Dmitry Medvedev and Vladimir Putin share blood group

Russia's ruling duo share more than political views: president Dmitry Medvedev even has the same blood group as his mentor, prime minister Vladimir Putin.

Putin named Medvedev as his preferred Kremlin successor in late 2007 and has said the two men — who divide power and claim to agree on all major issues — are "of the same blood".

Asked about the comment in an interview with the French weekly Paris Match published on Thursday, Medvedev replied: "On the blood group, I think Vladimir Putin was right — we really do have the same blood group. We found this out recently".

Medvedev refused to give a firm answer on his plans after the 2012 presidential election, saying he would consult Putin about the future. Many believe he is keeping the Kremlin seat warm for a return by Putin, who remains Russia's paramount leader.