Russian President Vladimir Putin, 73, appeared unable to display emotion during the 85th anniversary commemoration of the Great Patriotic War, also known as World War II, at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier in Moscow. Images from the event show Putin with a drooping face, looking blank and seemingly unable to cry, unlike previous years when he appeared on the verge of tears.
Putin's Lack of Emotion at Sombre Event
Putin laid a wreath and single red roses on marble coffin statues, but his facial expression remained neutral. In one image, he appears almost annoyed at his inability to show sadness. The Kremlin has repeatedly denied rumours about Putin's health, but recent outbursts of anger and these new images paint a different picture.
Kremlin's Official Statement
The official Kremlin press release did not include a personal message from Putin, which is unusual. A spokesman said: “The ceremony took place in the Alexander Garden. It was attended by veterans of combat operations, servicemen and graduates of military universities. Minister of Defence Andrei Belousov also laid a wreath at the Eternal Flame. The ceremony participants honoured the memory of the defenders of the Fatherland with a minute of silence. The event continued with a guard of honour squad and a military band marching past the national memorial of military glory. The President also laid flowers at the Hero City obelisks and a memorial honouring the Cities of Military Glory. The Day of Memory and Sorrow commemorates the day when the Great Patriotic War began. On June 22, 1941, Nazi Germany attacked the Soviet Union without declaring war.”
Health Rumours Persist
Anti-Kremlin outlets have long claimed Putin suffers from various medical issues and may have used Botox to appear younger. While the truth remains unknown, the 73-year-old leader's public appearances continue to fuel speculation about his health.
