Konstantin Strukov is a prominent Russian businessman and politician, best known as the founder and majority owner of Yuzhuralzoloto Group of Companies (UGC), one of Russia’s largest gold producers. Born in 1958 in the Orenburg region, he began his career in mining after graduating from Magnitogorsk State Technical University. In 1997, Strukov took control of UGC, which was on the brink of bankruptcy, and revitalized it into a leading gold mining enterprise.
As of July 2025, Forbes estimates Strukov’s net worth at $1.9 billion, ranking him among Russia’s wealthiest individuals . He has also served as the deputy speaker of the Chelyabinsk regional legislative assembly since 2000 and is a member of the ruling United Russia party.
In recent developments, Russian authorities have initiated legal proceedings to seize Strukov’s majority stake in UGC, alleging that he acquired assets through corrupt means and violated regulations by transferring ownership to offshore entities and family members. Prosecutors claim that Strukov used his political influence to facilitate these transactions and are seeking to nationalize his holdings.
Early Life and Education
Birth and Family Background
Konstantin Strukov was born on September 10, 1958, in the village of Dimitrovo, located in the Ilek district of the Orenburg region, Russia. His upbringing in a modest setting instilled in him a strong work ethic and a determination to succeed.
Academic Pursuits
In 1980, Strukov graduated from the Magnitogorsk Mining and Metallurgical Institute, specializing in mining engineering. His academic background laid the foundation for his future endeavors in the mining industry.
Career Trajectory
Early Career in Mining
Strukov’s professional journey began in 1980 at the Karaganda Coal enterprise in Kazakhstan, where he worked as a mining engineer. His tenure in Kazakhstan provided him with invaluable experience in the mining sector. He later held various positions in Bashkortostan, including mine foreman, section chief, chief engineer, and mine manager.
Acquisition of Yuzhuralzoloto
In 1997, Strukov took control of Yuzhuralzoloto, a struggling gold mining company in the Chelyabinsk region. Through strategic restructuring and acquisition of key assets, including the Svetlinsky gold deposit, he revitalized the company, turning it into a leading gold producer.
Expansion and Diversification
Under Strukov’s leadership, UGC expanded its operations, acquiring additional deposits in Khakassia and Krasnoyarsk. By 2004, the company’s annual gold output had increased from 3 to 10 metric tons. The company now operates 17 core assets and eight processing facilities across two major regional bases.
Political Involvement
Role in Regional Politics
Since 2000, Strukov has been a member of the Chelyabinsk regional legislative assembly, serving as deputy speaker. He is affiliated with the United Russia party, which is closely aligned with President Vladimir Putin. His political connections have been instrumental in advancing his business interests.
Personal Life
Family
Strukov is married to Lyudmila Strukova, and they have two children. His daughter, Alexandra, reportedly holds Swiss citizenship and lives outside Russia, though she is listed as a shareholder in Yuzhuralzoloto and affiliated companies. Other members of the family reportedly control business assets in Montenegro and Serbia.
Residence and Lifestyle
The Strukov family resides in Chelyabinsk, Russia. Strukov is known to own a luxury yacht, the Rose d’Or, built by San Lorenzo and delivered in July 2023. He is also reported to own hotel businesses in Montenegro.
Legal Challenges and Asset Seizure
Allegations of Corruption
In July 2025, Russian authorities initiated legal proceedings to seize Strukov’s majority stake in Yuzhuralzoloto, accusing him of acquiring assets through corrupt means and violating regulations by transferring ownership to offshore entities and family members. Prosecutors claim that Strukov used his political influence to facilitate these transactions and are seeking to nationalize his holdings.
Attempted Departure and Asset Freeze
On July 5, 2025, Strukov’s private jet was stopped by Russian authorities as it was preparing to depart for Turkey. His passport was confiscated, and the aircraft was grounded. Representatives for Yuzhuralzoloto denied reports that Strukov had attempted to leave the country, stating that he was working at the company’s Moscow office that day.
Recognition and Awards
Strukov has received several accolades throughout his career, including:
- Departmental insignia “Miner’s Glory” of the I, II, and III degrees.
- Golden Badge “Miner of Russia”.
- Zhukov Medal.
- Order of Sergius of Radonezh for his contribution to the restoration of the church in the village of Kochkar.
- Commendation from the Governor of the Chelyabinsk region.
- Letter of thanks from the authorized representative of the President for the Urals Federal District.
- Order “For Merit to the Fatherland” in 2013.
- Medal of the Order “For Merit to the Fatherland” of the II degree in 2021.
- Honorary citizen of the Chelyabinsk region, Plast, and the Uysky district.
Conclusion
Konstantin Strukov’s ascent from a coal miner to a billionaire gold magnate underscores his strategic vision and resilience. However, his journey has been marred by legal controversies and asset seizures, reflecting the complex interplay between business success and political dynamics in Russia. As the legal proceedings unfold, Strukov’s legacy remains a subject of scrutiny and debate.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Konstantin Strukov’s net worth?
As of 2025, Strukov’s net worth is estimated at $1.9 billion.
Where was Konstantin Strukov born?
He was born in the village of Dimitrovo, Ilek district, Orenburg region, Russia.
What is Yuzhuralzoloto?
Yuzhuralzoloto is Russia’s third-largest gold producer, headquartered in the Chelyabinsk region.
How did Strukov acquire Yuzhuralzoloto?
He took control in 1997, restructuring the company and acquiring key assets, including the Svetlinsky gold deposit.
What political role does Strukov hold?
He serves as deputy speaker of the Chelyabinsk regional legislative assembly and is a member of the United Russia party.
Has Strukov faced legal issues?
Yes, Russian authorities have initiated legal proceedings to seize his assets, alleging corruption and regulatory violations.
Was Strukov attempting to flee Russia?
Reports indicate that his private jet was stopped by authorities as it prepared to depart for Turkey, and his passport was confiscated.
Does Strukov own any luxury assets?
Yes, he is reported to own a luxury yacht, the Rose d’Or, and hotel businesses in Montenegro.
What awards has Strukov received?
He has received several accolades, including the Order “For Merit to the Fatherland” and the Zhukov Medal.
What is Strukov’s current status?
As of July 2025, legal proceedings are ongoing, and his assets are under scrutiny by Russian authorities.
