New security chief to tackle old problems

Following Prime Minister Vladimir Putin's formation of a new cabinet, President Dmitry Medvedev has announced new appointments to Russia’s security service, the FSB.

Aleksandr Bortnikov has been appointed head of the Federal Security Service (FSB), where he had previously served as deputy director responsible for economic security.

Experts say the appointment indicates that Medvedev has chosen tackling corruption and economic crimes as a national security priority.

The agency’s long-time head, Nikolay Patrushev, has been put in charge of the Security Council.

Medvedev has instructed both men to continue the war on terrorism and to step up efforts against extremism and xenophobia.

“International co-operation is a priority for the Security Council. In this regard, we should fully realise the responsibility Russia has for maintaining global stability in the world. This may be our number one mission, as far as international affairs are concerned,” he said.