Putin Declines AI Blood-Pressure Demo, Says He's 'Fine' After Two-Day Medical Checkup

Russian President Vladimir Putin, 73, told attendees at Moscow’s AI Journey forum that he is in good health after a two-and-a-half-day medical examination, but declined to try an AI-powered kiosk that measures pulse and blood pressure via a fingertip scanner.

Surrounded by security at the event, Putin said he had just completed his annual checkup, including an overnight stay at a clinic. "I recently had my annual checkup. It took two and a half days, including an overnight stay at the clinic. Thank God, everything is fine," he told the audience.

Ongoing health speculation

His comments come amid persistent public speculation about his health. Observers pointed to a bruised or swollen right hand seen at a separate Moscow event on Nov. 9, and a close-up photo of his hand posted on X by Ukrainian presidential adviser Anton Gerashchenko drew attention and comments that veins appeared prominent.

Earlier footage from 2022 showing Putin gripping a table during a high-level meeting also sparked questions online about possible pain or neurological issues. Separately, unverified reports and public commentary have suggested a range of illnesses, fueling continued scrutiny of his appearances.

Comments on longevity

At the AI forum Putin also spoke about human longevity, saying he believes it may be possible for people to live to 150. "It is probably possible to reach 150," he said, adding facetiously that it would still feel too short, "just like with money — always."

He has previously been overheard in a private exchange at an international summit discussing biotechnology and organ transplants, joking about the prospect of extended life and even "immortality."

Note: Representatives were contacted for comment, but no additional statement was provided at the time of publication.