President Dmitry Medvedev could decide to step down early, thus leaving Putin in power. Photo by BGNES
The Russian Duma on Wednesday voted 351-57 to approve the second reading of a bill extending the presidential term from four to six years.
Many see the bill as a step toward Vladimir Putin's return to the president's office, as President Medvedev, who proposed the law, could eventually decide to step down early.
Putin, now prime minister, is barred constitutionally from seeking a third straight term as president.
According to the former president, the move would boost Russia's democracy and does not aim at his return to power.