Putin Signs Decree Allowing State Takeover of Key Facilities After Drone Strikes

Russian President Vladimir Putin has signed a decree permitting the government to temporarily assume control of critical infrastructure if private owners fail to protect these assets from Ukrainian drone attacks or do not rebuild them after strikes. The measure, announced late Monday, applies to sectors including energy, fuel, industrial, communications, transport, and logistics facilities.

Deputy Prime Minister Denis Manturov clarified that the decree does not amount to nationalization or a change of ownership. Instead, it allows for the state to become involved in managing an enterprise to address specific security concerns. He stressed that the mechanism is not intended for widespread use and that decisions would be made at the highest level on a case-by-case basis.

The move comes as Russia faces mounting economic and political pressure from months of escalating and increasingly accurate Ukrainian long-range drone strikes. Kyiv has used domestically developed drones to target vital oil refineries and major commercial hubs, causing fuel shortages and embarrassing the Russian leadership.

Political analyst Abbas Gallyamov, a former Putin speechwriter, suggested the decree could be a tactical measure to compel owners of repeatedly damaged oil refineries to undertake costly repairs they might otherwise avoid. He noted that with some refineries hit three to five times, owners are reluctant to invest in restoration, fearing further attacks. The government is effectively issuing an ultimatum: finance the repairs or lose control of the assets.

In the latest attack, Ukraine's General Staff reported that its forces struck the Afipsky oil refinery in the Krasnodar region overnight, sparking a fire. Regional Governor Veniamin Kondratyev confirmed the blaze.

Russia is also grappling with fundamental economic challenges as the war enters its fifth year. The government has raised taxes and increased domestic borrowing to manage the budget deficit. While taking over major companies could bring windfall revenue, it could also add a financial burden if the state inherits damaged assets.

The Kremlin may intend the measure to pressure companies into taking more responsibility for their own air defense, given the difficulty of comprehensively protecting Russia's vast territory. Putin recently stated that Moscow must improve its air defense system and enhance coordination between defense, law enforcement, and civilian agencies, as well as leverage the capabilities of state-run enterprises and private businesses.

Earlier this year, Russian lawmakers approved a bill allowing the Central Bank, state-controlled Sberbank, and other financial services to install air defenses on their premises. Reports have also indicated that a mechanism exists for businesses to procure weapons and equipment for self-protection against drone attacks.