Chechen leader Ramzan Kadyrov accused three Russian lawmakers of plotting to kill him in an incident related to a violent altercation at the Moscow headquarters of Wildberries, Russia’s largest online retailer. Kadyrov warned that he would call for a “blood feud” if the lawmakers did not prove their innocence. The fight broke out when Vladislav Bakalchuk, the estranged husband of Wildberries’ founder Tatiana Kim, tried to enter the building with his security guards. Kadyrov named Bekhan Barakhoyev, Suleiman Kerimov, and Rizvan Kurbanov from neighboring Dagestan and Ingushetia as potentially involved in the plot. He expressed support for Bakalchuk’s efforts to prevent the merger of Wildberries with another company, and called for anyone with complaints against his supporters to come to him directly.
Kadyrov’s accusations were accompanied by a video posted on his Telegram account, in which he named the three lawmakers and claimed that there were witnesses who had been approached to carry out the assassination attempt. The Chechen leader also issued a warning against those who try to incite conflicts between different nations. He labeled himself as the main “Kadyrovite,” referring to his supporters, and invited anyone with questions or complaints to come to him directly. Kadyrov’s comments were his first public statements since the deadly incident at Wildberries, where two people were killed. The individuals involved in the altercation, including the two who died, were reported to have ties to the North Caucasus region.
In another statement, Kadyrov praised Elon Musk’s Tesla Cybertruck and expressed his intention to send the vehicle to fight in Ukraine. He described the technology as a “Cyberbeast” and claimed that it would be beneficial for their fighters. Kadyrov’s admiration for Musk’s technology and his willingness to involve the Cybertruck in conflicts demonstrate his support for modern military advancements. The Chechen warlord’s endorsement of the Cybertruck reflects his interest in utilizing advanced weaponry and vehicles in warfare. Kadyrov’s comments on the Cybertruck come amidst escalating tensions in Ukraine, where various factions are engaged in armed conflict.
Kadyrov’s public statements and actions highlight his confrontational approach towards perceived threats and conflicts. By accusing the Russian lawmakers of a plot against him and issuing warnings of a “blood feud,” Kadyrov demonstrates his willingness to retaliate against those he perceives as enemies. His support for individuals involved in the Wildberries dispute and his declaration as the main “Kadyrovite” signify his loyalty to his supporters and his readiness to protect them. Kadyrov’s endorsement of the Tesla Cybertruck for military purposes reflects his interest in acquiring advanced technology to strengthen his forces and confront adversaries.
Overall, Ramzan Kadyrov’s recent statements and actions emphasize his leadership style characterized by assertiveness, loyalty to his supporters, and a willingness to utilize modern technology in conflicts. His accusations against the Russian lawmakers and his support for individuals involved in the Wildberries dispute reflect his commitment to defending his interests and maintaining power in the region. Kadyrov’s alliance with Elon Musk’s Tesla Cybertruck underscores his interest in innovative military capabilities and his readiness to adapt to modern warfare tactics. As tensions persist in regions like Ukraine, Kadyrov’s bold declarations and actions are likely to continue shaping his reputation as a formidable and controversial figure in Russian politics.
