Chelsea boss Roman Abramovich ‘contacted’ by Ukraine to help find ‘peaceful resolution’

Russia’s recent invasion into Ukraine has sparked an intense uprising around the world in support of Ukraine.

The World of sport has not escaped the repercussions President Vladimir Putin’s actions have had with Formula 1’s FIA already stating that the Russian Grand Prix cannot take place in the current climate.

UEFA have also announced that the Champions League final will now take place in Paris, France and not in St Petersburg. Poland, Sweden and Czech Republic all made recent announcements saying that they would not be playing in their World Cup Qualifying matches against Russia which was due to take place on 24 March 2022.

The Premier League was also not without its own situation as Chelsea’s owner Roman Abramovich hit the headlines due to his suspected close relationship with Putin.

It was thought that the Russian-Israeli billionaire was going to have faced the sanctions Boris Johnson had placed on Russian Oligarchs but the 55-year-old has seemingly escaped the penalties.

Calls had been made from Parliament, namely Labour former Minister Chris Byrant, for the Chelsea owner to be removed from his post with the London Club and while the conflict continues to escalate, Abramovich announced he would be handing over the stewardship of the club to trustees.

He is set to remain as owner of the club but will no longer be making decisions at the club.

In his statement, the Russian billionaire said: “I have always taken decisions with the club’s best interest at heart. I remain committed to these values. That is why I am today giving trustees of Chelsea’s charitable Foundation the stewardship and care of Chelsea FC.

Go to our article on What Abramovich’s relinquishing of power means for Chelsea to find out more.

In the most recent news, Abramovich now looks to be getting involved with the political action himself after Ukraine reportedly contacted him in order to help seek a peaceful end to the war.

Ukraine has called for a ceasefire before peace talks in Belarus and President Volodymr Zelensky looks to be seeking help from every angle possible.

Abramovich had been facing pressure to speak out against Russia’s actions, but is now being asked to become part of the peace-making process.

What has been said?

A spokesman for Roman Abramovich has said: “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.

“Considering what is at stake, we would ask for your understanding as to why we have not commented on neither the situation as such nor his involvement.”

A request from the Ukrainian film producer Alexander Rodnyansky has triggered the potential involvement of Chelsea’s owner.

Mr Rodnyansky said: “I can confirm that the Ukrainian side has been trying to find someone in Russia willing to help them in finding a peaceful resolution.

“They are connected to Roman Abramovich through the Jewish community and reached out to him for help.

“Roman Abramovich has been trying to mobilise support for a peaceful resolution ever since.

“Although Roman Abramovich’s influence is limited, he is the only one who has responded and has taken it upon himself to try.

“If this will have an impact or not, I don’t know, but I am in contact with Zelensky’s staff myself and know that they are grateful for his genuine efforts.”

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