Zelensky Says 'Putin Will Die Soon' as Rumours of Russian President's Health Gather Steam

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has claimed that Russian President Vladimir Putin "will die soon," amid ongoing speculation about his health. 

During a press conference in Paris, following a meeting with French President Emmanuel Macron, Zelensky stated that Putin is afraid of his own death, adding that "everything will end" when that happens. 

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On Wednesday, Zelensky and Macron met to discuss peace efforts, following a fragile Black Sea ceasefire brokered by the United States the previous day. 

The two leaders presented a united front, urging Russia to respect agreements and calling on the European Union to remain strong ahead of a crucial EU summit scheduled for Thursday. 

Zelensky accused Putin of trying to destabilise the European Union from within, citing Hungary's close ties with Russia as an example. 

Speculation Over Putin’s Health Continues 

There have been ongoing rumours about Putin's health, with reports suggesting that he has suffered from persistent coughing and involuntary movements of his hands and feet. Some reports have even claimed that he may be battling cancer or Parkinson’s disease. 

EU Leaders to Discuss Military Aid and Peacekeeping in Ukraine 

At the upcoming EU summit, leaders will explore ways to support Ukraine in the event of a permanent ceasefire. One option under consideration is deploying EU peacekeeping troops to help maintain stability. 

However, Macron has warned that such a move could risk a direct military conflict with Russia. He stated that if Putin launched an attack on Ukrainian soil, it would also be an attack on the peacekeepers, potentially drawing in UK and French troops. 

During the discussions, Macron pledged an additional $2 billion in military aid to Ukraine, emphasising that the conflict has reached a critical phase. Meanwhile, the EU is advancing its "porcupine strategy", designed to strengthen Ukraine's defences and make it harder for Russia to advance. 

The UK has also reaffirmed its commitment to military support, ensuring that Ukraine can continue to defend itself if peace talks fail or a ceasefire is broken. 

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