Russian Prime Minister Vladimir Putin on Sunday accepted the ruling United Russia party's nomination to run for president in elections next March 4.

Mr. Putin, who stepped down in 2008 after two presidential terms, announced his intention to return as president last September. He has named President Dmitry Medvedev to be his prime minister, if elected.

The planned job swap has angered many in Russia, who warn it would strengthen authoritarian trends and clear the way for Mr. Putin to become Russia's longest-serving leader since Joseph Stalin.