Title: Critics Slam European Countries for Allowing Russians Connected to Putin and Military to Reside
Introduction:
Despite the imposition of heavy sanctions by Western nations to isolate Russia over the war in Ukraine, numerous individuals associated with President Vladimir Putin and the Russian military continue to reside in European Union (EU) countries. The presence of these individuals, who have close ties to Putin and are related to the ongoing conflict, has drawn criticism from politicians and antiwar activists. This article discusses some prominent figures living in EU countries and the demand for increased action against them.
Content:
Leading figures from Alexei Navalny’s Anti-Corruption Foundation, including leaders, are calling for stronger action against Russians living in EU countries who defy the goal of Western sanctions. They highlight cases such as Yelena Isinbayeva, an Olympic gold medal-winning pole vaulter with ties to Putin, who is now residing in Spain’s Canary Islands in a luxurious residence worth millions. Isinbayeva received a Spanish residency permit shortly after Russia’s invasion of Ukraine. Similarly, the daughter and son-in-law of Boris Obnosov, head of a Russian-owned missile corporation, continue to live in Prague, where they own multiple properties and luxury vehicles. Maria Kitayeva, a former adviser to the Russian Defense Minister, who is reportedly in a relationship with a Deputy Defense Minister, has made several trips to Hungary and Italy over the past year.
The outrage over these individuals’ presence in Europe has led to calls for the imposition of sanctions on their family members. In response, Isinbayeva has defended herself, emphasizing her career achievements and dismissing the coverage as “fake.” Western countries, particularly the US and the EU, have imposed extensive sanctions on top Russian politicians, military officials, and wealthy individuals connected to Putin, including some of their relatives.
Although some argue that individual citizens should not be punished for Putin’s decision to go to war, others believe that those whose wealth and success can be traced back to the Kremlin should be held accountable. The article also highlights other figures who have not faced sanctions from the EU, despite their involvement in supporting the war.
Critics, including exiled businessman Mikhail Khodorkovsky, argue that the current sanctions policy is “substandard” and fails to differentiate between Russian elites and ordinary citizens. They suggest that Western sanctions should target immediate family members and lawyers who hold properties in their names. Such measures could effectively deter Russian officials from using their positions for personal gain and living off assets acquired through corruption.
Conclusion:
As the conflict between Russia and Ukraine continues, the presence of Russians associated with Putin and the military in EU countries has sparked criticism from various quarters. Activists argue that the current sanctions policy fails to hold these individuals accountable for their actions. Calls for stronger measures, such as extending sanctions to immediate family members and lawyers, are gaining momentum. However, it remains to be seen how Western nations will respond to these demands and address the concerns raised by critics.