Putin leaves open the possibility of running for Russian president in 2018

Mr. Putin has not yet decided whether to run for re-election as Russian president in 2018.

Russian President Vladimir Putin during a talk with students in Sochi on July 21. Photo: AP.

Russian President Vladimir Putin said on July 21 that he had not yet decided whether to run for re-election in 2018 but promised not to amend the constitution to stay in office indefinitely, according to Reuters.

"Do I need to continue working in this role? I haven't decided yet," Mr. Putin said during a question-and-answer session with schoolchildren at a meeting in the Black Sea city of Sochi. "I haven't decided yet whether to leave the presidency. After I resolve that issue, I will think about what to do next."

When asked whether he had in mind a worthy successor, President Putin did not name anyone, affirming that this choice depends on the Russian people.

Many political commentators believe that Mr. Putin may change the constitution to serve another term beyond 2024. However, the Russian President has rejected this possibility.

"I had the chance, they even asked me to change the constitution. But I didn't do it and I won't do it in the future," he affirmed.

In addition, the Russian President also answered a series of non-political questions during his talk with the students, such as what he usually does in his free time or about memorable memories from his childhood.

President Putin has held a prominent position in Russian politics for the past 17 years and has a very high approval rating from voters. He is expected to run for re-election and win easily in the Russian presidential election in March next year.

According to VNE