Putin dissolves government, new prime minister expected

Three months in advance of a scheduled parliamentary election, President Vladimir Putin has today dissolved the Russian government.

Three months in advance of a scheduled parliamentary election, President Vladimir Putin has today dissolved the Russian government.

The surprise move is expected to result in a new Russian prime minister who will succeed Putin when he steps down in the spring.

Media are speculating that First Deputy Prime Minister Sergei Ivanov may be chosen by Putin for that role.

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About the Author: David Helwig

David Helwig's journalism career spans seven decades beginning in the 1960s. His work has been recognized with national and international awards.