The Facts
Four unnamed bankers at the Zurich branch of Russia’s Gazprombank who allowed a friend of Russian Pres. Vladimir Putin to deposit huge sums in Swiss bank accounts have been found guilty of lacking due diligence.
Renowned cellist and godfather to Putin’s eldest daughter, Sergei Roldugin — dubbed "Putin’s wallet" by the Swiss government — deposited millions of francs in Swiss bank accounts between 2014 and 2016, with prosecutors alleging he wasn't the true owner of the funds.
The Spin
Anti-Russia narrative
The Panama Papers revealed great information about a web of financial transactions connected to Vladimir Putin, and we now know that Sergei Roldugin, "Putin’s wallet," has been a key component in the Russian dictator's money laundering scheme. Roldugin has denied any wrongdoing, but the evidence against him is overwhelming, and all accomplices — even those who simply turned a blind eye — must be charged.
Pro-Russia narrative
The Panama Papers are stolen documents that don't reveal anything of value. Just like most stories involving Russia and Vladimir Putin, the Panama Papers were blown out of proportion leading to reckless speculation and this sham conviction. The fact that Sergey Roldugin is being called an accomplice of Putin because the two are friends is patently absurd.
