Putin says Russia faces big economic challenges, must keep inflation in check

Russian President Vladimir Putin chairs a meeting on economic issues via video link at the Novo-Ogaryovo state residence outside Moscow, Russia April 11, 2023. Sputnik/Gavriil Grigorov/Kremlin via REUTERS/File Photo

MOSCOW (Reuters) - Russian President Vladimir Putin said on Tuesday that inflationary risks were rising and he told the government and central bank to keep the situation under control.

The threat that surging prices will erode living standards is a concern for Putin as he prepares to launch an expected bid to be re-elected next March for six more years in the Kremlin.