Starmer Demands Abramovich Pay Up or Face Court
The UK government has warned Russian oligarch Roman Abramovich to release £2.5 billion earmarked for victims of the war in Ukraine or face legal action.
Mr Abramovich, formerly the owner of Chelsea Football Club, committed to the donation following the sale of the club in 2022. However, disbursement of the funds – currently frozen in a British bank – has stalled due to disagreements over how the money should be distributed.
While the government insists the funds be solely dedicated to humanitarian aid for Ukrainians, Mr Abramovich reportedly wants the money to benefit all victims of the conflict, including Russian citizens. This stance has raised concerns that the funds could indirectly support the Kremlin’s war effort.
Despite being subject to UK sanctions preventing him from accessing the money, the proceeds legally remain his property. A government spokesperson stated that if Mr Abramovich doesn’t act swiftly, legal proceedings will be initiated to enforce his commitment.
“If Mr Abramovich fails to act quickly, this government is fully committed and prepared to going to court to enforce that commitment if necessary,” the spokesperson said.
The government believes the funds are crucial for strengthening Ukraine’s frontline defenses, protecting vulnerable populations, and aiding the nation’s long-term recovery. “It would be hard to overstate the impact that an additional two and a half billion pounds could have for the people of Ukraine,” they added.
Speaking in the House of Commons, Prime Minister Keir Starmer emphasized the urgency, stating: “My message to Abramovich is clear: the clock is ticking. Honour the commitment that you made and pay up now, and if you don’t we’re prepared to go to court and ensure that every penny reaches those whose lives have been torn apart by Putin’s illegal war.”
The Treasury confirmed a licence has been issued to transfer the funds, explicitly stating they must be used for humanitarian purposes within Ukraine and cannot benefit Mr Abramovich or any other sanctioned individuals.
Chancellor Rachel Reeves echoed the Prime Minister’s sentiment, stating: “It is unacceptable that more than £2.5bn of money owed to the Ukrainian people can be allowed to remain frozen in a UK bank account.”
Mr Abramovich’s representatives have so far declined to comment on the matter. He was granted permission to sell Chelsea following the invasion of Ukraine, contingent on assurances that he wouldn’t profit from the sale.
The UK issued its initial threat to sue Mr Abramovich in June. He has 90 days to respond before legal action is considered. Meanwhile, EU leaders are scheduled to discuss proposals on Thursday to utilize frozen Russian assets for Ukraine’s budgetary and defense needs, a move Russia strongly opposes.
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