Recent revelations surrounding Vladimir Putin's genetic lineage have sparked global curiosity, but beyond the political intrigue lies a fascinating discovery about an ancient Balkan legacy: the Illyrians, ancestors of modern Albanians.
Putin’s DNA, linked to the rare E-V13 haplogroup, traces its origins to what is now Kosovo, a region historically inhabited by the Illyrians. This ancient people, renowned for their resilience, culture, and warrior spirit, once dominated vast swathes of the Balkans, long before the rise of Slavic and Roman influences, Bild reports.
The E-V13 haplogroup is a genetic marker predominantly found among Albanians, particularly those in Kosovo, where around 30% of the population carries it — a striking contrast to Russia’s less than 5%. This genetic trace echoes the far-reaching influence of the Illyrians, who left an indelible mark on the region through their language, traditions, and fierce independence.
The Illyrians were more than just warriors; they were skilled sailors, traders, and leaders. Their legacy endured through centuries of Roman, Byzantine, and Ottoman rule, shaping the cultural backbone of the Albanian people. Figures like Queen Teuta, who defied Rome, and Pyrrhus of Epirus, whose tactical brilliance is still studied today, stand as testaments to the Illyrian spirit.
The genetic link to Putin, while an unexpected twist, serves as a reminder of how interconnected human history truly is. It also shines a light on the enduring presence of Illyrian genes among modern Albanians, underscoring their ancient heritage’s vitality and endurance.
Far from being a relic of the past, the Illyrian legacy lives on, woven into the DNA of millions of Albanians — a testament to a people who have withstood the tides of time, remaining as proud and unyielding as their ancestors once were.