Age-defying ambitions have come straight from the top, with reports suggesting Vladimir Putin wants Russian scientists to conjure up anti-ageing remedies in a determined grasp at eternal rule.

The Kremlin boss, who has recently turned to botox injections, seemingly craves youthful vigour as he allegedly pushes for groundbreaking techniques that could reverse the ticking clock.

Insiders have outlined Putin's direct orders: "Orders came from the big boss [Putin] and health officials rushed to implement it as soon as possible." Experts were told to submit “development proposals” to reduce cell deterioration.

They were instructed to highlight new technologies preventing cognitive and sensory impairment, as well as methods for correcting the immune system, and new medical technology based on bioprinting, reports The Sun.

Vladimir Putin has repeatedly raised eyebrows with his drastically changing looks, leading to whispers he's addicted to cosmetic procedures. Putin, once a KGB operative, is believed by some to be tirelessly chasing youth with regular Botox injections and cheek fillers in an effort to retain his edge.

There's now considerable buzz among experts pointing towards the Russian leader's extensive history of undergoing aesthetic surgeries to enhance his appearance. Although sporting a virile image has been a cornerstone for Putin, there's been growing conjecture that his altered visage is not just about vanity - it could betray deeper health issues.

Lately, sightings of Putin have fuelled these whispers, showing him seemingly struggling for air, fumbling over his words, or appearing overwhelmingly fatigued.

Chatham House's Russia scholar Keir Giles informed The Sun of an unmistakeable decline in Putin's health. He remarked: "If you watch Putin closely, it's hard to avoid the suspicion that often some of the appearances you're seeing are not, in fact, the same person.

"You also notice the trends in his health over time. His health does seem to improve and deteriorate in different public appearances. There are some times when he looks really quite frail, bloated, puffy, shaking, having to grip onto the table and only giving very short five-minute speeches even on major public events.

"And then there are times when he appears to bounce back as a much healthier individual who is standing up and speaking for 40 minutes. But what is actually wrong with him is a mystery to us all."