Original Posted By BBCThe Kremlin has confirmed that the divorce of Russian President Vladimir Putin from his wife of 30 years, Lyudmila, has been finalized.

The country's best-known couple, who have two daughters in their late 20s, went on TV in June to announce they were breaking up.

Mr Putin, 61, was still officially listed as "married" only last week.

Ranked among the world's most powerful people, he made headlines last month by annexing Ukraine's Crimea region.

During their appearance before a TV camera last year, Mr Putin said: "It was a joint decision: we hardly see each other, each of us has our own life."

His then spouse, who is known to dislike publicity, said that flying was difficult for her and Mr Putin was "completely drowned in work".

The divorce was "civilised" and the couple would "always remain close", she added.

Presidential spokesman Dmitry Peskov confirmed for Russian media on Wednesday that the divorce had been completed.

In 2008, Mr Putin denied rumours that he had secretly divorced and was planning to marry former Olympic gymnast Alina Kabayeva.

Ms Kabayeva was among the final six torchbearers at the opening of Mr Putin's showpiece Sochi Winter Olympics in February, rekindling speculation that she was a favourite of the Russian leader.