The investigative project revealed more than 150 assets with a combined value of $17 billion, including property, private jets, company inventory, yachts, mansions and more. Journalists discovered these assets by combing through land records, corporate records, and outside leaks.
“Russia under Vladimir Putin has been controlled by a very small group of people, the enablers who keep him in power while he benefits from a patronage system at the expense of the Russian people,” OCCRP publisher Drew Sullivan said in a press release.
That system has come under new scrutiny since Putin’s invasion of Ukraine, as Western governments have sought to freeze the assets of Putin and his oligarchs abroad – and ban them from travel. The goal is twofold: sanctions are punishment for Russia’s ruling class and a cudgel for trying to force Putin to back down.
Just three weeks after the invasion, the Guardian wrote, “27 of these individuals are under sanctions in the United States and Europe. Another seven are blacklisted in Canada.”
Geoffrey Chaucer is a contributor to OE Mag, covering news, politics, business, technology, sport, entertainment, and lifestyle. He focuses on clear, accurate reporting and useful information that helps readers stay informed about current affairs and developments that matter to them. His work highlights relevant stories, emerging trends, and key issues, presenting them in a balanced, accessible, and reader-friendly way.