🇷🇺 From Kremlin to Kensington: Moscow’s Ex-Mayor Finds Refuge in London
In a twist worthy of a political thriller, former Moscow mayor Yuri Luzhkov—once one of Russia’s most powerful figures—made headlines after his dramatic fall from grace and quiet retreat to London.
🔥 Sacked by the Kremlin
Luzhkov, who governed Moscow from 1992 to 2010, was abruptly dismissed by President Dmitry Medvedev amid mounting tensions and allegations of corruption tied to his wife, billionaire Elena Baturina. The dismissal, reportedly only reluctantly backed by Vladimir Putin, marked the end of an 18-year reign that transformed Moscow’s skyline but drew fierce criticism for opaque dealings and political maneuveringDaily Mail.
✈️ London Bound
Following his ousting, Luzhkov was spotted queuing for a visa at the British Embassy in Moscow, sparking speculation of a self-imposed exile. His daughters were sent to London for safety, with Luzhkov citing “very serious grounds” for fearing for their security in RussiaExpatica. Baturina, meanwhile, quietly established herself in London’s elite circles, even serving briefly as a trustee of the Mayor’s Fund for London before stepping down amid scrutiny over donations.
🏙️ A Familiar Pattern?
Luzhkov’s move echoes a broader trend of Russian elites seeking refuge in London, often amid political fallout or legal pressure. While Luzhkov denied fleeing, the optics—wealthy family, sudden relocation, and a trail of allegations—paint a familiar picture.
