Science & Technology

Putin and Xi discuss achieving immortality in candid, hot mic moment

By T.K. Randall
September 7, 2025

Image: Vladimir Putin and Xi Jinping (file photo)
Credit: Kremlin.ru / CC BY 4.0 (adapted) If you ever wondered what sort of things leaders such as Russian President Vladimir Putin and Chinese President Xi Jinping actually talk about when they are not discussing politics, a notable conversation between them was picked up on a hot mic when they were walking with North Korean leader Kim Jong Un at an event in Beijing last week.

"Now they say that at 70 you are only a child," Xi told Putin via a translator.

Using biotechnology, Putin replied, it will soon be possible to "transplant human organs continuously, grow younger with age and perhaps even achieve immortality."

"Some have predicted that by the end of this century, humans could potentially live up to 150 years," Xi replied.While the exchange was likely little more than small talk, it emphasized the interest both leaders have in remaining in power for as long as possible - even if it involves extending their lifespan.

While it is unlikely that either of them will have access to such technology anytime soon, what they said does have merit - it will likely be possible to live for a lot longer in the future.

Of course, access to such therapies will likely only be reserved for the rich and powerful.

Leaders like Putin and Xi would almost certainly be at the top of the list.

Source: NBC News

Tags: Putin, Immortality