A spokesperson for Abramovich has refused to confirm reports he is in Belarus
Roman Abramovich is reportedly in Belarus to assist with talks attempting to broker a peace deal between Russia and Ukraine.
Russia launched an invasion on its neighbouring country last week despite widespread condemnation from the international community. However, delegations from Russia and Ukraine arrived in the town of Gomel, situated close to the Belarusian-Ukrainian border, on Sunday night to begin talks to bring fighting to a halt.
According to the Jerusalem Post, Abramovich is in Belarus having responded to a request from Ukraine to help with negotiations. Though a spokesperson for him refused to comment on claims he was in Belarus, they confirmed that the billionaire had been approached by Ukrainian officials.
“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,” the spokesperson said.
“Considering what is at stake, we would ask for understanding as to why we have not commented on neither the situation as such nor his involvement.”
Abramovich is said to hold close ties with Jewish communities in Russia and Ukraine. Alexander Rodnyansky, a Kyiv-born Oscar-nominated producer who is in close contact with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, told the Jerusalem Post that government officials had contacted him and other members of the Jewish community in Russia to ask for help in finding a way to stop the fighting.
“The Ukrainians had been trying to find someone in Russia who could help in finding a peaceful resolution,” Rodnyansky said. “They reached out for help and Roman is the person who decided to help and to mobilise support for a peaceful resolution.”
The development follows an eventful week for Abramovich. On Saturday he released a statement confirming he had handed over the stewardship and care of Chelsea, the Premier League football club he has owned since 2003, to trustees of its charitable foundation.
The move followed calls for him to face sanctions in the UK over his past relationship with Vladimir Putin.
Related links:
- Lawyer explains why Roman Abramovich statement is nothing but PR spin
- Abramovich to remain Chelsea owner, despite handing over stewardship and care to trustees
- Chelsea could go out of business if Roman Abramovich faces sanctions
