France’s National Rally Condemns Kremlin Asset Seizures in Rare Unity
Leaders of France’s far-right National Rally issued an unusual joint statement condemning Russia for seizing assets of Western companies, including Nestlé and Auchan. The move follows a crisis meeting chaired by President Macron and highlights a temporary alignment within the party on opposing Russian hybrid threats, despite historical divisions over relations with Moscow.
Key points
- Jordan Bardella and Marine Le Pen jointly condemned Russia’s seizure of assets belonging to Nestlé and Auchan, labeling it a hostile act against European interests.
- The statement followed a crisis meeting chaired by President Emmanuel Macron, where political leaders were briefed on threats from Russia’s war in Ukraine and the Middle East conflict.
- Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov justified the seizure by labeling the companies as from 'unfriendly countries' actively involved in hostilities against Russia.
- The National Rally’s unified stance contrasts with past internal divisions, as Le Pen has historically maintained warmer ties with Moscow while Bardella has emphasized Russia as a threat.
- Le Pen remains open to supplying military equipment to Ukraine but has ruled out additional financial aid, seeking a balance between firmness and diplomatic resolution.
Background
This development occurs amid ongoing tensions between Russia and Western nations following the 2022 invasion of Ukraine. France’s National Rally has faced internal debates over its stance toward Russia, with Le Pen previously meeting Vladimir Putin and taking loans from a Czech-Russian bank linked to the Kremlin. The party is expected to release its campaign platform before the end of 2026, potentially clarifying its positions on Ukraine and Russia ahead of the 2027 presidential election.
How outlets are covering it
Politico emphasizes the rare unity within the National Rally and the broader context of hybrid attacks, including a drone incident at Leipzig airport attributed to Russia. CNN focuses on the Kremlin’s nationalization drive, noting that Nestlé’s assets were placed under temporary control by L.E.V. Management, and highlights the broader trend of seizing foreign-owned firms since 2022. CNBC underscores the potential for Kremlin-friendly investors to take control of Nestlé’s Russian business, linking the move to a 2023 decree allowing temporary administration of assets from 'unfriendly' countries. While all sources agree on the asset seizure, Politico and CNN highlight the political response in France, whereas CNBC focuses on the business implications and legal framework.
Why it matters
The National Rally’s condemnation of Russia signals a potential shift in the party’s stance, which could influence France’s foreign policy and its relationship with Ukraine. The seizure of assets by the Kremlin also raises concerns about the broader trend of nationalization in Russia, impacting Western businesses and diplomatic relations. This event may shape the 2027 French presidential election, as Le Pen’s position on Russia and Ukraine could affect her campaign and the party’s platform.
What to watch
The National Rally is expected to release its campaign platform before the end of 2026, which may clarify its positions on Ukraine and Russia. Nestlé is assessing its options in response to the asset seizure, while the Kremlin’s nationalization drive may continue to target other Western companies. The 2027 French presidential election will be a key moment to observe how the party’s stance on Russia influences its electoral strategy and policy proposals.
- France’s National Rally criticizes Russia in rare rebuke politico.eu
- Kremlin seizes Nestlé’s assets in Russia as crackdown on private business grows CNN
- Russia Seizes Control of Nestlé’s Local Operations WSJ
- Putin targets Nestle's Russian business as Kremlin tightens grip on Western assets CNBC
- Switzerland Criticizes Russia’s Nestle Seizure, Seeks Reversal Bloomberg.com
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