The chairman of Russian oil and gas giant Lukoil – who spoke out against Russia’s invasion of Ukraine – died after falling from a hospital window, state news agencies reported on Thursday. RIA Novosti and TASS.
Ravil Maganov died at the Central Clinical Hospital in western Moscow, according to the reports, citing hospital and law enforcement sources.
“The incident happened around 07:00 Moscow time at the Central Clinical Hospital… The man fell out of the sixth-floor window and died from his injuries,” a source said. source at TASS.
Lukoil confirmed Maganov’s death in a statement posted on his website, saying only that the executive died “due to a serious illness” and making no mention of a fall.
“We deeply regret to announce that Ravil Maganov, Chairman of the Board of PJSC LUKOIL, has passed away after a serious illness,” the statement said. “Ravil Maganov made an immense contribution to the development not only of society, but of the entire Russian oil and gas sector.”
Russia’s second-largest oil company made headlines in early March after speaking out against Russia’s invasion of Ukraine.
“The LUKOIL Board of Directors hereby expresses its deepest concerns regarding the tragic events in Ukraine. Calling for the speediest end to the armed conflict, we express our sincere empathy for all the victims, who are affected by this tragedy “, reads a statement from the board of directors to shareholders, staff and customers issued on March 3.
“We strongly support a lasting ceasefire and resolving the issues through serious negotiations and diplomacy,” the statement added.
Lukoil produces over 2% of the world’s crude oil and employs over 100,000 people.
RIA Novosti quoted a police source as saying the businessman “most likely committed suicide”.
“Yes, we can confirm the fact [of death]. The investigating authorities are working on the spot to establish the causes of the incident,” the source said, according to RIA.
At least five prominent Russian businessmen have died by suicide since late January, according to a previous CNN report.
Cnn
