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World chess chief steps aside amid EU sanctions over Ukraine stance

Created at 24 Jul · 2:41 PM1 source↑ Market-relevant
IN SHORT

Arkady Dvorkovich, president of the International Chess Federation (FIDE), has temporarily suspended his duties following EU sanctions. The bloc accused him of supporting policies that undermine Ukraine's sovereignty, a charge Dvorkovich denies.

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Key Numbers

2018year Dvorkovich became FIDE president
2012-2018years Dvorkovich served as deputy prime minister

Who's Involved

Arkady Dvorkovich
President of the International Chess Federation (FIDE) and former Russian deputy prime minister
European Union
Bloc that sanctioned Dvorkovich
Viswanathan Anand
FIDE Deputy President taking over duties
Vladimir Putin
Russian president, to whom Dvorkovich was previously close
World chess chief steps aside amid EU sanctions over Ukraine stance

↳ Why This Matters

The sanctions against Arkady Dvorkovich highlight the increasing international pressure on individuals with ties to the Russian government, even in non-political organizations, and underscore the global impact of the conflict in Ukraine on international sports federations.

Key facts

  • Arkady Dvorkovich, president of the International Chess Federation (FIDE), has suspended his duties.
  • The European Union sanctioned Dvorkovich, citing his support for policies undermining Ukraine's sovereignty.
  • Dvorkovich, a former Russian deputy prime minister, denies the accusations and calls the sanctions unlawful.
  • FIDE Deputy President Viswanathan Anand will temporarily take over Dvorkovich's responsibilities.
  • Dvorkovich's suspension will last as long as he remains under EU and Swiss sanctions.

    • Arkady Dvorkovich, president of the International Chess Federation (FIDE) and former Russian deputy prime minister, has temporarily stepped aside from his duties following sanctions imposed by the European Union. The EU accused Dvorkovich of "supporting actions or policies which undermine or threaten the territorial integrity, sovereignty and independence of Ukraine."

    Dvorkovich has strongly refuted the allegations, stating unequivocally that he considers the decision "unlawful and unfair" and expressing confidence that "justice will prevail." His suspension will remain in effect for the duration of the EU and Swiss sanctions against him.

    Dvorkovich assumed the presidency of FIDE in 2018. He previously served as Russia's deputy prime minister from 2012 to 2018, a period during which he was noted for his closeness to President Vladimir Putin. Despite past criticism, FIDE Deputy President Viswanathan Anand, a former world champion, has previously stated that Dvorkovich "clearly demonstrated that he is independent of Kremlin influence."

    In a related development, FIDE's Ethics and Disciplinary Commission had previously overturned a ruling that had suspended the Chess Federation of Russia and reprimanded Dvorkovich for "improper association." The reprimand against Dvorkovich was rescinded.

    Frequently asked questions

    Arkady Dvorkovich is the president of the International Chess Federation (FIDE) and previously served as Russia's deputy prime minister from 2012 to 2018.

    The EU sanctioned Dvorkovich for allegedly supporting policies that undermine Ukraine's sovereignty and territorial integrity.

    Dvorkovich denies the accusations, calling the decision "unlawful and unfair" and expressing confidence in justice.

    FIDE Deputy President Viswanathan Anand will temporarily assume Dvorkovich's duties.

    What Happens Next

    01Viswanathan Anand will assume FIDE presidential duties during Dvorkovich's suspension.
    02Dvorkovich's suspension will continue as long as EU and Swiss sanctions are in place.

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    Cadence

    How It Developed

    Arkady Dvorkovich, president of the International Chess Federation (FIDE), suspended his duties.
    The EU sanctioned Dvorkovich, accusing him of supporting policies that threaten Ukraine’s sovereignty.
    Dvorkovich stated the decision was unlawful and unfair, expressing confidence in justice.
    FIDE Deputy President Viswanathan Anand will assume Dvorkovich's duties.
    FIDE's Ethics and Disciplinary Commission had previously rescinded a reprimand against Dvorkovich for improper association.
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    Sources

    T1
    World chess chief steps aside after EU sanctionsPOLITICO Europe

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