Vladimir Putin said on Saturday he would name a preferred successor to follow him as Russian president and vowed to ensure a smooth handover of power when he steps down in 2008.
Putin, who was himself made acting head of state by then-President Boris Yeltsin to ensure his election, has long rejected suggestions he should change the constitution and stand for a third term.
The identity of his successor has become the country's hottest political topic. He gave no clues as to whom he would support on Saturday, saying that was a question for the people, but made clear he expected a role in the choice.
"I think I would be right to express my point of view on one candidacy or another, and I will do this," Putin told reporters in the Black Sea town of Sochi, agencies reported.
"I have certain ideas about how to set up the situation in the country in this period of time so as not to destabilise it, so as not to scare the people and business."