Is Vladimir Putin's health declining? Sudden change in appearance fuels rumors
At 71 years old, Vladimir Putin frequently finds his health status being speculated about online.
8:09 AM EST, January 2, 2024
Among the most outlandish claims is the one that suggests Putin is now deceased and replaced by a look-alike in public events.
The Difference in Two of Putin's Photos is Easily Noticeable
While we can readily dismiss rumors of Putin's death, it's plausible that some of the conjectures regarding his health might have some truth. Ever since the Russian leader initiated his harmful actions in Ukraine, more people have started observing him.
These observers take note of Putin's behavior, gestures, and expressions and try to use this information to make educated conjectures about the health status of the 71-year-old president.
As per documents obtained by the British tabloid "The Sun", Putin reportedly has pancreatic cancer and early-stage Parkinson's disease. There are also reports hinting at blood cancer. Some associate Putin's health condition with his invasion of Ukraine - speculating that he may have hastened it because he realized his physical strength was waning, soon making him unfit to lead.
Anton Herashchenko, an adviser to the Ukrainian Minister of Internal Affairs, shared two photos of Putin online. One was taken on New Year's Eve, the other on January 1st. The first and second photos depict two faces, noticeable in skin tone and wrinkles.
The cause behind this striking difference remains unknown. Considering the photos were taken only a day apart, explanations have veered towards Putin having one or more doubles who periodically trade places with him during public events. Could that have been the case this time?