Putin says he'll seek re-election

Makes statement at auto factory

Russian President Vladimir Putin said he intends to seek re-election in March's election, The Associated Press reported. 

Putin, who has effectively been in power since 2000, made the announcement at an auto factory in Nizny Novgorod, The AP reported. 

Putin's approval rating tops 80 percent, and is virtually assured victory in next year's election, the AP story said.