminds to justice.

"We have not seen any major progress" in the probe, Navalny said in brief comments to pro-opposition channel TV Rain. "We will continue to turn out (every year) until this case is solved."

Protesters also urged authorities to release Russia's political prisoners, with a group of women holding a banner reading: "Mothers against political repression. Freedom to our children."

A number of people were jailed after tens of thousands rallied in Moscow last summer to demand fair elections, in the biggest upsurge of protests in the country for more than half a decade.
</div>

Thousands rallied in central Moscow on Saturday to call on President Vladimir Putin not to stay in power indefinitely, in the first major protest by the Russian opposition since the Kremlin chief announced controversial plans to change the constitution.

Thousands rallied in central Moscow on Saturday to call on President Vladimir Putin not to stay in power indefinitely, in the first major protest by the Russian opposition since the Kremlin chief announced controversial plans to change the constitution. The rally marked five years since the assassination of opposition politician Boris Nemtsov, but its organisers also want the event to send a message to Putin after he proposed major constitutional changes. Organisers, including the country's most prominent opposition leader Alexei Navalny, called for a mass turnout to show Putin that he must not consider staying in power by any means when his current mandate ends in 2024. Also read: Never used a body double, says Russian President Vladimir Putin Moscow authorities gave permission to the rally -- after a succession of demonstrations urging fair elections last summer were roughly dispersed -- and the street was packed by a flow of protesters, an AFP correspondent said. "The Putin regime is a threat to humankind," said the slogan on one placard next to a portrait of Nemtsov. "Putin's policies are based on total lies," said another, quoting the liberal politician who was on assassinated in central Moscow on February 27, 2015. "Russia without Putin!" the crowds chanted repeatedly as they began marching. The White Counter monitor which counts attendance at protests said 22,300 people took part in the march. The interior ministry said 8,000 took part. 'Stay in power by any means' Putin, who has dominated Russia for two decades, in January unleashed a political storm, proposing an overhaul of the constitution, the first changes to the basic law since 1993. Analysts see the plan as beginning preparations for succession when Putin's fourth presidential term ends in 2024, while the opposition says the Kremlin strongman wants to remain leader for life. "I think that this is a crime, that it is mocking the constitution," said Semyon Pevzner, a pensioner aged 75. "The only aim is to stay in power by any means possible." Also see: Trump campaign sues New York Times over Russia opinion piece Putin first came to power as prime minister in 1999 under Boris Yeltsin before becoming president in 2000. He served the maximum two consecutive terms between 2000 and 2008 before a four-year stint as prime minister. He returned to the Kremlin in 2012 for a newly-expanded six-year mandate and was re-elected in 2018. But opponents fear he could remain Russia's number one even if the job of president nominally goes to someone else in 2024. Kseniya Telmanova, a 21-year-old student, reflected that Putin had been president for her whole life, except her first few months. "Probably those were the best months of my life," she said, laughing. "The leaders should fear the fact they can lose power." Russia is planning to hold a referendum on the constitutional amendments on April 22. According to the Levada Center, an independent pollster, a quarter of Russians will back the constitutional proposals, while 56 per cent said they were still not sure why the changes were needed. Forty-four per cent also said Putin should quit power in 2024, while 45 per cent said he should stay. 'Against political repression' Around 2,000 people gathered for a similar demonstration in Russia's second city of Saint Petersburg on Saturday, clutching flowers, portraits of Nemtsov and banners reading "They feared you Boris". "This is basically the only chance we have to go out and say that we are against what is going on in the country and against this police state," said Galina Zuiko, 55. Nemtsov -- one of Putin's most vocal critics and a former deputy prime minister in the Yeltsin government -- was shot and killed on a Moscow bridge near the Kremlin. In 2017, a court found a former security force officer from Chechnya guilty of his murder and sentenced him to 20 years in prison. Four other men were found guilty of involvement in the killing. But Nemtsov's family and allies insist the authorities have failed to bring the masterminds to justice. "We have not seen any major progress" in the probe, Navalny said in brief comments to pro-opposition channel TV Rain. "We will continue to turn out (every year) until this case is solved." Protesters also urged authorities to release Russia's political prisoners, with a group of women holding a banner reading: "Mothers against political repression. Freedom to our children." A number of people were jailed after tens of thousands rallied in Moscow last summer to demand fair elections, in the biggest upsurge of protests in the country for more than half a decade.

Opposition urges 'Russia without Putin' in rally for slain liberal

From Trump's to Princess Diana, iconic visit to the Taj Mahal

Vladimir Putin was pulled up by an old woman over low wages. How did the Russian President respond? Take a look at this report to find out.

Gravitas: Vladimir Putin faces an unexpected grilling in Saint Petersburg

Russian President Vladimir <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russia-activists-take-aim-at-president-putin-in-march-against-repression-275307">Putin </a>was taken by surprise after a woman candidly told him whether he could live on her income of $170 a month.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/putin-speeds-up-russian-political-shake-up-details-new-power-centre-275623">Also Read: Putin speeds up Russian political shake-up, details new power centre&nbsp;</a>

Putin who was visiting Saint Petersburg was approached by the woman amid several people surrounding the president and asked: "Please tell me, is it possible to live on 10,800 rubles ($170)?"

"I think it's very hard," Putin said, to which the woman said: "Your pay is probably about 800,000 rubles, I imagine."

"Well yes," Putin replied and added that he does not have the highest salary. The woman continued to corner the president asserting that grocery store costs at least 1,000 rubles in Russia and utility bills were a flat 4,000 rubles.&nbsp;

"Of course you are right, we still have a lot of social problems that the government has to solve," the president told the woman.

"Why don't you solve them then?" the woman asked, to which the Russian president said: "We are solving them."

Russia has been hit by high food inflation in recent years, however, it has shown signs of levelling off but it has hit the common man on the street.

Food inflation which had fallen in 2018 rose five per cent at the end of the same year to recover at 3 per cent last year due to a good harvest but has fluctuated in the last several years leading to increased hardships for ordinary Russians.

Russian President Vladimir Putin was taken by surprise after a woman candidly told him whether he could live on her income of $170 a month. Also Read: Putin speeds up Russian political shake-up, details new power centre Putin who was visiting Saint Petersburg was approached by the woman amid several people surrounding the president and asked: "Please tell me, is it possible to live on 10,800 rubles ($170)?

Russian President Vladimir Putin was taken by surprise after a woman candidly told him whether he could live on her income of $170 a month. Also Read: Putin speeds up Russian political shake-up, details new power centre Putin who was visiting Saint Petersburg was approached by the woman amid several people surrounding the president and asked: "Please tell me, is it possible to live on 10,800 rubles ($170)?" "I think it's very hard," Putin said, to which the woman said: "Your pay is probably about 800,000 rubles, I imagine." "Well yes," Putin replied and added that he does not have the highest salary. The woman continued to corner the president asserting that grocery store costs at least 1,000 rubles in Russia and utility bills were a flat 4,000 rubles. "Of course you are right, we still have a lot of social problems that the government has to solve," the president told the woman. "Why don't you solve them then?" the woman asked, to which the Russian president said: "We are solving them." Russia has been hit by high food inflation in recent years, however, it has shown signs of levelling off but it has hit the common man on the street. Food inflation which had fallen in 2018 rose five per cent at the end of the same year to recover at 3 per cent last year due to a good harvest but has fluctuated in the last several years leading to increased hardships for ordinary Russians.

Tell me, is it possible to live on $170? Russian woman asks Putin

Russian Airstrikes killed at least 12 civilians in the last major opposition bastion in northwestern Syria. In the early morning, raids hit a populous village in Aleppo province where battles between Russia-backed regime forces and their opponents have raged for weeks.

Syrian Air Strikes Kills 12 Civilians

Israel hosted the World Holocaust Forum, which more than 40 world leaders & royals attended. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said the monument which is located in a central Jerusalem park, fulfills the aspiration to life and victory of Leningrad siege's victims. Russian President Vladimir Putin is on a visit to Israel, Putin unveiled a Jerusalem monument commemorating the victims and defenders of Leningrad during the Nazi siege of World War Two.

WION Dispatch: Israel hosts World Holocaust Forum

Russian President Vladimir Putin on Monday submitted a package of constitutional amendments to parliament less than a week after announcing a surprise plan to reform the political system.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/vladimir-putin-replaces-powerful-top-prosecutor-275496">Also Read: Vladimir Putin replaces powerful top prosecutor</a>

The bill on the amendments, available on the website of the lower house State Duma, proposed changes including the transfer of some power away from the presidency.

The reforms include giving parliament the power to name the prime minister and limiting the president to only two terms in total, instead of two successive terms.&nbsp;

Putin announced the changes in his state of the nation address last Wednesday, prompting the government to quickly resign.&nbsp;

There has been speculation that the reforms are aimed at allowing Putin to hold on to power when his fourth Kremlin term expires in 2024.

A group of experts and popular figures has been formed to study the proposals and Putin has promised a public vote on the amendments.

Russian President Vladimir Putin on Monday submitted a package of constitutional amendments to parliament less than a week after announcing a surprise plan to reform the political system.

Russian President Vladimir Putin on Monday submitted a package of constitutional amendments to parliament less than a week after announcing a surprise plan to reform the political system. Also Read: Vladimir Putin replaces powerful top prosecutor The bill on the amendments, available on the website of the lower house State Duma, proposed changes including the transfer of some power away from the presidency. The reforms include giving parliament the power to name the prime minister and limiting the president to only two terms in total, instead of two successive terms. Putin announced the changes in his state of the nation address last Wednesday, prompting the government to quickly resign. There has been speculation that the reforms are aimed at allowing Putin to hold on to power when his fourth Kremlin term expires in 2024. A group of experts and popular figures has been formed to study the proposals and Putin has promised a public vote on the amendments.

Putin submits constitutional amendment package to Parliament

Russian President Vladimir Putin yesterday said that he does not want his country to return to the late Soviet-era practice of having lifelong rulers. Most of these rulers died in power without a proper succession strategy.

Putin made the comments while addressing the veterans of World War Two in St Petersburg.

Recently, he shook up the cabinet which led to the resignation of Dmitry Medvedev as prime minister along with his government.

After this, Mikhail Mishustin, the head of the country's tax service was chosen as the prime minister. More members of the cabinet will be announced shortly.

Putin's recent changes in the Russian polity triggered fears of the president trying to indefinitely extend his power. The constitutional amendment put forth by Putin would create new centres of power outside of the presidency.

<h6><img alt="iii" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="063c6bc3-82b1-4ffb-b139-d80ad5da5d7e" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Untitled%20design_48.jpg" /> 
Image:&nbsp;Russian President Vladimir Putin (R) visits a 3D panorama ‘Memory speaks. The road through the war’ in St Petersburg on January 18, 2020, as part of the 75th anniversary since the Leningrad siege was lifted during the World War Two. Putin attended events marking the 77th anniversary of the break of Nazi's siege of Leningrad. The Red Army broke the nearly 900-day blockade of the city on January 19, 1943 after fierce fighting | AFP 
&nbsp;</h6>

Putin has dominated the Russian political landscape as president or as prime minister for the last two decades. His current term terminates in 2024.

Many critics believe that Putin wants to exercise power over Russia even after his term ends. 
 
The president had also earlier said that he wants to limit the maximum terms of any presidents to two. However, he is himself serving his fourth term.

&nbsp;"As regards (presidential) terms for staying in power I understand ... that (concern over this) is linked for many people with worries about societal, state and domestic and external stability'', Putin said.

"But it would be very worrying to return to the situation we had in the mid-1980s when state leaders stayed in power, one by one, until the end of their days and left office without ensuring the necessary conditions for a transition of power. So thanks, but I think it would be better not to return to that situation", he added.

<h6><img alt="iii" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="13c82de3-9c5a-4b01-ab1e-eeeee6ea051d" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Untitled%20design%20%281%29_55.jpg" /> 
Image:&nbsp;Russian President Vladimir Putin attends a wreath laying commemoration ceremony for the 75th anniversary since the Leningrad siege was lifted during the World War Two at the Boundary Stone monument, around 50 kilometers east of Saint Petersburg on January 18, 2020. The Russian city of St. Petersburg, then called Leningrad, marked the 75th anniversary of the end of the devastating WWII siege by Nazi forces, lasted 872 days until the Soviet Army drove the Nazis away on January 27, 1944 | AFP 
&nbsp;</h6>

Putin was alluding to the late Soviet period whereby senior leaders like Leonid Brezhnev, Yuri Andropov and Konstantin Chernenko all died in office. This was usually followed by attempts to grab power by others.&nbsp;

Could Putin be suggesting that he does not intend to return as president after his term ends?

Many believe that Putin would continue to wield influence behind the scenes.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/mikhail-mishustin-tax-service-head-and-hockey-player-picked-by-putin-as-russian-pm-274590">Mikhail Mishustin -&nbsp;Tax Service head and Hockey player picked by Putin as Russian PM</a>

(With inputs from Reuters)

Russian President Vladimir Putin yesterday said that he does not want his country to return to the late Soviet-era practice of having lifelong rulers. Most of these rulers died in power without a proper succession strategy.

Russian President Vladimir Putin yesterday said that he does not want his country to return to the late Soviet-era practice of having lifelong rulers. Most of these rulers died in power without a proper succession strategy. Putin made the comments while addressing the veterans of World War Two in St Petersburg. Recently, he shook up the cabinet which led to the resignation of Dmitry Medvedev as prime minister along with his government. After this, Mikhail Mishustin, the head of the country's tax service was chosen as the prime minister. More members of the cabinet will be announced shortly. Putin's recent changes in the Russian polity triggered fears of the president trying to indefinitely extend his power. The constitutional amendment put forth by Putin would create new centres of power outside of the presidency. Image: Russian President Vladimir Putin (R) visits a 3D panorama ‘Memory speaks. The road through the war’ in St Petersburg on January 18, 2020, as part of the 75th anniversary since the Leningrad siege was lifted during the World War Two. Putin attended events marking the 77th anniversary of the break of Nazi's siege of Leningrad. The Red Army broke the nearly 900-day blockade of the city on January 19, 1943 after fierce fighting | AFP Putin has dominated the Russian political landscape as president or as prime minister for the last two decades. His current term terminates in 2024. Many critics believe that Putin wants to exercise power over Russia even after his term ends. The president had also earlier said that he wants to limit the maximum terms of any presidents to two. However, he is himself serving his fourth term. "As regards (presidential) terms for staying in power I understand ... that (concern over this) is linked for many people with worries about societal, state and domestic and external stability'', Putin said. "But it would be very worrying to return to the situation we had in the mid-1980s when state leaders stayed in power, one by one, until the end of their days and left office without ensuring the necessary conditions for a transition of power. So thanks, but I think it would be better not to return to that situation", he added. Image: Russian President Vladimir Putin attends a wreath laying commemoration ceremony for the 75th anniversary since the Leningrad siege was lifted during the World War Two at the Boundary Stone monument, around 50 kilometers east of Saint Petersburg on January 18, 2020. The Russian city of St. Petersburg, then called Leningrad, marked the 75th anniversary of the end of the devastating WWII siege by Nazi forces, lasted 872 days until the Soviet Army drove the Nazis away on January 27, 1944 | AFP Putin was alluding to the late Soviet period whereby senior leaders like Leonid Brezhnev, Yuri Andropov and Konstantin Chernenko all died in office. This was usually followed by attempts to grab power by others. Could Putin be suggesting that he does not intend to return as president after his term ends? Many believe that Putin would continue to wield influence behind the scenes. Also read: Mikhail Mishustin - Tax Service head and Hockey player picked by Putin as Russian PM (With inputs from Reuters)

Putin rejects idea of Soviet-style lifelong leaders for Russia while addressing war veterans

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Sergei Lavrov, the foreign minister of Russia, recently delivered an address in Delhi. Lavrov is arguably the second most powerful politician in Russia.&nbsp;

He ended his speech with the line - "India and Russia share a special privileged strategic partnership. I hope that our Indian friends will be promoting the same ideology'.

In response, India's external affairs minister S Jaishankar called the India-Russia relationship - 'steady' and 'sustained by strong sentiment'.

These words make it clear that the old friendship, sometimes described as adrift, still remains strong.

So how does India see the shakeup in Russia? How does India see&nbsp;Vladimir Putin's attempt to remain in power and what does it mean for the relationship?

India has a remarkable history of democracy. Will that reputation be hurt by siding with leaders with authoritarian streaks? And what about China - the only thorn in India-Russia ties?

WATCH - on the Wion edit, we will discuss all of these questions.

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Putin is poised to stay in power for a long time. This change is being done in-line with the democratic traditions of Russia and the move should bring some stability in Russia and that is good news for India.

If Putin wields absolute power, he threatens Russia's democracy, but that is something for the Russian people to decide and not India.

The only concern for India in its equation with Russia is China, which&nbsp;has been a traditional, historical and ideological ally of the Kremlin.

Last year, Xi Jinping, the Chinese President even called Putin 'his best and bosom friend'.

In the past, the Russia-China relationship has blown hot and cold, there was a border dispute which ran for many decades. China did not help Russia's efforts to build its might in West Asia.

Given this friction, Russia viewed India as leverage against a rapidly rising China. It even pushed for India's inclusion in the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO). But a lot has changed since then.

The world saw a financial crisis. Russia annexed Crimea from Ukraine. Russia's economy dwindled. Beijing and Moscow came closer. Financial help from China was a major reason for Russia's recovery from the 2008 crisis.

Since then, Russia and China have expanded their ties. As of 2017, Russia's top export and import destination is China.

China invests ten times more in Russia than Russia invests in China. Last year, Russia even dumped $100 billion from its reserves.&nbsp;Kremlin holds 25 per cent of the total yuan reserves in the world.

In comparison, India and Russia have strong defence ties - 70 per cent of India's defence supplies still come from Russia

Four months ago, during Prime Minister Narendra Modi's visit to Vladivostok in Russia, Putin insisted on an alliance with China and India.

In fact, he's looking at joint alliances with India, China and Turkey to counter the US influence in the region.

But India and China have their own contradictions - the same for India and Turkey, and hence, New Delhi should see Putin's continuity in office and his growing closeness with China in this perspective too.

By the way, it's unlikely that Putin will have his way without any resistance in Russia.

Eight years ago, when 'Prime Minister' Putin swapped his job with the then-President Dmitry Medvedev, large street protests broke out on the streets of Moscow.

Now, the opposition is more visible and active in Russia than it was in 2012. India has a serious task at hand and it must assert itself in Indo-Pacific and prevent China from disrupting the India-Russia relationship. 
 
(Disclaimer: WION Edit is the channel's take on the big events of the world)&nbsp;

Sergei Lavrov, the foreign minister of Russia, recently delivered an address in Delhi. Lavrov is arguably the second most powerful politician in Russia. He ended his speech with the line - "India and Russia share a special privileged strategic partnership.

Sergei Lavrov, the foreign minister of Russia, recently delivered an address in Delhi. Lavrov is arguably the second most powerful politician in Russia. He ended his speech with the line - "India and Russia share a special privileged strategic partnership. I hope that our Indian friends will be promoting the same ideology'. In response, India's external affairs minister S Jaishankar called the India-Russia relationship - 'steady' and 'sustained by strong sentiment'. These words make it clear that the old friendship, sometimes described as adrift, still remains strong. So how does India see the shakeup in Russia? How does India see Vladimir Putin's attempt to remain in power and what does it mean for the relationship? India has a remarkable history of democracy. Will that reputation be hurt by siding with leaders with authoritarian streaks? And what about China - the only thorn in India-Russia ties? WATCH - on the Wion edit, we will discuss all of these questions. × Putin is poised to stay in power for a long time. This change is being done in-line with the democratic traditions of Russia and the move should bring some stability in Russia and that is good news for India. If Putin wields absolute power, he threatens Russia's democracy, but that is something for the Russian people to decide and not India. The only concern for India in its equation with Russia is China, which has been a traditional, historical and ideological ally of the Kremlin. Last year, Xi Jinping, the Chinese President even called Putin 'his best and bosom friend'. In the past, the Russia-China relationship has blown hot and cold, there was a border dispute which ran for many decades. China did not help Russia's efforts to build its might in West Asia. Given this friction, Russia viewed India as leverage against a rapidly rising China. It even pushed for India's inclusion in the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO). But a lot has changed since then. The world saw a financial crisis. Russia annexed Crimea from Ukraine. Russia's economy dwindled. Beijing and Moscow came closer. Financial help from China was a major reason for Russia's recovery from the 2008 crisis. Since then, Russia and China have expanded their ties. As of 2017, Russia's top export and import destination is China. China invests ten times more in Russia than Russia invests in China. Last year, Russia even dumped $100 billion from its reserves. Kremlin holds 25 per cent of the total yuan reserves in the world. In comparison, India and Russia have strong defence ties - 70 per cent of India's defence supplies still come from Russia Four months ago, during Prime Minister Narendra Modi's visit to Vladivostok in Russia, Putin insisted on an alliance with China and India. In fact, he's looking at joint alliances with India, China and Turkey to counter the US influence in the region. But India and China have their own contradictions - the same for India and Turkey, and hence, New Delhi should see Putin's continuity in office and his growing closeness with China in this perspective too. By the way, it's unlikely that Putin will have his way without any resistance in Russia. Eight years ago, when 'Prime Minister' Putin swapped his job with the then-President Dmitry Medvedev, large street protests broke out on the streets of Moscow. Now, the opposition is more visible and active in Russia than it was in 2012. India has a serious task at hand and it must assert itself in Indo-Pacific and prevent China from disrupting the India-Russia relationship. (Disclaimer: WION Edit is the channel's take on the big events of the world)

WION Edit: Is China the only thorn in India-Russia ties?

Mikhail Mishustin, the man likely to be Russia's next prime minister after President Vladimir Putin proposed him on Wednesday, is a little-known figure to the wider public who has headed the country's tax service for a decade.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/now-putin-proposes-referendum-to-boost-russian-parliaments-powers-274453">Also Read: Now, Putin proposes referendum to boost Russian parliament's powers</a>

The 53-year-old Muscovite trained as an engineer and has a PhD in economics, according to his official biography.

He was appointed head of the tax service in 2010 after being proposed by then-finance minister Alexei Kudrin, known for his outspoken liberal stance.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russian-pm-medvedev-resigns-after-putin-proposes-to-boost-parliaments-powers-274458">Also read: PM Medvedev's Russian government resigns after Putin proposes to boost Parliament's powers</a> 
&nbsp;

He has been in the post ever since and is praised for streamlining the service formerly notorious for red tape, mountains of paperwork and long queues.

After Putin proposed Mishustin, Rossiya-24 state television reported that he "created the best tax collection system in the world."

He was picked as premier to create a "more competent leadership," Dmitri Trenin, head of the Carnegie Moscow Centre, wrote on Twitter.

Mishustin is a "neutral figure" and his candidacy cannot be linked to any "ideological platform," political analyst Ekaterina Schulmann told AFP, adding she doubted he is being groomed as a successor to President Vladimir Putin.

While Putin has criticised the internet and is rarely shown using technology, Mishustin has said Russia needs to adapt its economy, making him closer to predecessor Dmitry Medvedev, a keen user of Apple products.

Mishustin told the Kommersant newspaper last year that Russia needs to adapt to the era of digital technology and artificial intelligence or fall behind.&nbsp;

"We are entering a fourth industrial revolution, this is already a digital world," he said.

"If we don't understand how this world is developing and what its rules are, if we insist our country is part of the old order, this new world will make us its victim."

'Avid hockey player'

Mishustin shares a sporting interest with Putin, as he "regularly plays ice hockey," said state news agency RIA Novosti.

He is a member of the supervisory council of CSKA hockey club, along with Rosneft chief Igor Sechin and other powerful figures.

The RBK business newspaper reported in 2010 that Mishustin has "good contacts in the law enforcement structures. He has often been seen at hockey matches with senior officials from the FSB (security service) and the interior ministry."

While much of his career has been at the tax service, he started out in the 1990s heading an organisation set up to promote international cooperation in computing.

He became deputy head of the tax service in 1998 and shortly afterwards was appointed deputy tax minister, a position he held until 2004. After that, he headed federal agencies that worked on the property and special economic zones.

From 2008 for two years he was president of UFG Asset Management, an international group that has been investing in Russia and other ex-Soviet states since 1996. Deutsche Bank set up a joint venture with the company in 2008.

He reportedly speaks several foreign languages.

Forbes Russia listed him as the 54th best-paid state official in 2015 with earnings of 183.31 million rubles (around $3 million at the current exchange rate).

Mikhail Mishustin, the man likely to be Russia's next prime minister after President Vladimir Putin proposed him on Wednesday, is a little-known figure to the wider public who has headed the country's tax service for a decade.

Mikhail Mishustin, the man likely to be Russia's next prime minister after President Vladimir Putin proposed him on Wednesday, is a little-known figure to the wider public who has headed the country's tax service for a decade. Also Read: Now, Putin proposes referendum to boost Russian parliament's powers The 53-year-old Muscovite trained as an engineer and has a PhD in economics, according to his official biography. He was appointed head of the tax service in 2010 after being proposed by then-finance minister Alexei Kudrin, known for his outspoken liberal stance. Also read: PM Medvedev's Russian government resigns after Putin proposes to boost Parliament's powers He has been in the post ever since and is praised for streamlining the service formerly notorious for red tape, mountains of paperwork and long queues. After Putin proposed Mishustin, Rossiya-24 state television reported that he "created the best tax collection system in the world." He was picked as premier to create a "more competent leadership," Dmitri Trenin, head of the Carnegie Moscow Centre, wrote on Twitter. Mishustin is a "neutral figure" and his candidacy cannot be linked to any "ideological platform," political analyst Ekaterina Schulmann told AFP, adding she doubted he is being groomed as a successor to President Vladimir Putin. While Putin has criticised the internet and is rarely shown using technology, Mishustin has said Russia needs to adapt its economy, making him closer to predecessor Dmitry Medvedev, a keen user of Apple products. Mishustin told the Kommersant newspaper last year that Russia needs to adapt to the era of digital technology and artificial intelligence or fall behind. "We are entering a fourth industrial revolution, this is already a digital world," he said. "If we don't understand how this world is developing and what its rules are, if we insist our country is part of the old order, this new world will make us its victim." 'Avid hockey player' Mishustin shares a sporting interest with Putin, as he "regularly plays ice hockey," said state news agency RIA Novosti. He is a member of the supervisory council of CSKA hockey club, along with Rosneft chief Igor Sechin and other powerful figures. The RBK business newspaper reported in 2010 that Mishustin has "good contacts in the law enforcement structures. He has often been seen at hockey matches with senior officials from the FSB (security service) and the interior ministry." While much of his career has been at the tax service, he started out in the 1990s heading an organisation set up to promote international cooperation in computing. He became deputy head of the tax service in 1998 and shortly afterwards was appointed deputy tax minister, a position he held until 2004. After that, he headed federal agencies that worked on the property and special economic zones. From 2008 for two years he was president of UFG Asset Management, an international group that has been investing in Russia and other ex-Soviet states since 1996. Deutsche Bank set up a joint venture with the company in 2008. He reportedly speaks several foreign languages. Forbes Russia listed him as the 54th best-paid state official in 2015 with earnings of 183.31 million rubles (around $3 million at the current exchange rate).

Mikhail Mishustin: Tax Service head and Hockey player picked by Putin as Russian PM

Over the last 2 decades, there has been only one static feature in global politics. Russia's President Vladimir Putin has been the power centre in Russia. With the plans to rejig the country's constitution, Putin might consolidate his absolute power. WION's Palki Sharma explains.

Gravitas: Big power play by Vladimir Putin?

How does India view the changing political dynamics in Russia? How does India view it? India has a rich tradition of democracy. Will that reputation be hurt by siding with Putin? Is China the only thorn in India-Russia ties. On #WionEdit, Palki Sharma explores.

Wion Edit: Is China the only thorn in India-Russia ties?

Russian President Vladimir Putin nominated Mikhail Mishustin, a 53-year-old chief of the Russian Federal Tax Service for the position of Russian prime minister after Dmitry Medvedev resigned on January 15. Watch report:

WION Dispatch: Putin appoints Mikhail Mishustin as PM of Russia

A day after President Putin named Mikhail Mishustin as the new prime minister of the country, the Parliament members approved his candidacy.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/mikhail-mishustin-tax-service-head-and-hockey-player-picked-by-putin-as-russian-pm-274590">Also Read:&nbsp;Mikhail Mishustin: Tax Service head and Hockey player picked by Putin as Russian PM</a>

All MPs voted in Mishustin's favour with Communist MPs abstaining.

Mishusti, 53, who is the head of the tax service had said, "People should already now be feeling real changes for the better, so far this is happening far from everywhere."

Watch Video:

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"To develop further and ensure further growth of GDP we need primarily to stimulate the growth of investment... to restore trust that has perhaps been lost between the authorities and business," he said, adding that he was open "constructive criticism".

Putin had shocked the nation on Wednesday after abruptly proposing new powers were&nbsp;needed for the Russian Parliament leading to the resignation of now caretaker PM Medvedev, who is one of Putin's oldest allies and served as president from 2008 to 2012.

In a speech, Putin said constitutional changes were needed which would give more powers to the country's Parliament allowing the lawmakers to choose the prime minister and cabinet.

Putin is due to step down as president in 2024, according to Russian law, a president cannot serve more than two terms. Putin returned to the presidency in 2012 after a stint as prime minister.

Russia goes to the polls in 2021 with all eyes on Putin's next move.

A day after President Putin named Mikhail Mishustin as the new prime minister of the country, the Parliament members approved his candidacy. Also Read: Mikhail Mishustin: Tax Service head and Hockey player picked by Putin as Russian PM All MPs voted in Mishustin's favour with Communist MPs abstaining.

A day after President Putin named Mikhail Mishustin as the new prime minister of the country, the Parliament members approved his candidacy. Also Read: Mikhail Mishustin: Tax Service head and Hockey player picked by Putin as Russian PM All MPs voted in Mishustin's favour with Communist MPs abstaining. Mishusti, 53, who is the head of the tax service had said, "People should already now be feeling real changes for the better, so far this is happening far from everywhere." Watch Video: "To develop further and ensure further growth of GDP we need primarily to stimulate the growth of investment... to restore trust that has perhaps been lost between the authorities and business," he said, adding that he was open "constructive criticism". Putin had shocked the nation on Wednesday after abruptly proposing new powers were needed for the Russian Parliament leading to the resignation of now caretaker PM Medvedev, who is one of Putin's oldest allies and served as president from 2008 to 2012. In a speech, Putin said constitutional changes were needed which would give more powers to the country's Parliament allowing the lawmakers to choose the prime minister and cabinet. Putin is due to step down as president in 2024, according to Russian law, a president cannot serve more than two terms. Putin returned to the presidency in 2012 after a stint as prime minister. Russia goes to the polls in 2021 with all eyes on Putin's next move.

Russian lawmakers overwhelmingly approve Mikhail Mishustin as PM

WION Speed News: Watch top national and international news of the morning - January 16, 2020

The entire Russian government has resigned. Prime Minister Dmitry Medvedev, along with his cabinet has called it quits. The comes after Russian President Vladimir Putin's proposal to make major changes to the Russian constitution. WION's Palki Sharma explains.

Gravitas: Russian government resigns as Putin proposes constitutional rejig

WION Speed News: Watch top national and international news of the morning - January 15, 2020

Russian Prime Minister Dmitry Medvedev resigned today shortly after Russian President Vladimir Putin proposed a referendum to give the Parliament more powers to choose the prime minister in a speech.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/now-putin-proposes-referendum-to-boost-russian-parliaments-powers-274453">Also Read: Now, Putin proposes referendum to boost Russian parliament's powers</a>

Medvedev said the proposals would make significant changes to the country's balance of power and so "the government in its current form has resigned."

Medvedev made the surprise announcement on Russia's state TV while sitting next to Putin who thanked him for his work.

The Russian prime minister submitted his resignation to President Putin, reports said.&nbsp;"All further decisions will be taken by the president," Medvedev stated.

Putin named Mikhail Mishustin, Russia's head of tax service as a replacement for Medvedev.

In a speech, the Russian president had said, "It was necessary to conduct a vote by the country's citizens on an entire package of proposed amendments to the country's constitution."

Putin, 67, is set to step down as president in 2024 with Russia set for parliamentary elections in 2021. Under the Russian constitution, a person cannot serve more than two successive presidential terms.

In December, during a marathon press conference, the Russian president had dropped broad hints that he might not seek another term in 2024.

Russian Prime Minister Dmitry Medvedev resigned today shortly after Russian President Vladimir Putin proposed a referendum to give the Parliament more powers to choose the prime minister in a speech.

Russian Prime Minister Dmitry Medvedev resigned today shortly after Russian President Vladimir Putin proposed a referendum to give the Parliament more powers to choose the prime minister in a speech. Also Read: Now, Putin proposes referendum to boost Russian parliament's powers Medvedev said the proposals would make significant changes to the country's balance of power and so "the government in its current form has resigned." Medvedev made the surprise announcement on Russia's state TV while sitting next to Putin who thanked him for his work. The Russian prime minister submitted his resignation to President Putin, reports said. "All further decisions will be taken by the president," Medvedev stated. Putin named Mikhail Mishustin, Russia's head of tax service as a replacement for Medvedev. In a speech, the Russian president had said, "It was necessary to conduct a vote by the country's citizens on an entire package of proposed amendments to the country's constitution." Putin, 67, is set to step down as president in 2024 with Russia set for parliamentary elections in 2021. Under the Russian constitution, a person cannot serve more than two successive presidential terms. In December, during a marathon press conference, the Russian president had dropped broad hints that he might not seek another term in 2024.

PM Medvedev's Russian government resigns after Putin proposes to boost Parliament's powers

Russian Prime Minister Dmitry Medvedev submitted his resignation to President Vladimir Putin on January 15. Putin thanked Medvedev for his service but noted that the prime minister's Cabinet failed to fulfil all the objectives set for it. Medvedev has served as Russia's prime minister since 2012. He spent four years before that as president in 2008-2012.

Fineprint: Russian PM resigns after Putin plans sweeping constitutional changes

Russian President Vladimir Putin today proposed a referendum to give the Parliament more powers to choose the prime minister in a speech, a move which could have far-reaching consequences for the country's future.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russian-president-putin-inaugurates-rail-route-to-annexed-crimea-269804">Also Read:&nbsp;Russian President Putin inaugurates rail route to annexed Crimea</a>

"I consider it necessary to conduct a vote by the country's citizens on an entire package of proposed amendments to the country's constitution," Putin said, adding, "We will be able to build a strong prosperous Russia only on the basis of respect for public opinion."

"Together we will certainly change life for the better," he added.

Putin, 67, is set to step down as president in 2024 with Russia set for parliamentary elections in 2021. Under the Russian constitution, a person cannot serve more than two successive presidential terms.

"Russia must remain a strong presidential republic," Putin said.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/president-putin-has-lied-about-poland-on-numerous-occasions-pm-mateusz-morawiecki-271197">Read More: President Putin has lied about Poland on numerous occasions, says PM Mateusz Morawiecki</a> 
&nbsp;&nbsp; 
In December, during a marathon press conference, the Russian president had dropped broad hints that he might not seek another term in 2024.

"Your humble servant served two successive terms and then stepped down and had the constitutional right to return to the post of president," he said, adding, "but some of our political scientists and activists do not like this and maybe this could be removed, possibly."

“One thing that could be changed about these (presidential) terms is removing the clause about 'successive' (terms)," Putin said.

The Russian presidency was handed to Putin by Boris Yeltsin in 1999, the Russian leader served as president from 2000 to 2008 and then as premier from 2000 to 2012 and then returned as president in 2019.

Russian President Vladimir Putin today proposed a referendum to give the Parliament more powers to choose the prime minister in a speech, a move which could have far-reaching consequences for the country's future.

Russian President Vladimir Putin today proposed a referendum to give the Parliament more powers to choose the prime minister in a speech, a move which could have far-reaching consequences for the country's future. Also Read: Russian President Putin inaugurates rail route to annexed Crimea "I consider it necessary to conduct a vote by the country's citizens on an entire package of proposed amendments to the country's constitution," Putin said, adding, "We will be able to build a strong prosperous Russia only on the basis of respect for public opinion." "Together we will certainly change life for the better," he added. Putin, 67, is set to step down as president in 2024 with Russia set for parliamentary elections in 2021. Under the Russian constitution, a person cannot serve more than two successive presidential terms. "Russia must remain a strong presidential republic," Putin said. Read More: President Putin has lied about Poland on numerous occasions, says PM Mateusz Morawiecki In December, during a marathon press conference, the Russian president had dropped broad hints that he might not seek another term in 2024. "Your humble servant served two successive terms and then stepped down and had the constitutional right to return to the post of president," he said, adding, "but some of our political scientists and activists do not like this and maybe this could be removed, possibly." “One thing that could be changed about these (presidential) terms is removing the clause about 'successive' (terms)," Putin said. The Russian presidency was handed to Putin by Boris Yeltsin in 1999, the Russian leader served as president from 2000 to 2008 and then as premier from 2000 to 2012 and then returned as president in 2019.

Now, Putin proposes referendum to boost Russian parliament's powers

The World is One News, WION examines global issues with in-depth analysis. We provide much more than the news of the day. Our aim is to empower people to explore their world. #WION #WIONspeednews #Australia #China #Iran #US

WION Speed News: Watch top national and international news of the morning - January 14, 2020

The World is One News, WION examines global issues with in-depth analysis. We provide much more than the news of the day. Our aim is to empower people to explore their world. #WION

WION Speed News: Watch top national and international news of the morning - January 13, 2020

Russian President Vladimir Putin visited Syria on Tuesday and met with officials including President Bashar Assad.

Putin's West Asia tour; Meets Syrian Prez, Iran's key ally Assad

In less than a month after President Putin said "nobody knows what causes climate change", the Russian government admitted that climate change has had a "prominent and increasing effect" on people's lives.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/nobody-knows-origins-of-global-climate-change-putin-in-annual-press-conference-269149">Also Read:&nbsp;Nobody knows origins of global climate change, says&nbsp;Putin</a>

The Russian government now aims to "use the advantages" of warmer temperatures.

The document which was published in&nbsp;Russia's government website informs that climate change leads to increased risks to health and also increases the prospect of natural disasters while pushing animals from their natural habitat.

According to the report, the government planned to lower the losses of climate change with measures which included building dams and encouraging the use of drought-resistant crops.

Last month, Russian President Putin while addressing his year-end press conference had said: "Nobody knows the origins of global climate change," adding, "we know that in the history of our Earth there have been periods of warming and cooling and it could depend on processes in the universe."

"A small angle in the axis in the rotation of the Earth or its orbit around the Sun could push the planet into serious climate changes," Putin told 1,800 journalists gathered at the Moscow press conference.

Putin, however, added that the country "must undertake maximum efforts to ensure that the climate does not change dramatically."

"For our country, this process is very serious," he said. "We will undertake efforts to minimise the consequences for our country," Putin asserted.

Putin has repeatedly said climate change was due to man-made emissions while denying several scientific data.

Russia had adopted the Paris climate accord in September last year even as the US pulled out.

UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres had said last month that he was disappointed with the results of COP25, calling it a "lost opportunity".

In less than a month after President Putin said "nobody knows what causes climate change", the Russian government admitted that climate change has had a "prominent and increasing effect" on people's lives.

In less than a month after President Putin said "nobody knows what causes climate change", the Russian government admitted that climate change has had a "prominent and increasing effect" on people's lives. Also Read: Nobody knows origins of global climate change, says Putin The Russian government now aims to "use the advantages" of warmer temperatures. The document which was published in Russia's government website informs that climate change leads to increased risks to health and also increases the prospect of natural disasters while pushing animals from their natural habitat. According to the report, the government planned to lower the losses of climate change with measures which included building dams and encouraging the use of drought-resistant crops. Last month, Russian President Putin while addressing his year-end press conference had said: "Nobody knows the origins of global climate change," adding, "we know that in the history of our Earth there have been periods of warming and cooling and it could depend on processes in the universe." "A small angle in the axis in the rotation of the Earth or its orbit around the Sun could push the planet into serious climate changes," Putin told 1,800 journalists gathered at the Moscow press conference. Putin, however, added that the country "must undertake maximum efforts to ensure that the climate does not change dramatically." "For our country, this process is very serious," he said. "We will undertake efforts to minimise the consequences for our country," Putin asserted. Putin has repeatedly said climate change was due to man-made emissions while denying several scientific data. Russia had adopted the Paris climate accord in September last year even as the US pulled out. UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres had said last month that he was disappointed with the results of COP25, calling it a "lost opportunity".

Now, Russia unveils new climate plan

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