Russian president outlines political overhaul

MOSCOW — President Vladimir Putin of Russia submitted constitutional amendments Monday that empower a previously toothless advisory council as a powerful policy arbiter, setting up what could be a future role as Russia’s longterm paramount leader beyond the end of his current term in 2024.

Short on vital details, the proposed changes shed little light on Putin’s exact plans.

The amendments sharply increase the role of the State Council, turning what is currently a largely decorative body into a new locus of power that will “determine the main direction of domestic and foreign policy.”

Not specified, however, is how the council’s head will be chosen and whether the body will be subordinate to the presidency.

The council is currently chaired by Putin in his role as president.