Abramovich ally begins high court challenge against UK sanctions

Eugene Shvidler claims oppressive treatment' as he launches case that could set a precedent for oligarchs

Eugene Shvidler, a long-time ally of the billionaire Roman Abramovich, has accused the UK government of oppressive treatment" as he launched a legal challenge against sanctions imposed upon him after Russia's invasion of Ukraine.

In a high court case that experts say could lead to a precedent for oligarchs seeking to free themselves of sanctions, lawyers for Shvidler, who is reportedly worth 1.3bn, are seeking to have his designation for sanctions declared unlawful and quashed, as well as pursuing restitution of his costs.