Russian President Vladimir Putin’s health has been a political issue in recent years. From possible oncological problems to Parkinson’s disease, there are several illnesses that have been linked to the Kremlin leader. After the outbreak of war, when the Russian army tried to take the city of Mariupol, a picture appeared that sparked all sorts of rumors.
At a meeting between Putin and Defense Minister Sergei Shoigu, he was seen clinging to the edge of the table that separated them in an unusual sitting position. Unwell, nervous and with a slightly swollen face. Something that raised doubts about his health, an extreme that the Central Intelligence Agency (CIA) itself denied. “As far as I can tell, he’s too healthy,” CIA Director William Burns even said.
But now a new fact calls his health into question. In recent days, he received a visit from North Korea’s leader, Kim Jong-un, to discuss a possible arms purchase agreement. A meeting at the highest level, to which the North Korean delegation also travels in an armored train with the highest level of security. The Vostochni Cosmodrome was the venue for such a selected event.
Although no official statement was made afterwards, the US believes that the main topic of discussion was North Korea’s supply of ammunition to Russian troops. But beyond the issues under discussion, a strange left-foot move by Putin has attracted attention.
Nervousness or illness?
In one of the videos that emerged, the Russian president can be seen moving his left foot to the side in an unusual way and twisting it in a strange way. A situation that apparently also extends to his leg, trying to suppress some kind of cramps. An unusual gesture for a man who usually appears on screen giving a clear and controlled image.
Here, too, there are rumors of possible Parkinson’s disease or cancer, among other strange occurrences. However, there are also voices pointing to possible nervousness over the North Korean leader’s visit and its political implications for Russia’s future. However, Putin doesn’t have the habit of appearing insecure in every situation.
Meeting in Vostochny
The appointment may well be due to North Korea’s demand for compensation in response to the munitions shipment. This includes possible military and space aid. According to the Interfax agency, the Russian head of state had agreed with his counterpart to help build satellites that would be put into orbit. “I take this opportunity to reiterate that we will always stand by Russia,” said Kim Jong-un, who also expressed full support for the measures taken by Russia.
