Archive · 11 Nov 2025
Putin's Bloated Hands Spark Health Speculation
People are talking about Russian President Vladimir Putin because a video showed his hands looking swollen and veiny, and he seemed to be in pain.
Some people online think this might mean he is sick with something serious, like a nerve problem.
This isn't the first time his health has been questioned; before, people noticed his hands stayed very still, and he disappeared for a couple of weeks for what officials called 'medical check-ups'.
One person who used to be a politician in the UK even said he might have Parkinson's disease.
However, the people in charge in Russia usually say that these kinds of rumors are not true and have denied claims about his health in the past.
Videos circulating online show Russian President Vladimir Putin, 73, with visibly bloated hands featuring swollen veins, appearing to be in pain.
The images have prompted widespread online speculation and concern about Putin's health, with some suggesting neurological disorders.
A former Ukrainian official and online users have shared and commented on the video, questioning the appearance of Putin's hands.
This follows previous instances of speculation regarding Putin's health, including his hands remaining motionless and a period of absence for 'medical examinations'.
The Kremlin has a history of denying health rumors, though no official comment has been made on the latest concerns about Putin's hands.
- Who
- Russian President Vladimir Putin
- What
- A video showing Putin's hands with swollen veins and apparent signs of pain has fueled widespread online speculation about his health.
- When
- Recently, during a press conference and public appearances.
- Where
- During public appearances in Russia.
- Why
- The visible physical condition of his hands and body has led to renewed rumors and concern about his health, with some speculating about specific neurological conditions.
Speculation and Concern
Kremlin Denials and Alternative Explanations
Putin's Hand Appearance
Speculation and Concern
Online users and former Ukrainian officials are concerned by videos showing Putin's hands with bulging veins, appearing swollen, sickly, and clenched in pain. Some speculate this indicates neurological disorders or other serious health issues.
Kremlin Denials and Alternative Explanations
The Kremlin has consistently denied health rumors, labeling them as 'fake'. Past absences and medical examinations have been explained as routine. While not commenting on the latest appearance, similar past concerns about other leaders have been attributed to medical regimens and handshaking.
Specific Health Diagnoses
Speculation and Concern
An author and former UK Member of Parliament has claimed, citing unverified sources, that Putin has Parkinson's disease, which is progressing rapidly and requires regular doctor consultations.
Kremlin Denials and Alternative Explanations
No official diagnosis or confirmation of any specific illness, including Parkinson's disease or cancer, has been provided by Russian authorities. The Kremlin has not confirmed or denied these specific claims but has a history of dismissing all health rumors.
- Subject of Speculation
- Russian President Vladimir Putin
- Observed Detail
- Bloated hands with swollen, bulging veins; apparent pain and trembling.
- Source of Viral Video
- Pro-Ukrainian news outlet Nexta
- Previous Health Concerns
- Speculation about neurological disorders and cancer since 2024; hands held motionless in November; two-week disappearance in October for 'ordinary medical examinations'.
- Alleged Diagnosis
- Parkinson's disease (claimed by Louise Mensch, former UK MP)
- Age of Putin
- 73
