Russia: New constitutional changes suggested with Putin's
A meeting Thursday chaired by President Vladimir Putin on amending the Russian Constitution featured proposed changes on a variety of topics, ranging from the protection of traditional values to the country's status as a nuclear power.
Putin raised the idea of constitutional amendments last month, and lawmakers quickly gave tentative approval to his proposals for granting extra powers to parliament while maintaining a strong presidential authority.
His proposed changes were widely seen as part of Putin's efforts to extend his grip on power after his current presidential term ends in 2024. The drafts don't reveal what position he might take next.
