The nephew of Chechen ruler Kadyrov has taken over management of the Danone subsidiary in Russia, which has been under Russian takeover since Sunday. Kadyrov is considered a close friend of Putin.
Jakub Sakrijew is the new General Manager of Danone’s Russian operations. He is the nephew of Chechen leader Ramzan Kadyrov. Chechen Information Minister Ahmed Dudayev confirmed the 32-year-old’s appointment.
Russia took control of a stake in the French food company by presidential decree on Sunday – the same fate that has befallen Carlsberg. These companies face a fait accompli.
Kadyrov considered a close ally of Putin
“His election shows that the leader of Chechnya and representative of the team of Russian hero Ramzan Akhmatovich Kadyrov is a talented and successful administrator,” the Chechen government advertises itself, Kadyrov and Danone new boss.
Kadyrov is the president of the Russian republic who rules Russia like a dictator and is considered a close ally of Russian head of state Vladimir Putin.
Danone is reviewing legal options
Danone declined to comment. The Paris-based group is closely monitoring the situation and is focusing on the safety of its 7,500 employees at 13 factories, a person familiar with the matter told Reuters. Danone is reviewing its legal options if its assets are seized.
Unlike many other international companies, Danone initially stayed in Russia after Russia attacked Ukraine. At the end of October, the group finally announced the end of most of its activities in Russia. Danone will exit the dairy and plant-based products business, leaving only the infant formula business.
out of control Carlsberg
The Danish group has announced that, in addition to Danone, the Carlsberg Group has also lost control of its Russian brewing business. After the decree was signed, it no longer controls the management or operation of the Russian Baltic Brewery. The leadership change took place without Carlsberg’s knowledge or consent.
Carlsberg is one of the largest beer groups in the world. A month after Russia invaded Ukraine, the group announced in March 2022 that it would withdraw completely from Russia and sell its local Baltika brewery business. Baltika is the largest beer brewer in Russia.