UK Govt Sanctions Russian Billionaire Roman Abramovich, Stops Chelsea Sale

The UK Government has sanctioned Chelsea owner, Roman Abramovich in the latest crackdown on Russian assets in the country.

The billionaire is one of seven wealthy Russian individuals who had sanctions placed on them by the government on Thursday.

Also affected by the sanctions are billionaires and allies of President Vladimir Putin of Russia, Igor Sechin and Oleg Deripaska, Andrey Kostin and Alexei Miller.

Others affected by the sanctions are Nikolai Tokarev and Dmitri Lebedev, whose business empires, wealth and connections are closely associated with the Russian president.

Following the sanctions, Abramovich will have his assets frozen and will be prohibited from carrying out any transactions with UK individuals and businesses.

The Chelsea owner will also face a travel ban and further transport sanctions.

Also, Chelsea will operate as a club with a special charity license and the proposed sale of the club by Abramovich has also been stopped.

The club won’t be able to sell new tickets for games or sign new players but will be able to carry out their daily activities.

Speaking on the sanctions, UK Prime Minister Boris Johnson said: “There can be no safe havens” for those who have supported the invasion.

“Today’s sanctions are the latest step in the UK’s unwavering support for the Ukrainian people.