Kathrine Frich
From trembling legs to alleged body doubles, here are the seven clearest signs something may be wrong behind the Kremlin walls.
As Vladimir Putin heads to Alaska for a high-stakes summit with Donald Trump, questions about his health are once again dominating headlines.
Now 72, the Russian leader has exhibited strange physical symptoms, changed behaviors, and intense secrecy, all adding fuel to long-running rumors.
1. “Jelly Legs” and Unsteady Posture
One of the most discussed incidents occurred in Kazakhstan, where Putin was seen gripping a lectern while his legs visibly shook.
His knees wobbled, his stance widened, and one leg jerked erratically.
Experts, including Dr. Bob Berookhim, say such movement could be linked to neurological issues like Parkinson’s, though a single video is not enough for diagnosis.
2. Puffy, Bloated Facial Features
In recent years, Putin’s face has noticeably changed, rounder, puffier, and sometimes flushed.
Doctors suggest this look may point to steroid treatment, possibly for pain, inflammation, or cancer-related therapies.
Such treatments can cause not only swelling, but mood swings, cognitive changes, and a weakened immune system.
3. Repeated Meetings with Cancer Specialists
In 2022, investigative outlet Proekt linked Putin’s trips to Sochi with repeated visits from a top thyroid cancer surgeon.
Other specialists including ENT doctors and a neurosurgeon also visited frequently.
Kremlin officials dismissed the report as fiction, but the pattern of medical consultations raised red flags among observers.
4. Hints from Western Intelligence and Officials
U.S. Senator Marco Rubio once hinted that Putin was suffering from “neurophysiological health issues.”
Biden administration officials later leaked reports suggesting Putin had recently undergone cancer treatment.
Multiple sources pointed to growing impulsivity and altered decision-making as signs of decline.
5. Alleged Use of Reindeer Antler Blood Therapy
Some reports suggest Putin has taken to a bizarre, old Russian folk treatment: bathing in reindeer antler blood.
Said to boost vitality, the treatment is unproven and widely ridiculed by medical professionals.
Nonetheless, it reflects the Russian leader’s reported desperation to hold on to strength and longevity.
6. The Body Double Conspiracy
Claims of body doubles have persisted for years, but in 2025, they reached new intensity.
AI researchers in Japan analyzed photos and speeches, claiming inconsistencies in voice and facial structure.
Some videos appeared to show a visibly thinner Putin, using handwritten notes instead of his usual large-type printouts.
7. Extreme COVID-Era Precautions
During the pandemic, Putin famously kept visiting leaders at the far ends of 13-foot tables.
Officials were quarantined for weeks, and some were reportedly sprayed with disinfectant.
Experts say this level of isolation could suggest he was immunocompromised — possibly due to steroid use or illness.
