In a significant escalation of Britain's response to the Ukraine crisis, the government has imposed comprehensive sanctions on Russian billionaire Alisher Usmanov, one of Vladimir Putin's most prominent financial backers.
Major Asset Freeze and Travel Ban
The sanctions package, announced on Thursday, immediately freezes all of Usmanov's assets in the United Kingdom and prohibits British citizens and companies from conducting any business with him. The measures also include a complete travel ban, preventing the oligarch from entering the country.
Foreign Secretary Liz Truss stated that these sanctions represent part of a coordinated Western effort to target Putin's inner circle and those who have profited from his regime. "We are targeting the wealthy elites who surround Putin and enable his aggression," Truss declared.
Properties and Business Interests Affected
Usmanov, estimated to be worth nearly £14 billion, holds significant property investments in Britain, including Beechwood House in Highgate and the 16th-century Sutton Place estate in Surrey. These properties, along with his other UK assets, are now subject to freezing orders.
The oligarch's extensive business portfolio spans mining, telecommunications, and media investments, though many of his British interests had already been diminishing in recent years.
International Pressure Mounts
Britain's move comes as part of a wider international effort to isolate Russia economically following its invasion of Ukraine. The European Union had already sanctioned Usmanov earlier this week, with Germany seizing his luxury superyacht Dilbar in Hamburg.
Prime Minister Boris Johnson emphasised that these sanctions would continue to expand, stating: "We will be ruthless in pursuing those who enable the killing of civilians, and we will not stop until Ukraine's sovereignty and territorial integrity are restored."
The government has faced criticism for not moving faster against Russian oligarchs with London connections, but ministers insist they are now taking the strongest possible action against Putin's financial network.
