Ukraine's Security Service (SBU) has confirmed that Chechen strongman Ramzan Kadyrov is in critical condition due to serious illness, SBU Spokesperson Andriy Yusov told the Ukrainian news outlet Obozrevatel on Sept. 15.
"Yes, indeed, there is information that war criminal Kadyrov is in serious condition — his existing diseases have worsened and caused such a serious condition," Yusov said.
Obozrevatel had earlier reported claims from sources in Chechnya that Kadyrov had fallen into a coma. While Yusov did not provide details on Kadyrov's medical issues, he confirmed that the problem was not an injury and that his health was worsening.
"He has been ill for a long time, and it is about systemic health problems. But he has been in serious condition for the last few days," Yusov said.
Yusov said that the information about Kadyrov's health has been confirmed by multiple medical and political sources.
Rumors of Kadyrov's declining health have circulated for months. In March, Kadyrov laughed off the speculation in a Telegram post.
"For those who console themselves with the hope that I am terminally ill, I am sorry to upset you," Kadyrov said.
According to Obozrevatel's Chechen sources, Kadyrov has been in a coma for several days and is waiting to be transferred from Chechnya to receive treatment abroad, likely in the United Arab Emirates.
Kadyrov is a staunch supporter of Russian dictator Vladimir Putin and has sent Chechen troops – the notoriously ruthless kadyrovtsy – to wage Russia's war in Ukraine.
Alexander Query
