Frozen Fortune: Abramovich's Chelsea Sale Controversy

Britain may take legal action regarding £2.5 billion from Roman Abramovich's Chelsea sale, intended for Ukraine war victims but still frozen. This stems from sanctions against Abramovich after Russia's invasion of Ukraine. Disagreements on fund distribution persist, with Britain wanting funds for Ukraine, while Abramovich seeks broader allocation.

Britain has hinted at potential legal action over the frozen £2.5 billion from Roman Abramovich's sale of Chelsea Football Club, money he intended for Ukraine war victims. This comes after the UK government sanctioned Abramovich amid a broader crackdown on Russian oligarchs following Moscow's invasion of Ukraine, leading to the rushed sale in 2022 and subsequent freezing of the proceeds.

The funds remain undistributed due to a disagreement over their allocation. Britain insists the money should be spent exclusively in Ukraine, aligning with broader European efforts to hold Moscow financially accountable for the invasion's destruction and casualties. Abramovich, however, seeks greater flexibility and wants the funds to aid all victims.

Amid inquiries about the sale's legal terms, the UK government has declined to provide certain documents, citing potential legal proceedings. While Abramovich has denied close ties with President Vladimir Putin, the standoff over the frozen funds highlights ongoing tensions and calls for transparency.

(With inputs from agencies.)