Swiss seek ex-Kremlin aide's extradition

BERNE, Switzerland -- Swiss officials have formally requested the U.S. extradite former Kremlin aide Pavel Borodin over allegations of money laundering.

The request, made on Monday, had been expected after Geneva prosecutors issued warrants for Borodin's arrest.

"On behalf of the Federal Office of Justice, the Swiss Embassy in Washington has today submitted the formal extradition request for Pavel Borodin to the U.S. authorities," the justice ministry said in a statement.

As a result of a Swiss request, Borodin was taken into custody by U.S. officials on January 17 during a visit to attend President George W. Bush's inauguration in Washington.

Borodin had been head of the Kremlin's extensive property empire under former Russian President Boris Yeltsin, but left the post after the election of Vladimir Putin last year.

Geneva prosecutors have alleged that Borodin gained kick-backs in connection with contracts awarded to two Swiss-based companies for Russian building projects, including one involving renovation of the Kremlin.

The Geneva office cannot submit an extradition request directly to U.S. authorities but had to go through the justice ministry, spokesman Viktor Schlumpf said.

The U.S. District Court in Brooklyn said last month that Borodin would remain in custody until at least February 5.

Reuters contributed to this report.

Putin pledge to free Borodin
January 23, 2001
Swiss attempt Borodin deal
January 20, 2001
Russia demands release of Yeltsin aide
January 18, 2001
Putin shuffles top of Russian government
January 10, 2000

Swiss Ministry of Justice
US Department of State
Russian Government

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