Putin issues decree opening door to state control of key sites after deep Ukrainian drone strikes

Russian President Vladimir Putin has issued a decree that grants the state temporary control over critical infrastructure facilities if private owners fail to safeguard them from Ukrainian drone strikes or rebuild them following attacks. This move comes amid economic strain and public discontent in Russia due to persistent Ukrainian assaults on oil refineries and e-commerce hubs, disrupting the nation.

The decree, applicable to sectors like energy, industry, communications, transportation, and logistics, may compel owners to carry out repairs and enhance security measures. Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov stated that business owners often neglect anti-drone safety measures. Deputy Prime Minister Denis Manturov clarified that the decree does not involve nationalization but involves state involvement in management to address specific security issues.

Analysts speculate that Putin aims to incentivize companies to bolster their defenses against repeated drone attacks, which have damaged key facilities multiple times. The Kremlin seeks to reduce the financial burden of repairs and ensure companies shoulder more responsibility for air defense in a war that continues to exact a heavy toll on businesses.