Russian President Vladimir Putin has cut back on the duties of a top economic adviser who has been outspoken critic of Kremlin policies.

RUSSIA'S Cabinet approved the Kyoto Protocol on global warming yesterday, clearing the way for the worldwide adoption of the document once the Russian parliament ratifies it as widely expected.

The Russian Cabinet approved the ratification of the Kyoto Protocol on combating global warming today, clearing the way for parliament to vote on the pact, which needs to be ratified by Russia to take effect.