Chelsea owner Roman Abramovich is involved in the attempts to broker peace between Russia and Ukraine, according to his spokesperson.
The 55-year-old handed over “stewardship and care” of Chelsea to the trustees of the club’s charitable foundation on Saturday amid the ongoing crisis in the east.
However, it has emerged that Russian-Israeli billionaire Abramovich is attempting to help bring about an end to Russia's invasion of Ukraine.
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Abramovich’s spokesperson said on Monday: “I can confirm that Roman Abramovich was contacted by the Ukrainian side for support in achieving a peaceful resolution, and that he has been trying to help ever since.
“Considering what is at stake, we would ask for your understanding as to why we have not commented on neither the situation as such nor his involvement. Thank you.”
Ukrainian film director and producer Alexander Rodnyansky also confirmed Abramovich is involved due to his connections with both the Russian and Ukrainian Jewish communities.
“I can confirm that the Ukrainian side have been trying to find someone in Russia willing to help them in finding a peaceful resolution,” said Rodnyansky.
“They are connected to Roman Abramovich through the Jewish community and reached out to him for help.
“Roman Abramovich has been trying to mobilize support for a peaceful resolution ever since. Although Roman Abramovich's influence is limited, he is the only one who responded and taken it upon himself to try.
“If this will have an impact or not, I don't know, but I am in contact with (President Volodymyr) Zelensky’s staff myself, and know that they are grateful for his genuine efforts.”
Labour MP Chris Bryant has hit out at the claims, writing: “This looks like another Russian lie in an attempt to avoid being sanctioned. If he’s so close to Putin that he can wield such influence, if he’s visited Putin this last week, he should be sanctioned now.
“Really? Doesn’t peace just mean Russia withdraws?”
Peace talks are said to be taking place between both sides at the Belarus border.
(Photo: Paul Gilham/Getty Images)
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