Russian President Vladimir Putin has reportedly hidden his mistress and their four children in Switzerland, according to sources.
Alina Kabaeva, one of the most decorated gymnasts in history who won Olympic gold, is hiding in a private chalet "somewhere" in the country, which is famous for its neutrality.
Kabaeva is believed to have four children with Putin, although this has never been confirmed.
A source told Page Six : "While Putin carries out his assault on the Ukraine, attacking innocent citizens and causing a refugee crisis, his family is holed up in a very private and very secure chalet somewhere in Switzerland – for now, at least.
"Alina has two young boys and twin girls with Putin who were born in Switzerland.
"The kids all have Swiss passports, and I imagine she does also."
Kabaeva won two Olympic medals in Sydney and Athens during her rhythmic gymnastic career, 14 World Championship medals, and 21 European Championship medals.
Putin is known for keeping his private life a mystery and is said to despise any intrusion on it.
He shies away from speaking about his personal affairs, and two of his daughters who have been kept from the spotlight are rarely talked about.
Putin previously blasted "those who with their snotty noses and erotic fantasies prowl into others' lives".
He said: "I have a private life in which I do not permit interference. It must be respected."
He was married to air hostess Lyudmila Putina for around 30 years before, in 2013, it was announced they were to divorce.
Appearing on state television after attending a ballet together, Putin admitted that rumours he and his wife no longer lived together were "true" and she had "done with her shift" as Russia's First Lady.
She had only appeared when required by protocol during his years in power, rarely looking comfortable, and had a controversial TV appearance a few years before because she was not wearing a wedding ring.
Lyudmila said: "Our marriage is over due to the fact that we barely see each other.
"Vladimir is completely submerged in his work. Our children have grown up, each of them is living their own life... and I truly don't like publicity."
Over the years, Putin has been dogged by rumours of an affair, something which he has always denied.
Political rival Alexi Navalny once claimed Putin had wed the former Olympic gymnast in a secret ceremony.
