Russia votes to extend Putin’s rule Voters in Russia have overwhelmingly approved amendments to the country’s constitution that could allow President Vladimir Putin to stay in power until 2036. Kremlin critics say the vote was rigged CONSTITUTIONAL REFERENDUM RESULT After all votes counted Votes not valid: 0.8% In favour of amending constitution Against 77.9% 21.3% Reported numbers: Reflect highest level of voter support for Putin in 10 years. In 2018 presidential election, 76.7% of voters supported his candidacy, while in 2012 election only 63.6% did RESULTS BY REGION (%) Voter turnout: 68% St. Petersburg 77.66 Moscow 65.29 Crimea: 90.07 Nenets Autonomous Okrug: 43.78 Yakutia 58.34 1,000km 625 miles Less than 50% 50-60% 60-75% More than 75% Amendments: Allow Putin to run for two more six-year terms, in 2024 and 2030, as part of package of changes that also outlaw same-sex marriage and emphasise primacy of Russian law over international norms Sources: Associated Press, RIA Novosti Picture: Getty Images © GRAPHIC NEWS