G ennady Timchenko is one of Russia's most powerful and well-connected oligarchs, with a vast business empire spanning energy, chemicals, and construction. He is widely considered to be a close confidant and a key member of the inner circle of Russian President Vladimir Putin. He co-founded Gunvor Group, a Swiss-based commodities trading firm that grew to become one of the largest traders of Russian oil in the world.

He sold his stake in Gunvor in 2014, just before being hit with U.S. sanctions for his close ties to the Kremlin. His primary assets are now held through his private investment firm, Volga Group. These include a major stake in the Russian natural gas producer Novatek and the petrochemical giant Sibur. He also has interests in major construction companies that have received lucrative state contracts. Due to his central role in the Russian economy and his proximity to Putin, he has been heavily sanctioned by the United States, the European Union, and the United Kingdom.