Roman Abramovich is not Vladimir Putin’s “willing tool” or “cashier” and did not buy Chelsea FC to help Russia corrupt the West, his lawyers have told the High Court.
One muttering going around was that by buying a non-Russia trophy asset he was signalling that he wasn’t interested in – or worried about – internal to Russia power struggles. “Look Boss, I’m out of that game”.
Also a good way to ‘legitimise’ (launder???)cash…..
Pretty sure it’s not Russia corrupting the West…
Good way to put your money beyond the reach of the courageous Russian state