Russian President Putin asked Medvedev to remain in office until new government is formed • Russian media reports that Putin plans to appoint him as Vice Presidential Security Council

• Russian Prime Minister Dmitry Medvedev // Photo: Reuters

Drama in Russia: Prime Minister Dmitry Medvedev on Wednesday submitted his resignation to Russian President Vladimir Putin, the news agency Tass reported.

The Times reports that Medvedev's resignation followed a speech given by Putin in which he proposed to change the constitution and extend the powers of prime ministers and members. The move is seen as an attempt by Putin to create a new position in the Russian political leadership ahead of his term as president in 2024. In a report by Reuters, it is stated that Medvedev announced that his government is resigning to allow President Putin to amend the constitution.

Russian media reported that Putin thanked Medvedev for his service, but noted that the resigning prime minister was unable to reach all his targets. It was also reported that Putin plans to appoint Medvedev as the Vice Presidential Security Council. At the same time, according to various media outlets, Putin asked Medvedev to continue his term until a new government was formed.

Medvedev, considered a longtime close associate of Putin, began serving as Russian Prime Minister in 2012. Previously, he served as Russian President from 2012-2008.