FIDE President Dvorkovich Steps Aside After EU Sanctions

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Arkady Dvorkovich, Russia’s former deputy prime minister and president of the International Chess Federation (FIDE), suspended his duties Thursday evening after the European Union sanctioned him.

In its latest sanctions package , the EU accused Dvorkovich of “supporting actions or policies which undermine or threaten the territorial integrity, sovereignty and independence of Ukraine.” The FIDE chief pushed back, stating “unequivocally” that he considers the decision “unlawful and unfair.” “I am confident that justice will prevail,” he added.

Dvorkovich became FIDE’s president in 2018, drawing criticism over his closeness to Vladimir Putin’s regime. The Russian president appointed him as deputy prime minister from 2012 to 2018.

Dvorkovich said the decision would remain in effect for as long as he is subject to EU and Swiss sanctions. FIDE Deputy President Viswanathan Anand, a former world champion, will take over his duties. In 2022, Anand told AFP that Dvorkovich had “clearly demonstrated that he is independent of Kremlin influence.”

Under Dvorkovich’s leadership, FIDE’s Ethics and Disciplinary Commission largely overturned a 2024 ruling that had temporarily suspended the Chess Federation of Russia and reprimanded him for “improper association” with an organization or person whose activities conflicted with FIDE’s objectives or interests. The reprimand against Dvorkovich was rescinded.