Vladimir Putin, the powerful man of the Kremlin, has instructed researchers and doctors to expedite their studies on anti-aging drugs.

The Russian president is highly concerned with his appearance, especially amidst growing theories about his fragile health. Some believe the 71-year-old Putin suffers from Parkinson’s disease or another neurodegenerative condition, others think he is undergoing cancer treatment, and there are those who think his days are numbered and that he uses body doubles for public appearances.

One of the prevailing – and older – theories circulating online is that he has been under the knife of a plastic surgeon in recent years to erase the signs of aging.

According to a report by the British newspaper Daily Mail, when Putin is not focused on the war in Ukraine, he pays attention to his family and his health.

Recently, he gave the green light to the best “scientific minds” to develop anti-aging drugs that would be particularly beneficial for him. The president demands that Russian scientists deliver their latest research on anti-aging drugs, with many speculating that he is trying to extend his lifespan. To show his generosity, the same source claims that this research will also benefit his close friends.

According to an unnamed source, the directive came from the “top boss” and led officials to try to meet the supposed instructions of the 71-year-old Putin.

The report also notes that the Russian leader has long shown a particular interest in anti-aging, but now it seems that the issue is urgent for him, as the British newspaper writes: “The top boss gave an order, and officials rushed to implement it by any means.”

An informant revealed: “We were asked to urgently send all developments, and the letter came, let’s say, today, and everything had to be sent yesterday.”

“To be honest, this is the first time in my life that I’m dealing with something like this – usually, every national or federal targeted program (FTP) is preceded by a series of meetings involving various specialists, some sort of public discussion,” explained a doctor from a national medical research center.

Experts were asked to submit “proposals for cell development” aimed at halting their deterioration, according to the report. Researchers were instructed to study new technologies that prevent cognitive dysfunction and methods for rejuvenating the immune system.

The Russian leader currently has the legal authority to remain in power until 2036, meaning he could be in the Kremlin past the age of 80.

The report also notes that Putin’s circle consists of elderly associates, such as the 74-year-old Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov, the 72-year-old head of the FSB security service, Alexander Bortnikov, the 73-year-old senior advisor Nikolai Patrushev, the 70-year-old head of the SVR foreign intelligence service Sergey Naryshkin, and the 75-year-old leader of the Russian Senate Valentina Matviyenko.