Russian payment giant A7 funded drone tech for Ukraine war
Roman Abramovich and Viktor Kharitonin are allegedly linked to A7, a Russian payment platform established in 2024 to bypass international sanctions. An investigation by Proekt identifies A7 as the primary architect for Russia's cross-border transactions.
The company is officially controlled by exiled Moldovan politician Ilan Shor and the state-owned Promsviazbank (PSB). The project also reportedly receives strategic backing from the state corporation VEB.RF, led by Igor Shuvalov.
Strategic infrastructure and funding
A7 initially operated from Moscow business centers controlled by Abramovich, including "Belîe Sadî" and "Skolkovo Park." Although the firm later moved to a nominal address in Gelendzhik, two subsidiaries remain active within Abramovich’s properties.
Viktor Kharitonin, a long-time associate of Abramovich, allegedly provided significant capital. His pharmaceutical holding, Pharmstandard, extended loans totaling several billion rubles to the platform.
Financing the Russian military
Sources describe Abramovich as A7’s "protector and financier," claiming he selected Ilan Shor to lead the operation due to Shor’s expertise in complex financial structures. Abramovich’s representatives have denied all allegations, stating he holds no stake in A7.
A7’s client list includes 25 Russian firms under EU and US sanctions. Notably, five clients—including "ID Solutions" and "Bespilotnîe Sistemî"—are direct suppliers of combat drones used by the Russian military in Ukraine.
Broad commercial footprint
The platform’s services extend beyond the military sector into consumer goods and energy. Major clients reportedly include the retailer Wildberries, tour operator Biblio-Globus, and S7-Engineering.
Through these channels, A7 has processed transactions ranging from hundreds of millions to billions of euros, acting as a vital financial artery for the sanctioned Russian economy.
Translation by Iurie Tataru
