Chechen Leader Ramzan Kadyrov Claims He Has Asked to Step Down

Ramzan Kadyrov addressed ongoing rumors about his resignation, Orda.kz reports, citing Chechnya Today.

I’ve heard those rumors too. People write all kinds of things. On the contrary, I myself have asked to be relieved of my post. A new person would bring their own ideas and vision. I hope my request will be supported,
 Kadyrov told reporters.

He later clarified that "only Putin" could make such a decision:

I do not decide whether I will remain in the position of the Head of the Chechen Republic or not. Yes, I can ask or suggest. But no matter how I speak, no matter how I ask, such a decision is made by only one person - our Supreme Commander-in-Chief, Russian President Vladimir Vladimirovich Putin.

This isn’t the first time Kadyrov has raised the topic of stepping down, according to Novaya Gazeta.

In 2017, he said he dreamed of leaving the post of Chechnya’s head.

In 2022, he claimed he had “overstayed” in the role and was ready to leave, saying he “deserved an indefinite and long vacation.” Just three days later, Kadyrov said the talk of an extended leave should be postponed for the time being.

Meanwhile, Kadyrov's health and intentions to secure his family's grip on the republic have also been a topic of similar speculation.