A notable luxury superyacht, the Amadea, previously owned by sanctioned Russian billionaire Suleiman Kerimov, is set to be auctioned by U.S. authorities. The yacht, measuring 348 feet (106 meters), boasts an array of lavish amenities including a helipad, pool, jacuzzi, gym, spa, beauty salon, and eight staterooms that accommodate up to 16 guests. Its estimated value exceeds $300 million.
Seized in Fiji in April 2022, the Amadea is currently docked in San Diego, California, and the auction is being organized by National Maritime Services from Fort Lauderdale, Florida. Bids for the yacht will be accepted until September 10, and the auction requires an initial deposit of $10 million for prospective bidders.
This auction follows a significant legal ruling, as a U.S. judge dismissed a competing claim from Eduard Khudainatov, the former head of Rosneft, who asserted ownership of the vessel. Prosecutors characterized Khudainatov as a “straw owner,” emphasizing Kerimov’s true ownership and his ties as a close associate of Russian President Vladimir Putin. Kerimov has faced sanctions from the U.S. since 2018, with further sanctions imposed in 2022 after the Russian invasion of Ukraine.
The auction aligns with broader efforts by U.S. authorities to seize assets belonging to Russian oligarchs under Task Force KleptoCapture, a initiative aimed at disrupting the financial networks that support the Russian government. In a related context, the U.S. Congress has enacted legislation that allows for the sale of seized Russian assets, directing the proceeds towards humanitarian aid for Ukraine.
This auction is a significant move in the ongoing efforts to hold accountable influential figures linked to Russia’s actions on the global stage. It also highlights the challenges faced by authorities in navigating the complex web of ownership and legal claims associated with high-value assets like the Amadea. The outcome of this auction may serve as both a symbolic and practical step towards addressing the geopolitical implications of wealth related to international relations.
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