Abramovich faces setback as European Court upholds sanctions
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Russian oligarch Roman Abramovich encountered a setback when the European Court of Justice in Luxembourg dismissed his complaint. The court upheld the European Union's decision to include him in the sanctions list after the outbreak of war. With an estimated wealth of **$14.5 billion**, Abramovich's financial dealings have come under scrutiny due to alleged corruption.
Leaked files obtained by The Guardian revealed a complex web of maneuvers orchestrated by Abramovich. Just before the war, his seven children—some as young as nine—were named beneficiaries of trusts holding assets worth **at least $4 billion**. These assets include luxurious properties, superyachts, helicopters, and private jets. The timing of this asset reorganization raises questions given the impending conflict. Experts speculate that restructuring these trusts could complicate efforts to enforce sanctions against Abramovich. While the oligarch himself is well-known in business and sports circles, the involvement of his children adds complexity. Should they also face asset freezes? This remains a topic of debate.
Previously, the European Union imposed sanctions on Abramovich following a BBC investigation that uncovered evidence of corrupt deals contributing to his immense wealth. Interestingly, he has not been added to the US sanctions list. Ukraine reportedly requested that the White House refrain from sanctioning him due to his unofficial role as a mediator in peace negotiations.
As the court's ruling reverberates, questions linger about the broader impact on international relations and financial circles.
Memorial to the fallen Moldovan soldiers of the Transnistrian War in Chisinau. Photo: Alexander Moisseenko
Thirty-three years ago, a ceasefire brought an end to the Transnistrian War—sometimes described by locals as the Russian-Moldovan War. Although the tensions officially ended in 1992, its consequences continue to shape Moldovan politics, society, and security — especially in view of the upcoming parliamentary elections.
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