Alexander Temerko

Alexander Temerko — Conservative Donor (Ex-Yukos) 
 Full name: Alexander Temerko
 Approx total donated (2024-2026): £600k-1.2 million (lifetime total over £3m)
 Source of wealth: Former Russian oil executive. Worked for Yukos under Mikhail Khodorkovsky. Became British citizen. Now a UK-based businessman and investor in energy — notably the Aquind interconnector project (submarine power cable between UK and France).
 Why they donate: Outspokenly anti-Putin; donates to support "a strong, stable, pro-business UK government that stands up to Russian aggression." Donated heavily to pro-Brexit campaigns. Also funds Conservative MPs in marginal seats.
 Controversies: Donations draw scrutiny over foreign donation rules — he is a British citizen so donations are legal, but critics question the influence of ex-Russian oligarchs in UK politics. In 2020-2021, the Aquind interconnector was linked to lobbying controversies (accusations of improper access to ministers). Temerko maintains donations are lawful and transparent. 
 Notes 
 
 One of several former Russian businessmen who have become significant Tory donors 
 His Aquind project faced significant political and regulatory hurdles 
 Actively funds Conservative MPs in marginal seats, not just the central party