Russian President Vladimir Putin is visiting the Muslim-majority region of Chechnya, marking his first trip there since 2011.
Upon arrival, Chechnya’s leader, Ramzan Kadyrov, warmly welcomed him. During the visit, President Putin, accompanied by President Kadyrov and the Grand Mufti, visited the Isa Khalil Mosque in the capital, Grozny.
In a gesture of respect towards the Muslim community, President Putin was presented with a rare copy of the Quran, which he respectfully kissed and held close to his chest. The Grand Mufti recited a verse from Surah Anfal and provided a Russian translation, enriching the cultural exchange.
The visit underscores the strong relationship between the Russian leadership and the Chechen Republic. President Kadyrov publicly referred to Putin as a friend.
According to Russian state media, discussions between President Putin and the Chechen leader concluded the visit with announcements indicating the readiness of several thousand reservists from the Islamic Republic to assist in ongoing conflicts.
