Dmitry Medvedev: 'Putin Is More Popular Than I Am' -- The Guardian
Outgoing Russian president denies political rivalry with current prime minister, claiming he was happy to step aside.
Russia's outgoing president, Dmitry Medvedev, agreed to step down because he believes Vladimir Putin is more popular, he said.
"I note that prime minister Putin, without a doubt, is currently the most authoritative politician in our country," Medvedev said in an interview to the country's three state-run television stations. "His rating is slightly higher."
Medvedev has been the target of ridicule in Russia since Putin announced he would return to the presidency next year. The interview is to be aired on Friday but a transcript was pre-released by the Kremlin. Putin has said he will make Medvedev his prime minister.
"My main ambition is to be of use to my country and my people," Medvedev said.
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Vladimir Putin is more popular than me, says Medvedev -- BBC
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Russia's Medvedev: Putin Is More Popular -- NPR/AP
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