Russia's Putin names new executive group

MOSCOW, May 16 (UPI) -- Russian Prime Minister Vladimir Putin Friday announced the creation of the presidium, a new executive body designed to energize an "unwieldy" government.

The presidium, composed of Putin's seven deputies and seven other ministers, will meet once a week, The Moscow Times reported. Putin said the sessions will help increase "the efficiency of our work and the discussion of the current issues."

Excluded from the presidium are officials such as the energy minister, industry and trade minister and natural resources and environment minister.

They will be invited as needed, Putin said.