What is up with Putin? I've heard he has cancer or Parkinson disease or something and he is receiving regular medical care. Thinking he is trying to make his mark and is probably so arrogant that he thinks he will be remembered like Stalin. Does Vegas have odds on what he has, or when he will die? I'd be willing to put some money on that he doesn't have more than a few years to go.

As always it depends on who you listen to. Some have said he has Parkinsons and has been seen gripping the desk as if to avoid the shakes. Others have said there is nothing (yet) wrong with him (sadly). These are war correspondents who have either seen him or spoken with his close allies. I guess the answer is wait and see.

What will happen if he passes away? Will he be succeeded by womeone even worse, or will there be a genuine election in which someone else with a different world view will take charge and possibly even bring their troops back home and apologise to Ukraine? Nice thought but somehow I doubt that will happen.