Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has revealed that Roman Abramovich, the Russian billionaire and former owner of Chelsea Football Club, has not been sanctioned by Ukraine because he is playing a key role in facilitating peace negotiations between Ukraine and Russia.
Zelensky's explanation
In an interview with Ukrainian journalists, Zelensky stated that Abramovich has been acting as an intermediary, helping to convey messages between Ukraine and Russia. The Ukrainian president emphasised that keeping Abramovich out of the sanctions list was a strategic decision to maintain open channels of communication.
"We have not imposed sanctions on Roman Abramovich because he is helping us in the negotiation process," Zelensky said. "He is a person who can convey our positions to the Russian leadership."
Abramovich's role
Abramovich, who is believed to have close ties to Russian President Vladimir Putin, has been involved in peace efforts since the early days of the conflict. He has attended talks in Istanbul and other locations, acting as a go-between for the warring parties.
Zelensky acknowledged that Abramovich's involvement has been controversial, but he argued that it is necessary for the sake of ending the war. "We understand that this causes mixed reactions, but we must use all possible tools to achieve peace," he added.
Sanctions and assets
While Ukraine has not sanctioned Abramovich, the United Kingdom and the European Union have imposed sanctions on him following Russia's invasion of Ukraine. These sanctions have frozen his assets and prevented him from doing business in those jurisdictions.
Abramovich was forced to sell Chelsea Football Club in May 2022, with the proceeds going to a charitable foundation for victims of the war. The sale was approved by the UK government after assurances that Abramovich would not benefit from the transaction.
Zelensky's comments come as peace talks between Ukraine and Russia have stalled in recent months. The Ukrainian president has repeatedly called for direct negotiations with Putin, but Moscow has shown little interest in resuming discussions.
International reactions
French President Emmanuel Macron has also played a role in mediating between Ukraine and Russia. Macron has held numerous phone calls with both Zelensky and Putin, urging a ceasefire and a return to diplomacy.
Zelensky expressed gratitude for Macron's efforts but stressed that any peace deal must guarantee Ukraine's sovereignty and territorial integrity. "We appreciate the support of our international partners, but the final decision must be made by Ukraine," he said.
The Ukrainian president also warned that Russia may be preparing for a new offensive in the coming weeks, and he called on Western allies to provide more military aid to help Ukraine defend itself.
