Le Pen condemns Russia over seizure of European companies’ assets

Far-right French leader Marine Le Pen and National Rally president Jordan Bardella denounced Russia on September 19 for seizing the assets of European companies, specifically Auchan and Nestle, within Russia. The politicians called the move a hostile act against French and European interests, stating it directly violated the rights of companies operating in Russia.

The condemnation comes as France prepares for a presidential election in April 2027, with the first round set for April 18. Le Pen and Bardella emphasized that France would never allow a foreign power, specifically Russia, to dictate its policies through intimidation, threats, destabilization, or psychological pressure. They also stressed that any French support for Ukraine should not be influenced by Russian provocations or covert operations, noting that the level and conditions of such support remain legitimate subjects of domestic debate.

The seizure of Nestlé and Auchan's operations by Russian authorities was initiated by President Vladimir Putin in 2023 as a mechanism for assets belonging to companies from unfriendly countries. Previous instances involved businesses of French dairy producer Danone and Danish brewer Carlsberg. Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov claimed the latest seizures were in response to perceived hostile actions by European countries, including sanctions and support for Ukraine.

Nestlé stated it was evaluating options and focusing on protecting employees and business interests. Le Pen and Bardella linked the asset seizures to a broader deterioration in Europe's security environment, citing the attempted explosive-drone attack at Leipzig/Halle Airport, Germany, and warnings from European governments about possible Russian hybrid operations against Ukraine-supporting countries.

They urged France to bolster protection of strategic infrastructure, sensitive facilities, and defense-industry companies, expressing solidarity with European entities targeted by suspected sabotage or destabilization. Le Pen and Bardella stressed that France's foreign policy decisions are made in Paris and cannot be influenced by Moscow or any other foreign capital.