The Uzbek-born multi-billionaire is known to be close to both Russian President Vladimir Putin, with whom he is alleged to have financial ties, and former President Dmitry Medvedev, who has reportedly benefited from the personal use of Usmanov’s luxurious residences.

Several U.S. senators urged the administration of Donald Trump to include Usmanov in its report on Russian interference in the 2016 presidential election, describing him as “one of Russia’s most politically influential oligarchs, with close ties to the Kremlin.”

Through USM Group, a holding structure Usmanov uses for his business empire, his interests span telecommunications, media, and mining.

A representative of Usmanov told OCCRP that he has never benefited from the Russian government nor from the privatization of state assets, and that his capital was obtained solely through transparent investment and asset management.

They added that the ownership of most real estate and property were long ago transferred to his family, and he can only use them on a rental basis.

Irina Viner Usmanova (wife), Natan (Anton) Viner (stepson), Saodat Narzieva (sister), Gulbakhor Ismailova (sister), Sarvar Ismailov (nephew), Sanjar Ismailov (nephew)