Sergei Panov

Sergey is an independent Russian investigative journalist based in Spain.

Sergey is working with The Insider and Politico Europe. A holder of a degree in philosophy from Saratov State University, he began his career in journalism by covering corruption in the alcohol market and wineries linked to Putin's elite. In recent years, Sergei has specialised in exposing sanctions circumvention schemes and arms smuggling.

Last modified:

30/07/2025

Tools of War

BRUSSELS / RIGA – Utilising AI-driven analysis of Russian customs data, the Tools of War project uncovers the clandestine network of European companies that profited from supplying high-tech machinery to Russia's military, enhancing its capabilities prior to the invasion of Ukraine.

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Italian wineries in Putin's circle: corruption, luxury, and EU subsidies

FLORENCE - A joint investigation by The Insider and IRPIMedia has revealed that members of the Russian elite, including former KGB colleagues of Putin, Kremlin insiders, arms manufacturers, and sanctioned oligarchs, have quietly acquired at least 15 luxury wineries and over 2,000 hectares of land in Italy.

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a Russian sniper armed with a US-made DesertTech .37XC rifle

Europe's Secret Arms Route to Russia

ROME / PRAGUE / RIGA - A joint investigation by Investigace, IrpiMedia and The Insider has revealed how thousands of European and American small arms were smuggled into Russia and used in the war with Ukraine.

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Supported projects

Tools of War

Italian wineries in Putin's circle: corruption, luxury, and EU subsidies

Europe's Secret Arms Route to Russia

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