NZZ: Russia: Vladimir Putin's Secret Residences

Jun 20, 2023 | The exact whereabouts of Russian President Vladimir Putin are known to few, but with the help of satellite imagery, photo analysis and insider reports, we can reveal some of his most frequent locations. Putin's official residence is located in the northern part of the Kremlin compound in Moscow. However, he does not spend much time there, as he has announced that he will only be present in the Kremlin for ceremonial occasions. Instead, he lives in Novo-Ogaryovo, a luxury suburb of Moscow, where he has resided in a secluded villa since 2000. Putin also has a summer residence in Sochi on the Black Sea. Satellite images show that he has built a private train station there. Another important place of Putin's residence is Valdai, a remote place between Moscow and St. Petersburg. Here, his private residence is located on land owned by an oligarch friend. There is also evidence that Putin uses a special train to move safely between his various locations. The train is less conspicuous than airplanes and provides additional security. Putin is also believed to have other villas and estates, of which little is known so far. Keeping Putin's residences secret serves both his security and his image. In the state media, he is portrayed as a modest and down-to-earth president who has no need for luxury. But in reality, Putin does enjoy luxury and probably owns other secret properties about which little is known so far.