In a bold declaration, Ukraine’s President, Volodymyr Zelensky, asserted that Russian President Vladimir Putin “will die soon.” This statement, made during an interview with journalists in Paris following a meeting with French President Emmanuel Macron, has sparked a flurry of reactions and intensifies speculation surrounding Putin’s health.
Zelensky’s remarks come at a time when there are growing concerns about Putin’s physical well-being. “He (Putin) will die soon, and that’s a fact, and it will come to an end,” Zelensky emphatically stated. His comments suggest a blend of hope for a resolution to the ongoing conflict in Ukraine and an acknowledgment of the turmoil that has defined Putin’s leadership.
Putin’s health has been a topic of discussion for years, particularly given his public demeanor and physical appearance. At 72, the Russian leader has shown signs that have fueled rampant speculation: a noticeably puffy face, an unusual twitch in his leg, and bloodshot eyes. Observers have noted these symptoms, sparking debates about their implications for his ability to govern.
Among the more disconcerting moments was a public appearance in 2022, when Putin was seen slumped in his chair, gripping a table, and slurring his words during a meeting with then-Defence Minister Sergei Shoigu. Such incidents have led to questioning not only of his health but also of the stability of his grip on power.
Furthermore, reports of persistent coughing and sudden jerky movements in his hands and feet add layers to the narrative of a leader whose physicality may not match the tough, authoritative image he has worked to project. He has also been seen walking with a noticeable limp on various occasions, further stirring speculation among analysts and commentators.
While some view Zelensky’s remarks as politically charged, they resonate with a broader hope among Ukrainians and other nations affected by Putin’s decisions. The prospect of change in Moscow might alleviate tensions, yet it also raises questions about the potential power vacuum and future leadership dynamics in Russia.
The interplay of health, power, and politics will continue to shape not only Putin’s legacy but also the fate of Ukraine and its quest for sovereignty.
Zelensky and Putin are expected to accomodate truce and end the war with US president Donald Trump’s bold interventions.