Plot to assassinate Putin linked to Chechen rebels

Security forces have uncovered a plot to assassinate Russia’s Vladimir Putin and have arrested suspects linked to a Chechen rebel leader known for other terror attacks, Russian state television reported yesterday.

The report, which included televised confessions by two suspects, is likely to boost support for Putin as he seeks his third term as president in an election on Sunday. Putin has portrayed himself as a strong protector of Russia’s national interests and has counted the victory over Chechen separatist rebels as one of the key achievements of his rule. The report casting him as a target for terrorists could draw public sympathy and help secure his victory.

Putin, who was Russia’s president from 2000 to 2008 and prime minister since then, is running for a third, now six-year presidential term. He is expected to win easily against four Kremlin-approved challengers, but an unprecedented wave of protests since December has undermined his image as a strong, popular leader.