Inside Putin’s Hidden World: The Secret Lives of His Sons

Inside Putin’s Hidden World: The Secret Lives of His Sons

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Updated on: October 8, 2024 8:19 am GMT

Vladimir Putin’s Secret Sons: A Look into Their Isolated Lives

Russian President Vladimir Putin reportedly has two secret sons, Ivan and Vladimir Jr., leading a life of luxury away from public scrutiny, as revealed in an investigation by the Dossier Centre, a Russian investigative journalism outlet. According to the report, the two boys, aged nine and five, respectively, are primarily raised in a heavily guarded mansion located near Lake Valdai, northwest of Moscow. Their mother, Alina Kabaeva, a former Olympic gymnast, has been linked romantically to Putin for over a decade.

The Boys’ Isolated Upbringing

Stripped of ordinary childhood experiences, Ivan and Vladimir Jr. live under constant security and are primarily surrounded by adults, including governesses, nannies, and teachers. The Dossier Centre obtained insights from former staff members, suggesting that the boys interact very little with other children, often spending their time alone or with adults. Access to their parents is limited, with the report indicating that they typically only see Putin and Kabaeva late at night.

The boys each have a variety of toys and entertainment options, including a massive Lego set and iPads for games and educational activities. Reports from the investigation mention that both children have a keen interest in Disney movies, often annoying their father with imitations from his favorite cartoons.

Birthed in Secrecy

Ivan was born in spring 2015 at the Sant’Anna maternity clinic in Lugano, Switzerland, while Vladimir Jr. was born in spring 2019 in Moscow. The Dossier Centre claims that neither child appears in any government databases, suggesting extreme measures are taken to maintain their privacy and security. The source cited that each child’s identity has been protected with special cover documents typically reserved for government officials and individuals under state protection.

Putin is known for shrouding his personal life in secrecy, and questions surrounding his family relationships often remain unanswered. While he has two daughters from his first marriage, the Kremlin has consistently denied any official acknowledgment of his relationship with Kabaeva. The pair is believed to have started their relationship around 2008, although this has never been officially confirmed by the government.

A Life of Luxury and Protection

Living in a vast, secure estate, the boys enjoy amenities that include a gym, tennis court, and a pet St. Bernard dog, all managed under the watchful eyes of Kremlin guards. Their luxurious lifestyle does not include interactions typical for children of their age; instead, they have been described as leading a highly isolated existence. For security reasons, their movements are heavily controlled; the children reportedly do not fly on regular flights and frequently travel by private jets or in an armored train.

The family travels extensively, spending winters skiing near Krasnaya Polyana and summers on luxury yachts across Russia’s coastlines. High staff turnover at the estate has been reported, with salaries for caregivers and educators reaching as high as £6,500 per month, although working conditions often restrict personal freedom.

Education and Activities

Education for Ivan and Vladimir Jr. relies primarily on private tutors and governesses, with a significant focus on foreign languages. They are being taught Mandarin, English, and German, ensuring their upbringing aligns with international standards despite their seclusion. One notable aspect is that the family seeks to recruit educators from countries deemed friendly, as evident in the hiring process documented by the Dossier Centre.

The boys also participate in physical activities and sports training, gaining skills in artistic gymnastics, swimming, and hockey. Ivan, for instance, has already taken part in several gymnastics competitions, although with mixed success, as noted by sources familiar with their routines. Their training regimes are closely monitored by personal trainers, ensuring they remain active despite their isolated lifestyle.

The Unseen Family Dynamics

Kabaeva reportedly plays an active role in her sons’ lives, though she maintains a low public profile, often observed watching sports matches from behind opaque glass. The relationship dynamics within the family have remained largely private, contributing to the mysterious aura surrounding Putin’s personal life. Observers note that the lavish and insulated environment provided for Ivan and Vladimir Jr. stands in stark contrast to the lives of most Russian children.

The children’s existence raises questions about the implications of such a guarded upbringing. Experts have pointed out how isolation can impact social development and emotional health, arguing that interactions with peers are essential for building relationships and social skills. However, it remains to be seen how these factors may affect the boys as they grow older.

Insights into a Private Life

This investigation has provided a rare look into the family life of one of the world’s most powerful leaders, hinting at the complex personal relationships he maintains outside the public eye. It underscores the intense scrutiny surrounding Putin, as well as the measures he takes to protect his family from the media and any potential threats.

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Kyler Lead Politics Editor at PEOPLE Magazine, where he leads the political reporting team in delivering timely, accurate, and compelling stories. With a strong background in journalism, Kyler excels at breaking down complex political topics, making them accessible to a broad readership. His work reflects a dedication to truth, clarity, and the human side of political events.