Putin in search of immortality! Daughter leads $26 billion ‘longevity’ project

Russian President Vladimir Putin has long been known for his interest in longevity and anti-aging. Now, that interest has been realized in an ambitious research program worth about $26 billion, which aims to increase human lifespan and reduce mortality from complex diseases.

According to a report in the US media outlet Wall Street Journal, the project is working on cutting-edge technologies such as bioprinting and xenotransplantation. Living tissues are being created on 3D printers through bioprinting technology. In addition, the possibility of producing human organs in miniature pigs is also being tested, which could open up new horizons in organ transplantation in the future.

The program, which began in 2024, is led by Putin’s daughter and endocrinologist Maria Vorontsova. She is accompanied by renowned Russian physicist Mikhail Kovalchuk. Researchers have already claimed to have bioprinted human cartilage tissue and experimentally created rat thyroid glands. Their long-term goal is to create replaceable organs for humans by the end of the decade.

However, the project is also controversial. Alexander Ostrovsky, one of the pioneers of Russian bioprinting research, claims that sufficient scientific evidence of such success has not yet been found in international research journals. According to him, some of the project's claims are more optimistic than reality and should be seen as "future possibilities" for now.

Putin, now 73, has long been known as a health-conscious leader. He is interested in regular exercise, ice hockey and cryotherapy. He was also heard talking about the possibility of achieving longevity in the future through human organ transplants in recent talks with Chinese President Xi Jinping.

According to analysts, the improvement in Russia's public health situation is a major reason behind the project, as well as personal interest. The average life expectancy of men in Russia is still relatively low compared to Western countries. Research into longevity and advanced medical technology is therefore seen as an important part of the country's future health policy. However, the biggest debate now is whether this massive $26 billion project will ultimately achieve its stated goals.