Russia's super-rich celebrities have ignited a firestorm of domestic criticism after being photographed and filmed indulging in extravagant parties at the exclusive Courchevel ski resort in the French Alps. The lavish celebrations, occurring while Russia's military conflict in Ukraine persists, have provoked outrage from politicians, frontline fighters, and pro-Kremlin media channels across the nation.
Luxury Celebrations Amidst Ongoing Conflict
The controversy erupted following a star-studded event organised by luxury fashion chain Rendez-Vous to mark its 25th anniversary and 16 years since opening its boutique at the prestigious ski destination. Attendees included high-profile Russian socialites and influencers, who were seen skiing, snowboarding, and walking a red carpet laid directly on the snow for a gala dinner.
Prominent Figures in Attendance
Among the notable guests was Ksenia Sobchak, the 44-year-old television star, media owner, and socialite often described as Vladimir Putin's 'goddaughter'. Her late father, Anatoly Sobchak, played a crucial role in launching Putin's political career after the Soviet Union's collapse. Other attendees included influencer Oksana Samoylova, supermodel Lena Perminova with her Ukrainian boyfriend Taras Romanov, and celebrity stylist Alexander Rogov, who currently hosts programmes on Russia's propagandist Channel One.
Extravagant Details Emerge
According to reports from conservative pro-war outlet Tsargrad TV, the celebrations took place at a luxury hotel where rooms start at approximately £7,450 per night. Guests reportedly enjoyed oysters, prosciutto, jamón, and premium alcohol, with individual dinners costing up to £9,700. Entertainment allegedly included private helicopter flights costing thousands of pounds, with celebrities indulging in £560 bottles of Veuve Clicquot champagne and meals at La Folie Douce restaurant costing £970 per person.
Immediate Domestic Backlash
The backlash from within Russia was swift and severe. Prominent socialite commentator Bozhena Rynska described the event as "a challenge" and "a loud, 'F** you!'" claiming Courchevel had become "a symbol of sanctions evasion and public privilege". Propagandist pro-war 'Z-channels' expressed rage, while REN TV quoted music producer Sergei Dvortsov stating: "While our boys fight, giving their lives for us, our stars are having a blast, living in luxury with big money."
Political and Public Condemnation
Firebrand State Duma deputy Vitaly Milonov likened the partying to "the work of the devil" and urged Russians to boycott the Rendez-Vous brand. Public relations expert Milena Dorokhina noted that Russians were outraged "by the ostentatious luxury without regard for context," adding that when mass-market brands showcase private jets and luxury resorts, it "automatically causes irritation."
Frontline Reactions
Some videos even showed Special Military Operation fighters recording angry messages, directly accusing celebrities of partying while soldiers die. One clip declared: "You're showing off your swagger while we're spilling blood." The anger extended to Rendez-Vous employees and customers, with complaints about bonuses being cut while management spends millions abroad. One comment stated: "Disgusting! It would have been better to send the money to the guys at the front."
Brand Defence and Wider Context
Alina Mieva, marketing director of Rendez-Vous, defended the publicity trip, revealing it also included private jet trips to Paris and Geneva despite Western sanctions. She stated the company runs similar trips to Russia's Krasnodar region, close to the conflict zone. However, fashion gossip outlet Tatler's Heroine mocked the spectacle as a "textbook on how to make everyone hate you," while furious commenters described attendees as "parasites" who should be left in the West with "the door locked from the inside."
The incident highlights deepening social divisions within Russia, where displays of extreme wealth by elites during wartime are increasingly viewed as insensitive and provocative by both supporters and opponents of the ongoing conflict in Ukraine.
