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Putin Blasts Remarriage Rumors

Russian prez denies he's divorcing to wed ex-gymnast

By Katherine Thompson,  Newser Staff

Posted Apr 18, 2008 1:22 PM CDT
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(Newser) – Vladimir Putin moved swiftly to put to rest rumors he was planning to divorce his wife to marry a 24-year-old former gymnast and current member of parliament. During a visit to Italy, the lame duck Russian president assured reporters that there was "not a single word of truth" to the tabloid story that broke yesterday, the BBC reports.

"I have always reacted negatively to those who with their snotty noses and erotic fantasies prowl into others' lives," said Putin—who nevertheless admitted to appreciating his countrywomen's charms. "I don't think I will offend anyone if I say that I, personally, consider that our Russian women are the most talented and the most beautiful."

Russian President Vladimir Putin on Friday denied a tabloid report that he had divorced his wife and intended to marry Russian former gymnast Alina Kabayeva.
Russian President Vladimir Putin on Friday denied a tabloid report that he had divorced his wife and intended to marry Russian former gymnast Alina Kabayeva.   (AP Photo/Dmitry Lovetsky)
In this March 2, 2008 file photo, Russian President Vladimir Putin smiles as his wife Lyudmila stands in the background at a polling station where they vote during the presidential election.
In this March 2, 2008 file photo, Russian President Vladimir Putin smiles as his wife Lyudmila stands in the background at a polling station where they vote during the presidential election.   (AP Photo/Mikhail Metzel)
In this Thursday Nov. 4, 2004 photo President Vladimir Putin speaks with gymnast Alina Kabayeva as he hosts Russia's Olympic athletes at a Kremlin banquet in Moscow.
In this Thursday Nov. 4, 2004 photo President Vladimir Putin speaks with gymnast Alina Kabayeva as he hosts Russia's Olympic athletes at a Kremlin banquet in Moscow.   (AP Photo)
Russia's president Vladmir Putin took time off from his meeting with Italian Prime Minister Silvio Berlusconi to deny rumors he was planning to divorce his wife and marry a former gymnast.
Russia's president Vladmir Putin took time off from his meeting with Italian Prime Minister Silvio Berlusconi to deny rumors he was planning to divorce his wife and marry a former gymnast.   (AP Photo/Luca Bruno)
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Most of the Russian media steered clear of story
Reuters

Under pressure, paper that broke story says it was not 'factual'
Times (UK)

 
Russia • divorce • Vladimir Putin • marriage • gymnast • Lyudmila Putin • Alina Kabaeva

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