Russian President Vladimir Putin has announced his plans to run for reelection in 2024, a Sputnik correspondent reported on Friday.
The announcement was made during an informal conversation between Putin and participants of the special military operation.
Per a Sputnik correspondent on hand at the event, Putin announced his plans to run to Artyom Zhoga, chairman of the Donetsk People's Republic's People's Council parliament, and commander of the 80th Separate Reconnaissance Guards Battalion Sparta.
"I will speak honestly, at different times [I had] different thoughts, — but given the current developments, I will run [for president]," Putin said when asked about his candidacy.
Putin, who turned 71 on October 7, has served as the President of Russia for a total of 4 terms - from 2000-2008 (elected twice), and from 2012 till present. He also served as the Prime Minister of Russia between 2008 and 2012 while current deputy chairman of the Russian Security Council Dmitry Medvedev served as president.
If Vladimir Putin wins elections in 2024, he will be able to remain as president until the year 2030, in accordance with six year term limits that went into effect in 2012.
The election campaign in the media will start on February 17 and will last until March 15, Russian Central Election Commission (CEC) chief Ella Pamfilova said. The publication of the election programs of the parties that nominated candidates for the election should take place no later than 6 March.
Russia will certainly invite international observers, and many are already ready to accept the invitation, the CEC chief added.