Russia Seizes Nestlé and Auchan Assets Under Temporary Control

Russia has placed the Russian operations of Swiss food giant Nestlé and French retailer Auchan under temporary external administration, transferring control to a state-appointed manager in a move widely seen as a precursor to potential forced sales. The action, detailed in a presidential decree signed by Vladimir Putin on September 17, 2026, also covers assets linked to French logistics firms and the former Leroy Merlin chain. The decree assigns management of the affected companies to L.E.V. Management, a Russian entity created in late 2025 and headed by a Russian Interior Ministry major general. The Kremlin justified the seizure by citing the companies' ties to countries it deems "unfriendly" and which are actively supporting Ukraine. Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov stated that the decision considered the companies' involvement in hostilities against Russia and strikes on its civilian infrastructure. Nestlé, which has operated in Russia since the 1990s, said it is assessing its options and will take all necessary steps to protect its rights and ensure business continuity, particularly for its employees.