Chechen leader Ramzan Kadyrov has been battling pancreatic necrosis for over five years, as reported by Novaya Gazeta Europe citing sources at a Moscow hospital. His worsening health has prompted the Kremlin to develop a succession plan for the North Caucasus region. Speculation about Kadyrov’s health began circulating on social media last year, with rumors about kidney problems. Kadyrov took steps to counter these rumors by appearing in videos to address his condition.
The initial diagnosis of acute pancreatic necrosis in January 2019 led to Kadyrov issuing decrees temporarily transferring power to others without disclosing his medical condition. Reports from Novaya Gazeta Europe indicate that Kadyrov’s health took a turn for the worse in the spring of 2022, leading to concerns over his prolonged absences from the public eye. He was hospitalized in September 2023 for acute pulmonary failure after overdosing on sleeping pills. While doctors stabilized his respiratory function, MRI findings suggested a bleak outlook for Kadyrov’s recovery.
Sources close to Kadyrov ally Adam Delimkhanov revealed that the Chechen leader’s illness would have a significant impact on him and that even if he recovered, he would not be the same. This prompted the Kremlin to begin preparing for a potential change in leadership. In response to the reports, Kadyrov released a video discussing Chechnya’s role in the conflict in Ukraine, though his physical condition appeared to be deteriorating. Official statements regarding Kadyrov’s health have not been made, and the accuracy of the reports cannot be independently confirmed.
Since his appointment by Putin in 2007, Kadyrov has ruled Chechnya with an iron fist, overseeing a region that has seen significant turmoil due to conflicts with separatist forces. Critics have accused Kadyrov of severe human rights violations, including torture and extrajudicial killings. Despite this, Kadyrov has maintained a firm grip on power in Chechnya, utilizing a combination of loyalty to Moscow and a strong security apparatus. The potential succession planning in light of Kadyrov’s health concerns raises questions about the future leadership of Chechnya and the stability of the region.
As rumors and reports about Kadyrov’s health continue to circulate, the situation in Chechnya remains uncertain. The prospect of a leadership change in the region, especially given Kadyrov’s long-standing rule and controversial governance, raises questions about the future direction of Chechnya. The impact of Kadyrov’s health on the stability of the North Caucasus region is of concern to both the Kremlin and local residents. The lack of official confirmation or denial regarding Kadyrov’s condition adds to the uncertainty surrounding his health and the potential implications for Chechnya’s leadership and governance.
