Five-time world champion Viswanathan Anand has assumed the role of interim president of the International Chess Federation FIDE. This change comes after the previous president, Arkady Dvorkovich, was included in the latest European Union sanctions list due to the situation in Ukraine.
The EU and its coalition partners have imposed extensive sanctions on Russia in response to the Ukraine conflict. The recent 21st package of sanctions includes 218 new listings, comprising 48 individuals and 170 entities, marking the highest number since the conflict began. These measures involve asset freezes, restrictions on financial resources, and travel bans for individuals.
Dvorkovich expressed his disagreement with the EU’s decision to include him in the sanctions list. He plans to challenge this decision through legal means, believing it to be unjust. Meanwhile, as per the FIDE Charter, Anand, the Deputy President of FIDE, will serve as the Interim President while Dvorkovich is subject to the sanctions.
In light of the potential disruptions caused by the sanctions on FIDE’s operations, Dvorkovich voluntarily decided to suspend his presidential duties. Anand will now take on the responsibilities of the FIDE President until the situation regarding the sanctions is resolved. The FIDE Council has ratified this decision, ensuring the smooth functioning of the organization during this period.
