Recent photographs of Vladimir Putin have intensified speculation regarding his health, particularly after a meeting where his visibly swollen, veined hands captured public attention. During an engagement with Yekaterina Leshchinskaya, the head of the Russian Healthy Fatherland movement, the 73-year-old leader discussed the potential ban on e-cigarette sales. However, the focus quickly shifted to his hands, which appeared tense and noticeably altered.
As Putin extended his right arm to greet Leshchinskaya, observers noted the pronounced veins and defined tendons in his hand, accompanied by thinner and more creased skin. This led to renewed discussions about his physical well-being, amidst ongoing rumors suggesting he may be suffering from serious health issues such as Parkinson’s disease or cancer. The Kremlin has consistently dismissed these claims as unfounded.
Social media reactions have been swift, with users expressing concern over Putin’s appearance. The pro-Ukrainian news outlet Nexta shared the footage, highlighting the alarming state of the leader’s hands. “Social media users are puzzled by what happened to the hands of the Russian dictator – they look extremely painful,” the outlet remarked.
Ukrainian journalist Dmytro Gordon commented on the situation, stating, “Putin clenches his hands into something resembling fists. They look swollen and sore, with veins bulging prominently on one hand.” Similarly, political analyst Anton Gerashchenko remarked, “There’s something wrong with Putin’s hands. Apart from the fact that they’re covered in blood up to the elbows [from his actions in the war], his veins are bulging too.”
While some sources suggest that Putin’s appearance may be attributed to normal age-related changes, others speculate he attempts to mask these signs through cosmetic procedures. Maintaining an image of youth and vigor has been a significant aspect of how he presents himself to the Russian public.
The Kremlin has yet to comment on the latest concerns regarding Putin’s health. As speculation continues to grow, observers are left to ponder the implications of his physical condition on his leadership and the broader political landscape in Russia.
