Russian president maintains unusual distance amid diplomatic ceremony, fueling rumors of ill health

In a diplomatic event at the Kremlin, President Putin raised eyebrows as he insisted on standing 70ft away from the UK’s new ambassador, Nigel Casey, attributing the distance to “sanitary reasons.” The peculiar distancing has reignited speculations about Putin’s health, with some suggesting the use of a body double.

During the ceremony, where new ambassadors, including Casey, were welcomed, Putin delivered a speech while maintaining a significant distance from the envoys. Despite his warm tone calling for a positive change in Moscow-London relations, Putin refrained from personal interactions with the diplomats.

This distancing move, reminiscent of pandemic-era precautions, contrasts sharply with Putin’s recent activities, including hugging and shaking hands with children just hours before the ceremony. While Putin cited “sanitary reasons” for the unusual protocol, questions linger about the consistency of such precautions.

Speculation about Putin using body doubles has surfaced again, with claims from the Telegram channel General SVR suggesting a stand-in greeted the ambassadors. The alleged 70ft distance aimed to avoid any suspicion and scrutiny.

Claims of Putin employing body doubles have circulated previously, even prompting a Japanese study using advanced AI analysis. The study suggested the existence of multiple Putins based on facial recognition, voice comparison, and body movements.

Putin’s health has been a subject of speculation for years, with observers noting changes in facial features and signs of potential illness. Recent events, including the distancing at the Kremlin ceremony, add fuel to the ongoing debate surrounding the enigmatic leader’s well-being.

In his speech, Putin referenced the 80th anniversary of the Tehran Conference, acknowledging the historical foundations of international relations. While expressing hopes for improved relations with London, he acknowledged the current strained state of dialogue between Moscow and London.

The ceremony and Putin’s distancing underscore the complex diplomatic landscape and health-related rumors surrounding the Russian president, leaving observers and analysts to decipher the enigma that shrouds Putin’s public appearances.