Russia's President Vladimir Putin chairs a joint meeting of the country's State Council and the Council for Strategic Development and National Projects via a video conference call at the Novo-Ogaryovo state residence outside Moscow, Russia December 23, 2020. SPUTNIK/MIKHAIL KLIMENTYEV/KREMLIN
MOSCOW, Dec 30 (Reuters) - President Vladimir Putin signed an array of laws on Wednesday handing Russia new powers to restrict U.S. social media giants, label individuals "foreign agents", and to crack down on the disclosure of its security officers' personal data.
The laws, which also introduce new restrictions for protests, cap a year of constitutional reforms allowing Putin, 68, to stand for two more six-year terms in the Kremlin instead of stepping down in 2024 as he had been legally required to do.
Other reforms such as one granting former presidents lifelong immunity from prosecution have kept analysts guessing about his plans as Moscow's ties with the West have come under new strain over the poisoning of Kremlin critic Alexei Navalny.
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WNU Editor: In Putin's mind the law that gives him lifelong immunity from prosecution is the important one. That law is also an indication that Putin is already thinking of retirement. Not surprising. He has already admitted that the past year has been a tough one .... Outgoing year was difficult, its burden was several years’ worth, says Putin (TASS).
More News On New Laws In Russia
New Online Restrictions and Sobering-Up Stations: Putin Signs Slew of New Laws -- Moscow Times Putin signs law banning funding of rallies from abroad -- TASS
Putin Signs Controversial ‘Foreign Agent’ Law Expansion -- Moscow Times
