Elena Perminova, the Russian model, spoke out in defense of her wealthy husband after she faced public criticism, sharing her thoughts on social media. The post appeared on a platform owned by Meta, which has faced political controversy in Russia regarding its status and bans.
Perminova recounted a personal experience of being asked for financial help. She recalled a situation where someone said, “Your husband has ample money, and I’d really like a new iPhone. I can’t buy it myself because it seems silly, but perhaps you could help, since 100 thousand rubles for you is like 10 rubles for me.” This was shared on a foreign social network, illustrating the pressures she faces as a public figure linked to significant wealth.
She argued against judging others by appearances, questioning the ease with which people justify their laziness, infantilism, or failures. The model emphasized that success is rarely the result of luck or deception alone. She highlighted the personal effort behind her life, noting the long hours, constant phone calls and messages at work, and the daily routines that sustain her career. She described how sustaining a demanding lifestyle can be stressful and exhausting, a reality that often goes unseen by outsiders.
Perminova called for a sober, honest view of the world, acknowledging that such a perspective can be uncomfortable but is essential for growth. She urged readers to resist envy, anger, and a sense of unworthiness, suggesting that one’s life remains the outcome of deliberate choices. Her message underscored resilience, discipline, and the importance of recognizing the hard work that accompanies success, even when it is easy to overlook.
Elena Perminova is married to Alexander Lebedev, a businessman who is significantly older, with the couple raising four children: Nikita, 13; Yegor, 11; Arina, 8; and Alexander, 1. The dynamic of their family and the public interest surrounding their wealth have kept Perminova in the spotlight, with ongoing discussions about how wealth, marriage, and family life intersect in the lives of prominent public figures.
The public discourse surrounding Perminova has included discussions about escort-related allegations, which she has addressed in the past. The broader narrative involves questions about how social media amplifies personal stories and how public figures respond when their private finances and relationships become topics of widespread debate. In this context, Perminova’s statements are viewed as a plea for nuance and understanding in the way wealth and success are perceived by society, rather than a simple defense of luxury or status. The emphasis remains on personal accountability, the realities of high-profile careers, and the choices that shape one’s life under constant scrutiny.