Justice Department Announces Enforcement Actions Against Sanctioned Russian Oligarchs
Sweeping Set of Criminal and Civil Measures Target Kremlin and Oligarchs
CNN — The Justice Department on Thursday unveiled a significant collection of criminal and civil enforcement actions aimed at sanctioned Russian oligarchs and individuals involved in supporting the Kremlin and its military. This announcement, made by the Justice Department’s Task Force KleptoCapture, comes just days ahead of the two-year anniversary of Russia’s invasion of Ukraine.
Task Force KleptoCapture’s Targeted Approach
The task force, composed of federal prosecutors, investigators, and analysts, has focused on unraveling the maze of wealth surrounding Russian oligarchs and Kremlin insiders. Over the past two years, the task force has initiated approximately 70 criminal cases against individuals and five criminal cases against corporate entities. Multiple arrests have been made worldwide, further emphasizing the department’s commitment to holding accountable those involved.
Efforts to Seize Assets in Support of Ukraine
Alongside criminal actions, the task force has made efforts to seize approximately $700 million worth of assets. The Justice Department intends to transfer these seized assets to Ukraine to be utilized as aid. Although the process of asset forfeiture is ongoing, approximately $6 million has already been transferred to Ukraine.
Department’s Commitment to the Ukrainian People
David Lim, co-director of the task force, expressed his hope that the enforcement actions convey the department’s resolute dedication to enforcing laws and, in doing so, supporting the Ukrainian people. Lim stated, “Today’s announcement signifies our concerted efforts in targeting the facilitators who possess the required skill set, access, and connections that allowed Russian war machine and elites to continuously access Western services and goods.”
United in Curbing Illegal Funds Fueling Conflict
Attorney General Merrick Garland, highlighting the department’s unwavering determination, conveyed in a statement that the Justice Department is more committed than ever to interrupting the flow of illegal funds that perpetuate Putin’s war and is prepared to hold accountable those who persist in enabling such actions.
Updated Cases in the Justice Department’s Announcement
1. Pro-Russian Ukrainian Oligarch Faces Criminal Charges
In Florida, prosecutors charged a pro-Russian Ukrainian oligarch with over $300 million of business conducted in violation of US sanctions.
2. Luxury Condos in Miami Subjected to Civil Forfeiture Complaint
Prosecutors also filed a civil forfeiture complaint against two luxury condos in Miami, alleging their ownership by sanctioned Russian oligarch Viktor Perevalov. The properties, situated in the Ritz-Carlton, are valued at approximately $2.5 million.
3. Sanctioned Russian Oligarch Accused of Money Laundering and Concealing Ownership
In New York, prosecutors brought charges against another sanctioned Russian oligarch who is suspected of money laundering to support two superyachts. The oligarch, Andrey Kostin, along with two US-based individuals, also stands accused of scheming to evade US sanctions by hiding Kostin’s ownership of an apartment in Aspen, Colorado, and attempting to update and sell it for $12 million.
4. Dual National Charges for Concealing Luxury Yacht Ownership
Additional charges have been brought against Vladislav Osipov, a dual Russian and Swiss national, for allegedly hiding his ownership of a 255-foot luxury yacht named “Tango” in violation of US sanctions.
5. Atlanta-Based Dual National Pleads Guilty to Money Laundering
In Georgia, prosecutors secured a guilty plea from Atlanta-based dual national Feliks Medvedev. Medvedev’s plea pertains to his involvement in an alleged plot to launder over $150 million on behalf of Russian clients through bank accounts and shell companies.
