Business & Finance
Russia places local assets of Nestle and French firms under external management
A presidential decree hands operational control of Western corporate entities to LEV Management.
The short version
- President Vladimir Putin signed a decree transferring Russian operations of Nestle, Auchan, Lemana Pro, and FM Logistic to LEV Management.[France 24]
- The Kremlin confirmed external management was introduced, while Nestle said it is reviewing options to safeguard operations and personnel.[CNBC · France 24]
- Investigative outlet Novaya Gazeta Europe reported that LEV Management was created in late 2025 and is led by an interior ministry general.[France 24]
- Nestle's shares fell 2.2%, though an analyst noted Russia accounts for just over one percent of group revenue.[CNBC · France 24]
Key facts
- Russian President Vladimir Putin signed a decree transferring the Russian operations of Swiss food company Nestle and French businesses Auchan, Lemana Pro, and FM Logistic to LEV Management.[France 24]
- Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov stated that the current measures involve introducing external management and that no subsequent steps have been determined.[CNBC]
- Novaya Gazeta Europe reported that LEV Management was established in late 2025, possesses no recorded commercial activity, and is led by a Russian interior ministry general.[France 24]
- Nestle announced it is assessing legal and practical options while working to protect operations and staff interests.[France 24]
- Russia previously used a 2023 decree to seize control of domestic units belonging to foreign firms such as Carlsberg, Danone, and Fortum.[CNBC]
- Russia stated it no longer considers Switzerland neutral after the country adopted European Union sanctions following the 2022 invasion of Ukraine.[CNBC]
What remains uncertain
- Whether Russian authorities intend to permanently transfer or sell the seized assets remains unconfirmed following the Kremlin's statement that only external management is currently in place.[CNBC]
- The precise legal and operational recourse available to Nestle and the French companies remains unclear as corporate assessments continue.[France 24]
Sources
Outlet counts describe coverage, not independent confirmation. Reports may share a wire service or original source.