Russian President's Bodyguards Spotted Near Palace He Disavows"
Putin's bodyguards have been spotted going on runs near a lavish palace on the Black Sea coast, which the Russian president denies owning ¹. The palace, estimated to be worth over $1 billion, has been at the center of corruption allegations and controversy surrounding Putin's wealth.
*The Palace's History*
The palace, located near Gelendzhik, was first brought to public attention in 2010 by whistleblower Sergei Kolesnikov, who claimed it was being built for Putin's personal use ¹. The complex includes an Italianate-style mansion, an arboretum, greenhouse, helipad, ice palace, church, amphitheater, and even a private beach.
*Ownership Dispute*
Putin has consistently denied ownership of the palace, with the Kremlin stating it's a private venture owned by various businessmen ¹. However, investigations have revealed a complex web of ownership and financing involving close associates of Putin, including billionaire Arkady Rotenberg, who claimed ownership of the palace in 2021.
*StravaLeaks Controversy*
The recent revelation of Putin's bodyguards' jogging routes near the palace has sparked renewed interest in the StravaLeaks controversy. StravaLeaks is a series of data leaks from the fitness tracking app Strava, which has exposed the locations and activities of military personnel and other sensitive individuals.
*Investigations and Criticism*
The palace has been the subject of multiple investigations, including one by Alexei Navalny's Anti-Corruption Foundation, which estimated the palace's value at over $956 million ¹. Critics argue that the palace is a symbol of Putin's corruption and abuse of power.
*Recent Developments*
In 2024, the Russian outlet Proekt reported that parts of the palace have been reconverted, with entertainment rooms transformed into lounging areas and a chapel dedicated to Saint Vladimir ¹. The palace remains a contentious issue, with many calling for greater transparency and accountability from Putin's administration.
Investigations and Criticism*
The palace has been the subject of multiple investigations, including one by Alexei Navalny's Anti-Corruption Foundation, which estimated the palace's value at over $956 million ¹. Critics argue that the palace is a symbol of Putin's corruption and abuse of power.
*Recent Developments*
In 2024, the Russian outlet Proekt reported that parts of the palace have been reconverted, with entertainment rooms transformed into lounging areas and a chapel dedicated to Saint Vladimir ¹. The palace remains a contentious issue, with many calling for greater transparency and accountability from Putin's administration.
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