The United States plans to auction the Amadea, a $325 million Russian yacht, seized since Russia invaded Ukraine. This marks the first sale of a confiscated oligarch-owned vessel since the conflict began.
Currently docked in San Diego, the 348-foot yacht features eight state rooms, a helipad, a spa, gym, swimming pool, beauty salon, and elevator. Designed by François Zuretti and built by Lürssen in 2017, it accommodates 16 guests and 36 crew.
The auction closes on September 10. President Donald Trump’s administration aims to increase pressure on Russian elites close to Vladimir Putin by targeting their luxury assets. Several Russian-owned yachts have been seized under these sanctions.
Ownership of the Amadea remains disputed. The yacht registers in the Cayman Islands under Millemarin Investments Ltd. U.S. authorities claim Suleiman Kerimov, a sanctioned former politician tied to money laundering, owns it. However, Eduard Khudainatov, a former Rosneft executive without sanctions, claims ownership.
Prosecutors accuse Khudainatov of acting as a straw owner, hiding Kerimov’s control. Khudainatov’s legal team warns the auction is premature. They caution buyers about ongoing litigation that could last for years.
Since U.S. authorities took custody in 2022, the yacht has been mostly untouched. To bid, interested parties must deposit 10 million euros (about $11.6 million).
Khudainatov’s representative, Adam Ford, says they will seek any proceeds or shortfall from the sale. He also warns potential buyers about legal risks worldwide.
This auction follows a 2024 U.S. law that allows the government to seize Russian assets on American soil. The proceeds will support Ukraine after Russia’s February 2022 invasion.
