Russia’s recent decision to nationalize Italian and German subsidiaries under Gazprom’s control has sparked tensions with Western Europe. The subsidiaries, Ariston Thermo Rus and BSH Household Appliances, have been completely taken over by Russia through Gazprom’s Household Systems division. President Putin signed the order on Friday, which was backdated to Tuesday in response to unfriendly actions against Russia from the United States and other countries.
Italy’s Foreign Minister, Antonio Tajani, has expressed his surprise at the nationalization of Ariston Thermo Rus and has requested an explanation and clarification from the Kremlin. The European Union has also condemned the move, questioning its legality and urging Russia to reverse its decision. These actions by Russia are seen as a disregard for international law and rules by the EU.
Since the conflict in Ukraine, Russia has taken control of various Western assets, including those of Germany’s Uniper and Austria’s OMV, as a form of retaliation against so-called unfriendly countries. This latest move with Italian and German subsidiaries is just another example of Russia’s efforts to assert its control over foreign companies operating within its borders.