SUCCESSION

Putin Endorsed as Next President of Russia

Could extend his rule to 2024.

After a brief stint as prime minister, it seems Vladimir Putin could once again be president of Russia. Current President Dmitry Medvedev recommended Putin, currently the prime minister, as his party's presidential candidate for 2012. He has worked for more than a decade to consolidate Russian power, and could now extend his rule until 2024. Putin left the presidency to become prime minister four years ago after running up against term limits. Taking the stage, Putin promised strong economic growth, but also said that he would do away with his popular flat tax in favor of a higher tax on the wealthy, reflecting a growing discontent in Russia with income inequality.