Chechen leader Ramzan Kadyrov’s health mystery deepens with release of new videos
The uncertainty surrounding the health of the Chechen leader, Ramzan Kadyrov, has taken another unexpected turn as two videos of him were released online, just days after reports emerged of his critical condition.
Last Friday, a spokesperson for Ukraine’s military intelligence agency allegedly informed Obozrevatel that Kadyrov was seriously ill and in a critical state. The spokesperson stated that multiple sources from medical and political circles had confirmed the information. “He has been ill for a long time, and we are talking about systemic health problems,” the spokesperson said.
However, only two days later, two videos were published on Kadyrov’s Telegram channel, seemingly showing him alive and well. The authenticity and timing of the videos, which were filmed in an undisclosed location, could not be independently verified by The Daily Beast.
In the first video, Kadyrov can be seen wearing a trench coat while on a walk, smiling at the camera. The second clip features the Chechen leader advising viewers to stay active and play sports. The accompanying caption reads, “I strongly recommend that everyone who cannot distinguish the truth from lies on the internet go for a walk, get some fresh air, and put their thoughts in order. The rain can be wonderfully invigorating.”
The release of these videos sparked speculation about whether Kadyrov had already passed away when the videos were posted. Reports about his health issues have circulated since earlier this year, although Kadyrov has consistently dismissed them.
Kadyrov, a staunch Kremlin loyalist and a key ally to Russian President Vladimir Putin, has played a significant role in the war on Ukraine by deploying Chechen troops to fight alongside Russian forces. Many experts believe his alliance with Putin is crucial to maintaining control over Chechnya, a republic within the Russian federation.
The Russian Institute of War released an assessment on Sunday stating, “Prolonged concern about Chechen Republic Head Ramzan Kadyrov’s health in the Russian information space highlights Russian President Vladimir Putin’s dependence on Kadyrov for continued stability in Chechnya. The destabilization of Kadyrov’s rule in Chechnya would be a major blow to Putin’s regime… Kadyrov and other Russian officials may be concerned that continued rumors about his health will affect the long-term stability of his, and by extension Putin’s, control of Chechnya.”
When asked about the reports on Monday, Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov responded with a nonchalant, “We have no information on this,” indicating Moscow’s secretive approach to the situation.