Putin-Kadyrov Relationship Strains Amid Secret Middle East Negotiations

Relations between President Vladimir Putin and Chechen leader Ramzan Kadyrov have deteriorated recently, following the Kremlin’s discovery of alleged secret talks between Kadyrov and officials from the Middle East, according to an investigation by the outlet IStories, which cites current and former Russian security personnel.

The report suggests that Kadyrov has been seeking guarantees from Middle Eastern officials to protect his family and assets in the event of his departure from power in Chechnya. While IStories does not specify which countries are involved, it highlights Kadyrov’s longstanding connections with several «Muslim monarchies» in the region.

Kadyrov is known for making frequent trips to the United Arab Emirates, where previous reports indicate that he has utilized a luxury villa on the artificial island of Palm Jumeirah as an unofficial Chechen “embassy” since at least 2014.

Having ruled Chechnya with considerable autonomy for nearly two decades in exchange for his loyalty to the Kremlin, Kadyrov is believed to be contemplating a potential exit from power due to his declining health. Sources cited by IStories reveal that he is skeptical of any assurances Moscow might provide if he were to resign.

Last year, Novaya Gazeta Europe reported that Kadyrov is suffering from a serious health condition, possibly involving pancreatic necrosis, and Kremlin public relations experts allegedly tried to mask this information from the public.

Current and former officers of the Federal Security Service (FSB) who spoke to IStories under anonymity indicated that the intelligence agency informed Putin about Kadyrov’s «unauthorized» conversations with Middle Eastern authorities concerning the well-being of his family and assets.

Kadyrov’s recent political moves—including the demotion of his daughter Aishat from her role as Deputy Prime Minister of Chechnya and the transfer of business assets to relatives—have intensified speculation regarding his potential withdrawal from leadership in the North Caucasus.

The rumored discord between Putin and Kadyrov has also reportedly affected Kadyrov’s close ally, Adam Delimkhanov, a State Duma lawmaker.

Chechen insider Ansar Dishni told IStories that Delimkhanov has been “made aware of the limitations of his influence” in light of the ongoing tensions.

The Moscow Times has not been able to independently verify the findings of the IStories report.