Ramzan Kadyrov Addresses Health Rumors in Video

A video has appeared on the Telegram channel of Ramzan Kadyrov, Orda.kz reports.

In it, the head of Chechnya is seen walking slowly and reflectively, accompanied by a philosophical voiceover monologue about illness, death, and public speculation. 

Rumors about Kadyrov’s health have long circulated, with reports suggesting he suffers from a range of conditions, from kidney disease to pancreatic necrosis. The new video has again fueled speculation, especially following his recent comments expressing a desire to resign.

I hear more and more gossip about my illness. They say I'm dying, I don't have much time left. Firstly, illness and death are the path of every person. No one alive has passed this road. Secondly, it is not illness or threat that shortens life. Its length is determined only by the one who gave breath. 

Kadyrov has previously asked to step down multiple times, yet has remained the leader of Chechnya since 2007.

In the video, Kadyrov appears in silence, walking as a voiceover delivers the following:

He continues by saying that if he is meant to live 50, 60, or 70 years, that is exactly how long he will live — “not a day less, not a day more.” He also criticizes those discussing his health from abroad, calling them “mice” and accusing them of cowardice:

No concrete information about Kadyrov’s health is given in the video. However, several bloggers and media outlets have remarked that he appears fatigued.

In response, Kadyrov commented:

Two years ago, multiple media outlets reported that Kadyrov had been urgently hospitalized in Moscow, allegedly in serious condition.

At the time, Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov said:

We do not have any information regarding speculations about Ramzan Kadyrov's health. In any case, the presidential administration can hardly issue certificates about health status. Nothing to add.

Original Author: Alina Pak