**Title:** German Prosecutors Drop Investigation of Oligarch Usmanov
**Meta Description:** German authorities end investigation into Alisher Usmanov after he agrees to pay 10 million euros amid EU sanctions following the Ukraine invasion.
**URL Slug:** german-prosecutors-drop-investigation-usmanov
**Headline:** German Authorities Conclude Investigation into Alisher Usmanov Following Payment Agreement
In a significant development, German prosecutors have announced the cessation of their investigation into Russian oligarch Alisher Usmanov, a prominent ally of President Vladimir Putin. This decision comes after Usmanov agreed to pay 10 million euros to the authorities, effectively resolving the inquiry into potential sanctions violations.
Usmanov, a billionaire born in Uzbekistan and a notable figure in the metals industry, has been under scrutiny since the European Union imposed sanctions in response to Russia’s full-scale invasion of Ukraine in 2022. The Munich prosecutors’ office confirmed on Tuesday that the investigation, which had previously led to police raids on numerous properties associated with Usmanov in Germany, would be dropped following the payment.
The sanctions had resulted in the freezing of various funds and assets linked to Usmanov. Notably, a separate investigation into money laundering allegations was closed last year, as stated by his press office. Prosecutors had suspected Usmanov of transferring approximately 1.5 million euros through foreign companies for the management of two properties located in Rottach-Egern, a lakeside town south of Munich, shortly after the sanctions were enacted. Additionally, he was accused of failing to declare valuable items, including jewelry, artwork, and fine wines.
Usmanov’s legal team contested the allegations regarding his connections to the companies and the valuables in question, as well as the applicability of EU law in this case. The prosecutors clarified that the decision to discontinue the investigation upon receipt of the payment was in accordance with German criminal law.
The 10 million euros will be allocated to the state treasury, a Bavarian victim support foundation, and an organization dedicated to prisoner welfare and probation services.
In summary, the conclusion of this investigation marks a notable moment in the ongoing scrutiny of individuals linked to the Russian government amid the geopolitical tensions stemming from the Ukraine conflict.
**FAQ Section:**
**Q: Why was Alisher Usmanov under investigation by German authorities?**
A: Usmanov was investigated for potential breaches of EU sanctions imposed after Russia’s invasion of Ukraine, including allegations of money transfers and failure to declare valuable assets.
