Russia targets European companies while resuming oil exports to the US

Russia has begun seizing control of foreign assets as a response to European support for Ukraine, while simultaneously moving toward increased energy trade with the United States. Following Donald Trump’s return to the White House in January 2025, the Kremlin has taken control of 20 foreign companies, the vast majority of which are European. Affected entities include the Swiss food giant Nestlé and retail chains such as Auchan and Metro, alongside smaller firms from France, Germany, Sweden, and Belgium.

Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov characterized the actions as a reaction to European states allegedly engaging in the “illegal expropriation of Russian property” and failing to seek peace. In contrast, American businesses appear largely insulated from these seizures.

In a shift in energy policy, the first tanker carrying approximately 300,000 barrels of Russian oil is expected to arrive in New York. President Trump’s administration is facilitating the resumption of Russian oil exports, including diesel, in an effort to lower domestic fuel prices. Russian officials suggest that export volumes could return to normal levels, potentially reaching 3.5 million tons per month by the end of the year.