Putin Gives Officials Two Months To Give Up Foreign Assets

Russian President Vladimir Putin

Russian President Vladimir Putin has issued a decree under which all Russian officials and heads of state companies will have to divest themselves of all foreign accounts and company shares.

Presidential chief of staff Sergei Ivanov said on April 2 that the deadline for doing so is July 1.

He added that no one will be above the law and anyone found in possession of forbidden assets after the deadline will be dismissed.

Analysts said the decree is aimed both at reducing corruption and at making Russian officials less vulnerable to foreign influence.

Ivanov also said that the law on combatting corruption includes a measure to protect whistleblowers.

He added, however, that anonymous tips "will not be considered."

Based on reporting by CNN, ITAR-TASS, and Interfax