Chelsea owner Roman Abramovich is involved in attempts to mediate peace between Russia and Ukraine, according to his spokesman.
The 55-year-old handed over “guidance and care” to the trustees of the club’s charity on Saturday amid the ongoing crisis in east Chelsea.
However, it has emerged that Russian-Israeli billionaire Abramovich is trying to help end the Russian invasion of Ukraine.
On Monday, Abramovich’s spokesman said: “I can confirm that the Ukrainian side contacted Roman Abramovich to support him in finding a peaceful solution and that he has been trying to help ever since.
“Given what is at stake, we ask for your understanding why we have not commented on the situation itself or his participation. Thanks very much.”
Ukrainian director and producer Alexander Rodniansky also confirmed that Abramovich was involved due to his ties to both the Russian and Ukrainian Jewish communities.
“I can confirm that the Ukrainian side tried to find someone in Russia willing to help them find a peaceful solution,” Rodnyansky said.
You are connected to Roman Abramovich through the Jewish community and have asked him for help.
Since then, Roman Abramovich has been trying to gather support for a peaceful solution. Although Roman Abramovich’s influence is limited, he was the only one who reacted and took it upon himself to try.
“Whether this has any effect or not, I don’t know, but I am in touch with (President Volodymyr) Zelenskyi’s staff myself, and I know that they are grateful for his real efforts.”
Labor MP Chris Bryant criticized the allegations, writing: “This appears to be yet another Russian lie to avoid sanctions will now be punished.”
“For real? Doesn’t peace just mean Russia’s withdrawal?”
Peace talks between the two sides are to take place on the Belarusian border.
(Foto: Paul Gilham/Getty Images)
