Russian billionaire proud of ties to Putin escapes UK sanctions – despite US and EU blacklisting him
A RUSSIAN billionaire and Premier League investor proud of his ties to Vladimir Putin has escaped UK sanctions despite being targeted by the US and EU.
Financier Alisher Usmanov, 68, has been hit by travel bans and asset freezes issued by Washington and Brussels.
But incredibly, he is still able to operate with freedom on British soil.
Usmanov, dubbed one of Putin’s “favourite oligarchs” by the EU, is worth at least £12billion and owns two £100million properties.
Until yesterday, the ex-Arsenal stakeholder had commercial ties to Everton — but the club have now suspended all “commercial sponsorship arrangements” with his firms.
The deals, spiralling into millions of pounds, were put on ice as it also emerged Usmanov had been present during new boss Frank Lampard’s recent job interview.
Usmanov has hired top London law firm Schillings in the past to defend his reputation.
He said in 2020: “How can I be scared of sanctions when I have experienced things in life that were much more severe?
“I don’t deserve them, so it will be hurtful if they come.
“I don’t get involved. I don’t interfere in any political issues.”