Western Nannies Raising Putin's Alleged Sons, Report Says

Vladimir Putin's alleged youngest sons are being raised and educated by foreign nannies and teachers, according to an investigation by Systema, an investigative project run by Radio Free Europe/Radio Liberty. The report is based on internal documents and personal correspondence.

The boys, Ivan and Vladimir, whom Putin is said to have fathered with former Olympic gymnast Alina Kabaeva, are reported to be living in a heavily guarded residence in Valdai. Neither Putin nor the Kremlin has ever publicly confirmed their existence.

According to Systema, at least 20 foreign nationals, several from NATO countries, have been hired to care for the children over the past eight years. The employees were not told they were working for the Russian president when hired and were officially listed as translators.

Staff were required to observe strict rules on confidentiality, health checks and hygiene. Nannies were also required to keep detailed records of the children's daily activities. Some described life at the residence as "quarantine", saying they were not permitted to leave the premises freely.

(thedailybeast.com, lud)