Putin inaugurated as President of Russia with an ailing Kadyrov by his side

On Tuesday, Vladimir Putin was inaugurated as President of Russia for the fifth time, setting the scene for another six years at the helm. Among those invited was Ramzan Kadyrov, who encountered difficulties entering the building. It's widely known that the Chechen leader has been battling pancreatic illness for years, with recent reports suggesting his condition has deteriorated.

Vladimir Putin won 87.28 percent of the votes in the March presidential elections. He outperformed three rivals, though the outcome seemed predetermined just before the polling started.

The election process hardly mirrored democratic standards. In several locations, images of Putin were displayed, and soldiers with rifles were seen peeking behind curtains to monitor voters' choices.

Chechen leader Ramzan Kadyrov was a guest at the inauguration. Anton Herashchenko, an advisor to the Ukrainian Ministry of Internal Affairs, posted a video on social media showing Kadyrov struggling to remove his coat, assisted by two helpers.

Opinions on Russian Telegram channels were split - assessing whether he was feigning incapacity or genuinely unwell.

It’s important to note that in 2019, Kadyrov was diagnosed with pancreatic necrosis. By January 2020, he took a leave for "temporary incapacity for work".

His frequent medical consultations further validate assertions of Kadyrov's illness. Investigations by Russian journalists suggest he's battling necrotizing pancreatitis, a severe condition that can be life-threatening and impacts both his physical appearance and level of activity.

Kadyrov's health reportedly began to worsen in spring 2022. This decline is evident in photographs showing his noticeable weight gain, a side effect of the aforementioned pancreatic necrosis.

Subsequently, Kadyrov has become less visible publicly. Although initially very active in the early stages of the war in Ukraine, his presence and activities have noticeably decreased since then.

In remarks to Russia 24, Kadyrov expressed his anticipation for positive changes after May 9 (note: Victory Day in Russia).

Having been in control since 2000, Putin could maintain power until 2036. This would see him outlasting Empress Catherine II to become the longest-reigning Russian leader. At 71, his current tenure is set to conclude in 2030, with the revised constitution permitting another term.