Putin's rumored daughter apologizes to Ukrainian journalist for father's war
What's the story
Yelizaveta Krivonogikh, better known as Luiza Rozova, the alleged secret daughter of Russian President Vladimir Putin, was recently confronted by Ukrainian journalist Dmytro Sviatnenko in Paris. The encounter was reportedly filmed on the streets of Paris, where Rozova, 22, apologized for her father's actions but said she had no power to stop the conflict. Sviatnenko's brother was killed in a Russian airstrike.
Apology and deflection
Rozova's response to journalist's accusations
During the confrontation, Sviatnenko asked Rozova if she supported her father's war policies. "Say something! Do you support his policies?" She replied, "What does that have to do with me?" Sviatnenko pressed her to call Putin and ask him to end the "mess" in his country. Rozova replied, "I'm really sorry that this is happening. Unfortunately, I'm not responsible for this situation. I think I've already talked to you enough."
Family secrets
Rozova's background and mother's wealth
Rozova was born in St Petersburg, and is believed to be Putin's youngest child with his former mistress Svetlana Krivonogikh. She now lives in Paris and attends art school. Her mother was once a cleaner but became a multimillionaire; her wealth was estimated at over $100 million before sanctions were imposed due to the war.
Family silence
Putin's family: A mystery
Despite being divorced since 2013, Putin has never publicly acknowledged Rozova or confirmed any of his children's identities. A 2023 media report stated that Rozova has an "uncanny resemblance" to Putin. The Kremlin, however, dismissed the rumours, calling them "unfounded and unconvincing." He is rumored to have two older daughters: Maria Vorontsova and Katerina Tikhonova. While he has spoken about having children and grandchildren, he has never named them or admitted to Rozova's existence.