A Friend Of Putin's Has Begun Researching Longevity In Monkeys
- 11.11.2026, 8:59
The 74-year-old dictator is desperately clinging to life.
Mikhail Kovalchuk , a close associate of Russian dictator Vladimir Putin and the head of one of Russia’s largest research centers, has begun investigating ways to extend the duration of a person’s healthy life. The 74-year-old Kremlin leader has long been interested in the topic of longevity.
In total, more than 7,000 primates are participating in Kovalchuk’s study, including a “unique group” of elderly monkeys ranging in age from 20 to over 30 years. This is reported by the publication Bloomberg.
“We are currently conducting a study of elderly monkeys to investigate all stages of aging,” said an associate of the Russian dictator, commenting on the project.
Kovalchuk explained that scientists from the Kurchatov Institute in Moscow are studying animals ranging in age from about 18 to over 30 years. Using these primates, Russian researchers are conducting biochemical, structural, vascular, and brain analyses.
Putin Is Interested in Longevity
The publication reports that the Russian dictator has long been known for his interest in ways to extend life expectancy. Last month, Putin turned 74.
In 2025, the press accidentally overheard a conversation between the Russian dictator and the head of the People’s Republic of China Xi Jinping, during which the leaders discussed how people would soon be able to live to be 150 years old.
Mikhail Kovalchuk himself is known for his longstanding close ties with Vladimir Putin. In particular, he is considered Putin’s unofficial advisor on scientific matters, specifically genetics. The researcher’s brother, billionaire banker Yuri Kovalchuk, is also one of Putin’s longtime allies and an influential figure in the Russian dictator’s inner circle.
Putin’s eldest daughter, Maria Vorontsova, is an endocrinologist and conducts research in the field of genetics. In October, she spoke at the Skolkovo Moscow School of Management, which had opened a longevity laboratory, discussing how healthcare can help people live longer.