ACF adds Friedman, Kuzmichev, and Khan to its list of corrupt figures and warmongers
ACF adds Friedman, Kuzmichev, and Khan to its list of corrupt figures and warmongers
31 March 2023
The Anti-Corruption Foundation has listed businessmen Mikhail Fridman, Alexei Kuzmichev, and German Khan as “corrupt figures and warmongers.”
FBK director Ivan Zhdanov commented on the move:
“In reality, there was a mistaken belief that we could delay making a decision and that Friedman and his associates might eventually align themselves with the righteous side, that they might become a shining example of people who have moved to the good side. There was hope that they could set an example by denouncing the war and taking a stance against it, [even if they didn't participate in any] anti-war activities. However, it was disappointing that they still haven't expressed any clear opinions, during the second year into the war.”
In March, news surfaced that Leonid Volkov, the ex-Chairman of the Board of ACF, had written to the EU High Representative for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy, stating the need to outline specific criteria for lifting sanctions. Volkov asserted that several businessmen, who were not aligned with the Kremlin's policies, were unjustly subjected to the sanctions. He mentioned the case of Alfa Group shareholders Mikhail Fridman, Pyotr Aven, German Khan, and Alexei Kuzmichev and urged for their removal from the EU sanctions list.
Subsequent to the publication of the letter, Volkov admitted that it was a huge political mistake and stepped down as Chairman of the ACF. Maria Pevchikh was appointed to replace him as the new chairman.