Vladimir Putin said Russia would find “legal solutions” to seize assets based in the country from international groups that have decided to close their operations over Moscow’s decision to invade Ukraine.
A long list of western brands, including McDonald’s and Ikea, have suspended or halted operations in Russia after the US and European countries imposed economic sanctions on the country.
Speaking via video link to his government on Thursday, the Russian president said: “With regards to those who are planning to close their production facilities, we must act decisively . . . By no means must we allow any harm to local Russian suppliers.”