Russian President Vladimir Putin addresses Russian citizens on the State Television channels in Moscow, Russia, March 25, 2020. Putin has postponed a nationwide vote on proposed constitutional amendments. (ALEXEI DRUZHININ, SPUTNIK, KREMLIN POOL PHOTO VIA AP)

MOSCOW — Russian President Vladimir Putin signed a decree postponing the all-Russian vote on constitutional amendments, the Kremlin said Wednesday in a statement.

Our absolute priority is the health, life and safety of the people. This is why I believe the vote should be postponed

 Vladimir Putin, Russia President

The decision was made to avoid health risks to citizens of the Russian Federation posed by the adverse epidemiological situation, it said.

According to the statement, "a separate Presidential Executive Order shall be issued to set the date of the nationwide vote."

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Earlier in the day, Putin emphasized during his address to the Russian nation that ensuring public safety and health is the top priority.

"Our absolute priority is the health, life and safety of the people. This is why I believe the vote should be postponed," he said.

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The vote had been scheduled for April 22.