Mysterious gathering of Russian oligarch yachts in Alikarnassos: How is Putin 'involved'?

An unusual gathering of super-luxury yachts connected to some of Russia's most powerful billionaires has been observed off the coast of Alikarnassos (Bodrum), Turkey, raising questions about the purpose behind so many opulent vessels being in the same maritime area simultaneously.

An investigation by the independent Russian outlet Verstka identified yachts linked to Gennady Timchenko, Roman Abramovich, Vagit Alekperov, Oleg Deripaska, Alexander Nesis, and Iskander Makhmudov, businessmen among the most well-known Russian oligarchs. Further fueling the intrigue, the Dossier Center reported that the yacht Victoria, which has been periodically associated with individuals in Russian President Vladimir Putin's inner circle, is also in the vicinity. Among those mentioned is former Olympic gymnast Alina Kabaeva, with whom international media have long claimed a close relationship with the Russian president, though the Kremlin has not officially confirmed this.

It is important to note that there is currently no evidence to prove that any of these specific businessmen or individuals from Putin's circle are actually on board the yachts at this time. The information pertains to the yachts' association with their owners or regular users, not their current occupancy.

Despite the public attention, the reason for the convergence of so many luxury yachts off Alikarnassos remains a mystery. Neither Turkish authorities nor representatives for the yacht owners have provided an official explanation. Turkey's choice of location is not considered coincidental. Following Russia's invasion of Ukraine and the imposition of Western sanctions, Ankara did not adopt the restrictive measures imposed by the European Union and the United States against Russia. Consequently, Turkey is not obligated to freeze or confiscate yachts belonging to Russian businessmen on sanction lists. This has made the Turkish coast a safe haven for dozens of Russian magnates' super-yachts in recent years, which departed European marinas shortly after sanctions were imposed.

While various speculations circulate, there is no evidence to suggest that the simultaneous presence of these specific vessels is related to any meeting or coordinated activity. However, the image of an informal "gathering" of yachts has captured attention.

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Putin’s “yacht” is attracting company. Several Russian billionaires have gathered off the Turkish coast