Putin's new love interest: Ekaterina Mizulina, Russia's figurehead in internet censorship

Putin, the widely criticized leader of Russia, was officially married once to Lyudmila Aleksandrovna Putin, whom he wedded in 1983. The former couple, who divorced in 2013, share two children - Mariya (b. 1985) and Yekaterina (b. 1986).

Speculations about a new partner for Putin initially surfaced in 2007 in the public sphere. Reports alleged that Alina Kabaeva was in a relationship with Putin, who some label as the de facto "first lady of Russia". However, neither party confirmed these reports, despite claims by investigative journalists that they had two children together.

Now it appears that Putin has moved on from his relationship with Kabaeva, with recent reports suggesting a new romantic interest. Media outlets identify Putin's new partner as Ekaterina Mizulina.

Ekaterina Mizulina is at the helm of the Russian Safe Internet League, an independent body responsible for internet censorship. Notably, Mizulina recently stated at a youth meeting that the era of VPNs - tools to access overseas internet resources - in Russia is over.

Mizulina faced scrutiny in 2022 for her lavish lifestyle from associates of Alexei Navalny. Her ostentatious displays of wealth, including an affinity for luxury clothing, were highlighted on Navalny's YouTube channel.

Analysts wonder how she can afford such high-end Western designer wear with the modest salary of a non-governmental organization worker. These commenters noted with scepticism that her affluence does not seem to match the expected earnings of an internet informant.

The revelation about Putin's new romantic relationship is not just surprising, but also alarming. This is especially true considering Mizulina's knack for passing on information and Putin's iron-fisted approach towards governance. Just recently, the globe was alarmed by news of the demise of Alexei Navalny.