Vladimir Putin fires his chief of staff Sergei Ivanov

Russian president Vladimir Putin fired Sergei Ivanov, his chief of staff, and one of his closest allies, in the most high-profile power reshuffle at the Kremlin in years.

Mr Ivanov, 63, is the latest long-standing Putin ally to have been sidelined in what analysts described as Mr Putin’s attempt to bring in a new, younger entourage.

Kremlin’s press office issued Mr Putin’s order to “relieve Sergei Ivanov of his duties.” The stern statement was followed by footage of a meeting of Mr Putin, Mr Ivanov, and the new chief of staff, Anton Vayno.