President Vladimir Putin signed a presidential decree on Monday that gives the Russian state the right to assume temporary administration of critical infrastructure if it is judged to be inadequately protected from Ukrainian drone strikes and other threats.

Scope of the new powers

The decree specifies that the state may take control of both physical and financial assets, as well as formal ownership rights, when the entities responsible for a facility have failed to protect it or are too slow to repair damage after an attack.

Facilities covered include fuel, energy, industrial, communications, transport and logistics sites that are considered essential for the security and economic stability of the nation and its population.

Context of increased attacks

The move comes as Ukraine has intensified drone operations targeting Russian oil refineries, retail warehouses and other key sites. In recent weeks, at least two dozen warehouses belonging to Russia’s leading online retailer Wildberries have been struck, and Ozon, the country’s second‑largest e‑commerce platform, reported attacks on four logistics hubs in southern Russia.

Earlier in the week, Putin ordered a program to rebuild commercial warehouses damaged or destroyed by Ukrainian actions.

Implications

By granting the state direct authority over these assets, the decree aims to streamline response and repair efforts, reducing reliance on private operators that may be slow to act. Critics could view the measure as further centralization of economic control, while supporters argue it is necessary to safeguard national interests amid ongoing conflict.

The decree does not specify compensation mechanisms for owners whose assets are taken over, leaving details to be worked out by relevant ministries.

Original reporting: Appleton, WI News Feed (HLL/CB) — read the source article.