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January 15, 2020

The Russian government has resigned in full. This was announced by Prime Minister Dmitri Medvedev, citing article 117 of the Constitution.

President Vladimir Putin instructed the outgoing government to fulfill its obligations until the formation of a new cabinet.

Russian news agencies report that Putin thanked Medvedev for his service, but noted that the prime minister's cabinet did not achieve all its goals. Putin plans to appoint Medvedev to head the presidential Security Council.

Medvedev, Putin's longtime close associate, has been Prime Minister of Russia since 2012. He spent four years earlier as president in 2008-2012.

The prime minister's resignation follows Putin's annual annual state of the nation speech. During the speech, the Russian leader proposed to modify the constitution to increase the powers of prime ministers and members of the government. The proposed move is seen as part of Putin's efforts to carve out a new position of power and remain at the helm. The term of office ends in 2024