By Gill Bikram Singh 
Labour ministers have yet to hold direct discussions with key figures overseeing the release of £2.5bn from the sale of Chelsea FC, funds intended for humanitarian aid in Ukraine. Despite ongoing pressure, no meetings have taken place between ministers and the foundation managing the funds since Labour took office.
A Political Stalemate
Roman Abramovich, who sold Chelsea in 2022 after being sanctioned over Russia’s invasion of Ukraine, pledged the proceeds to assist war victims. However, the money remains frozen in a UK bank account due to disputes over its distribution.
The UK government insists the funds should be used solely within Ukraine, while Abramovich’s representatives argue they should aid all victims of the conflict, including those outside the country. Portugal, which granted Abramovich citizenship, has also played a role in the legal discussions.
A Delayed Resolution
The foundation’s board, led by former UNICEF UK chief Mike Penrose and Norwegian diplomat Jan Egeland, had previously met with former Foreign Secretary David Cameron, who had been working on a solution. However, progress stalled before the last general election, and no further talks have been held with Labour ministers.
The delay has drawn criticism, with charities emphasizing that the money could be aiding Ukrainian children and war victims. Meanwhile, western nations are exploring ways to use frozen Russian assets to support Ukraine.
A Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO) spokesperson reaffirmed that officials continue to engage with Abramovich’s representatives and international partners, stressing that the government is “working hard” to resolve the issue.