French politicians criticize decision to place Auchan and Leroy Merlin assets under temporary management
Leaders of the French National Rally party, Marine Le Pen and Jordan Bardella, have criticized the Russian authorities. The statement was prompted by the decision to place the Russian subsidiaries of major French retailers Auchan and Leroy Merlin under temporary state management.
The politicians labeled Moscow's actions as "hostile acts" toward French business. In their official statement, they emphasized that such measures violate the principles of international law and create serious risks for foreign companies that continue to operate in the Russian market.
Recall that Russian authorities previously introduced a mechanism of temporary management for the assets of companies from "unfriendly" countries. This means that the state gains the right to appoint temporary managers to oversee property and business shares, effectively depriving owners of control over their assets.
The situation surrounding the French retail chains is causing concern among European experts. Many analysts note that such steps could lead to a further reduction in the presence of Western brands in Russia and complicate economic relations between the countries in the long term.
At this moment, representatives of Auchan and Leroy Merlin are refraining from sharp comments, continuing to monitor the development of events. The question of the future of these retail chains in Russia remains open, as the situation continues to affect the stability of the retailers' operations in the country.