Filenews 27 May 2022
Western high-ranking officials are considering allowing sanctions against Russian oligarchs to be lifted, provided the latter use their money to rebuild Ukraine, as reported by the Associated Press.
The issue was raised by Canada's deputy prime minister and finance minister at a meeting of G-7 finance ministers in Germany last week.
Christiane Freeland raised the issue after Russian oligarchs spoke to her about it, an official told The Associated Press. The Canadian minister has known Russian oligarchs since she was a journalist in Moscow.
According to the official, the Ukrainian side is aware of the discussions. He noted that such an agreement would be in the interest of the West since it would mean the removal of Russian oligarchs from Vladimir Putin, while at the same time giving money for Ukraine.
"We wouldn't be talking if there wasn't some agreement on the part of the Ukrainians," the official said. "We need to know that it works for them as well."
The officials spoke on condition of anonymity, as they were not authorized to make statements about the G-7 discussions.
The proposal was set in the context of providing additional money to Ukraine and how 'frozen' funds and assets of oligarchs could be a source of capital.
Right now, it's just an idea, the official said, but western interest is there.
Former Chelsea owner Roman Abramovich, who was sanctioned for his ties to Putin, said the net proceeds of Chelsea's sale would be given to the victims of the war in Ukraine.
The deal to sell the football club has been delayed, as the British government is making sure that Abramovich does not benefit from the forced sale.
Source: in.gr
