Russian President Vladimir Putin has raised new health concerns after he was seen repeatedly scratching his face and back during a recent public appearance. The 72-year-old leader’s behavior caused surprise as he met sports officials in Ufa, the capital of Bashkortostan, where he also visited a new fencing center. Putin was observed rubbing the back of his head and scratching himself, sparking speculation about his well-being after a series of hospital visits.
These incidents came soon after the Kremlin dismissed rumors about Putin’s health, insisting that he is in good condition. Russian state media repeated this story, saying his medical appointments were “routine” and not related to serious health problems. Putin is said to have undergone Botox treatments to maintain a youthful appearance and had already been seen scratching himself at previous events, further fueling speculation.
Adding to these unusual circumstances, there were stringent security measures that disrupted local schools. Children have been instructed to stay at home and take online lessons, with some schools citing concerns over viral infections as the reason. However, this coincided with Putin’s participation in the “Russia — A Sports Power” forum, where he met with Paralympic athletes and criticized Western countries’ politicization of sport.
During the forum, Putin also raised concerns about financial barriers that prevent disadvantaged children in Russia from participating in sports. He called for a return to the Soviet-era system of free access to training for talented young athletes, complaining that families now have to pay for sporting activities. Recalling his own childhood, Putin stressed that he could not have achieved his status as Master of Sports of the USSR in Sambo and Judo if his family had been burdened by costs. He urged authorities to ensure free sporting opportunities for low-income and large families.
This rare public appearance, along with the scratching incidents, has intensified both speculation about Putin’s health and discussions about his policies on sports and education.
