Russia seizes Nestle, French firms' Russian assets in Ukraine sanctions retaliation

In October 2025, Russian authorities seized the Russian operations of Nestle, Auchan, Leroy Merlin (now Lemana Pro), and FM Logistic via a Putin decree, transferring assets to a newly created company LEV Management headed by an interior ministry general. The move is part of Russia's ongoing response to Western sanctions over Ukraine.

For Nigerian consumers, the impact is likely minimal. Nestle reported Russia accounts for just over 1% of its global sales, down from 2% pre-war, with most non-essential operations suspended. Jean-Philippe Bertschy of Vontobel Bank noted the financial impact on Nestle would be small given Russia's limited contribution to group sales. Similar limited exposure applies to the seized French retailers and logistics firm.

Nestle stated it is assessing options to protect its rights and ensure business continuity for stakeholders, particularly employees. The company continues to supply essential food items in Russia despite suspending advertising, capital investment, and non-essential imports.

Will this seizure affect your favorite Nestle products' availability or price in Nigeria? Given Russia's small share of these companies' global operations, significant disruption to Nigerian markets appears unlikely, though monitoring global supply chain effects remains prudent.

SOURCE: https://www.channelstv.com/2026/09/18/russia-seizes-assets-of-nestle-french-firms/