On June 6, 2013, Russian politician Vladimir Putin announced that his 30-year marriage to wife Lyudmila is over. For a long period of time, there were speculations about problems in their relationship, which were confirmed by the couple when they announced their separation. In a rare TV appearance, Putin was asked about the rumors of them not living together, which he confirmed is true.
This recent announcement has removed a question mark on the former president’s private life. Putin was always known for promoting traditional values and has also championed the conservative Russian Orthodox Church as a moral authority. After many speculations flying around, it seems like Putin decided it was better to come out clean about the matter, instead of hiding the truth.
The former couple looked rather nervous as they stood side by side in the Kremlin. They referred to each other formally by the first name, with a respectful, though uncomfortable touch. Putin had a fake smile on his face and nodded as Lyudmila spoke, but they appeared more relaxed after making an announcement.
Putin’s former wife said, “Our marriage is over due to the fact that we barely see each other”. Putin added that the decision to separate was mutual. The couple got married in 1983 and have two daughters, who are both in their 20s.
