MOSCOW - Russian President Vladimir Putin formed his new cabinet Tuesday, days after he fast-tracked sweeping reforms to the country's constitution that could keep him in power well past the end of his term in 2024.
The shake-up includes appointing his economic adviser Andrei Belousov as first deputy prime minister and naming eight other deputy prime ministers. Prosecutor General Yuri Chaika was dismissed and replaced with Igor Krasnov.
Others who lost their jobs include economics minister Maxim Oreshkin, sports minister Pavel Kolobkov, health minister Veronika Skvortsova and culture minister Vladimir Medinsky.
Kolobkov was replaced with Oleg Matytsin, who served as president of the International University Sports Federation, which often works closely with Olympic sports bodies. His connections could be important as Russia appeals against a ban on its name and flag at events like the Olympics over doping-related issues.
Putin, 67, called the new cabinet "well-balanced" during a meeting with its new members.
“The most important tasks are to increase the well-being of our people and to strengthen our state and its global standing,” he said.
He suggested the constitution should give parliament a greater say over cabinet appointments and strengthen his presidential powers. Critics have denounced the move, which hasn't triggered public outrage.
He also suggested that the constitution must specify the authority of the State Council, an advisory body that consists of regional governors and top federal officials. Observers say that the proposed changes could allow him to stay in charge by shifting into the position of the State Council’s head. (Fox News)