After the rumors, the Chechen leader released a recording (video)

Chechen leader Ramzan Kadyrov has released a video of himself exercising in an apparent attempt to dispel rumors of illness, following media reports that his health is rapidly deteriorating.

As “Novaya Gazeta Evropa”, an independent Russian media, reported on Monday, Kadyrov was diagnosed in 2019 pancreatic necrosis, a serious condition that accompanies the tissue death of this organ. It added that Kadyrov’s recent deterioration has prompted the Kremlin to search for a successor to maintain stability in the restive Chechnya region. A few hours after this report was published, Kadyrov released a video on social media showing him working out, lifting weights and wrestling with a sparring partner.

– The hectic day ended with exercise and positivity. Remember that taking care of your health is an investment in your future – the message accompanying the video states, without mentioning the alleged illness.

As “The Guardian” writes, rumors that the 47-year-old Kadyrov may be ill have been circulating for months. Despite insisting that he is in perfect health, Kadyrov – whom human rights groups accuse of “totalitarian regime” – he has often been seen in public during the past year with a visibly swollen face, occasionally slurring his speech and barely keeping his eyes open.

Rumors about Kadyrov’s health

Last September, as “Novaya Gazeta” claims, citing anonymous sources from the exclusive presidential hospital in Moscow, Kadyrov placed in an artificial coma after an overdose of sedatives. Then several members of the Chechen elite were photographed visiting the hospital, sparking speculation that Kadyrov may be dying.

“The Guardian” states that Russian President Vladimir Putin has long supported the authoritarian Chechen leader’s rule in order to preserve the stability of the region. Kadyrov in turn sent thousands of Chechen paramilitaries to support Russia’s invasion of Ukraine.

“Putin’s foot soldier”

Kadyrov sought to demonstrate his loyalty to Putin following the death of Wagner mercenary group head Yevgeny Prigozhin, who launched a brief and unsuccessful rebellion against the Russian military leadership in June 2023. The day after Prigogine’s funeral Kadyrov described himself as “Putin’s foot soldier” and pointed out that he is ready to die for him.

Also, as for the rumors about his health, he launched a campaign to consolidate his control over the region and prepare the next generation of his dynasty, according to the “Guardian”.

The paper adds that Kadyrov has given a bunch of awards and promotions to his children to raise their status – Adam was appointed head of his father’s security at the age of 15, while eldest son Akhmat (17) visited the Kremlin earlier this month for a “very unusual” one-on-one meeting with Putin.