Chelsea issued a statement on Sunday saying the situation surrounding Russia's invasion of Ukraine was "terrible and disastrous".
Chelsea's statement came after their Russian boss Roman Abramovich told the foundation trustees of the club's London side, amid calls in Britain that they be sanctioned an invasion of Russia.
Abramovich, whose wealth comes from mining in Russia, did not mention the situation in Ukraine or the issue of sanctions in his statement released on Saturday.
"The situation in Ukraine is appalling and devastating. The thoughts of Chelsea FC are with everyone in Ukraine. Everyone at the club is praying for peace," the club said.
Sources told ESPN that Abramovich is not looking to sell Chelsea at this stage and dismissed claims that the move to hand over the stewardship to avoid potential sanctions with Labor MP Kris Bryant openly questioning whether Should Abramovich's property be confiscated?
Abramovich made a rare move by issuing a statement on Saturday evening to announce his intention to hand over the leadership of the club.
“During my nearly 20 years of ownership of Chelsea FC, I have always observed my role as a mentor to the club, whose job it is to ensure that we can be as successful as we are today, as well as build for the future , while also playing a positive role in our communities."
"I have always made decisions with the best interests of the club in mind. I am committed to these values. That is why I am today leading and caring for Chelsea FC to the trustees of Chelsea's charitable foundation."
"I believe they are currently in the best position to look after the interests of the club, players, staff and fans."
Since Abramovich took over in 2003, Chelsea have enjoyed the most successful period in their history, winning five Premier League titles, five FA Cups and two Champions League titles.
