Putin’s height draws online jokes after meeting with Mozambique’s president

A meeting between Vladimir Putin and Mozambique’s president, Daniel Chapo, drew attention online after Chapo shared photos highlighting their height difference. The images prompted jokes and memes about Putin’s stature and the way official photographs can shape a leader’s public image.

Chapo is reported to be 6ft 5in, while Putin is 5ft 7in. The article says the Kremlin later released a lower-angle photograph that made Putin appear taller, and recalls previous reports that he wears elevated shoes and that official images are composed to make him look tall. It also cites research suggesting voters tend to favour taller politicians.