Kadyrov’s 20-Year-Old Son Named Acting Deputy PM of Chechnya
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Ramzan Kadyrov‘s Health and Recent Promotion Spark Speculation
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Recent developments and Health Concerns
Ramzan Kadyrov’s recent promotion within the Chechen government has coincided with increased speculation regarding his health. Reports surfaced in late December 2025 and early January 2026 suggesting a serious illness, potentially pancreatic necrosis, and a period of hospitalization in Moscow.
Novaya Gazeta Europe, an exiled Russian news website, initially reported in 2024 that Kadyrov was suffering from a serious illness. The outlet further reported on December 31, 2025, that Kadyrov was urgently hospitalized in Moscow before a State Council meeting chaired by President Vladimir Putin on December 25, 2025.
According to an unidentified source close to the Chechen leader cited by Novaya Gazeta Europe, Kadyrov “barely revived” during his hospitalization and has not been seen in public since. The source’s identity remains unconfirmed.
Kadyrov’s Response and Public Appearances
Kadyrov has publicly dismissed reports concerning his health.on Saturday, January 4, 2026, his official Telegram channel published video footage showing him attending the opening of an Islamic school. However, the footage showed Kadyrov not speaking and relying on a walking stick for support.
Background: Ramzan Kadyrov and Chechnya
ramzan Kadyrov has been the Head of the Chechen Republic as 2007. His rule has been marked by strong support for Vladimir Putin and a crackdown on dissent within Chechnya. Kadyrov’s father, Akhmat Kadyrov, previously held the position and was assassinated in 2004. The Kadyrov family maintains important influence in the region.
Chechnya, a republic within Russia, has experienced significant political instability and conflict, particularly during the First and Second Chechen Wars (1994-1996 and 1999-2009, respectively). The region’s relationship with the Russian federal government remains complex.
Timeline of Events
- 2004: Akhmat Kadyrov, Ramzan kadyrov’s father, is assassinated.
- 2007: ramzan Kadyrov becomes Head of the Chechen Republic.
- 2024: Novaya Gazeta Europe first reports on Ramzan Kadyrov’s serious illness.
- December 25, 2025: State Council meeting chaired by Vladimir Putin.
- December 31, 2025: Novaya Gazeta Europe reports Kadyrov’s urgent hospitalization in Moscow.
- January 4, 2026: Kadyrov’s Telegram channel publishes video footage of him at an Islamic school opening.
- January 6, 2026: This article is updated with the latest information.