West Withholds Sanctions Against "Putin's Girlfriend". Here's Why
NDTV
Alina Kabaeva made a rare public appearance at Moscows VTB Arena last week to present a rhythmic gymnastics performance at an event.
The United State and western countries have imposed stringent sanctions against Russia, and its President Vladimir Putin, for invading Ukraine. But Alina Kabaeva, the woman the US government believes to be Mr Putin's girlfriend, has been spared.
A report in The Wall Street Journal (WSJ) on Sunday said that the possible sanctions against Ms Kabaeva were eventually halted since the step was considered "so personal a blow to Mr Putin that it could further escalate tensions between Russia and the US".
The White House, however, said she remains a potential sanctions target, the WSJ report further said.
Mr Putin, 69, has never acknowledged a relationship with Ms Kabaeva but American officials believe the 38-year-old to be the mother of at least three of his children.
