Russia's Putin clarifies options but not his future

Significance

Without explicitly saying so, the proposals create a menu of options for Putin's future role now that he has made it clear he will not be president after 2024. Putin has been under pressure to make his intentions clear, especially as the established elite must fear the loss of their patron.

Impacts

• Further statements by Putin are likely to be just as ambiguous on his plans for himself and the state.
• The prospect of a weaker presidency is a setback for elite figures biding their time to make a bid.
• Once a new cabinet settles in, it will come under close scrutiny for its delivery of Putin's national development goals.