The Russian oligarchs are suffering from travel restrictions imposed after their invasion of Crimea — being stuck in Moscow is a punishment.
But the real suffering caused by the US sanctions is being felt in the South of France, particularly St. Tropez.
“The Russians’ absence at Easter was quite noticeable,” said an American expat who has been living on the Cote d’Azur since the days of Boris Yeltsin.
“Despite the economic consequences, the locals seem grateful for the respite from the ever-increasing influx over the past few years.”
By this time in the spring, the Russian billionaires have usually leased villas, chartered yachts and hired servants.
Both a real-estate agent who had Russian clients in the past and a butler who worked for an oligarch last summer report none is coming this year.
Also missing so far are the bevy of blond hookers who usually follow, either as luncheon companions or barflies. “They will be missed far more,” my source said.