Was Vladimir Putin drunk on television? The footage raises doubts
Russian leader Vladimir Putin featured on the TV program "Moscow. Kremlin. Putin", is envisioned as a powerful display, showcasing the president's weekly activities. He allowed himself to be filmed in a semi-formal situation, amid a toast in trusted company and within luxurious surroundings.
8:25 AM EST, December 11, 2023
The social media account (((Tendar))) on platform X (Twitter), which engages with politics, history, and military affairs, comments briefly on the photos of Vladimir Putin showcased in the recurring program on state television, Rossija-1. "If you're asking where Putin is, he's back in his gold bunker, and he's drunk," the account holder asserts.
The footage is shot in spaces with lavish, golden, baroque decor. The Russian president can be seen holding a glass of champagne.
The scene appears to be a celebratory one; Putin appears relaxed and engrossed in a story. His overly relaxed demeanor, however, led the commentator who posted excerpts from the "Moscow. Kremlin. Putin" program online to raise doubts about Putin's state, pointing to the apparent mirth of the Russian Federation leader.
"He is clearly intoxicated. He sways so much, the camera struggles to focus on him, frequently zooming in when he loses control of his left leg," the internet account (((Tandar))) takes a jab at Putin.
The commentary also focuses on the behavior of Putin's associates. "They blankly stare at the ground while he awkwardly handles his wine glass, the most peculiar form I've seen anyone hold a glass, outside of him," the social media post criticizes contemptuously.
Did Putin appear inebriated? Unusual photos on Russian television
The weekly show, which presents reports from Russia's highest echelons of power, did not shy away from featuring the president in a less formal situation than usual, such as delivering serious national speeches or political meetings. Indeed, the president's entourage — individuals in suits and uniforms, also with glasses in their hands, does not seem to be partaking in a casual, amiable, semi-formal gathering. These men are noticeably uncomfortable, their eyes averted to the floor.
It's unclear in which room this reception occurred. As per a post on account X, these are images from Putin's lavish bunker. The Russian leader has multiple confidential rooms; their exact location and appearance remain unknown.
Business Insider stated that the said leader has a considerable number of secret, subterranean bunkers. Their blueprints were purportedly disclosed by the company that constructed these bunkers, as well as some Moscow Metro stations.
As per some reports, Putin's most significant shelter is situated beneath his grand Black Sea residence. The bunkers were engineered to weather any catastrophe.
Additionally, there is a helipad and railway line nearby. The tunnels are connected through an elevator, constructed from thick concrete. The subterranean house has its own church, wine cellar, casino, an arboretum, and ice rink, where Putin reportedly practices hockey. Thus, it wouldn't be surprising if some rooms maintain a lavish finish.