Putin earned more than Medvedev in 2009

Russian Prime Minister Vladimir Putin has earned $16,236 more than President Dmitry Medvedev in 2009, according to the assets declarations on Monday.

The data, posted simultaneously on the Kremlin and government websites, showed while Medvedev has earned 3,335,281.39 roubles in 2009 (about $115,000) last year, Putin has earned 3,889,807 roubles ($131,236).

Interestingly, Medvedev has earned 804,445 roubles ($27,628) less than his earnings in 2008.

His new property includes a vintage 1948 Pobeda car besides a 367.8 sq m apartment, in joint ownership with his wife, Svetlana.

The president also has 12 bank accounts with a net balance of 3,574,747.34 roubles ($123,000).

Premier Putin's wife Ludmila earned only 582 roubles (USD 20) in 2009, the data showed.

Putin has added a Niva offroad vehicle to his two vintage Vokga cars and was in possession of 15,000 sq m Moscow apartment and a garage, while no property is owned by his wife.

Putin's two daughters are not included in the declaration of assets as they are over 18 years of age.

Former telecom minister and currently Medvedev's advisor Leonid Reiman was the richest Kremlin official with income more than $3 million.

Natural Resources Minister Yuri Trutnyev emerged as the richest Cabinet minister with more than $5 million earnings from various sources in 2009.

The top officials in Russia, including the Premier, deputy prime ministers and ministers are required to declare not only their own incomes and assets but also of their spouses and dependent children under the law that came into force in December 2008.

Later, Medvedev extended the rules for the presidential administration as well by a decree.

Image: Vladimir Putin