Putin says Russians voted 'with their hearts' to let him extend rule

Russian President Vladimir Putin takes part in a video conference call with members of the Pobeda (Victory) Organizing Committee at the Novo-Ogaryovo state residence outside Moscow, Russia July 2, 2020. Sputnik/Alexei Druzhinin/Kremlin via REUTERS

MOSCOW (Reuters) - President Vladimir Putin said on Friday Russian society had shown unity by voting to back reforms allowing him to stay in power until 2036 and that Russians had felt the need for the changes in their hearts.

Putin, 67, also decreed the constitutional amendments would enter force on July 4 after they were backed by almost 78% of Russians, according to official results, in a week-long vote that ended on Wednesday.