Kadyrov and Kerimov Mend Fences After Bitter Dispute Over Wildberries

Chechen leader Ramzan Kadyrov and Russian Senator Suleiman Kerimov have reconciled after a year-long public feud stemming from a contentious business deal involving Russia’s largest online retailer, Wildberries. The reconciliation, brokered by President Vladimir Putin, signals a move towards “unity” as declared in 2026 as the “Year of Unity of the Peoples of Russia,” according to the Council of Muftis of Russia.

Origins of the Conflict: The Wildberries Takeover

The rift between Kadyrov and Kerimov surfaced in October 2024, when Kadyrov accused Kerimov and two other lawmakers of orchestrating a hostile takeover of Wildberries from its founder, Tatyana Kim, and allegedly plotting her assassination. The Moscow Times reports that Kadyrov initiated a “blood feud” against those he believed were responsible.

At the heart of the dispute was the merger of Wildberries with Russ, a smaller outdoor advertising company. Media reports suggested Kerimov stood to benefit financially from the creation of Wildberries & Russ (RWB). Kadyrov publicly pledged his support to Vladislav Bakalchuk, Kim’s ex-husband, in an attempt to block the deal, but his efforts ultimately failed. Kim and Bakalchuk later reached a settlement in their divorce proceedings.

Reconciliation Efforts and Putin’s Involvement

Signs of a thaw began last month when Kadyrov posted a photograph of himself shaking hands with Kerimov, indicating a “fruitful meeting” in Moscow. The reconciliation was formalized on January 30th at the Kremlin, with President Putin’s direct involvement.

Ravil Gainutdin, chairman of the Council of Muftis of Russia, announced the agreement, stating that the meeting was held “within the walls of the Moscow Kremlin, at the invitation of our president,” and resulted in “full agreement and mutual understanding.” Caucasian Knot also reported on Kadyrov referring to Kerimov as his “brother” following the meeting.

Significance of the Reconciliation

The reconciliation between Kadyrov and Kerimov is presented as a gesture of unity, aligning with President Putin’s declared “Year of Unity of the Peoples of Russia.” The Council of Muftis, representing Russia’s Muslim community, framed the agreement as a positive step towards national cohesion.

Background: The Wildberries Saga

The conflict surrounding Wildberries involved a dramatic power struggle between the company’s founders, Vladislav and Tatyana Bakalchuk. The Bell details an attempted storming of Wildberries’ headquarters by Vladislav Bakalchuk, resulting in a shootout and multiple arrests. While Bakalchuk was initially detained, charges against him were later dropped.