Russian Deputy Foreign Minister Hospitalized Amid Election Season
The Russian Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs was reportedly hospitalized during the presidential elections orchestrated by the Kremlin. This news broke on Telegram, revealing that the politician had suffered a heart attack and was in serious condition. Sergei Ryabkov dismissed the rumors concerning his health, although he confirmed his stay at a medical facility.
10:32 AM EDT, March 19, 2024
It's essential to note that many reports from Russian media or governmental sources might be propagandistic. Such narratives are components of the information warfare conducted by the Russian Federation.
Russian Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs Sergei Ryabkov's hospitalization has been reported by the independent newspaper "Kommersant," which cited insider sources. The Telegram channel Baza disclosed that the 63-year-old deputy minister was admitted to the hospital on March 17 due to a heart attack, and his condition is considered critical. However, "Kommersant's" sources have not confirmed details regarding the reason for hospitalization or his health status.
The politician refutes the claims: "I feel fine"
Sources close to the independent newspaper remarked that the details shared on Telegram about the diplomat's severe condition are "overstated." Ryabkov himself partially refuted these reports. Speaking to the Russian state agency RIA Novosti, the politician stated that he was in good health.
"I feel fine, and I hope you do too," commented the diplomat, as reported by Gazeta.ru. He further stressed that he does not discuss personal affairs, including matters related to marital status, or any form of leave, including medical leave.
Sergei Ryabkov has been the Deputy Head of the Russian Ministry of Foreign Affairs since August 2008, as reported by RBC. Before his current position, he led the OSCE section within the Department of Pan-European Cooperation. His career also includes a stint at the Embassy of Russia in the United States.
Source: Kommersant, RIA Novosti, RBC
