Putin Signs Decree Allowing State Takeover of Critical Infrastructure Over Drone Security

Russian President Vladimir Putin signed a decree on August 24 that allows the federal government to place critical infrastructure facilities under temporary state management. The measure applies if private owners fail to implement security measures, fail to meet government security requirements, or do not restore facilities quickly enough following attacks. The decree specifically cites growing threats to security during the special military operation, particularly escalating Ukrainian drone strikes on Russian territory. The state may appoint Rosimushchestvo or another designated person to manage the property, assets, and shares of the affected companies. The administrator is granted the powers of an owner but is prohibited from selling the facility. The decree does not specify a time limit for this temporary management. The scope of critical infrastructure is broad, covering the fuel and energy sector, industry, communications, utilities, and transport and logistics complexes. Recent targets of Ukrainian strikes include oil refineries, fuel depots, and logistics hubs belonging to e-commerce companies such as Wildberries and Ozon. Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov stated that owners often fail to pay proper attention to anti-drone security. First Deputy Prime Minister Denis Manturov clarified that the measure is not a form of nationalization or a change in ownership, but rather a tool for targeted decisions at the highest level. Experts cited in reports note that the decree lacks specific requirements or deadlines, which creates legal uncertainty for businesses. Some industry sources expressed concern that the decree does not clearly divide security responsibilities between private owners and the Russian Defense Ministry.