Russian President Vladimir Putin’s physical condition raises concerns amid attempts to control shaking leg during interview

During a recent two-hour interview with former Fox News host Tucker Carlson, Russian President Vladimir Putin appeared to grapple with a shaking leg, prompting speculation about his health among viewers.

Putin, aged 71, was observed using his hand to steady his wandering leg while experiencing coughing fits and throat clearing throughout the interview. These incidents occurred alongside significant statements, including claims about Russia’s possession of advanced “supersonic missiles” and allegations against a Wall Street Journal reporter.

Concerns about Putin’s physical well-being have been raised previously, notably during a meeting with Belarusian President Lukashenko on January 28, where some observers noted his odd grimaces and expressions, leading to questions about his clarity of mind.

Despite persistent rumors and allegations regarding Putin’s health, including suggestions of Parkinson’s disease and pancreatic cancer, the Kremlin has consistently dismissed such claims. Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov reiterated that Putin is in good health, denouncing rumors as “fake news” that only serve to amuse the Kremlin.

Speculation about Putin’s health has surfaced before, with leaked documents alleging various health issues, including Parkinson’s disease and pancreatic cancer, which Russian officials vehemently denied.

Reactions to Putin’s appearance during the interview were mixed, with some social media users noting his apparent good health, while others remained skeptical, referencing past rumors about his well-being.

This interview marked Putin’s first interaction with a Western media figure since the full-scale invasion of Ukraine two years prior, with much of the conversation focusing on the ongoing conflict in Ukraine.

Putin reiterated his stance that the invasion was necessary to protect Russian speakers in Ukraine and prevent the country from joining NATO, placing the onus on Washington to cease supplying weapons to Ukraine and facilitate negotiations between the parties.

Putin also dismissed allegations of Russia harboring plans to attack NATO countries, asserting that the West would not succeed in inflicting a “strategic defeat” on Russia in Ukraine.

As speculation surrounding Putin’s health persists, his statements and physical demeanor continue to draw attention and scrutiny from both domestic and international observers.