Sergey Lavrov, Russian Foreign Minister, denied that President Vladimir Putin was ill on Sunday. He said that he had no symptoms.

Russia is a closed country and President Putin's private life and health are taboo topics. They are almost never spoken of publicly. Sergei Lavrov responded to a French television channel TF1's question: "I don’t believe anyone can see in this person Putin signs of illness. Any other illness.

Sergei Lavrov noted that Vladimir Putin, who turns 70 this October, is seen in public "daily". He said, "You can see him on the screen, read or hear his speeches," "I will let those who spread such rumors settle this with my conscience, despite all the opportunities they have to do so.

Vladimir Putin, who has been in power for over two decades, launched an attack in Ukraine on February 24, killing thousands. This caused Europe's worst refugee crisis and led to unprecedented Western sanctions.