Putin cancels annual briefing as suspicions grow he’s running from war

Russian President Vladimir Putin will not hold his annual year-end press conference for the first time in a decade, prompting speculation that the Russian leader is sick or running scared from answering questions about Ukraine as the war enters its 10th month.

As for the big press conference, yes, it wont happen before the New Year, Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov told reporters Monday.

But we hope that the president will still find an opportunity to talk with [journalists], as he regularly does, including during foreign [visits], Peskov added.

While Peskov gave no reason behind the move, the war in Ukraine and Russian troops having to make repeated retreats in recent weeks were likely both factors in choosing to break the tradition.

The move also draws attention to suspicions that Putins health is on the decline, especially following reports last week that he fell down the stairs and soiled himself.

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The marathon end-of-year press conference broadcast live on TV and often lasting upwards of four hours allows the Russian leader to polish his public image all while answering questions from 500-plus journalists.

Putins spokesperson also indicated that a press conference may take place in the New Year, but did not give a specific date or format for the event.

The president had also postponed his annual live Direct Line question-and-answer session with ordinary Russian citizens over apparent concerns he would face difficult questions about the war and his chaotic call to mobilize 300,000 conscripts in September.

Putin will also not be hosting a New Year celebration, Peskov said.

There has been significant speculation about the Russian strongmans health amid rumors he is suffering from cancer affecting his stomach and bowels as well as a worsening case of Parkinsons disease. The Kremlin has denied that Putin is struggling with any illnesses.

Putin who has been in power since 2000 has held an annual press conference in December for about a decade. In 2019, a record of 1,895 journalists were accredited.

With Post wires

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Putin cancels annual briefing as suspicions grow he's running from war