press secretary addresses double health rumors
Dmitry Peskov, the press secretary for the President of Russia, commented on speculation about Vladimir Putin having doubles and, according to some claims, more than one. He dismissed the idea, joking about the number of possible lookalikes and insisting that there is only one Putin. The remarks were shared in a speech at the exhibition forum Russia and later published on the Telegram channel Pool No. 3.
Peskov noted that the head of state has a full schedule within Russia, which means he travels abroad less often. He added that some trips may need to be canceled or postponed so the president can focus on domestic duties. He also reminded that Putin recently attended the One Generation to Be One forum in China, highlighting a growing emphasis on engagement with the eastern direction.
heart issues and debunked rumors
On October 24, the president’s spokesperson described reports about Putin’s health as nonsense and misinformation. He dismissed claims of a two person team for Putin as baseless canards repeatedly discussed by certain media outlets, saying such reports bring smiles but no substance. The Kremlin also refuted coverage by Sky News Australia and The Mirror alleging a heart problem and the use of doubles during rehabilitation. Peskov stressed that Putin is doing well and remains in control.
three doubles claims and Ukrainian security commentary
Earlier, claims circulated from Ukrainian officials about Putin allegedly using at least three doubles, some reportedly modified to resemble the president. In spring 2023 a Ukrainian security official suggested that Putin did not visit Kherson in person, but that a duo went there. In a 2020 conversation, Putin discussed initial security considerations about bringing in a double, but said the plan was quickly abandoned during the early 2000s. He described those years as extremely challenging in counterterrorism work. A former head of Russia’s security service later stated that there were no doubles, arguing that such a practice would indicate a weaker security apparatus.
what Peskov said about current events
The Kremlin spokesperson expressed skepticism about Ukraine achieving battlefield victory and suggested that Western capitals recognize the limits of continued military support. He noted growing Western unease over funding amid the shifting priorities influenced by the Middle East conflict and the need to adjust to new geopolitical realities. He argued that the Kiev regime faces tough times as priorities evolve in light of broader regional events and changing alliances.
Peskov warned that difficult times lie ahead for Kyiv and argued that the international community is reassessing strategy. He observed mounting irritation and said Western partners are re-evaluating their approach as events in the Middle East unfold.
He acknowledged that the integration of newly incorporated regions presents challenges but expressed confidence that the process will progress over a few years and take on different forms. He also stated his expectation that Ukrainian criminals would face appropriate punishment if warranted.