Chelsea owner Roman Abramovich has been asked by Ukraine to help support their attempts to reach a “peaceful resolution” with Russia.
The Russian billionaire’s spokesperson told the Press Association he was contacted by Ukrainian officials and “has been trying to help ever since”.
Ukraine has called for a ceasefire before peace talks in Belarus.
Russian President Vladimir Putin launched a military invasion of neighbouring Ukraine on Thursday.
Ukraine’s health ministry said on Sunday that 352 civilians, including 14 children, had been killed since Russia’s invasion began.
Abramovich announced on Saturday that “stewardship and care” of the club was being given to trustees of Chelsea’s charitable foundation.
The 55-year-old is one of Russia’s richest people and is believed to be close to Russian President Putin.
Ukrainian film director and producer Alexander Rodnyansky confirmed the Chelsea owner’s involvement in attempts to reach a peaceful resolution, but added he is unsure of the impact it will have.
“I can confirm that the Ukrainian side have been trying to find someone in Russia willing to help them in finding a peaceful resolution,” said Rodnyansky.
“They are connected to Roman Abramovich through the Jewish community and reached out to him for help. Abramovich has been trying to mobilize support for a peaceful resolution ever since.
“Although Abramovich’s influence is limited, he is the only one who responded and taken it upon himself to try.
“If this will have an impact or not, I don’t know, but I am in contact with [Ukraine President Volodymyr] Zelensky’s staff myself, and know that they are grateful for his genuine efforts.”
Source: BBC