Vladimir Putin turns 73 today, with the Russian president appearing indifferent to the passage of time. Characteristic was a recent conversation captured by microphones during his visit to China, where he discussed biotechnology and longevity issues with Xi Jinping.
Read: “Putin wages hybrid war against NATO with carefully calculated moves” – What the Economist reports
During their joint appearance on the Tiananmen rostrum a month ago, Putin’s translator was heard saying in Chinese: “Biotechnology is constantly advancing. Human organs can be continuously transplanted. The longer you live, the younger you become and you can even achieve immortality.” The Chinese leader’s response was equally revealing: “Some scientists predict that in our century, humans might reach 150 years of life.”
Hot-mic moment at the Beijing parade.
Xi: “People rarely lived past 70 before. Now at 70 you’re still a child.”
Putin: “With biotech, organs can be replaced endlessly… people could even reach immortality.”
Xi: “Some predict people might live to 150 this century.” pic.twitter.com/VRj02vkFxO
— Clash Report (@clashreport) September 3, 2025
Vladimir Putin’s first presidential birthday in St. Petersburg
Vladimir Putin celebrated his first birthday as president of Russia at the Mariinsky Theatre in St. Petersburg. The choice of work was symbolic: Tchaikovsky’s opera “Mazeppa,” which tells the story of Ukrainians who sought independence from Russia in 1709. At that time, the Ukrainians sought help from the Swedes, as there were no American allies. The result was catastrophic: the Russian army exterminated both Ukrainians and Scandinavians near Poltava. The then 48-year-old Putin was regarded as a symbol of hope for a liberal Russia. He called Americans and Europeans “our Western partners,” not “puppets of global imperialism” as he does today.
The transformation of power and its consequences
Excessive concentration of power appears to negatively affect mental health. Did Putin know then that he would hold the presidency for more than two decades? Or has he become trapped in his endless presidency? In Russian political tradition, power only gains meaning when it is permanent and unlimited. A temporary political leader lacks real influence. The Russian invasion of Ukraine has created a prolonged conflict that extends beyond the military field, evolving into a global geopolitical confrontation.
Diplomatic isolation and few allies
Due to geopolitical developments, particularly before Trump’s election, Vladimir Putin appears isolated from the international community. Last year, very few leaders sent him birthday wishes. Among the exceptions was Turkish President Erdogan, who discussed bilateral relations and regional developments with him. Erdogan emphasized that strengthening Turkish-Russian relations is a positive development. Belarusian President Lukashenko, a steadfast ally, referred to Putin’s “deep understanding of Russia’s historical mission.” Meanwhile, Chechen leader Kadyrov called the day “significant for the entire homeland.” Armenian Prime Minister Pashinyan, despite his efforts for closer ties with the EU, also sent wishes, emphasizing the need for “mutually beneficial cooperation.” According to Politico, Putin did not receive public wishes from key allies like Kim Jong Un, Xi Jinping, and Ayatollah Khamenei.
