Putin to stand for fifth term as Russian president

Russian President Vladimir Putin has said he will stand again for a fifth term in office.

He spoke about his intentions during an awards ceremony for participants in the war in Ukraine.

It comes a day after officials set 15-17 March 2024 as dates for the presidential election.

Mr Putin's re-election is seen as inevitable, with opposition almost non-existent and Russian media completely under his control.

The 71 year old has already been in power in Russia longer than any ruler since Josef Stalin. A new term would see him remain as president until at least 2030.

He had been widely expected to stand again, amid huge challenges brought about by his 2022 invasion of Ukraine and resulting stand-off with the West.

He is unlikely to face any serious opposition, with most genuine opponents either dead, behind bars or in exile.