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Putin accepts cabinet resignation Putin accepts cabinet resignation
(10 minutes later)
Russian President Vladimir Putin has accepted the resignation of Prime Minister Mikhail Fradkov and his entire government, the Kremlin has said.Russian President Vladimir Putin has accepted the resignation of Prime Minister Mikhail Fradkov and his entire government, the Kremlin has said.
Mr Fradkov offered to resign, citing "approaching significant political events", said Tass news agency.Mr Fradkov offered to resign, citing "approaching significant political events", said Tass news agency.
He said he wanted to give President Putin "full freedom of decision including staff decisions", Tass said.He said he wanted to give President Putin "full freedom of decision including staff decisions", Tass said.
Analysts say Deputy Prime Minister Sergei Ivanov could now become PM, six months before a presidential election.Analysts say Deputy Prime Minister Sergei Ivanov could now become PM, six months before a presidential election.
Mr Putin has asked Mr Fradkov to stay on as acting prime minister until the Duma approves a new one, Russian NTV said.Mr Putin has asked Mr Fradkov to stay on as acting prime minister until the Duma approves a new one, Russian NTV said.
"We all have to think together how to build a structure of power so that it better corresponds to the pre-election period and prepares the country for the period after the presidential election in March," Mr Putin said in accepting Mr Fradkov's resignation.
Elections to the Duma, or parliament, are to be held in December.