Roman Abramovich is a Russian-born businessman and politician known for his diverse business ventures. He previously owned Chelsea Football Club, a prominent English Premier League team. Beyond sports, he is the majority shareholder in Millhouse, a private investment firm. Abramovich holds citizenship in Russia, Israel, and Portugal.
1937: Birth of Aaron Abramovich Leibovich
Aaron Abramovich Leibovich, Roman Abramovich's father, was born in 1937.
1939: Birth of Irina Abramovich
Irina Abramovich, mother of Roman Abramovich, was born in 1939.
1940: Soviet Union Annexes Lithuania
The Soviet Union annexed Lithuania in 1940.
1942: Death of Nachman Leibovich
Nachman Leibovich, grandfather of Roman Abramovich, died in an NKVD camp in 1942.
1959: Death of Max Penson
Max Penson, the renowned Soviet photographer whose work was featured in the exhibition sponsored by Abramovich, passed away in 1959.
October 1966: Birth of Roman Abramovich
Roman Abramovich was born in Saratov, Russia in October 1966.
October 1966: Birth of Roman Abramovich
Roman Abramovich was born in Saratov, Russia in October 1966.
1967: Death of Irina Abramovich
Irina Abramovich, Roman Abramovich's mother, passed away in 1967.
1969: Death of Aaron Abramovich Leibovich
Aaron Abramovich Leibovich, Roman Abramovich's father, died in 1969.
1976: Creation of Francis Bacon's "Triptych 1976"
Francis Bacon created the renowned artwork "Triptych 1976," which was later purchased by Abramovich.
December 1987: First Marriage
Roman Abramovich married Olga Yurevna Lysova in December 1987 after completing his service in the Soviet Army. The marriage was short-lived, ending in divorce in 1990.
1988: Abramovich Starts Doll-Making Business
Taking advantage of the opportunities presented by perestroika, Abramovich and his wife Olga started a doll-making company in 1988.
1990: Divorce from Olga Lysova
Roman Abramovich's first marriage to Olga Yurevna Lysova ended in divorce in 1990.
October 1991: Second Marriage
Following his first divorce, Abramovich married Irina Malandina, a former Russian Aeroflot stewardess, in October 1991. They had five children together: Ilya, Arina, Sofia, Arkadiy, and Anna.
1992: Abramovich Arrested
Abramovich was arrested and imprisoned in 1992 for alleged theft of government property.
1993: Possible Meeting with Berezovsky
One source claims that Abramovich first met Boris Berezovsky, another Russian businessman, in 1993.
August 1995: Creation of Sibneft
Boris Yeltsin decreed the creation of Sibneft in August 1995, with Abramovich and Berezovsky thought to be top executives.
August 1995: Acquisition of Sibneft
In August 1995, Abramovich expressed interest in acquiring a controlling stake in the newly established oil company, Sibneft. He struck a deal with Boris Berezovsky, agreeing to provide him with funds for his TV company ORT in exchange for Berezovsky's political influence in supporting Sibneft's creation and legislative processes.
1995: Acquisition of Sibneft
Abramovich and Berezovsky acquired a controlling stake in the oil company Sibneft in 1995.
1995: Possible Meeting with Berezovsky
One source claims that Abramovich first met Boris Berezovsky, another Russian businessman, in the summer of 1995.
1996: Close Relationship with President Yeltsin
By 1996, at the age of 30, Roman Abramovich had established a close relationship with Russian President Boris Yeltsin. His growing influence and connections within political circles led to him being offered residence in the Kremlin, a testament to his rising status.
1999: Elected Governor of Chukotka
At the age of 33, Roman Abramovich was elected governor of Chukotka, a significant political achievement. His decision to enter politics and lead a remote region surprised some observers and marked a turning point in his career.
1999: Putin's Rise to Power
In 1999, Roman Abramovich played a pivotal role in Vladimir Putin's rise to power. He recommended Putin as Boris Yeltsin's successor and even interviewed potential cabinet members for Putin's first term as Prime Minister, solidifying their close relationship.
1999: Elected to the State Duma
Roman Abramovich entered the political sphere in 1999 when he was elected as a representative for the Chukotka Autonomous Okrug in the State Duma, the lower house of the Russian parliament.
December 2000: Taped Conversation at Le Bourget Airport
A conversation between Abramovich and Berezovsky was secretly recorded in December 2000 at Le Bourget airport, concerning the "legalization" of their aluminum business.
December 2000: Elected Governor of Chukotka
Roman Abramovich was elected governor of Chukotka, a remote region in the Russian Far East, in December 2000. This followed his establishment of the Pole of Hope charity, aimed at supporting the region's residents, particularly children.
2000: Sibneft's Oil Production
By 2000, Sibneft was producing oil worth US$3 billion annually.
2000: Start of Governorship and Economic Impact
Roman Abramovich assumed the governorship of Chukotka in 2000. His time in office coincided with a period of economic growth for the region, evidenced by a notable increase in average salaries.
2000: Beginning of Governorship and Investments in Chukotka
Roman Abramovich began his term as governor of Chukotka in 2000, during which he invested significant sums, estimated to be over US$1.3 billion, into the economically disadvantaged region.
2001: Showdown at St. Moritz Airport
A showdown occured between Abramovich and Badri Patarkatsishvili, a close acquaintance of Berezovsky, at St. Moritz airport in 2001, where Abramovich agreed to pay US$1.3 billion to Berezovsky.
June 2003: Acquisition of Chelsea Football Club
In June 2003, Abramovich purchased Chelsea Football Club from Ken Bates, marking his entry into the world of English football. His vision for Chelsea involved ambitious commercial development, aiming to establish the club as a global brand on par with Manchester United and Real Madrid.
March 2004: Sibneft Sponsorship Deal with CSKA Moscow
In March 2004, Sibneft, a company then-owned by Roman Abramovich, entered into a three-year sponsorship agreement with Russian football club CSKA Moscow. The deal, valued at €41.3 million (US$58 million), was interpreted by some as a strategic move by Abramovich to address criticism of a lack of patriotism following his purchase of Chelsea FC.
June 2004: Named "Most Influential Person in Russian Football"
Following an investigation and clearance of conflict of interest by UEFA regarding his ownership of Chelsea FC and sponsorship of CSKA Moscow, Roman Abramovich was recognized as the "most influential person in Russian football" by Russian magazine Pro Sport in June 2004.
2004: Chelsea's Second-Place Finish and Mourinho's Arrival
In their first season under Abramovich's ownership, Chelsea secured second place in the Premier League and reached the Champions League semi-finals. To further bolster the team, Abramovich appointed José Mourinho as the new manager, replacing Claudio Ranieri.
January 2005: European Bank for Reconstruction and Development Lawsuit
In January 2005, the European Bank for Reconstruction and Development (EBRD) announced its intention to sue Abramovich over an unpaid loan of £9 million. The EBRD claimed Abramovich's company, Runicom, owed them US$17.5 million. However, Abramovich's spokesperson maintained that the loan had been repaid.
June 2005: Chelsea's Financial Losses and UEFA's Response
In June 2005, Chelsea recorded significant financial losses, prompting concerns about the club's sustainability. These losses decreased in the following year, and Abramovich predicted a reduction in transfer spending. In response to the financial landscape of clubs, including Chelsea, UEFA introduced Financial Fair Play regulations to address concerns about excessive spending and promote financial stability.
October 2005: Re-elected as Governor of Chukotka
In October 2005, Roman Abramovich secured a second term as governor of Chukotka, solidifying his political standing in the region. His re-election reflected a degree of popular support and recognition for his efforts during his first term.
October 2005: Sale of Sibneft and Cancellation of CSKA Moscow Sponsorship
Roman Abramovich sold his stake in Sibneft in October 2005. Consequently, the company's new owner, Gazprom, which had its own sponsorship deal with Zenit Saint Petersburg, terminated the sponsorship agreement with CSKA Moscow.
2005: Funding of "Quiet Resistance" Exhibition
Abramovich provided funding for the exhibition "Quiet Resistance: Russian Pictorial Photography 1900s–1930s" at the Gilbert Collection in 2005.
2005: Sale of Sibneft
Abramovich sold Sibneft to the Russian government for $13 billion in 2005.
June 2006: Chelsea's Reduced Financial Losses
Chelsea's financial losses decreased to a reported £80.2 million in the year ending June 2006.
October 2006: Reports of Impending Divorce
News of Abramovich's close relationship with Dasha Zhukova surfaced in October 2006, prompting his then-wife, Irina, to reportedly hire divorce lawyers. Although the Abramoviches initially denied these claims, they eventually divorced in March 2007.
November 2006: Sponsorship of Max Penson Photography Exhibition
Abramovich sponsored an exhibition of photographs of Uzbekistan by Soviet photographer Max Penson, which opened in November 2006 at the Gilbert Collection in London.
December 2006: Abramovich's Statement on Transfer Spending
In December 2006, Abramovich stated that Chelsea's transfer spending was expected to decrease in the coming years.
2006: Expansion of the National Academy of Football
In 2006, Abramovich's National Academy of Football took over the management of the Konoplyov football academy in Primorsky, Samara Oblast, following the death of its founder. The academy, home to over 1,000 young athletes, benefited from Abramovich's ongoing support of youth sports in Russia.
2006: Significant Increase in Average Salaries in Chukotka
By 2006, during Roman Abramovich's governorship, the average monthly salary in Chukotka saw a substantial increase, rising from around US$165 in 2000 to US$826. This positive economic shift was attributed, in part, to Abramovich's investments and policies in the region.
March 2007: Divorce from Irina Malandina
Abramovich and Irina Malandina finalized their divorce in March 2007, with a reported settlement of US$300 million.
2007: Influence on Putin's Successor
Abramovich continued to hold significant influence within Putin's circle in 2007, when he was consulted during the selection process for Putin's presidential successor, ultimately recommending Dmitry Medvedev.
2007: Reported Feud Between Abramovich and Mourinho
Around 2007, media reports surfaced suggesting a rift between Abramovich and manager José Mourinho over the performance of certain players, including Andriy Shevchenko. Abramovich's once-frequent presence at games and involvement with the team reportedly diminished during this period.
2007: Restoration of Bakhmetevsky Bus Garage Building
The historical Bakhmetevsky Bus Garage building, which housed the Garage Center for Contemporary Culture, underwent restoration in 2007–2008.
May 2008: Major Art Acquisitions
Abramovich became a significant buyer in the international art market in May 2008, acquiring notable works like Francis Bacon's "Triptych 1976" and Lucian Freud's "Benefits Supervisor Sleeping."
July 2008: Resignation as Governor of Chukotka
After serving for eight years, Roman Abramovich resigned from his position as the governor of Chukotka in July 2008. Despite stepping down, he remained committed to his philanthropic endeavors in the region.
September 2008: Reopening of Garage Center for Contemporary Culture
The Garage Center for Contemporary Culture, a gallery in Moscow managed by Abramovich's former wife, Dasha Zhukova, reopened in September 2008 after restoration.
2008: Financial Impact of the Global Crisis
Prior to the 2008 financial crisis, Abramovich was considered one of the wealthiest individuals in the United Kingdom. However, the crisis significantly impacted his fortune.
2008: Marriage to Dasha Zhukova
Roman Abramovich married Dasha Zhukova in 2008. The couple had two children together, a son, Aaron Alexander, and a daughter, Leah Lou.
2008: End of Governorship and Recognition for Contributions
Roman Abramovich stepped down from his role as governor of Chukotka in 2008. His tenure was marked by substantial personal investment in the region's development, for which he received the Order of Honour from the Russian government.
2008: Admission of Payments for Political Favors
The Times reported in 2008 that court documents revealed Abramovich acknowledging he had made billions of dollars in payments to secure political favors and protection for his stake in Russia's oil and aluminum industries.
2009: Estimated Loss of £3 Billion
In early 2009, The Times estimated that Abramovich had lost £3 billion from his wealth due to the global economic crisis.
2009: Start of Significant Philanthropic Period
Between 2009 and 2013, Abramovich donated over US$2.5 billion to various charitable causes, focusing on education, healthcare, and infrastructure development, primarily in Chukotka.
2009: Purchase of 16 Kensington Palace Gardens
Abramovich acquired 16 Kensington Palace Gardens, a 15-bedroom mansion in London, for £90 million in 2009.
2010: Evraz Plc's Social Investments
Between 2010 and 2012, Evraz Plc, a steelmaker partially owned by Abramovich, contributed US$164 million to social projects.
2010: Chelsea's Success Under Abramovich
By 2010, Chelsea, under Abramovich's ownership, achieved remarkable success, securing 18 major trophies, including the UEFA Champions League, UEFA Europa League, FIFA Club World Cup, Premier League, FA Cup, and League Cup. The club's transformation into a trophy-winning powerhouse cemented its status as one of the most successful teams in England.
2010: Chelsea's Projected Profitability
Chelsea was not expected to record a trading profit before 2010, despite efforts to reduce financial losses.
2011: Transcript of Taped Conversation Emerges
A transcript of a taped conversation between Abramovich and Berezovsky from December 2000 surfaced in 2011.
2011: Red Hot Chili Peppers Performance
Abramovich hired the Red Hot Chili Peppers to perform at his estate in St. Barth in 2011 for a reported £5 million, with guests including prominent figures like George Lucas and Martha Stewart.
2011: Berezovsky Files Lawsuit
Berezovsky filed a lawsuit against Abramovich in 2011, alleging blackmail, breach of trust, and breach of contract.
2011: Berezovsky's Unsuccessful Lawsuit
Boris Berezovsky filed a civil lawsuit against Abramovich in a London court in 2011, known as Berezovsky v Abramovich. However, the lawsuit was unsuccessful for Berezovsky.
August 2012: Lawsuit Dismissed
The High Court dismissed Berezovsky's lawsuit against Abramovich in August 2012.
September 2012: High Court Ruling on Abramovich's Influence
During a legal battle between Abramovich and Boris Berezovsky in September 2012, England and Wales High Court Judge Elizabeth Gloster stated that there was no substantial evidence to support claims of Abramovich having the power to manipulate or influence President Putin for personal gain.
2012: End of Evraz Plc's Social Investment Period
By 2012, Evraz Plc had donated US$164 million to social projects, reflecting the company's commitment to corporate social responsibility.
2012: Berezovsky v Abramovich Case
The 2012 legal battle between oligarchs Boris Berezovsky and Roman Abramovich, overseen by Judge Elizabeth Gloster, resulted in a victory for Abramovich. Gloster deemed Berezovsky an unreliable witness. This case sparked controversy due to Gloster's stepson representing Abramovich as a barrister, raising concerns about potential conflict of interest.
July 2013: Ten Years of Abramovich's Ownership
On July 1, 2013, Chelsea celebrated a decade under Roman Abramovich's ownership, marking a period of significant transformation for the club.
August 2013: Abramovich's Message to Chelsea Supporters
Before the first game of the 2013–14 season, on August 18, 2013, Abramovich expressed gratitude to Chelsea supporters for their unwavering backing over the past decade in a heartfelt message featured on the match program's front cover.
2013: End of Significant Philanthropic Period
By 2013, Abramovich had donated over US$2.5 billion to charitable causes, demonstrating his commitment to social good.
2014: Putin Claims Abramovich Was Cheated
During 2014, Vladimir Putin alleged that Abramovich had been deceived in a multibillion-dollar business deal by Ukrainian-Cypriot-Israeli oligarch Igor Kolomoyskyi, who purportedly failed to fulfill his end of the agreement.
2014: Robbie Williams Performance and "Party Like a Russian" Inspiration
In 2014, Abramovich hired Robbie Williams to perform at a New Year's Eve party for Vladimir Putin's close associates in Moscow. This event is believed to have inspired Williams' song "Party Like a Russian."
2015: Investment in Music Technology
In 2015, Abramovich diversified his investment portfolio by leading a $30 million funding round in a music technology venture. The initiative involved collaboration with prominent figures in the music industry, including David Guetta, Nicki Minaj, Tiësto, and will.i.am, among others.
2015: Ownership of Raspadskaya Coal Mine
In 2015, The Guardian reported that through his stake in Evraz, a steel and mining company, Abramovich owned approximately a quarter of Russia's largest coal mine, the Raspadskaya coal complex. This ownership stake raised concerns due to the mine's significant carbon emissions.
2015: Philanthropic Activities and Investments
Throughout 2015, Abramovich engaged in various philanthropic activities, including a substantial donation to Tel Aviv University for a nanoscience and nanotechnology center. He also made significant contributions to the Sheba Medical Center in Tel HaShomer, Israel, for advancements in medicine. Additionally, he invested in the rehabilitation of a forest in the Negev desert and supported numerous Israeli start-ups.
March 2016: Net Worth Estimated at US$7.6 Billion
As of March 2016, Forbes estimated Abramovich's net worth to be US$7.6 billion, ranking him as the 155th richest person globally.
July 2016: Application for Swiss Residency
In July 2016, Abramovich applied for a residence permit in Valais, Switzerland, a canton known for its favorable tax environment for wealthy individuals. He intended to make the Swiss municipality his primary tax residence.
2016: Ownership of Boeing 767-33A/ER
In 2016, Abramovich owned a private Boeing 767-33A/ER, known as "The Bandit," which was estimated to cost US$300 million and featured luxurious amenities.
March 2017: Chelsea's New Stadium Plans Approved
In March 2017, Chelsea Football Club received approval for an extensive £500 million renovation of Stamford Bridge, increasing the stadium's capacity to 60,000.
June 2017: Withdrawal of Swiss Residency Application
Abramovich withdrew his application for Swiss residency in June 2017 after facing suspicion from FedPol investigators.
August 2017: Separation from Dasha Zhukova
After nearly a decade of marriage, Abramovich and Dasha Zhukova announced their separation in August 2017.
2017: Named in CAATSA
In 2017, Roman Abramovich was listed as one of the Russian oligarchs in the Countering America's Adversaries Through Sanctions Act (CAATSA), signed into law by then-President Donald Trump. This inclusion reflected growing scrutiny of Russian oligarchs and their relationships with the Russian government.
May 2018: Obtaining Israeli Citizenship
In May 2018, a month after facing delays in renewing his UK visa, Abramovich became an Israeli citizen. The delay was attributed to heightened tensions between the UK and Russia following the poisoning of Sergei and Yulia Skripal. As an Israeli citizen, Abramovich gained visa-free travel to Britain but with restrictions on work and business activities.
May 2018: Chelsea Halts Stadium Plans Due to Investment Climate and Abramovich's Visa Status
Citing an "unfavorable investment climate" and uncertainty regarding Abramovich's UK visa status, Chelsea halted plans for a new stadium in May 2018.
July 2018: Abramovich's UK Visa Renewal and Stadium Plans Halted
In July 2018, the UK Home Office renewed Abramovich's British visa. However, in May 2018, Chelsea decided to put the £500 million stadium project on hold, citing an "unfavorable investment climate" and uncertainties surrounding Abramovich's immigration status.
2018: Identified as a Significant Polluter
The Conversation, in 2018, identified Abramovich as a significant contributor to pollution due to his vast fortune amassed from the oil and gas industry. His yacht, in particular, was highlighted as a major source of his carbon footprint.
2018: Divorce from Dasha Zhukova
Following their separation in 2017, Abramovich and Dasha Zhukova's divorce was finalized in 2018.
June 2019: Donation to Combat Anti-Semitism
In June 2019, Abramovich donated $5 million to the Jewish Agency for Israel to support global efforts to combat anti-Semitism.
January 2020: Purchase of Property in Herzliya Pituah
Abramovich acquired a property in Herzliya Pituah, Israel, for a record-breaking 226 million NIS in January 2020.
2020: Sale of Highland Gold
Abramovich sold his stake in the gold mining company Highland Gold to Vladislav Sviblov in the summer of 2020.
2020: Support for NHS Staff During COVID-19 Pandemic
During the COVID-19 pandemic in 2020, Abramovich funded accommodation for NHS staff at the Stamford Bridge Millennium Hotel, demonstrating his support for healthcare workers.
March 2021: Net Worth Estimated at US$14.5 Billion
In March 2021, Forbes listed Abramovich's net worth as US$14.5 billion, placing him at 113th on the Billionaires 2020 Forbes list.
April 2021: Portuguese Citizenship Granted
Abramovich was granted Portuguese citizenship in April 2021 under the country's Nationality Act, based on his genealogy and contributions to Sephardic Jewish culture.
December 2021: Resolution of Libel Case Regarding Putin's People Book
In December 2021, a libel case brought by Roman Abramovich against journalist Catherine Belton and publisher HarperCollins regarding claims made in the book "Putin's People" was settled. The book had alleged that Abramovich purchased Chelsea at the behest of Vladimir Putin, an assertion that Abramovich consistently denied. As part of the settlement, future editions of the book acknowledged that the claims lacked factual basis.
2021: Target of Anti-Semitic Abuse
During the 2021 Israel–Palestine crisis, Abramovich faced anti-Semitic messages and abuse.
2021: Abramovich's Involvement in European Super League and Withdrawal
In 2021, Abramovich faced criticism for his initial support of the proposed European Super League, a controversial competition that drew widespread condemnation for its potential to undermine existing football structures and exacerbate financial disparities among clubs. However, Abramovich, along with other English clubs, withdrew their support within days, leading to the league's suspension.
2021: U.S. Intelligence Alleges Abramovich as Putin's "Bag Carrier"
In 2021, the Washington Examiner reported that U.S. intelligence sources believed Abramovich acted as a "bag carrier" for Putin, essentially serving as a financial intermediary.
2021: Partnership with Anti-Defamation League
Chelsea, under Abramovich's ownership, partnered with the Anti-Defamation League for three years to expand their Center on Extremism, highlighting his commitment to combating discrimination.
2021: Acquisition of Boeing 787-8 Dreamliner
Abramovich replaced his Boeing 767 with a Boeing 787-8 Dreamliner in 2021, upgrading to a more modern and technologically advanced aircraft.
2021: Cleared of Suspicion in Switzerland
Following a three-year legal process, Swiss authorities cleared Abramovich of any wrongdoing related to his residency application in 2021.
February 2022: Abramovich Hands Over Chelsea Stewardship Amid Russo-Ukrainian War
On February 26, 2022, in response to the escalating Russo-Ukrainian War, Abramovich announced that he would be stepping back from his role at Chelsea Football Club, transferring "stewardship and care" to the Chelsea Charitable Foundation.
March 2022: Abramovich Announces Chelsea Sale and Faces UK Sanctions
In March 2022, Abramovich confirmed his decision to sell Chelsea Football Club amid mounting pressure stemming from Russia's invasion of Ukraine. On March 10, 2022, the UK government froze Abramovich's assets, citing his close ties to the Kremlin, but clarified that the club could continue football-related operations.
March 2022: Allegations of Corruption in Portuguese Citizenship
In March 2022, Portuguese police investigated allegations of corruption related to the issuance of Sephardic Jewish origin certifications, including Abramovich's. However, the allegations were later dropped due to lack of evidence.
March 2022: Potential Role in Russia-Ukraine Negotiations
Reports emerged in March 2022 suggesting that the US government had postponed sanctions against Roman Abramovich at the request of Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky. This deferral was attributed to Abramovich's potential involvement in facilitating negotiations between Russia and Ukraine. His role, while confirmed by both sides, remained largely undisclosed.
March 2022: Sanctioned by the UK
The UK government imposed sanctions on Roman Abramovich in March 2022, citing his alleged ties to the Kremlin and potential involvement of his businesses in supplying materials used in the conflict in Ukraine. The sanctions included asset freezes and travel restrictions.
April 2022: Sanctioned by New Zealand
In April 2022, New Zealand imposed sanctions on Roman Abramovich due to his close connections with Vladimir Putin, following similar actions taken by other countries in response to the conflict in Ukraine.
May 2022: Chelsea's Acquisition by Todd Boehly and Clearlake Capital
On May 7, 2022, Chelsea Football Club revealed that a consortium spearheaded by American businessman Todd Boehly and investment firm Clearlake Capital had reached an agreement to purchase the club, marking the end of Abramovich's ownership.
December 2022: Targeted by Canadian Government for Asset Seizure
Canada announced its intention to target Roman Abramovich's assets in December 2022, marking the first use of its seizure and forfeiture mechanism under the Special Economic Measures Act (SEMA). The government alleged that US$26 million held by Granite Capital Holdings Ltd. belonged to Abramovich and initiated proceedings for potential permanent forfeiture to the Crown.
2022: Portrayal in "Patriots" Play
Roman Abramovich is a central character in Peter Morgan's play "Patriots," which premiered in 2022 and dramatizes the life of Boris Berezovsky.
2022: Suspected Poisoning Incident
In 2022, Roman Abramovich, along with two other negotiators involved in the Russia-Ukraine peace talks, experienced symptoms indicative of poisoning after attending a meeting. While the specific substance remained unidentified, the incident raised suspicions of sabotage attempts directed at the peace process.
2022: Approached to Mediate in Ukraine Conflict
Following Russia's invasion of Ukraine in 2022, Roman Abramovich was contacted by Ukrainian business leaders and asked to act as an intermediary in peace talks with Russia. This request highlighted his perceived influence and connections within both countries.
December 2023: EU Sanctions Upheld
Roman Abramovich's legal challenge to the EU sanctions imposed on him was dismissed by the Court of Justice of the European Union in December 2023. The court's ruling upheld the sanctions, dealing a setback to Abramovich's efforts to overturn them.