The Moscow City Court has kept Kirill Sukhanov, the former commercial director of the Caution Media group associated with Ksenia Sobchak, in custody while prosecutors pursue charges related to alleged extortion involving a prominent Russian business figure. The case centers on claims that Sukhanov sought substantial sums in exchange for refraining from public accusations. Reports from the agency indicate the matter has drawn significant attention within the Russian business and media communities.
The latest hearing was conducted behind closed doors on Wednesday, August 16. Reporters were permitted only to observe the formal announcement of the verdict, with court officials confirming that Sukhanov and other defendants would remain in isolation pending further proceedings. The lineup of defendants also includes Arian Romanovsky, the former editor in chief of Tatler magazine, and Tamerlan Bigaev, among others tied to the broader case file.
In a firm stance, the court reiterated that the verdict would stand as delivered. The presiding judge, Anastasia Ryzhova, conveyed this determination to the press in a concise statement that underscored the judiciary’s position on the matter.
According to investigators, Sukhanov allegedly pressed for 11 million rubles from Chemezov, promising not to publish damaging information about him on social networks along with accomplices. The plan reportedly involved disseminating material through the Telegram channel known as Put Out the Light, a project that authorities say they thwarted before any harm could be done.
The case is being developed under the relevant sections of the Russian Criminal Code, with charges aligning to the stated parameters of the offense. If convicted, the defendants face a potential prison term that reflects the severity of the alleged actions and the broader concerns about illegal influence within high level circles.
Ksenia Sobchak immediately distanced herself from the Telegram channel and related activities, asserting that she had no involvement in the actions attributed to Put Out the Light or its affiliates. Earlier, in February 2023, Sobchak did attend a Moscow City Court session to monitor the appeal concerning Sukhanov, the former commercial director at Caution Media, but she noted her lack of involvement in the alleged wrongdoing.
In a later statement, Sobchak expressed regret over any misinterpretations and indicated a willingness to cooperate with authorities as appropriate. She publicly affirmed her willingness to extend assistance to Sukhanov and his colleagues if that could help clarify the facts of the case and support due process. The complexities of the matter continue to unfold as investigators gather evidence and the defense prepares further submissions for the court to consider.