Latest news with #RamzanKadyrov
Time of India
3 days ago
- Politics
- Time of India
Ramzan Kadyrov nearly drowns at 5-star Turkish hotel amid Putin rift and health crisis - has he fled Russia?
Ramzan Kadyrov's near-drowning incident in Turkey sparks new health and political concerns- Chechen strongman Ramzan Kadyrov, known for his loyalty to Russian President Vladimir Putin, is back in the headlines—this time not for political statements or military actions, but for a serious health scare. Kadyrov reportedly nearly drowned while swimming at a luxury Turkish hotel, triggering fresh speculation about his declining health and strained ties with the Kremlin. The shocking event has fueled intense interest, as observers track his condition and the broader implications for Russian-Chechen relations. Kadyrov's near-drowning in Bodrum adds fuel to health rumors While vacationing in Bodrum, a popular coastal resort town in southwestern Turkey, 48-year-old Kadyrov experienced a frightening episode in the sea. According to reports, he lost consciousness shortly after entering the water, prompting an emergency rescue operation by hotel staff and local responders. Explore courses from Top Institutes in Please select course: Select a Course Category Eyewitness accounts suggest that Kadyrov was pulled from the Aegean Sea in a semi-conscious state and administered first aid immediately. He was then rushed to a nearby private clinic in Bodrum for further treatment. Though officials haven't released an official medical report, sources say Kadyrov is in stable condition and recovering. Turkey rescue triggers questions about security and secrecy The incident occurred at a five-star hotel in the Kaynar district of Bodrum, a location frequented by high-profile tourists and political elites. Given the level of surveillance typically surrounding Kadyrov, questions are being raised about how the near-drowning could have occurred—and how it was leaked to the media so swiftly. Some analysts suggest this could be a sign of internal cracks within Kadyrov's entourage or a deliberate leak tied to wider power plays involving Russia's elite. Either way, the episode has lifted the veil on just how fragile Kadyrov's situation might be—both physically and politically. Live Events Trending health concerns surrounding Kadyrov deepen This isn't the first time Kadyrov's health has made headlines. For months, there have been persistent rumors that the Chechen leader suffers from pancreatic necrosis, kidney problems, and other undisclosed medical conditions. His public appearances have become noticeably less frequent, and when he is seen, he often appears visibly swollen or fatigued. Observers have noted that this latest scare only strengthens speculation that Kadyrov may be seriously ill—and possibly unfit to continue governing Chechnya without major assistance. Despite appearances and denials from his camp, mounting evidence suggests his health is rapidly deteriorating, making him increasingly vulnerable both medically and politically. Fallout with Putin adds more pressure behind the scenes More intriguing are reports that Kadyrov's relationship with President Putin has cooled significantly in recent months. In May 2025, Kadyrov allegedly attempted to resign from his post as the head of the Chechen Republic—only to be reportedly rebuffed by Putin. Since then, whispers within diplomatic and intelligence circles have suggested Kadyrov is preparing a succession plan and possibly seeking assurances for his family's safety and legacy. His 17-year-old son, Adam Kadyrov, is rumored to be the likely heir to his political throne, but questions remain about whether the younger Kadyrov has the support of Moscow—or Chechnya's powerful clans. Middle east meetings signal possible escape plan In a twist that has further stirred speculation, Kadyrov is said to have held secret talks with unnamed Middle Eastern officials. These alleged discussions reportedly revolved around securing assets abroad and possibly establishing a safe haven for his family and allies in the event that he steps down or is forced out. This diplomatic activity comes amid increasing internal unrest in Chechnya, fueled by economic pressure and dissent over Kadyrov's controversial policies. His potential exit could create a power vacuum in a highly volatile region and raise security concerns for both Russia and its allies. Political instability looms if Kadyrov steps aside Kadyrov has ruled Chechnya with an iron grip for nearly two decades, often using fear, loyalty, and Kremlin backing to maintain control. His departure—especially under murky medical circumstances—could trigger serious instability in the Caucasus, where separatist tensions and religious extremism remain potent threats. Moreover, his sudden illness or death would leave Moscow with a major political headache. Kadyrov has long served as Putin's enforcer in the south, and finding a replacement with the same level of control and brutality could prove difficult. Without Kadyrov, the Kremlin risks losing one of its key power brokers in the region. Kremlin remains silent as speculation spreads online As of now, the Russian government has not issued any official comment on Kadyrov's near-drowning or overall condition. Kremlin spokespeople have either declined to respond or directed questions to regional authorities, who have also remained tight-lipped. That silence has only intensified public interest. On social media platforms like X (formerly Twitter) and Telegram, hashtags like #KadyrovHealth, #BodrumIncident, and #PutinKadyrovTensions are trending across Russia and neighboring countries. Analysts believe the Kremlin's silence might be part of a broader strategy to buy time while internal decisions are made about Chechnya's future. The longer the Kremlin remains quiet, the louder speculation grows—potentially undermining the narrative of control that Putin seeks to project. Global interest in Kadyrov's future grows after Bodrum incident The world is watching closely. Western intelligence agencies, independent Russian journalists, and Chechen exiles alike are scrutinizing every new detail that emerges about Kadyrov's condition. Many believe that his fate will have ripple effects not just in Chechnya or Russia, but across Eurasia. Given Kadyrov's unique role as both a feared enforcer and symbolic bridge between Russian nationalism and Islamic identity politics, his departure could reshape regional dynamics in unexpected ways. Whether due to illness or political maneuvering, a transition in Chechnya could prove as disruptive as any front-line military development. Is Chechnya entering a post-Kadyrov era? Kadyrov's brush with death in Bodrum may mark more than just a personal health scare—it could be a turning point in Chechen political history. With his health in question, his alliances under stress, and his future uncertain, the era of Ramzan Kadyrov may be nearing its end. FAQs: Q1: What happened to Ramzan Kadyrov in Turkey? He nearly drowned while swimming at a Bodrum hotel and was later hospitalized. Q2: Is Ramzan Kadyrov's health getting worse? Yes, reports suggest his health is declining due to serious medical issues.
The Sun
4 days ago
- Politics
- The Sun
Madcap Chechen warlord Kadyrov ‘nearly DROWNS' at 5-star Turkey hotel after ‘falling out with Putin and fleeing Russia'
ONE of Putin's top henchmen nearly drowned on Thursday while on holiday in Turkey, reports have claimed. Chechen leader Ramzan Kadyrov is said to have lost consciousness after entering the water for a swim. 5 5 5 It is understood to have happened at a five-star hotel in the Kaynar district of Bodrum. Hotel staff and coastguard officers went to his aid when they noticed he was in distress. The madcap warlord was pulled ashore and taken to hospital after first aid was administered. He was rushed to a private clinic, where his condition was later said to be stable. The warlord is reported to not be in a "life-threatening condition". However, Chechen authorities have not yet put out an official statement. Kadyrov rules over the region of Chechnya, where he has been widely accused of major human rights violations including extrajudicial killings and torture. The 48-year-old has long been a supporter of Russian dictator Vladimir Putin, and has sent tens of thousands of troops to support the brutal invasion of Ukraine. But the warlord's ailing health has been the subject of widespread speculation in recent months. Kadyrov reportedly attempted to resign his position in May, but his request was refused by Putin. The Sun previously reported that the Chechen leader was "preparing to flee Russia" - and had put his 17-year-old son in charge of the police. Relations between Putin and Kadyrov are believed to have nosedived in recent months. Kadyrov was reported to have undertaken "unsanctioned discussions" with officials from several Middle Eastern countries about his assets and family's future. This was despite such discussions not being approved by Moscow. But Kadyrov is now believed to be suffering from severe kidney and pancreatic issues, Novaya Gazeta Europe reported. The Chechen warlord wants his son to take over from him - but reportedly does not trust that Putin will honour this. Investigative journalist Andrey Kalitin previously said: "The Kremlin has two or three candidates. "Ramzan Kadyrov has one. His name is Adam, he is 17 years old, he has more than 15 awards." But even if Putin appointed Adam, a regency-style arrangement would be required until he is 30 under Russian laws. Kadyrov himself inherited rule of Chechnya from his father Akhmad. His father had originally been a Chechen separatist but later switched sides to support Russia. 5 5
New York Times
03-07-2025
- Politics
- New York Times
Once Russia's Most Volatile Region, Chechnya Is Bracing for Succession
For two decades, Ramzan Kadyrov has been the Kremlin's iron fist in Chechnya. In return for helping to brutally suppress an independence movement, he has been allowed to rule his region as a personal fief, crushing rivals and dissenters, as well as separatists. But Mr. Kadyrov, 48, appears to be seriously ill, presenting President Vladimir V. Putin with a new challenge in a part of southern Russia where wars killed tens of thousands in the 1990s and 2000s. When the strongman leaves the scene, who can maintain the brutal control he has imposed over that part of the Caucasus? Mr. Kadyrov's own succession plan could be resting on his 17-year-old son, who got married and received congratulations from Mr. Putin over the weekend. But that would require circumventing Russian law requiring regional leaders to be at least 30 years old. And there are other contenders, including a man who led an effort to round up and brutalize gay people and another who went off to fight for Russia in Ukraine. Over the years, Mr. Kadyrov has become a unique figure in Mr. Putin's autocracy, enjoying far more latitude and richer subsidies than other regional leaders. He commands what amounts to his own army. He has imposed strict Islamic rules in his mostly Muslim region that contravene Russian law, and he has conducted something of a foreign policy of his own, fostering ties with Gulf monarchies and taking positions that do not always align with the Kremlin's. Chechnya was the only region exempted from Russia's conscription of about 300,000 men after its 2022 invasion of Ukraine. But the authorities did send some Chechens to the war as punishment, according to rights activists and local residents who spoke to The New York Times. And though Mr. Kadyrov committed some forces early in the war, it soon became clear they were not doing much fighting, earning themselves the nickname 'TikTok soldiers.' Want all of The Times? Subscribe.
OC Media
30-06-2025
- Politics
- OC Media
Kadyrov's 17-year-old son Adam marries granddaughter of political ally in elaborate wedding
Sign in or or Become a member to unlock the audio version of this article Join the voices Aliyev wants to silence. For over eight years, OC Media has worked with fearless journalists from Azerbaijan — some of whom now face decades behind bars — to bring you the stories the regime is afraid will get out. Help us fuel Aliyev's fears — become an OC Media member today Become a member The 17-year-old son of Chechen Head Ramzan Kadyrov, Adam, has been married to a local girl named only as Medni, reportedly a relative of Adam Delimkhanov, an MP from Chechnya and close ally of Ramzan Kadyrov. The large-scale wedding took place over three consecutive days, from Thursday to Saturday, in the village of Akhmat-Yurt (formerly Tsentoroy), the ancestral home of the Kadyrov family in Chechnya. According to unconfirmed reports, Adam Kadyrov married the daughter of Chechen Senator Suleiman Geremeev, who is a close ally of Ramzan Kadyrov and is a cousin of Russian MP Adam Delimkhanov. The ceremony was preceded by a Muslim religious marriage (nikah), which allegedly took place a year earlier — on 8 June 2024. Preparations for the official celebration lasted several months, with invitations sent to delegations from Middle Eastern countries, including to the UAE Ambassador to Russia Mohamed Ahmed Al Jaber, who interrupted his vacation in Abu Dhabi to fly to the Chechen capital Grozny on Friday to congratulate Kadyrov's third son, according to Russian independent media outlet Novaya Gazeta Europe, citing a source in the Russian Foreign Ministry. The wedding was reportedly postponed twice — some sources linked this to Ramzan Kadyrov's desire to arrange a private meeting between Adam Kadyrov and Russian President Vladimir Putin. In addition, Ramzan Kadyrov allegedly planned to marry Adam Kadyrov off last summer on the same day as his elder brother Zelimkhan (Eli), but the Kremlin reportedly did not approve due to Adam Kadyrov's age. Ramzan Kadyrov wrote on his Telegram channel that Putin personally congratulated the family on the event. In his message, he expressed his 'sincere gratitude' for Putin's call. During the celebration, unexpected details caught the attention of the media: on Adam Kadyrov's wrist, journalists noticed a Jacob & Co. Billionaire Ashoka watch, encrusted with 320 diamonds, with an estimated value of approximately $27.7 million. According to calculations by Maria Pevchikh, head of investigations at the Russian activist organisation Anti-Corruption Foundation (FBK), an average local resident would need to work for over 1,500 years without spending anything to accumulate such a sum. Advertisement Among the guests was the commander of the Akhmat special forces unit, Apti Alaudinov, whose watch also drew attention. It is presumed to be a Badollet Observatoire 1872 Chronograph, with a price range from €165,000 ($190,00) to €272,000 ($320,000). In addition, video footage from the celebration shows the underaged Adam Kadyrov behind the wheel of a limited-edition Mercedes-Benz G-Class in Agave Green. Fewer than 500 units of this model have been produced and it has been officially banned from import into Russia. Its estimated price tag is around $190,000. The video also shows Adam Kadyrov firing a golden pistol into the air. The shot was accompanied by applause and security detail. The use of firearms by minors is prohibited in Russia, as is celebratory gunfire with live weapons. Since June 2023, Adam Kadyrov has held several official positions: he heads Ramzan Kadyrov's security service, and in April 2025 he became Secretary of the Security Council of the republic and curator of the regional Ministry of Internal Affairs, as well as curator of the special forces university. He has also been awarded a number of state orders and holds the title of Hero of the Chechen Republic.
Yahoo
29-06-2025
- Politics
- Yahoo
Chechen leader says Putin congratulated him on son's wedding
(Reuters) -The head of Russia's Caucasus region of Chechnya, a fervent supporter of Moscow's war in Ukraine, said Kremlin leader Vladimir Putin telephoned him on Saturday to congratulate him on his son's wedding. Ramzan Kadyrov, writing on the Telegram messaging app, said Putin "personally congratulated me ... on this important event and offered his warmest words of congratulation." Kadyrov said he was particularly touched that Putin had found the time to call "despite being so colossally busy with matters of state. This is a very dear thing." Kadyrov has led Chechnya, a mountainous Muslim region in southern Russia that tried to break away from Moscow in wars that followed the collapse of the Soviet Union, since 2007. He has sent large contingents of troops to boost Russian ranks in the 40-month-old war against Ukraine and in the conflict's early stages commented frequently on events on the battlefield. His son, Adam, who turns 18 in November, already holds several positions in the region's security structures. Reports from the region said he was appointed secretary of Chechnya's security council in April. He also serves as his father's top bodyguard, a trustee of Chechnya's Special Forces University, and an observer in a new army battalion.
