The fashion and business worlds were recently abuzz with news of Elena Perminova's (38) announcement that she was ending her relationship with Russian billionaire Alexander Lebedev (65). The couple have four children, ranging in age from 3 to 15.

"Sometimes life teaches us difficult lessons. One of these is recognizing when a relationship has reached its end," Perminova shared on social media. "This is a painful and difficult choice, but sometimes necessary for both individuals to rediscover happiness," she added.

Following the separation, Perminova moved from their large estate to a new apartment near central Moscow, embarking on a new life with her children.

A black and white photo from Perminova's separation announcement post. Photo: Lenaperminova/instagram

A black and white photo from Perminova's separation announcement post. Photo: Lenaperminova/instagram

In 2002, Perminova was dubbed "Cinderella" due to her fairytale-like romance with the billionaire. At the time, she was a 16-year-old from a poor Siberian town.

As a young model, Perminova became involved with a drug addict, leading her into a life of bar work and drug trafficking. She was arrested and faced a 6-year prison sentence.

Desperate, her father wrote to Alexander Lebedev, a member of parliament and media tycoon, for help. Lebedev, who was campaigning for a witness protection bill, took a special interest in Perminova's case.

He arranged for her to become a witness, cooperating with the police in a dangerous operation against a drug lord. After facing chases and life-threatening situations, Perminova avoided prison, receiving a suspended sentence.

Lebedev, initially her savior, became Perminova's partner. When she turned 18, they went public with their relationship, despite a 27-year age gap and Lebedev's previous marriage. He had been long separated from his former wife, who lived in London with their son.

The wealthy, intellectual Lebedev doted on Perminova, showering her with gifts, including jewelry, a villa, and luxury cars. He also supported her education at Moscow State University, where she studied economics. Perminova transformed from a high school dropout into a prominent figure in high society.

They lived in villas in France, the UK, and Italy, traveled by private jet, and enjoyed luxurious vacations. Perminova became a VIP guest at fashion weeks and amassed a vast collection of designer goods.

In 2010, Perminova had her first child, followed by two more within four years. She balanced motherhood with a flourishing modeling career.

Perminova and Lebedev during happier times. Photo: Lenaperminova/instagram

Perminova and Lebedev during happier times. Photo: Lenaperminova/instagram

The couple faced several challenges together. Most notably, in 2011, Lebedev was prosecuted after an altercation on television, facing a possible 5-year prison sentence. Perminova, eight months pregnant at the time, publicly supported her partner, rallying wealthy friends to launch a charity fundraising campaign, auctioning designer items, and garnering public support. Lebedev received a reduced sentence of 150 hours of community service.

The public hailed their story, saying, "10 years ago, he saved her from prison; 10 years later, she saved him from jail." They were lauded as Siberia's "snowy owl and red fox," bound together, supporting each other, and shining brightly.

The couple and their children. Photo: Iznanka

The couple and their children. Photo: Iznanka

Over time, their life goals diverged. Perminova, increasingly successful, desired a more open and independent life. Lebedev, at 65, preferred a quieter existence, focusing on business and politics. These differences led to their separation.

The public speculated about other contributing factors, including the fact that they never officially married despite being together for over 20 years. Lebedev proposed in 2020, but the wedding was postponed due to the pandemic and never rescheduled.

In a recent post, Perminova expressed gratitude and warmth towards her former partner. "I am happy that we have maintained respect and friendship. We still celebrate holidays together and stay in touch," she stated, adding that they share all child-rearing expenses equally.

Bao Nhien (Spletnik/Aboluowang)