Washington’s Coup on Russia’s Allies
In a bold move, the US Treasury Department has imposed sanctions on British businessman Philip Adkins, a close confidant of former Spanish King Juan Carlos I. The move is part of Washington’s offensive against Moscow’s strategic interests amid the invasion of Ukraine.
Adkins’ Support for Russia’s Arctic Project
Investigations have revealed that Adkins has provided logistics and construction support to Russia’s Arctic LNG 2 project, a liquefied natural gas (LNG) production plant designed to pump huge amounts of foreign currency into Russian coffers.
Despite sanctions concerns, Adkins has used two cargo ships to transport LNG modules and gravity platforms to the port of Belokamenka, near the borders of Finland and Norway.
Adkins’ Friendship with Juan Carlos I
Behind the companies involved in transporting the ships is Philip Adkins, a close friend of Juan Carlos I. Their relationship dates back more than two decades, when the former king had a relationship with Corinna Larsen.
Adkins, Larsen’s first husband, has been a constant companion of Juan Carlos I, sharing moments together at events such as bullfights and the famous Botswana safari in 2012.
The Impact of Sanctions
US sanctions have significantly hampered the Arctic LNG 2 project’s ability to export energy and significantly increased construction costs. This measure demonstrates Washington’s determination to limit the production and export of Russian gas.
The Last Encounter
Despite the sanctions, Adkins attended Juan Carlos I’s 86th birthday party in January of this year. He was part of the guests of honor and gave a speech to congratulate the former monarch.
This meeting underlines the close relationship between Adkins and Juan Carlos I, despite growing international pressure on the former king and his associates.