Senior Counsel Anthony Astaphan says a United States Court of Appeals ruling represents a major legal and reputational victory for Prime Minister Gaston Browne and the Government of Antigua and Barbuda.

The appellate court upheld a lower court decision rejecting an application by Russian national Yulia Guryeva to access Browne’s financial records and quashed subpoenas issued to U.S. institutions, including the Clearing House and the Federal Reserve. It also ordered that all previously obtained documents be destroyed, with certification of compliance.

Astaphan described the decision as “of extraordinary importance,” saying it reinforces the earlier judgment and brings finality to key aspects of the case. He argued the ruling vindicates the Prime Minister and reflects positively on the country, while criticizing opposition figures for amplifying the allegations.

The matter is linked to ongoing legal disputes surrounding the sale of the superyacht Alfa Nero.