Venture capital firm 8VC, led by Palantir cofounder Joe Lonsdale, employs two children of sanctioned Russian oligarchs on its investment team. Denis Aven, the son of Petr Aven, a sanctioned Russian banker, joined in 2022. Jack Moshkovich, son of billionaire Russian oligarch Vadim Moshkovich, joined in 2018. Both fathers have been sanctioned by various countries for their alleged ties to the Kremlin.
While there is no indication of financial ties between the fathers and 8VC, the sons’ roles at the firm come as the U.S. government is increasingly concerned about foreign connections in Silicon Valley. The National Counterintelligence and Security Center recently issued a bulletin warning about the threat posed by foreign adversaries using investment firms to access sensitive data and threaten national security.
Responding to inquiries, Lonsdale stated that 8VC has a strict compliance and legal framework and does not have any financial ties to the fathers of Aven and Moshkovich. He defended the hiring of the two individuals, referring to the criticism as a “pathetic hit piece.” Several 8VC employees also expressed support for Aven and Moshkovich, emphasizing their talent and contributions to the firm.
Started in 2015, 8VC has invested in various industries but has become known for its backing of defense tech companies like Palantir and Anduril. With a portfolio that includes companies focused on military technology, Lonsdale has cited China’s rise as a reason for investing in defense startups. The firm now has over 70 employees and 10 investment partners.
Moshkovich, who joined 8VC in 2018 as an analyst and later became a principal, has focused on seed and series A funding rounds. He has worked with companies like FieldGuide and Rocklane but does not appear to have been involved in defense-related deals. Aven, who recently completed an MBA at Harvard, is working with 8VC to launch a new venture as an entrepreneur-in-residence.
Both Aven and Moshkovich have ties to Russia but have pursued education and career opportunities in the U.S. Despite their fathers’ sanctions, they have been praised for their talents and contributions to 8VC. The firm continues to operate within legal and compliance guidelines, emphasizing its commitment to respecting the law and avoiding any financial connections with sanctioned individuals.
