Russian President Vladimir Putin has unexpectedly dismissed his chief of staff Sergei Ivanov in the most high-profile power reshuffle at the Kremlin in several years

Russian President Vladimir Putin has unexpectedly dismissed his chief of staff Sergei Ivanov in the most high-profile power reshuffle at the Kremlin in several years.
    
“I'm happy with how you handle tasks in your line of work. I remember well our agreement that you had asked me not to keep you as chief of the presidential administration for more than four years and that is why I understand your desire to choose another line of work,” Putin told Ivanov during a meeting broadcast live on state-owned Russia-24 TV channel on Friday.

“I’m receptive to your wish to transfer to another area of activity,” the Russian president added.

Ivanov has been part of Putin's trusted inner circle for many years. The 63-year-old has now been made a special representative for environmental and transport issues.

Ivanov's deputy since 2012, Anton Vaino, has been appointed as his successor.