Vladimir Putin’s recent appearance in a leaked video has raised concerns about his health, adding to existing worries about the Russian leader’s well-being. The footage, accidentally shared online, captures Putin struggling with a coughing fit during a speech for International Women’s Day. The 73-year-old President, visibly uncomfortable, requests to redo the address after facing a bout of coughing that causes his face to redden. Despite signaling throat discomfort, receiving water assistance, and appearing flustered, Putin proceeds to reshoot the video.
This incident, not meant for public viewing, was inadvertently included in the final video by the Kremlin’s social media team before being promptly removed. It joins a series of events that have fueled speculation about Putin’s health, including instances like his apparent limping during a meeting with Donald Trump in Alaska. Reports in April 2022 even suggested that Putin might be suffering from Parkinson’s disease, citing footage of him exhibiting physical tics and tremors during public engagements.
In response to rumors of Putin undergoing chemotherapy in 2022, the CIA dismissed claims of cancer, noting his robust appearance. Subsequent observations of Putin’s enlarged veins during a public event in Russia raised further questions about his health, with speculation linking it to potential underlying conditions like high blood pressure. Additionally, reports of a possible mini-stroke following an episode where Putin was seen shaking uncontrollably during a meeting with Belarusian President Alexander Lukashenko have fueled concerns.
Experts and observers have offered varying opinions on Putin’s health, with former Kremlin speechwriter Abbas Gallyamov suggesting that certain incidents could indicate health issues like mini-strokes. These events collectively contribute to ongoing speculation and scrutiny regarding the Russian leader’s well-being.
