Vladimir Putin could be out of power and in a sanatorium by 2023 while Western sanctions could also cause Russia to 'break apart' next year, a former British MI6 chief has said. Sir Richard Dearlove, the head of the British Secret Intelligence service between 1999 and 2004, was speaking as rumours about the Russia president's health continue to spread.
There is speculation that Putin, 69, has been suffering from cancer. He launched an invasion of neighbouring country Ukraine back in February, prompting financial sanctions from Western governments.
Sir Richard, who co-hosts the One Decision podcast, said of Putin: “I’m really going to stick my neck out. I think he’ll be gone by 2023. Probably into the sanatorium, from which he will not emerge as the leader of Russia.
