The Kremlin is reportedly searching for a successor to Chechen leader Ramzan Kadyrov, known for his unwavering loyalty to Russian President Vladimir Putin, following reports that he has been diagnosed with necrotizing pancreatitis, a terminal illness. Kadyrov’s illness, reportedly diagnosed five years ago, has raised concerns within the Kremlin as Putin aims to maintain control over Chechnya. The potential loss of Kadyrov could impact domestic support for the war in Ukraine, where he has deployed soldiers and been a vocal supporter of Putin. Among potential successors is Major General Apti Alaudinov, who oversees Chechen special forces and has close ties to Putin. Despite Kadyrov’s attempts to downplay the reports of his illness, some Chechens have expressed discontent with Putin’s war and have joined battalions aiding Ukraine in its defense.