Vladimir Putin’s arrival at a summit with Xi Jinping in Beijing today raised eyebrows as critics pointed out his seemingly awkward gait. Observers noted that the Russian leader’s right leg appeared stiff or uncomfortable as he walked in his elevated shoes to meet the Chinese president. It is speculated that Putin wore these shoes to match Xi’s height, as Xi is believed to be around 5ft11, while Putin is 5ft7.
Footage of the official welcome at the Great Hall of the People in Tiananmen Square prompted Ukrainian sources to mock Putin, with one Ukrainian channel describing him as struggling to walk. Another observer commented on Putin’s shuffling and stooped posture while greeting Xi in Beijing, leading to speculations like, “Is he using an exoskeleton?”
Putin has been frequently photographed wearing shoes with noticeably thicker heels, which are estimated to add up to 3 inches to his height.
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