An aggressive Vladimir Putin set himself on a collision course with the West in his New Year's message to his people. The analysis comes as the Kremlin yesterday admitted that concerns over Putin's health are now a matter of 'state security' amid Covid mutations and emerging flu strains. The 'biggest uncertainty' over Putin was his health - 'or someone removing him because of his failing health'. Russian independent outlet Proekt also noted that Putin has been accompanied by cancer medics, especially thyroid specialists, when on presidential trips. The Kremlin has paved the way for Putin to retreat for health-related reasons soon after his annual prerecorded New Year message to Russian citizens.

Source: The Nation December 31, 2022 21:05 UTC