Blavatnik holds both U.S. and U.K. citizenship and has generously funded election campaigns for both Democrats and Republicans.
Her trip, organized at the invitation of the celebrated Russian actor and director Vladimir Mashkov, became a notable event for Russia’s cultural and political elite.
Since early 2022, amid the war in Ukraine and the wave of sanctions, many assumed Russian tourism in Europe would grind to a halt. However, reality proved otherwise.
Belgian Prime Minister Bart De Wever issued the warning while addressing lawmakers in the country’s federal parliament ahead of a crucial EU summit.
This detour, according to Bloomberg, may be an attempt to reduce the risk of attacks by Ukrainian sea drones, which have become more active against shipping in recent weeks.
In the view of Bloomberg, officials in Washington believe that increasing pressure on Russia’s oil flows remains the most effective lever to influence the Kremlin’s calculations.
Russia retains a potential countermeasure in the form of European assets immobilised within its jurisdiction.
Brent Falls Below $60 a Barrel for the First Time in Six Months
Washington seeks a compromise solution that involves troop withdrawals and the creation of a demilitarised corridor
Brussels aims to protect the financial mechanism supporting Kyiv and preserve the stability of the sanctions regime.
Ukraine is striking Russia’s shadow fleet with fast naval drones — but under international law, the country is operating in a dangerous gray zone.
U.S. special envoy Steve Witkoff stated that the success of any peace process depends entirely on whether Moscow demonstrates “genuine commitment to long-term peace.”
This move significantly complicates negotiations and leaves Brussels with virtually no room for maneuver as it tries to fill the financial gap Ukraine may face as early as next spring.
