In recent years, similar instances of speculation about Putin s health have prompted heightened media attention and discussions about the future of Russia s leadership.
Andonov, a member of the notorious Wagner Group of Russian mercenaries, was allegedly also engaged in the shooting of Ukrainian POWs during the Donbas conflict in 2014.
Budanov claimed that two months ago, Putin was "attacked.. by representatives of the Caucasus," a region that comprises Armenia, Azerbaijan, Georgia, and parts of southern Russia.