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Tue 10 Oct 2007Putin may become Russia's PM to retain powerVladimir Putin yesterday gave the strongest hint yet that he will remain at the centre of power in Russia for the foreseeable future, saying the possibility of him becoming prime minister after the presidential election in March was "entirely realistic".The president, who has stressed his wish to stay involved in high-level politics, cannot seek a third term under the constitution, but there is nothing to prevent him becoming prime minister. He could then return for a non-consecutive, and legal, third term as president in 2012.