The former spouse of one of Russia’s wealthiest individuals has been granted approval for an unprecedented multibillion-pound divorce settlement, anticipated to become the largest divorce case in English legal history.
Natalia Potanina is pursuing a £5 billion settlement from Vladimir Potanin, whose net worth is estimated at approximately $20 billion, equivalent to £15.7 billion. Commencing legal action in 2019, she has recently succeeded in a Court of Appeal petition to proceed with a multibillion-pound claim against her former partner, who is presently under sanctions for his role in the conflict in Ukraine.
Residing in a lavish estate resembling Versailles near Moscow, Ms. Potanina, along with her ex-husband, indulged in vacations in the Mediterranean and Cap d’Antibes aboard their two opulent yachts. In 2013, she alleges that her spouse casually disclosed his desire to separate over tea after engaging in an extramarital affair with a junior staff member.
Their acrimonious public dispute has spanned over a decade, originating from her initial refusal to sign divorce documents when her estranged husband claimed she did not require financial support. Seeking half of her former partner’s accumulated wealth during their marriage, she highlights their humble beginnings as penniless Soviet students in the egalitarian 1970s.
The core of their contention revolves around the family’s residence in Nemchinovo village, situated in a pine forest west of Moscow, where they raised their three now grown children. Decorated with a designer garden, basement casino, spa, and historic artworks, the property serves as a focal point in the legal battle. Ms. Potanina relocated to London around 2014.
Reflecting on her experiences, Ms. Potanina commented on the prevalent male dominance in Russian society and the legal system, leading her to embrace feminism. Recalling their early days together as financially challenged individuals, she emphasized their modest beginnings, devoid of oligarchic wealth.
Following a prolonged legal tussle, the Court of Appeal’s recent verdict marks a pivotal moment in the protracted litigation. Despite prior dismissals and appeals, Mrs. Potanina’s pursuit of a substantial financial settlement from her ex-husband persists, focusing on assets such as shares in Norilsk Nickel and a valuable Russian property known as The Autumn House.
The Court of Appeal ruling upholds Mrs. Potanina’s entitlement to pursue financial relief in England, countering claims of her lack of connection to the jurisdiction during the marriage. Legal representatives on both sides presented arguments regarding the jurisdictional aspects, with the court ultimately siding with Mrs. Potanina’s pursuit of a fair division of assets.
In response to the favorable ruling, Mrs. Potanina’s legal team expressed gratitude for the court’s acknowledgment of the merits of her case and hopes for a prompt resolution without further delays.