Starmer Tells Abramovich to ‘Pay Up Now’ or Face Court
Recent Developments on Abramovich’s Frozen Funds
Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer has taken a decisive stand against Russian oligarch Roman Abramovich, demanding that he “pay up now” to victims of the Ukraine war or be prepared to face legal action. As the former owner of Chelsea Football Club, Abramovich pledged that profits from the club’s sale in 2022 would aid those impacted by the Russian invasion of Ukraine.
Key Facts:
– Sale Background: Abramovich agreed to sell Chelsea FC in 2022 in response to Russia’s invasion of Ukraine.
– Funds Status: The proceeds from the sale, totaling £2.5 billion, are currently frozen in a British bank account due to sanctions imposed following the invasion.
– Delay Reasons: A legal dispute between the UK government and Abramovich’s lawyers has hindered the release of these funds.
Sir Keir Starmer’s Stance
In a recent address to the House of Commons, Sir Keir Starmer emphasized the urgency of this matter, stating, “The clock is ticking.” He reiterated the UK government’s commitment to ensuring that these funds are channeled into supporting Ukrainian humanitarian efforts, asserting:
– “Honor the commitment you made and pay up now; if you don’t, we’re prepared to go to court to ensure that every penny reaches those whose lives have been torn apart by Putin’s illegal war.”
Legal Context
This is not the first time Abramovich has faced legal repercussions in the UK regarding this issue. In June, the Treasury issued a warning stipulating that the funds must exclusively benefit humanitarian causes in Ukraine and cannot be used for the benefit of Abramovich or any other sanctioned individuals. While the UK government advocates strictly for aid targeted at Ukrainians, Abramovich contends that the funds should support all victims of the war.
Background on Abramovich
– A Russian billionaire with significant connections to the oil and gas industry, Abramovich has been under scrutiny due to alleged ties to Russian President Vladimir Putin, allegations he strongly denies.
– Following the invasion of Ukraine, he received a special license to sell Chelsea FC, which was contingent upon proof that he would not profit from the sale.
– Currently, while unable to access the £2.5 billion due to UK sanctions, the funds are still legally considered his.
Conclusion
Starmer’s emphatic message to Abramovich brings attention to the critical need for accountability and support for those affected by the ongoing conflict. With court action potentially on the horizon, it remains uncertain whether Abramovich will fulfill his commitment to the victims of the war. This evolving situation highlights the intricate balance of sanctions, legal responsibilities, and humanitarian efforts in the aftermath of international crises.