Russian President Vladimir Putin signed a decree Thursday to take control of the Russian assets of Swiss food giant Nestle and three French groups, citing hostile actions by "unfriendly" countries. France responded by calling on Russia to "reverse this decision". While most Western companies sold their Russian operations and holdings after Moscow launched its full-scale invasion of Ukraine, the Kremlin has since made it difficult for firms to leave the country.
Russian authorities have seized the residual businesses and assets of Swiss food giant Nestle and three French groups, the latest move against Western firms in response to sanctions against Moscow over its war against Ukraine, now in its fifth year.
