Is Chechnya's Ramzan Kadyrov seriously ill? Here's what reports say

48-year-old Ramzan Kadyrov, the Chechen leader and Putin ally often referred to as the “wardog,” has again made headlines due to health concerns and political strain. PRESIDENT Putin’s ally Ramzan Kadyrov has been urgently admitted to the hospital in Moscow.

Known for a controversial record that includes allegations of human rights violations, kidnapping, and torture, Kadyrov’s health and political role have become topics of intense scrutiny.

Meeting of the State Council Interrupted

Reports suggested that Kadyrov travelled to Moscow to attend a meeting of the State Council chaired by Putin. However, his condition deteriorated sharply, and he was taken by ambulance to the Central Clinical Hospital of the Presidential Administration of the Russian Federation. A source stated to Novaya Gazeta Evropa: “In Moscow they barely managed to resuscitate him, after which he returned home and has not appeared in public since.”

Health Concerns and Past Hospitalisations

Kadyrov’s health challenges are not new. He was hospitalized the previous year at Grozny’s private Aimedi clinic, and his condition is believed to have worsened since then. In a live broadcast, he mentioned: “I sometimes have nervous breakdowns. A constant feeling of tension, as if I were sitting on an electric current.”

Some reports have indicated that Kadyrov is terminally ill with “pancreatic necrosis” and needs regular treatment at the Kremlin Clinic in Moscow. Kadyrov, however, dismissed these claims, stating that he is “absolutely healthy.”

Political Tensions with Moscow

Relations with Putin reportedly strained following Kadyrov allegedly holding secret meetings with Middle Eastern authorities. Local media reported he started“unsanctioned discussions” in regard to his assets and family’s future without Moscow’s approval, initiating FSB officers to notify a “furious” Putin.

Kadyrov has reportedly started moving family assets abroad, obtaining properties in Qatar and the UAE. Earlier this year, he was stated to be “preparing to flee Russia,” delegating police authority to his son.

Flamboyant Lifestyle and Tesla Cybertruck

Kadyrov has continued to showcase his lavish lifestyle. In 2024, he featured a Tesla Cybertruck gifted by Elon Musk, equipped with a machine gun for deployment to Ukraine. He named it a “Cyberbeast,” citing: “A real invulnerable and fast animal. A manoeuvrable car that develops excellent speed and overcomes obstacles. I express my sincere gratitude to Elon Musk! He is, of course, one of the greatest geniuses and specialists of our time. A great man! Elon, thank you! Come to Grozny, and I will welcome you as the most honoured guest!”

FAQs:

Q1. Who is Ramzan Kadyrov?
Kadyrov is the 48-year-old leader of Chechnya and a close ally of President Vladimir Putin. He is frequently referred to as Putin’s “wardog.”

Q2. Why was Kadyrov hospitalised?
He reportedly experienced a sharp health decline while in Moscow for a State Council meeting. Sources state that he was resuscitated and has not appeared publicly since.