Vladimir Putin’s gift to a Japanese governor, a Siberian cat named Mir, has died, aged 12.
Akita Prefecture authorities announced on Tuesday the passing of Mir, a gray Siberian cat presented by Russian President Vladimir Putin to Governor Norihisa Satake in 2012. The prefectural press service informed TASS that Mir, whose name means “Peace” in Russian, had been experiencing health problems.
The cat was a reciprocal gift after Governor Satake presented President Putin with an Akita-Inu dog following the 2011 earthquake and tsunami. Initially considering a dog, Putin opted for a cat upon learning of the governor’s preference. The dog, named Yume (“Dream” in Japanese), frequently appeared publicly with Putin.
Mir’s journey to Japan included a six-month quarantine. Russian diplomats regularly visited, ensuring the cat’s needs were met. During the Covid-19 pandemic, Mir was kept in isolation as a precaution. Governor Satake described Mir as a beloved family member, noting the cat’s good health, cheerful disposition, and compatibility with the family’s six other cats. He stated that Mir’s presence brought him peace.
“It has a great appetite, it’s strong and cheerful, and it has a calm character. Mir gets along well with six other cats that live in our house. This is a special creature for me – my soul rests when I see its face,” the governor previously said.