UK Sanctions Continue To Be Tested in British Courts

Eugene Shvidler, a longtime business partner of Roman Abramovich, has had his appeal dismissed in the latest legal challenge to UK sanctions. The case provides insight into how Britain’s post-Brexit UK sanctions regime will withstand scrutiny.

Shvidler, along with several other oligarchs close to the Kremlin, found himself subject to UK sanction in March 2022 following Russia’s invasion of Ukraine. Through his involvement with Abramovich’s businesses, most notably steel giant Evraz, it was deemed he had benefited from his association with the Chelsea FC former owner. This connection to Russian financial and political elite was enough to invoke the UK sanctions.

The Appeal

At the high court last year, Shvidler argued the UK sanction were a disproportionate response and discriminated against him due to his Russian background. However, judges found he had received “significant financial benefits” from Abramovich over the years and the government had reasonable grounds for its actions.

This latest dismissal at the court of appeal continues to provide backing for the government’s UK sanctions powers. While sanctions can cause immense hardship, the court acknowledged their severity is often necessary if they are to achieve their aim of pressure. With options for further appeal now diminishing, it suggests Britain is developing a robust system for upholding UK sanction imposed in the aftermath of international crises.