Russian Ministry of Defense leader Sergei Shoigu has not been seen in public for 12 days and may be missing, according to reports.

#Russia’s system of accountability when the head fails, resignation isn’t the card, brutal end game, where is Shoigu?/ Ministry of Defense Head Sergei Shoigu reportedly missing, hasn’t made public appearances in 12 days #Thailand #Ukraine https://t.co/FtC3HDZgGI

— Sean Boonpracong, 2AZ+Moderna jabbed (@Rajprasong_News) March 24, 2022

“There are rumors that Shoigu is in poor health and is experiencing heart problems, while other messages are swirling online suggest Shoigu might have been fired from the ministry and is on house arrest, according to Russian journalists,” Fox News reported.

He was last seen on March 11, according to reports.

Lots of Telegram chatter today about the whereabouts of Russia’s defence minister Sergei Shoigu. Not seen in public for 12 days, not seen with Putin since *that* meeting on 27 Feb where he was ordered to put the nukes on high alert. Photo from happier times. pic.twitter.com/MHp7Y7XvmJ

— Jake Cordell (@JakeCordell) March 23, 2022

The news comes as Russia continues to sustain heavy losses, with up to 15,000 or more soldiers reported dead, according to NATO on Wednesday.

Russian President Vladimir Putin has shown no sign of a ceasefire as his troops continue the invasion and airstrikes continue to destroy Ukraine’s cities.

The missing leader adds to the concerns, leading to much speculation regarding his location and health.