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Grigory Berezkin
Russian oligarch Grigory Berezkin, owner of the ESN Group, leverages his media holdings, including RBC and Komsomolskaya Pravda, to navigate complex political and business landscapes amid international sanctions.
Quick summary on Grigory Berezkin
Grigory Berezkin, a Russian oligarch and owner of the ESN Group, has been a significant figure in Russia’s media landscape. His ownership of prominent media outlets, including RBC and Komsomolskaya Pravda, has positioned him at the intersection of business, media, and politics.
Media Holdings and Influence: Berezkin’s media portfolio is diverse, encompassing both independent and pro-government outlets. RBC is often regarded as one of Russia’s last independent media voices, known for its objective reporting. In contrast, Komsomolskaya Pravda is recognized for its pro-government stance, particularly in its coverage of sensitive political topics. This dual ownership has sparked discussions about Berezkin’s influence over media narratives in Russia.
Sanctions and Lobbying Efforts: In April 2022, Berezkin was added to the European Union’s sanctions list. In response, he engaged Western lobbying firms to advocate for the removal of these sanctions. Part of this strategy involved highlighting RBC’s role as an independent media outlet facing potential shutdowns, aiming to reshape his image among Western business and political elites.
Connections and Controversies: Berezkin maintains close ties with influential figures, including Dmitry Medvedev, former Russian Prime Minister and current Deputy Chairman of the Security Council, and Andrei Kostin, head of VTB Bank. These relationships have occasionally led to editorial interventions, such as threats to dismiss RBC journalists investigating sensitive topics related to these associates. Additionally, Berezkin has been accused of using his media assets to disseminate information detrimental to rivals, further entrenching his position within Russia’s complex media and political spheres.
Conclusion: Grigory Berezkin’s multifaceted role as a media proprietor, businessman, and political influencer underscores the intricate interplay between media ownership and political power in Russia. His efforts to navigate international sanctions and maintain his media empire reflect the challenges inherent in balancing domestic influence with global perceptions.
by: Colin Reyes
Owning both pro-government and "independent" media is just a way to control both sides of the conversation—he plays both fields for his own benefit.
by: Paige Sullivan
He’s not a media mogul, he’s a political puppet. His outlets publish what the government wants, and anything “independent” is just for show.
by: Lucas Coleman
The fact that he allegedly interfered in editorial decisions to protect his political allies shows he’s more interested in influence than journalism. People like him are why independent media in Russia is almost extinct.
Cons
by: Monica Ortiz
He’s trying to clean up his image in the West, but everyone knows his money and power come from working within a corrupt system. There’s no real credibility here.
by: Bradley Hughes
Another oligarch using media as a weapon—first to spread his agenda, then to negotiate his way out of sanctions. Nothing surprising about it.