Russia targets European companies with sanctions while sparing US firms

Russia has intensified retaliatory measures against European companies in response to European support for Ukraine, while largely sparing American businesses. Since Donald Trump assumed the presidency in January 2025, Moscow has placed 20 foreign companies under temporary government administration. Of these, only three have links to Washington, while the remainder are tied to European investors.

Recent actions include the Kremlin seizing control of the Russian units of Swiss food giant Nestlé, as well as the French retailer Auchan and the German chain Metro. Last week, Moscow also seized assets from smaller companies based in France, Germany, Sweden, and Belgium. Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov stated that the country of origin was a factor in these decisions, citing European involvement in “direct hostilities on the battlefield” and the “illegal expropriation of Russian property.”

In contrast, the Trump administration has moved toward easing economic pressure on the Kremlin. Recent shifts include the United States announcing plans to purchase Russian diesel and the suspension of certain sanctions. This change in policy follows Trump’s recent comments regarding the conflict in Ukraine and his efforts to reduce domestic fuel prices.