New Details Emerge on Russian Linked to Czarzasty Amid Million-Ruble Deals

Recent developments have raised significant questions about Włodzimierz Czarzasty’s connections to Russian entities, particularly through his association with Swietłana Czestnych. Their professional relationship dates back to their joint publishing efforts at Muza S.A.

Connections to Russian Entities

Swietłana Czestnych works for the Russian Auction House (RAD) in St. Petersburg. This organization operates under strict Russian state oversight and is a key player in the auction market.

• Position: Employee at the Russian Auction House (RAD).
• Location: St. Petersburg, Russia.

RAD’s ownership includes a significant stake held by St. Petersburg CJSC Russian Jeweller, which is controlled by two women, Dinara Useynova and Maria Marakovskaya. Details about these individuals remain scarce.

Financial Implications

RAD is responsible for auctioning not only art but also state, banking, and bankrupt assets in Russia. The scale of transactions on this platform exceeds trillions of rubles, highlighting its centrality in the Russian auction market.

Past involvement of major entities like Sberbank, which was a RAD stakeholder until 2013, raises further concerns. Sberbank is currently under international sanctions due to Russia’s actions in Ukraine, prompting scrutiny over Czestnych’s possible placement on a Polish sanctions list.

Potential for Sanctions

Polish media have speculated about the implications of Czestnych’s connections. Historically, individuals linked to organizations that support the Russian budget have faced sanctions.

• Polish Law: There may be grounds for Czestnych’s inclusion on the sanctions list based on past precedents.
• Rationale: Economic connections with Kremlin-linked entities have previously led to sanctions.

In light of these developments, in-depth investigations are warranted. Experts emphasize the need for transparency regarding business ties to Russian stakeholders, even if only commercial in nature.

As scrutiny over these associations continues, the implications for both Czarzasty and Czestnych are significant. The outcome may influence ongoing discussions concerning Poland’s stance on Russian interactions.