From ‘Gray Cardinal’ to Casino Arrest: The Rise and Fall of Ilya Stokman
Ilya Stokman, once a powerful figure in Nizhny Novgorod’s city government, has faced a dramatic fall from influence. Known as the 'gray cardinal' of the administration, he joined the military in 2022—just as corruption charges against him began to surface. His story took another turn when he was detained in a Sochi casino last September, visibly heavier and far from the battlefield.
Stokman served as deputy head of Nizhny Novgorod’s administration during the early stages of Russia’s military operations in 2022. Instead of stepping down, he volunteered for military service while still carrying out his official duties. Investigators later accused him of embezzling 55 million rubles, a charge that likely prompted his sudden enlistment.
The case against Stokman now centres on the alleged theft of public funds. His arrest in Sochi, coupled with his rapid weight gain, has drawn further attention to his actions. Whether he will face trial or further consequences remains to be seen.
