3 Signs That Might Prove Vladimir Putin's Health Is Failing

A body language expert speculated that Russian President Vladimir Putin's "rocking back and forth" during his Victory Day speech Monday could be a sign of health issues.

After his 11-minute speech, he was seen using a blanket to cover his legs as he sat among World War II veterans and senior dignitaries to watch a military procession in Moscow’s Red Square. The leader, who was wearing a black bomber jacket, was the only person among his group who needed additional coverings to combat the relatively mild 9 degrees Celsius weather in the nation’s capital at the time. He also sparked rumors of his ill-health after he was pictured coughing during the Victory Day parade, reported Independent.

A separate clip also showed him appearing to limp, adding fuel to the fire of rumors that he is battling a serious health issue.

Body language expert Mike Carter watched the Russian leader's speech. After that he dissected three points in Putin's posture that could be a sign of discomfort or pain. Carter said that the Russian president took very shallow breaths when he talked. He told Mirror that people hold their breath or "breathe this way when something physically or mentally isn't right."

He said that Putin's "breathing is very shallow which could be some kind of pain he is enduring." He explained that if someone was very "distressed in your office you'd say 'take a deep breath'." The expert said that this could also mean that the Russian President was short of breath, which was another indication that something may be wrong.

Carter also explained how Putin rocking back and forth can signal "agitation." According to him, it can also indicate a health problem. He also highlighted that Putin stood with his feet wide apart in a "power stance." It could also be to prevent him from falling. Carter said that the constant rocking could be a health issue and that Putin was "worried he might fall over."

If one goes by the supposed leaks from within the Kremlin, Putin is alleged to be due to undergo surgery, possibly for cancer, reported Daily Star. It is also speculated that the 69-year-old has something as serious as Parkinson's.