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Russia seizure of foreign corporate assets

Updated 4 times since CLSTR started tracking revisions of this situation.

What changed

2026-09-19 17:52 UTC → 2026-09-22 05:15 UTC · added removed

Russian President Vladimir Putin has signed a decree placing the Russian assets of several Western companies under temporary state management. The decree specifically targets entities from countries deemed ‘unfriendly’ by Moscow, including Switzerland and France, due to their support for Ukraine. Targeted companies include the Swiss food giant Nestlé, the French retailer Auchan, the DIY chain Lemana Pro (formerly Leroy Merlin), and the logistics firm FM Logistic. Management of these assets has been transferred to L. E. V. Management, a Russian firm reportedly established in late 2025 and headed by a general from the Ministry of Internal Affairs. While the companies remain the formal owners, they have lost operational control and the ability to make key business decisions. Nestlé, which operates six production sites and employs approximately 7,000 people in Russia, is assessing legal options to protect its rights and ensure business continuity. Analysts estimate The company has announced its intention to continue commercial activities in Russia despite the value of Nestlé’s Russian business at approximately 1.5 decree, maintaining that the move does not constitute a change in ownership or nationalization. Nestlé remains committed to 1.7 billion Swiss francs, though it accounts for only about 1% fulfilling obligations to 2% of its global turnover. Auchan, which employs around 30,000 people across 230 stores, has requested clarification from authorities regarding the decree. employees, partners, and clients. Analysts note that this action follows a pattern established in 2023 with the takeover of Danone and Carlsberg assets, which eventually led to forced sales. The Kremlin maintains these measures are a response to Western sanctions and military assistance provided to Kyiv. The move has triggered market concerns, such as downward pressure on Coca-Cola HBC shares on the Athens Stock Exchange, as analysts suggest the move sets a precedent for further state interventions.

Versions

  1. 2026-09-22 05:15 UTC Russia seizure of foreign corporate assets
  2. 2026-09-19 17:52 UTC Russia seizure of foreign corporate assets
  3. 2026-09-19 16:25 UTC Russia seizure of foreign corporate assets
  4. 2026-09-19 12:05 UTC Russia seizure of foreign corporate assets
  5. 2026-09-19 06:48 UTC Russia seizure of foreign corporate assets

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