Mr Medvedev said last week the measure would give more time for the head of state to push through reforms.

He did not say if he wanted to extend his

own term or that of his successor.

There has been speculation that Mr Medvedev is a stop-gap so that his predecessor Vladimir Putin can return to his job.

Mr Putin - who is currently serving as Russia's prime minister - has served the maximum two consecutive terms, stepping down in May.