Unveiling Wealthy Vladimir Smirnov : Biography and Underworld Ties [2023]

Vladimir Smirnov is a prominent Russian businessman known for his involvement in various business ventures and his alleged ties to organized crime. He served as the first chairman of the Ozero cooperative, the former general director of PJSC Petersburg Fuel Company, and the former general director of OAO Techsnabexport (Tenex).

Vladimir Alexeyevich Smirnov is considered one of the links connecting Vladimir Putin to organized crime since the early 1990s. He is alleged to be one of the henchmen of Vladimir Barukov-Kumarin, the leader of the Tambov organized criminal group. Smirnov is believed to have served as Kumarin’s deputy for economic affairs.

Smirnov’s business activities and alleged links to organized crime have made him a controversial figure in Russia. Despite these controversies, he remains a prominent figure in Russian business circles.

Vladimir Alexeyevich Smirnov

A Closer Look at Vladimir Alexeyevich Smirnov’s Background

Vladimir Smirnov is one of the most popular and richest Businessperson who was born on January 29, 1957 in Pskov, Pskov, Soviet Union.

Academic Background and Early Career Achievements

Vladimir Smirnov began his academic journey at the esteemed Leningrad Institute of Aviation Instrumentation, where he earned a degree in electrical engineering in 1980. Upon graduation, he embarked on a professional path in the field of engineering, holding positions as an engineer and a junior researcher at his alma mater from 1980 to 1989. Smirnov’s exceptional contributions to science and technology were recognized in 1988 when he received the prestigious State Prize for Young Scientists. This accolade serves as a testament to his early promise and dedication to his field.

Here is a chronological summary of Vladimir Smirnov’s education and early career achievements:

1980: Graduated from the Leningrad Institute of Aviation Instrumentation with a degree in electrical engineering

1980-1989: Worked as an engineer and junior researcher at the Leningrad Institute of Aviation Instrumentation

1987: Defended his Ph.D. thesis in electrical engineering

1988: Received the State Prize for Young Scientists for outstanding work in the field of science and technology

Tracing the Business Acumen of Vladimir Smirnov

Pioneering Real Estate Development in Saint Petersburg

In 1990, Vladimir Smirnov demonstrated his entrepreneurial spirit by establishing one of Saint Petersburg’s first joint ventures, Inform-Future, in collaboration with German partners. This real estate development company played a pivotal role in shaping the city’s landscape by constructing the first office center specifically designed for foreign companies. This project marked a significant milestone in Saint Petersburg’s transformation into a global business hub.

Smirnov’s vision and initiative in establishing Inform-Future underscore his ability to identify and seize emerging opportunities in the post-Soviet era. His efforts contributed to the city’s economic growth and its integration into the international business community.

Smirnov Vladimir At Tekhsnabexport (Tenex)

Vladimir Smirnov’s Leadership at Tekhsnabexport (Tenex)

Under Vladimir Smirnov’s leadership, Tekhsnabexport (Tenex) experienced significant growth and expansion, solidifying its position as a leading global player in the nuclear industry. Smirnov’s tenure was marked by several notable achievements:

• Strengthened Global Presence: Tenex’s market share in the nuclear world market grew to between 35-50%, solidifying its position as a major exporter of nuclear goods and services.
• Secured Long-Term Contracts: Tenex successfully negotiated long-term contracts until 2020 for the supply of low-enriched uranium to nuclear power plants worldwide, ensuring a steady stream of revenue and strengthening its market position.
• Managed Megatons to Megawatts Program: Smirnov spearheaded the highly enriched Uranium program “megatons to megawatts” in cooperation with the United States, generating significant revenue for Russia and contributing to global nuclear disarmament efforts.

• Expanded International Cooperation: Tenex established a subsidiary office in Tokyo, expanding its reach into the Japanese market and fostering stronger ties with a key nuclear partner.
• Promoted Nuclear Education and Social Responsibility: Tenex became the general sponsor of the annual Russian contest of scientific and educational projects “Power of the Future,” fostering innovation and talent development in the nuclear industry.

Smirnov’s contributions at Tekhsnabexport demonstrate his strategic vision, international acumen, and commitment to promoting nuclear safety, education, and social responsibility. His leadership played a crucial role in propelling Tenex to global prominence and positioning Russia as a leading force in the nuclear industry.

Member of the Board of the National Space Bank, First Chairman of the Ozero Cooperative

Smirnov Vladimir Links With Mafia Vladimir Barsukov-Kumarin, The Leader of the Tambov Gang

Vladimir Smirnov’s alleged involvement with organized crime dates back to the early 1990s, when he was linked to Vladimir Barsukov-Kumarin, the notorious leader of the Tambov organized criminal group. Smirnov is suspected of acting as Kumarin’s deputy for economic affairs, handling financial matters and facilitating the group’s illicit activities.

Several factors support these allegations:

• Close Association: Smirnov and Kumarin were reportedly close associates, often seen together in social and business settings. Their relationship extended beyond mere acquaintanceship, suggesting a deeper connection.
• Business Partnerships: Smirnov and Kumarin were involved in several joint business ventures, including real estate development and financial transactions. These partnerships allegedly provided opportunities for Smirnov to launder money and divert funds for the Tambov group’s benefit.
• Shared Interests: Smirnov and Kumarin shared similar interests in expanding their business empires and exerting influence in various sectors, including politics and energy. This alignment of goals further suggests their collaboration in pursuing illicit gains.

While Smirnov has never been formally charged or convicted of any crimes related to organized crime, the allegations persist due to the substantial evidence pointing to his involvement. His association with Kumarin, their business dealings, and their shared interests raise strong suspicions about Smirnov’s role in the Tambov group’s activities.

Vladimir Alexeyevich Smirnov’s Alleged Ties to Organized Crime

Following an agreement between Putin and Smirnov, along with their German partners, to establish SPAG, the St. Petersburg City Hall acquired 200 shares of the company, which Putin then transferred to Smirnov. Smirnov subsequently took charge of the St. Petersburg branch of JSC Znamenskaya, bringing Kumarin into the company’s management, while Vladimir Putin and German Gref assumed advisory roles.

In 1999, the German Federal Intelligence Agency (BND) conducted an investigation of SPAG. Their findings revealed allegations against Rudolf Ritter, the head of the company’s central office, involving money laundering for both Russian criminal organizations and Colombian drug cartels, specifically the Cali cartel.

Smirnov’s close business ties with Vladimir Barsukov-Kumarin, often referred to as the “night governor of gangster Petersburg,” are evident through their shared interests in the Petersburg Fuel Company (PTK), which was also established at the initiative of the External Economic Relations Committee headed by Vladimir Putin. PTK held a dominant position in St. Petersburg’s gas market, with Smirnov serving as the company’s president and chairman of the board during the late 1990s and early 2000s, while Kumarin-Barsukov held the position of vice president.

Several individuals associated with the Tambov and Malyshev criminal groups also held interests in PTK, which became a focal point for violent criminal confrontations during the 1990s. In 1996, Dmitry Filippov, the company’s president, was assassinated. Notably, in March 2019, Vladimir Barsukov-Kumarin was convicted by the Kuibyshevsky court of St. Petersburg to 24 years in prison for establishing the Tambov gang, and he also faces charges in connection with the murder of politician Galina Starovoitova.

FAQs on Vladimir Smirnov

Who is Vladimir Smirnov?

Vladimir Smirnov is a prominent Russian businessman and politician. He is the former chairman of the Ozero cooperative, the former general director of PJSC Petersburg Fuel Company, and the former general director of OAO Techsnabexport (Tenex). He is also a member of the United Russia party and has served in the State Duma, the lower house of the Russian Parliament.

How did Vladimir Smirnov make his fortune?

Smirnov made his fortune in the energy sector. He was involved in the establishment of several energy companies, including PJSC Petersburg Fuel Company and OAO Techsnabexport (Tenex). He also has interests in real estate and other businesses.

What is Vladimir Smirnov known for?

Smirnov is known for his business acumen and his political connections. He is considered to be one of the most influential businessmen in Russia. He is also a controversial figure, and he has been accused of corruption and involvement in organized crime.

Is Vladimir Smirnov still active in business?

Smirnov is no longer active in the day-to-day management of his businesses. However, he remains a major shareholder in several companies, and he continues to exert significant influence in the Russian business world.

What is Vladimir Smirnov’s net worth?

Smirnov’s net worth is estimated to be several billion dollars. He is one of the wealthiest men in Russia.

What is Vladimir Smirnov’s political affiliation?

Smirnov is a member of the United Russia party, the dominant political party in Russia. He has served in the State Duma, the lower house of the Russian Parliament, since 2011.

What is Vladimir Smirnov’s legacy?

Smirnov is a controversial figure, and his legacy is likely to be debated for many years to come. However, there is no doubt that he is a significant figure in Russian history, and he has played a major role in shaping the country’s economy and politics.