UK gives Abramovich final warning to transfer £2.5bn to Ukraine fund

The Guardian - World NewsCenter-LeftEN 4 min read 100% complete by Jessica Elgot Deputy political editorDecember 17, 2025 at 03:52 PM

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The UK government has issued a final warning to Roman Abramovich, demanding he transfer £2.5 billion from the sale of Chelsea FC to a Ukraine humanitarian fund within 90 days or face legal action. Abramovich sold the club in 2022 under government pressure following the Russian invasion of Ukraine, with the proceeds intended for war victims. The funds are currently frozen in a UK bank account due to disagreements over whether the money should be exclusively spent in Ukraine or distributed more broadly. The government insists Abramovich must establish the foundation and arrange the transfer according to the license terms, while Abramovich wants Russians to also benefit from the proceeds. The move comes as EU leaders are urged to use frozen Russian assets to provide Ukraine with a €90 billion loan.

Key Entities & Roles

Key Player Opposition Context

European Union 40% UK 50% Chelsea FC ×260% Keir Starmer 70% Roman Abramovich ×680% Ukraine ×480%

Keywords

ukraine fund 90% roman abramovich 90% chelsea fc sale 80% uk sanctions 70% russia-ukraine war 70% humanitarian cause 70% legal action 60% frozen assets 60% transfer licence 60% uk government 50%