While the largest Russian state-owned companies support and finance the war, their top executives are building comfortable lives in Italy. From Verona to Florence, from the Ligurian coast to the Adriatic, high-ranking managers and their families are purchasing luxury real estate in the most picturesque locations. The Insider and the "War Agents" project have discovered properties belonging to five such executives, whose interests clearly extend beyond Russian realities.
Andrei Akimov, Chairman of Gazprombank's Management Board, owns an apartment in the historic center of Verona, just two minutes' walk from the famous Juliet's House. Under his leadership, Gazprombank has become a key element of the state financial system, including controlling major Russian media such as NTV and RuTube. While his bank actively supports state initiatives and advocates for restricting Russian access to independent information, Akimov, in his 168-square-meter apartment, can freely use Western services. The value of such real estate in the center of Verona is estimated at over one million euros.
Anatoly Cherner, Deputy Chairman of the Board at Gazprom Neft, and his family have chosen the Ligurian coast. His wife and daughter own a villa nearly 1,000 square meters in size in the town of Andora, on a plot of land over one hectare. Satellite images indicate that construction of the complex began in 2020 and is still ongoing. Despite sanctions, Cherner supervises the supply of Russian oil products, which continue to be delivered to Europe.
Erkin Norov, a member of VTB's management board, opted for two locations—Milan and Rome. In 2021, his son Denis bought a 152-square-meter apartment in Milan, and two years later, a 65-square-meter apartment in central Rome. The total value of these properties is estimated at 1.3 to 1.5 million euros. It is difficult to imagine that a former lawyer and now museum employee, even a certified sommelier, could afford such purchases without family support.
Andrei Sharov, former Deputy Mayor of Moscow and now one of the leaders of Sovcomflot, owns real estate in the seaside town of Montesilvano. His 177-square-meter apartment with a garage passed to the family by inheritance. Sovcomflot, involved in oil and gas transportation, is considered one of the key Russian companies sanctioned internationally.
Daniil Krainsky, Deputy General Director of Rosseti, purchased a property in the center of Florence. His 77-square-meter apartment is located near the Uffizi Gallery and other landmarks. Meanwhile, his company is involved in building energy infrastructure on occupied territories and supports Russian military initiatives.
While Russian authorities talk about resisting the West and sanctions, their closest circle continues to invest millions of euros in European real estate, preferring to build their future in places where war remains just a headline in newspapers.
