Moscow: Russia's Kremlin recently released a video showing President Vladimir Putin meeting his high school teacher for dinner, countering claims by Western media that he was hiding in a bunker due to security concerns.

According to Thai News Agency, the video, released a few days ago, captures President Putin casually dressed in jeans and a jacket, driving a luxury Russian Aurus SUV to a central Moscow hotel on Monday (May 11). He is seen carrying a large bouquet of flowers into the hotel lobby, where he meets Vera Gurevich, his 92-year-old former teacher from his school days in Leningrad. The video shows a warm embrace between the two before Putin escorts her to a dinner at the Kremlin.

In addition to his reunion with his teacher, Putin is seen in the hotel lobby engaging with a family of tourists who traveled from Sochi, having a friendly conversation about the weather. This public appearance follows reports from Western media, citing European intelligence, suggesting that Putin had been secluded in an underground bunker for weeks due to fears of security threats, assassination, or a coup. The Russian authorities released the video to refute these claims, emphasizing that Putin remains active and engaged with the public.

The meeting, however, included a moment that sparked further speculation. Vera Gurevich reportedly asked Putin, "Is that really you?" to which he responded, "Yes, it is me." This exchange led to criticism and renewed discussions about rumors of the Russian leader using a body double.

Analysts suggest that this depiction of Putin as approachable and friendly might be a strategic move ahead of September's parliamentary elections in Russia, in light of the country's economic challenges and tighter internet regulations.