Nikolai Patrushev, a key figure in Russia's security sector and a close associate of President Vladimir Putin, has made a public statement highlighting Russia's nuclear capabilities.
Patrushev, who is often mentioned as a potential successor to Putin, claimed at the Znanie (Knowledge) education exposition in Moscow that Russia has surpassed other nations in nuclear proficiency.
This claim was broadcast by the state-owned RT TV channel according to Daily Star, where Patrushev asserted, "For the first time in the history of the existence of nuclear missile weapons, our country is ahead of its competitors in this [nuclear] domain."
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Patrushev's remarks come at a time of heightened speculation about Putin's health and the future leadership of Russia. Rumors have circulated suggesting Putin is battling serious illnesses, and some unverified claims have even suggested that Putin has died and a body double has taken his place, with Patrushev orchestrating the government behind the scenes.
The Kremlin has dismissed these rumors as "absurd information hoaxes."
The statement by Patrushev is seen as a show of force and a reaffirmation of Russia's military strength, particularly in the context of the ongoing conflict in Ukraine, which Patrushev has staunchly supported.
Despite the constitution indicating that Prime Minister Mikhail Mishustin would temporarily assume leadership if Putin were to leave office, Patrushev's recent visibility and his comments on Russia's nuclear status have fueled further conjecture about his positioning for future leadership.
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