Russian President Vladimir Putin could be planning to hand over power as rumours of ill health grow, it's been claimed.
The 69-year-old is alleged to be due to undergo surgery, possibly for cancer, according to alleged leaks from within the Kremlin.
It comes after Telegram channel General SVR - allegedly run by an ex-Russian Foreign Intelligence Service lieutenant general - said the despot has been informed by doctors the operation will incapacitate him "for a short time".