Russia's Prime Minister Mikhail Mishustin has told President Vladimir Putin that he has tested positive for the coronavirus, and has temporarily stepped back from his work as he begins a period of self isolation. Speaking during a televised meeting, Mishustin recommended to Putin that First Deputy Prime Minister Andrey Belousov should become the acting Prime Minister for the duration of his absence, a proposal that Putin supported. According to the Moscow Times, 54 year-old Mishustin has played a leading role in Russia's response to the Covid-19 pandemic. Following the news, Putin warned during a televised call that what has happened to his Prime Minister could happen to anyone. However, Russia's death rate is low compared to many hard-hit countries, with only one death for every 100 confirmed cases.

Source: Daily Mail April 30, 2020 17:18 UTC