Russian President Dmitri Medvedev reiterated Saturday that he may seek re-election when his term is up in 2012.
Mr. Medvedev told a Norwegian newspaper, Aftenposten, he would consider a bid to stay in power if it were necessary to continue the political course that began with Prime Minister Vladimir Putin's administration.
He also said his work would have to be acceptable to Russian citizens and poised to achieve results in a new term.
Late last year Mr. Medvedev said he will review the situation with Mr. Putin, and the longtime allies will decide together on a potential presidential run.
Mr. Putin served as president from 2000 to 2008, leaving office after serving the two consecutive terms allowed by Russia's constitution. He would be eligible to run again in 2012.
Candidates running for president in 2012 will be seeking a new six-year term approved by Russian lawmakers in 2009.
Some information for this report was provided by AFP and Reuters.