Kathrine Frich
Russian President Vladimir Putin has long kept his family life out of the public eye.
While it is widely known that he has two daughters, there have also been unconfirmed reports suggesting he may have other children.
New ai hub
Moscow State University has reportedly established a closed artificial intelligence hub connected to Katerina Tikhonova, widely reported to be the daughter of President Vladimir Putin.
According to T-Invariant cited by Moscow Times, the project brings together multiple elements, including an AI institute, a new faculty, a research center and the MGU-270 supercomputer.
The hub is based on the university’s main campus in Moscow.
Expanding capabilities
The development comes as Russia pushes to build its own AI sector amid Western sanctions limiting access to advanced technology.
Despite these restrictions, the report says the new supercomputer relies on Nvidia chips obtained through indirect channels.
Access to the system is reportedly tightly controlled, even within the university.
Sources cited by T-Invariant said only a small group of insiders can use the MGU-270 system.
“That means even the television crew was not allowed in. No one is allowed near the new supercomputer, even inside the university, except for a narrow circle of insiders,” one source said.
Another researcher said staff had struggled to get information about the project.
Academic concerns
The university officially launched its new Faculty of Artificial Intelligence in April, led by scientist Ivan Oseledets.
However, some experts have questioned the need for a separate faculty rather than integrating AI into existing departments.
“It reflects a ‘king of the hill’ logic, staking out territory for yourself,” one member of the Russian Academy of Sciences told the outlet.
The project is backed by major financial support, including funding from businessman Oleg Deripaska and state-owned VTB Bank.
Plans also include cooperation with Chinese partners and the creation of new research labs and a robotics park.
The initiative is expected to play a key role in Russia’s long-term technological ambitions.
Sources: T-Invariant, The Moscow Times
