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President Vladimir Putin of Russia proposed constitutional changes that could enable him to wield political power after his presidency ends, as his longtime ally, Prime Minister Dmitry Medvedev, unexpectedly resigned.
The changes laid out by Mr. Putin on Wednesday would limit the power of a potential successor after 2024, when he is required by law to step down. He also proposed boosting the role of the State Council, which he already heads.
As head of an empowered State Council, Mr. Putin could remain in control and guide policy after his presidential term expires.
“It’s not clear what role he will play, what will his status be. The only thing which is clear is that he will keep his role as the No. 1 person,” said Aleksei Chesnakov, a political analyst and former Kremlin aide.
Mr. Medvedev’s resignation represents the biggest shake-up in the Russian government in nearly a decade, as Mr. Putin has tried to project an image of stability despite a worsening economy and increasing layers of Western sanctions.
