Controversy Over Putin’s New Year’s Speech as Speculation Mounts
Russian President Vladimir Putin’s New Year’s speech has sparked a heated debate over the leader’s health, with some speculating that his appearance was generated by artificial intelligence (AI). The speech, broadcasted before midnight across Russia, prompted claims that Putin’s demeanor seemed abnormal and raised questions about the authenticity of his appearance.
The controversy began when a Ukrainian resident shared a video clip on social media, circling Putin’s neck and suggesting that the New Year greeting might be AI-generated. This sparked discussions among activists and users on various platforms, who questioned the authenticity of Putin’s appearance.
Some claimed that Putin’s neck movements appeared out of sync with the rest of his body, leading to speculation that his head was poorly superimposed onto a body. Activist Igor Sushko from the Wind of Change Research Group pointed out, Putin’s New Year’s address was computer-generated. Take note of the avatar’s neck area.
Such abnormalities in Putin’s appearance have fueled rumors over the years about the use of body doubles. Investigations and analyses, including AI investigations examining facial features, gait, and speech, have suggested the possibility of at least two body doubles. Previous denials by the Kremlin and Putin’s spokesperson have done little to quell suspicions.
Japanese TV network TBS utilized AI technology for facial recognition and body movement analysis, revealing a 53% match between Putin and a potential body double. The Institute of Audio Communication Laboratory in Japan supported claims of doppelgangers through voice analysis.
Furthermore, a report by Russian media outlet Proekt indicated that 43% of Putin’s public meetings involved keeping a distance, which has added to speculations about the use of body doubles. A recent incident involving Putin refusing to stand within 70 feet of Britain’s ambassador has only deepened these suspicions.
In December, an AI-generated version of Putin appeared during an annual news conference, raising questions about the president’s awareness of the use of doubles. Putin responded to the AI-generated version, stating, That is my first double, by the way.
Amidst the ongoing controversy, a spokesperson for Ukraine’s military intelligence directorate suggested that the rumors of Putin’s death could be orchestrated by the Kremlin to gauge reactions from Russian citizens and other stakeholders, such as the media and Russian elites.
While the authenticity of Putin’s appearances continues to be debated, it remains uncertain whether the use of AI or body doubles played a role in his New Year’s speech. The controversy surrounding Putin’s health and the speculation around his appearances highlight the intense scrutiny he faces both domestically and internationally. Only time will tell if these rumors and suspicions hold any truth or are merely products of speculation and conspiracy theories.
