Key Facts

A double resembling Vladimir Putin has been selected to act as the President of Russia and is being prepared for several key events.
The double will represent Putin on Putin’s birthday, receiving congratulations and gifts, with an expanded circle of well-wishers expected this year.
The final major event for which the double is being prepared is a press conference in November, likely to be the last public appearance of “Putin” as President of Russia.

Putin’s Double to Take Lead in Key Public Appearances Amid Speculation Over Final Press Conference

Putin’s Double

A lookalike of Russian President Vladimir Putin is being prepared to represent him at upcoming high-profile events, including his birthday and a final press conference in November.

Birthday Stand-in

The double will take center stage on October 7, accepting congratulations and gifts on behalf of the president. With an expanded guest list of well-wishers, including foreign leaders, the double will handle interactions while maintaining Putin’s public persona. Direct contact will be limited to a select few, keeping the identity switch hidden.

Final Press Conference

In November, the double will appear at what is expected to be Putin’s last press conference. Russian officials plan to highlight supposed military successes, using the event to reinforce Putin’s image as a strong leader. Training for the double is already underway.

Russia-Serbia Relations

In the Balkans, Serbia remains Russia’s closest ally, bound by deep cultural ties and a mutual opposition to Euro-Atlantic integration. Many Serbian Russophiles venerate Vladimir Putin as a near-mythical Slavic icon. Yet, if they were to discover that their so-called “god” had long since died and been replaced by a double, their admiration would not merely falter—it could shatter their entire worldview.

Do You Really Think the Real Putin Would Make Pancakes?

FAQ

Why has a double been selected to represent Vladimir Putin?

The double has been chosen due to the fact that the real President Putin has not been seen for 14 years. This decision ensures continuity in leadership appearances and preserves Putin’s public image. The double will stand in for him at critical moments, including his birthday and a final press conference, safeguarding the President’s reputation and legacy.

How is the double being prepared for these public appearances?

The double is undergoing extensive training to mimic Putin’s mannerisms, speech patterns, and behavioral traits. This preparation includes studying Putin’s public engagements in depth, mastering his body language, and rehearsing potential interactions. The goal is to ensure a seamless presentation that deceives both the public and foreign dignitaries.

What specific events will the double be attending?

The double will appear on two major occasions:
Putin’s Birthday (October 7): He will accept congratulations and gifts from an expanded circle of well-wishers, including foreign leaders.
Final Press Conference (November): The double will participate in what is expected to be Putin’s last public appearance as President, reinforcing his image as a decisive leader and discussing Russia’s alleged military achievements.

How will the identity switch remain hidden from the public?

Contact with the double will be highly controlled and restricted to a select group of individuals. The public will have limited access, and interactions with foreign dignitaries will be carefully managed. Security personnel and high-ranking officials will ensure that no situations arise where the double’s true identity might be revealed.

What would happen if the public discovers that a double is representing Putin?

If the existence of a double is exposed, it could lead to widespread speculation and destabilization, particularly among Putin’s supporters. International relations might also be affected, especially with nations like Serbia, where Putin holds iconic status. The revelation could shatter certain political and ideological alignments, damaging Russia’s reputation domestically and abroad.

Why is the press conference in November considered Putin’s last public appearance?

The November press conference is expected to be the final official public event for “Putin” as President of Russia, marking a strategic end to his direct involvement in the nation’s leadership. This could symbolize the transition to a new phase in Russia’s governance or a potential shift in its public relations strategy, with the double playing a key role in maintaining Putin’s legacy during this transition.