A major blow for Putin: ill, his most loyal ally wants to resign

The leader of Chechnya, Ramzan Kadyrov, has reportedly expressed his desire to step down from his position.

He's one of the most loyal allies of Russian President Vladimir Putin. At 48 years old, Ramzan Kadyrov is said to be suffering from health issues and, after requesting to be relieved of his duties, has demanded that his son (17 years old) be his successor. "I'm the one asking for my dismissal. A new leader will have their own initiatives and vision. I hope my request will be granted," he's reported to have declared.

Unwavering support Since the beginning of the invasion in Ukraine, Ramzan Kadyrov has shown unwavering support for the Kremlin chief. To prove his loyalty, he has sent several thousand soldiers to fight alongside the Russians, according to the media outlet L’Indépendant. Although his departure does not question the Chechen involvement, under Russian administration (bearing in mind Chechnya is a constituent republic of the Russian Federation), it does carry symbolic weight.

(MH with Manon Pierre - Source: L’Indépendant - Picture: ©picture alliance / Anadolu | Kremlin Press Office / Handout)