The U.S. removed Karina Rotenberg, wife of sanctioned Russian oligarch Boris Rotenberg, from its sanctions list. Rotenberg, a U.S. citizen since at least 2013, had been sanctioned in 2022 despite continued international travel and significant joint assets with her husband, including European real estate and equestrian holdings. This action comes as the U.S. simultaneously expanded sanctions on other Russian individuals and entities, while the EU concurrently lifted sanctions on another sanctioned oligarch and his family. The reasons behind the U.S. decision to lift sanctions on Karina Rotenberg remain unstated in this report.
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President Trump announced a $5 million “gold card” program offering U.S. residency and a pathway to citizenship, explicitly stating that Russian oligarchs could apply. While applicants would undergo vetting, no country restrictions were specified. This initiative contrasts with previous administrations’ tougher stances on Russian elites and current immigration crackdowns. The announcement comes amidst Trump’s recent conciliatory actions towards Russia, including direct talks and potential resource deals.
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President Trump announced a new $5 million “gold card” program offering a path to U.S. citizenship for wealthy foreign investors, replacing a previous program. This initiative, revealed alongside Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick, would potentially allow Russian oligarchs to apply. Trump suggested that despite reduced wealth, many could still afford the application fee. The program’s eligibility criteria remain unclear, but the President expressed openness to Russian oligarch participation.
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The recent news of yet another Russian oligarch found dead after allegedly falling out of a window feels almost like déjà vu in a country where such events have become disturbingly commonplace. The grim irony of it all is not lost on me—the very notion that an oligarch, a individual immensely wealthy and powerful in a nation known for its brutal politics, could meet such a fate raises as many questions as it does eyebrows. As I reflect upon this incident, I can’t help but marvel at the tragic absurdity of power dynamics in contemporary Russia.
This death is not merely a story of one man’s demise; it symbolizes the perilous nature of wealth and influence in a regime characterized by paranoia and ruthlessness.… Continue reading
Court orders X to reveal investors, links to Putin’s allies found. The recent discovery that Platform X has ties to Russian oligarchs closely associated with Vladimir Putin has sent shockwaves through the tech community and beyond. The court’s decision to probe into X’s investors’ foreign links could have significant implications for social media transparency. This revelation sheds light on the influence that foreign entities may have on major social media platforms, raising concerns about the integrity of information shared on these platforms.
Elon Musk’s controversial stances have been called into question, with some speculating that his ties to Russian oligarchs may explain his actions.… Continue reading
I wholeheartedly support the London mayor’s proposition to sell the homes of ‘Putin cronies’. It’s time to put an end to the Russian playground that has taken over parts of London and to stand in solidarity with Ukraine. The war in Ukraine is a tragedy that requires global support, and one way to contribute is by dismantling the luxurious lifestyles of those who are aiding and abetting the Russian regime.
The idea of reclaiming these properties raises questions about the wealth disparity that exists in London. With half of the oligarchs’ homes potentially becoming available, there is an opportunity to address housing issues and provide much-needed accommodations for lower-income individuals.… Continue reading
I am utterly astounded by the recent news that the UK has frozen the assets of six Russian prison bosses who were in charge of the Arctic penal colony where opposition leader Alexei Navalny tragically met his end. These individuals, responsible for the management of such a savage institution, had the audacity to store their financial assets in a Western country, specifically the UK. This revelation raises numerous questions about the insidious connections that exist between Russian officials and the West, especially in light of the ongoing crisis in Ukraine.
The fact that these prison bosses had assets in the UK is not only perplexing but also deeply concerning.… Continue reading
John Q. Hosedrinker