Putin says he will stand for re-election

RUSSIA (AP) — Russian President Vladimir Putin says he will seek re-election in next March’s election.
Putin’s statement Wednesday came at a meeting with workers of the GAZ factory in Nizny Novgorod. Several hours earlier, he was asked about his intentions in Moscow and signaled that he would run but stopped short of declaring his bid.
With his approval ratings topping 80 percent, Putin is certain to win a quick victory in the March 18 vote.
Addressing the automobile factory wo