U.K. Sanctions Putin’s ‘Shady’ Network Of Family And Friends—Including Rumored Girlfriend

The U.K. government on Friday announced a new wave of sanctions against the friends and family of Russian President Vladimir Putin.

Seven family members and five people with loyal supporters will be hit with asset freezes and travel bans because of the sanctions.

The family of Putin includes his ex-wife, a series of cousins, and a former Olympic gymnast who is thought to be his secret partner.

Anna Zatseplina has also been targeted.

All of the elites who have benefited from Putin's rule are bank executives, oil executives, and businessmen.

The British Foreign Secretary said the government is targeting the shady network that helps Putin.

For decades, it has been difficult to find out the size, source and nature of Putin's wealth. His personal assets are modest and at odds with his lifestyle, hence the sanctions targeting his financial and personal networks. The EU, U.K. and the U.S. have targeted close family and allies of Putin. These have brought attention to some aspects of Putin's life that he has sought to keep out of the spotlight, including his daughters, who the Kremlin has only ever identified by their first names.

Big Number

Over 1000. In addition to 100 other entities, the Foreign Office said that the U.K. has imposed sanctions on people who were involved in Russia's invasion of Ukraine. The network of oligarchs has a global net worth of over $117 billion.

The sixth round of sanctions against Russia is being prepared by the EU. The ban on Russian oil imports within six months has been divisive among member states.

There are three theories on how Putin makes his millions.

The EU is planning sanctions against Putin's rumored mistress.