UK Threatens Abramovich With Court Over Chelsea Funds

The UK government has threatened legal action against Roman Abramovich to release £2.5 billion from the 2022 sale of Chelsea Football Club, frozen since he was sanctioned after Russia's invasion of Ukraine. Chancellor Rachel Reeves and Foreign Secretary David Lammy have expressed frustration over the continued deadlock, insisting the funds be used solely for humanitarian relief in Ukraine. Abramovich has reportedly advocated for the proceeds to benefit all victims of the war, including Russian nationals, a position opposed by the UK. The money remains locked without a licence from the Office of Financial Sanctions Implementation. Campaigners have criticized the lack of transparency and urgency in resolving the issue. The dispute underscores wider debates about handling frozen Russian assets and the legal obstacles to repurposing such funds for Ukrainian aid.