Title: Alleged Hospitalization of Chechnya Warlord Ramzan Kadyrov Raises Concerns about his Health
Byline: Patrick Reilly
Published: Sep. 15, 2023, 9:43 p.m. ET
Ruthless Chechnya warlord and close ally of Russian President Vladimir Putin, Ramzan Kadyrov, is reportedly hospitalized in critical condition, according to Ukrainian intelligence sources. Ukrainian outlet Obozrevatel reported that Andriy Yusov, a representative of Ukraine’s military intelligence branch, stated that Kadyrov’s health has deteriorated due to existing illnesses, leading to a serious condition.
Yusov confirmed that multiple sources have validated Kadyrov’s critical condition and clarified that it is not a result of any injury. Instead, it is attributed to worsening systemic health problems. While no specific details have been provided, it is reported that Kadyrov has been unwell for an extended period but has deteriorated significantly in recent days.
Speculations surrounding Kadyrov’s health have been circulating for months, with reports citing kidney problems resulting from drug addiction. However, there are also suspicions that he may have been poisoned. These reports remain unconfirmed at this time.
Kadyrov has been the leader of the Chechen Republic since 2007 and has fervently supported the Kremlin, especially since Russia’s annexation of Ukraine’s Crimean Peninsula in 2014. He has actively championed Putin’s full-scale invasion of Ukraine as a “Big Jihad” and even called for the use of low-yield nuclear weapons against Ukraine.
Nicknamed “Putin’s soldier” and “Putin’s attack dog,” Kadyrov’s unwavering loyalty to the Russian president has earned him recognition. As Colonel General, he has been actively involved in the ongoing conflict in Ukraine. In July, he deployed Chechen troops to participate in the intense battle of Bakhmut. These soldiers have signed contracts with Russia’s Ministry of Defense, distinguishing them from the mercenaries under the late Wagner boss Yevgeny Prigozhin.
The reported hospitalization of Kadyrov has raised concerns about the future of Chechnya and his role within the ongoing conflict in Ukraine. As further information emerges, the world will be closely monitoring the developments surrounding Kadyrov’s health.