Roman Abramovich

UK to Transfer £2.5bn Abramovich Funds to Ukraine: Starmer

The UK government has issued a final warning to Roman Abramovich, ordering him to release £2.5 billion from the sale of Chelsea FC within 90 days for humanitarian causes in Ukraine or face legal action. This ultimatum follows years of stalled negotiations over the funds, which are currently frozen in a UK bank account. The government emphasizes the money’s intended purpose is to support victims of the war. Abramovich, who sold the club under pressure from the British government in 2022, must now establish a foundation and arrange the transfer according to the license, with the government prepared to take him to court to ensure the funds reach their intended recipients.

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Ottawa’s Failure to Seize Russian Oligarch Assets Sparks Debate

Two years after Canada announced the unprecedented seizure of US$26 million from sanctioned Russian oligarch Roman Abramovich, the government has yet to initiate legal proceedings for forfeiture. This delay stems from complexities in proving direct ownership, potentially necessitating compensation to Abramovich under a 1991 investment protection agreement. The government’s cautious approach, considered a landmark case with international implications, contrasts with other G7 nations’ methods of utilizing frozen Russian assets to aid Ukraine. Despite freezing roughly $140 million in Russian assets, including a large cargo plane, legal hurdles and disputes hinder their transfer to Ukraine.

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