A new contender for the possible successor to Russian President Vladimir Putin has surfaced in the online rumor-sphere.
This time, the supposed replacement is Dmitry Kovalev, a 36-year-old member of the presidential administration.
The factual basis behind the rumor is thin: A young man, identified by Telegram broadcaster BAZA as Kovalev, was seen on television speaking to Putin after Monday’s victory parade.
For a leader known for keeping his distance from everyone, a mere close conversation seems to be enough to spark speculation about the successor.
With the Russian strongman’s health reportedly deteriorating, young Kovalev is just the latest heir presumptive.
A far more likely candidate – Nikolai Patrushev, 70, chairman of Putin’s Security Council – was circulated last week amid rumors that Putin is about to undergo surgery.
The Kremlin has firmly denied that Putin suffers from any chronic health problems.
While rumors about the health of Russian President Vladimir Putin are circulating, speculation is rife about his possible successor. AP
Russian President Vladimir Putin was seen at a victory parade with Dmitry Kovalvov. Getty Images
Russian Security Council Secretary Nikolai Patrushev is considered the most likely successor to Russian President Vladimir Putin. POOL/AFP via Getty Images
An investigative report last month in the independent Russian newspaper The Project claimed Putin was battling thyroid cancer – and had been seen by an oncologist 35 times in the past few years.
Putin has become so paranoid about his health, the outlet claimed, that he has even turned to unconventional and barbaric therapies.
Putin is to bathe in the blood, which is obtained from deer antlers that are chopped off as they grow and are still full of fresh blood, the outlet said. The disgusting “antler baths” are an alternative therapy in the Altai region of Russia, which borders Khazakstan and Mongolia.
It has been reported that Russian President Vladimir Putin is battling thyroid cancer. AP
Believers say the baths improve the cardiovascular system and rejuvenate the skin, The Project explained.