The UK government is considering the possibility of filing a lawsuit against Russian billionaire Roman Abramovich. The reason is the delay in transferring £2.5 billion obtained from the sale of the Chelsea football club to humanitarian organizations that provide assistance to Ukraine.
This is reported by Kyiv24
Disputes Over Fund Distribution
Following the onset of Russia’s full-scale aggression against Ukraine, Roman Abramovich, who resided in the UK, was placed on the sanctions list due to his alleged close ties to the president of Russia. His assets were frozen, but the authorities allowed the sale of Chelsea on the condition that the proceeds would be directed to support those affected by the war in Ukraine.
Despite the fact that in 2022 the club was sold to American businessman Todd Boehly and Clearlake Capital, the funds remain in a special account and are still frozen. Formally, they belong to Abramovich, but he cannot access them without government permission.
Demands of the British Authorities and Abramovich’s Position
Among the key disagreements is the intended use of the funds. Abramovich agrees on the necessity of aiding war victims; however, he insists that financial support should be provided to all affected, including those in Russia. Meanwhile, the British authorities maintain that the money should be distributed exclusively within Ukraine.
“The government is deeply disappointed that no agreement has yet been reached with Abramovich on this matter.”
Representatives of the British Cabinet noted that negotiations with the billionaire are ongoing, but they are prepared to take the matter to court if a compromise on the transfer of funds to assist Ukraine is not reached.