MOSCOW – A senior figure in Russia’s ruling party said yesterday it wanted Prime Minister Vladimir Putin to return to the Kremlin next year, a move that could provoke conflict with President Dmitry Medvedev, who is showing stronger signs he wants a second term.
The remarks reflected increasing tension between backers of the two leaders in anticipation of a decision by Mr Putin on whether he will seek to reclaim the presidency or endorse Mr Medvedev for an election next March.
“As for the party’s position on the 2012 elections, United Russia will orient itself on its leader, Vladimir Putin,” said Yuri Shuvalov, deputy secretary of United Russia’s general council presidium.
Mr Putin, president from 2000-08, was constitutionally required to step aside after two consecutive terms in the Kremlin, and chose Mr Medvedev as successor. He can run again in next year’s election. – (Reuters)