Roman Abramovich has endured peeling skin and painful crying after falling victim of a suspected poisoning during peace talks between Russia and Ukraine this month, according to reports.
The Chelsea owner played a part in initial negotiations between the two nations, who have been at war since Vladimir Putin ordered his troops into Ukraine in late February. A spokesperson for Abramovich said he was working towards “achieving a peaceful solution” and his role in talks was later confirmed by the Kremlin.
But in a revelation on Monday, it emerged Abramovich and at least two senior negotiators on the Ukrainian side were on the receiving end of a suspected poisoning in March after meeting in Kyiv.
According to the Wall Street Journal, those affected have been suffering with painful, constant tearing from red eyes as well as peeling skin on their faces and hands, although their lives are not in danger. The report claims the suspected attack has been blamed on hard-liners in Moscow who wanted to foil talks to end the war. Further, Ukrainian president Volodymyr Zelensky has not been affected despite meeting with the Chelsea owner.
Abramovich is said to have travelled back and forth from Moscow, Lviv and other negotiating venues as part of his role in talks.
Abramovich’s spokesperson confirmed on 28 February. “I can confirm that Roman Abramovich was contacted by the Ukrainian side for support in achieving a peaceful resolution, and that he has been trying to help ever since,” a statement read.
“Considering what is at stake, we would ask for your understanding as to why we have not commented on neither the situation as such nor his involvement. Thank you.”
Despite taking part in peace talks, Abramovich was sanctioned by the government in March, resulting in the freezing of his assets in the UK. Chelsea have been allowed to continue football-related operations and the sale of the Londin club is proceeding with the shortlist of potential buyers recently whittled down.
