Billionaire Roman Abramovich Wins Defamation Case Against 'Putin's People' Book

London's High Court has ruled that nine claims made about Russian billionaire Roman Abramovich in the book 'Putin's People' are defamatory. According to Russian media reports, the claims assert that Abramovich is under the control of Russian President Vladimir Putin and carries out assignments worldwide on his behalf. It is alleged that the billionaire purchased Chelsea Football Club and moved to New York under Putin's orders, with the intention of gaining influence, including over former U.S. President Donald Trump's family.

The book's author, Catherine Belton, referred to Abramovich as "Putin's bagman" and "the Kremlin's trusted keeper." The text also mentions that Abramovich has engaged in "corrupt activities," with sources indicating that a portion of Abramovich's donations contributed to the expansion of the 'Rossiya' bank, among other ventures.

Meanwhile, today’s ruling does not specify what penalties will apply should the statements deemed defamatory towards Roman Abramovich not be corrected.