article_snippet: The revelation of Ksenia Sobchak sudden flight abroad came as Putin was scheduled to reappear after being out of sight for unexplained reasons since March 5.
article_snippet: Putin has not been seen since March 5 . '
article_snippet: Worldwide intrigue and rumours have been circulating over Putin's whereabouts and health in recent weeks.
article_snippet: Some suggested Putin was suffering from chronic back ailments and required treatment from an Austrian orthopaedic - but the Kremlin has not confirmed the reason for Putin absence.
article_snippet: Rumours about Putin mystery disappearance also included Putin death, a coup, a severe bout of flu or Putin 'lover' giving birth to a child in Switzerland.
article_snippet: Some Moscow sources believe that Putin has been holed up at a high security presidential retreat in the Novgorod region.
highlights_snippet: Today, Putin is expected to make first public appearance since March 5 .