Putin Makes Surprise Visit to Chechnya, Kisses Quran in Gesture of Respect After 13-Year Absence
Critics question the timing and the motives behind the visit
In an unexpected move that has drawn considerable attention, Russian President Vladimir Putin made a surprise visit to the Muslim-majority region of Chechnya on Wednesday.
This visit marks Putin’s first trip to the area in 13 years and comes at a time of heightened interest in Russia’s domestic and international relations.
The visit was notable for a particularly poignant moment captured on video. During the trip, Putin was presented with a Quran, which he received with a gesture of deep respect.
The video, widely circulated on social media, shows the Russian leader kissing the Quran and holding it close to his heart, a symbolic act that many observers interpret as an acknowledgement of the region’s cultural and religious significance.
During the visit, Putin, joined by Kadyrov and the Grand Mufti of Chechnya, spent time at the Isa Prophet Mosque in Grozny, the capital of Chechnya.
At the mosque, the Russian President was given a rare edition of the Quran. He kissed the sacred text in a gesture of respect and held it close to his chest.
Additionally, the Grand Mufti of Chechnya recited a verse from Surah Al-Anfal and provided its Russian translation for Putin.
Putin’s visit included meetings with regional leaders and a tour of key sites in Chechnya. The Kremlin has emphasized the importance of strengthening ties with the region and highlighting the ongoing development efforts under the leadership of Chechen head Ramzan Kadyrov.
The visit and the Quran gesture have sparked widespread discussion both within Russia and internationally. For many in Chechnya, it was seen as a meaningful acknowledgement of their cultural identity.
Meanwhile, critics have questioned the timing and the motives behind the visit, suggesting it may be aimed at consolidating support within the region amid broader political and economic challenges.
As Putin’s visit continues to make headlines, it remains to be seen how this gesture will impact relations between the Russian government and the Muslim-majority regions of the country.
