Russia's President Vladimir Putin and wife Lyudmila divorce

Russian President Vladimir Putin and his wife Lyudmila have said their marriage is over.

The couple, who had been married for 30 years, made their divorce public on Russian state television after attending a ballet performance. "It was a joint decision: we hardly see each other, each of us has our own life", Mr Putin said.

Mrs Putin had rarely been seen in public in recent months, prompting much speculation in Russian media.
She is known to dislike publicity, and told the TV reporter that flying was difficult for her.

The divorce was "civilised" and the couple would "always remain close", she said.  "I am very grateful to Vladimir... that he still supports me. And the children, he really cares for them and the children feel this," she added.

Mr Putin confirmed on TV that the two were no longer living together.

Read more: BBC News - Russia's Vladimir Putin and wife Lyudmila divorce