UK government finally reveals real reason for Roman Abramovich sanctioned
According to reports, Chelsea owner Roman Abramovich is now unable to sell the club after the UK government froze the Russian billionaire’s assets as part of a host of financial sanctions.
However, explaining why the Russian has been sanctioned, HM Treasury’s Office of Financial Sanctions released a statement on Thursday which, in part, reads: “Roman Arkadyevich ABRAMOVICH (hereafter ABRAMOVICH) is a prominent Russian businessman and pro-Kremlin oligarch.
“ABRAMOVICH is associated with a person who is or has been involved in destabilising Ukraine and undermining and threatening the territorial integrity, sovereignty and independence of Ukraine, namely Vladimir Putin, with whom ABRAMOVICH has had a close relationship for decades.
“This association has included obtaining a financial benefit or other material benefit from Putin and the Government of Russia.
“This includes tax breaks received by companies linked to ABRAMOVICH, buying and selling shares from and to the state at favourable rates, and the contracts received in the run up to the FIFA 2018 World Cup.
“Therefore, ABRAMOVICH has received preferential treatment and concessions from Putin and the Government of Russia.”