In a recent turn of events, Ramzan Kadyrov, the leader of Chechnya and a staunch ally of Russian President Vladimir Putin, is reportedly in a "critical condition" after unexpectedly falling into a coma. This revelation has sent ripples through political and medical circles, with many speculating about the nature and cause of his sudden health decline.
Kadyrov, often referred to as Putin's "attack dog" for his unwavering loyalty and aggressive stance towards Putin's adversaries, has been a prominent figure in the Russian political landscape. His current health crisis is not believed to be the result of any injury, as clarified by a representative from the Ukrainian military's intelligence branch.
Andriy Yusov, the Ukrainian intelligence representative, shared that multiple sources within "medical and political circles" have confirmed Kadyrov's dire health status. Yusov told Obozrevatel, a news outlet, that Kadyrov had fallen into a coma earlier this week and was immediately transported to Moscow for medical attention. However, reports later indicated that Kadyrov had since returned to Chechnya after his treatment in the Russian capital.
While the exact details surrounding Kadyrov's health remain somewhat shrouded in mystery, Yusov emphasized that Kadyrov's condition is severe. "There is information that the war criminal Kadyrov is in a serious condition and the diseases that were there have worsened and caused such a serious condition," Yusov remarked. He further added that Kadyrov has been battling systemic health issues for a while, and his condition has significantly deteriorated in recent days.
Rumors about Kadyrov's health have been circulating for months. Last year, Akhmad Zakayev, the former vice prime minister of Chechnya, alleged to the German newspaper Bild that Kadyrov was suffering from a severe kidney disease. Addressing the swirling speculations, Kadyrov commented in March, "People are attributing various diseases to me: Sometimes I have problems with my kidneys, sometimes with the liver."
Kadyrov's political significance is underscored by his unwavering support for Putin, especially in the context of the Ukraine conflict. Known as "Putin's soldier," Kadyrov made headlines when he dispatched troops to Ukraine to back the Kremlin on the front lines. He further solidified his allegiance to Russia by signing a contract with Russia's Ministry of Defense earlier this year. In a meeting that the Kremlin publicized, Putin lauded Kadyrov for his unwavering loyalty, to which Kadyrov responded, "We are fulfilling all your orders and aim to proceed to a victorious conclusion."
As the world watches closely, the implications of Kadyrov's health on the political dynamics within Russia and its relations with neighboring countries remain to be seen.