Kremlin releases video of Putin’s ‘chance encounter with stranger’
Watch: Putin fakes street chat with stranger in Moscow
Vladimir Putin was featured in a video released by the Kremlin on Monday, depicting a seemingly spontaneous, friendly encounter with a member of the public in a Moscow hotel lobby.
The interaction, where Putin appeared casual and with a small security detail, was widely seen as an attempt to refute recent claims that he was isolated in underground bunkers due to fears of assassination or a coup.
Independent Russian investigative outlet Agency identified the man in the video as Alexander Bazarny, a former security guard for companies that managed properties linked to Putin.
These companies, including Svod International, were reportedly responsible for managing luxury chalets and cottages, such as Putin’s alleged ‘secret ski lodge’.
The Kremlin’s official statement regarding Putin’s Moscow visit focused on his invitation to his former teacher, Vera Gurevich, to attend the annual Red Square parade and enjoy a cultural programme.
