Fact check: Are there any photos or videos that appear to show Putin's actual height?

1. Summary of the results

Based on the analyses provided, there are no direct photos or videos that clearly show Putin's actual height. While multiple sources discuss Putin's height, they primarily rely on estimates rather than visual evidence.

The sources consistently report Putin's height as approximately 5 feet 7 inches (170 cm) ^{[1] [2]}. However, the visual evidence available appears to be indirect or potentially misleading:

• One source includes a photo of Putin next to John Kerry where Putin appears to be wearing 2-inch heels ^[3]
• Another source provides a photo of Putin's shoes with extra-thick heels designed to increase his height ^[4]
• Ukrainian sources claim that Putin's height appears to change in different appearances, suggesting the use of body doubles ^{[5] [6]}

2. Missing context/alternative viewpoints

The analyses reveal several important contextual factors missing from the original question:

• Height manipulation through footwear: Putin reportedly uses shoes with thick heels to appear taller, which would make any photos or videos potentially misleading regarding his actual height ^[4]
• Body double allegations: Ukrainian officials claim Putin uses body doubles with "different habits, ears, and heights" ^{[5] [6]}, which would complicate any attempt to determine his actual height from visual evidence
• Political and psychological context: The focus on Putin's height relates to broader discussions about leadership, masculinity, and the rise of "short kings" in positions of power ^[1]
• Comparison methodology: Some sources attempt to gauge Putin's height by comparing him to other world leaders, particularly American presidents ^[3]

3. Potential misinformation/bias in the original statement

The original question itself does not contain misinformation, but it may reflect certain assumptions:

• The question assumes that visual evidence would provide an accurate representation of Putin's height, when the analyses suggest that Putin actively attempts to conceal his actual stature through footwear modifications ^[4]
• The framing doesn't account for the geopolitical context where height discussions may serve propaganda purposes, with Ukrainian sources promoting body double theories ^{[5] [6]}
• The question may inadvertently perpetuate focus on physical attributes rather than substantive political analysis, though this reflects broader societal discussions about height and leadership perception ^[1]