Ksenia Sobchak, known as Vladimir Putin’s ‘goddaughter,’ is reportedly looking to relocate from Russia and has allegedly applied for residency in Spain. The 43-year-old, who is a prominent TV personality, politician, and influencer, is pursuing digital nomad status in Spain, requiring her to reside in the country for more than half of each year and fulfill tax obligations there. Sobchak, who previously ran for the Russian presidency against Putin and manages her own media platform, has not publicly addressed these reports.
Recent sources in Spain suggest that Sobchak has submitted a residency application for herself and her eight-year-old son, Platon, with rumors circulating that she has purchased a luxurious property. This move comes amidst growing economic turmoil in Russia due to Putin’s actions and international sanctions, coupled with escalating suppression of dissent against the regime.
Sobchak currently holds a five-year EU Schengen visa from France, in addition to possessing Israeli and Russian passports, granting her the ability to travel freely within Europe for up to 90 days every six months. Allegedly, Putin was present at her childhood Orthodox baptism before assuming the presidency, sparking speculation that he may be her godfather.
Her late father, Anatoly, who was a mentor to Putin and helped him enter politics during his tenure as mayor of St. Petersburg, had a close relationship with Sobchak. Despite being viewed as aligned with the opposition, doubts linger among Putin’s adversaries regarding her true allegiance, suspecting she maintains a personal bond with the leader.
During her presidential candidacy in 2018, Sobchak faced criticism for seemingly providing a veneer of legitimacy to Putin’s rigged election by participating as a liberal challenger, with her involvement labeled a “charade.” In 2023, she drew controversy for attending a scandalous event alongside other celebrities, prompting an apology after Putin expressed displeasure; however, she avoided repercussions unlike her counterparts.
Sobchak’s mother, Lyudmila Narusova, a 74-year-old Russian senator, often opposes Putin’s oppressive policies, occasionally dissenting solo against his regime. In a statement to Novaya Gazeta Europe, she highlighted her solitary resistance within the legislative body, noting that many share her views but fear voicing them openly due to repercussions.