**Russia Prepares for Return of Western Companies**
Russian President Vladimir Putin has instructed his Cabinet to prepare for the return of Western companies. He wants Russian firms to have an advantage over those re-entering the market.
Putin said, “We can adjust accordingly the return to our market of those who want to return.” This suggests that Russia may impose restrictions or conditions on Western firms looking to resume operations in the country.
**Russia and US Hold Talks**
The comments come amid a rapprochement between Russia and the US. A Russian delegation met with a US delegation, led by State Secretary Marco Rubio, to discuss a potential deal on Ukrainian settlement.
Russia is also offering the Trump administration a deal on Russian natural resources and access to the Arctic. This comes after hundreds of Western companies exited the Russian market following Russia’s full-scale invasion of Ukraine.
**Sanctions and Asset Seizures**
Moscow imposed strict exit requirements on Western companies, including approval from a government commission and an “exit tax” of at least 10%. Russian authorities have also seized assets from subsidiaries of Western companies that remained operational.
Despite these efforts, many foreign companies have either found ways to continue business in Russia or have re-entered the market after a temporary pause.
**Ukraine’s Reconstruction**
According to Reuters, one source familiar with Moscow discussions said Russia could agree to allocate up to two-thirds of frozen assets for Ukraine’s reconstruction, provided accountability guarantees.
**Other News**
* A poll in Denmark shows that 53% of Danes are in favor of sending peacekeepers into Ukraine after the war ends.
* The Center for Economic Strategy projects that between 1.7 and 2.7 million Ukrainians may permanently remain abroad, potentially reducing Ukraine’s annual GDP by 5.1% to 7.8%.
* Russia launched 160 Shahed-type attack drones against Ukraine overnight, with 87 shot down and 70 lost without causing damage.
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