Unusual compassion has been extended by Russian media to yesterday’s announcement of President Vladimir Putin’s divorce from his wife of nearly 30 years.  The two were rarely seen together in public … but broke the news of their divorce during an interview with Russian television while leaving the ballet.

While break-ups involving prominent politicians are rare, some sections of the media often sneer at celebrity splits.  Instead, Opposition-leaning Kommersant Radio lauded the couple’s announcement for keeping the public informed instead of “living a double life.” One of Russia’s bestselling tabloids, Moskovsky Komsomolets, credited the president with breaking a long-held taboo.

Russian leaders, unlike their American counterparts, generally keep their domestic lives well out of public view.  Putin and his wife were just shy of celebrating their 30th wedding anniversary.