Russia expands seizure of European firms amid Ukraine support dispute

Moscow has intensified its crackdown on European businesses, adding the Russian branches of Nestlé, Auchan and Metro to the list of firms placed under temporary state administration. Earlier, 20 foreign-capital firms were seized after Donald Trump assumed the U.S. presidency in January 2025, with only three linked to the United States and the rest controlled by European owners. Russian regulators say the latest seizures reflect Europe’s “direct hostilities” on the battlefield in Ukraine and alleged illegal expropriations of Russian property.

Smaller firms from France, Germany, Sweden and Belgium have also been taken over. While negotiations with the United States continue, Moscow has avoided similarly harsh measures against American companies. The Kremlin refused further comment, and the White House did not respond to inquiries.