The Russian subsidiary of the Metro retail chain has transferred 1 billion rubles to the "Popular Front. Everything for Victory!" fund. The funds are designated for the purchase of equipment and gear used in the combat zone. Formally, the German parent company retains its ownership status of the business in Russia despite the transfer of assets to temporary management.
Transfer of Funds and Financing Objectives
According to Russian media citing participants in the initiative, the raised funds will be directed toward addressing urgent tasks regarding the acquisition of transport, communication systems, reconnaissance equipment, and counter-drone systems. Representatives of the Russian Metro structure noted that part of the allocated funds would supposedly go toward social and humanitarian needs. The head of the Russian division, Johannes Tolai, justified the company's participation by the necessity of supporting strategic state initiatives.
Company Status and Reaction from Ukraine
Ukrainian Member of Parliament Olha Vasylievskaya-Smagliuk drew attention to the fact that Germany's Metro AG officially did not leave the Russian market following the outbreak of the large-scale conflict. At the same time, in September 2026, the company's Russian assets were transferred to temporary management under a team led by Johannes Tolai. The German headquarters of Metro AG previously stated that it had lost operational control over the Russian business while retaining formal ownership.
Consequences for Infrastructure in Ukraine
Parallel to financial news, the destruction of retail chain facilities on Ukrainian territory continues. Notably, on October 21, the Metro shopping center in Rivne suspended operations following a Russian drone strike, which resulted in no casualties. Earlier, starting August 1, the operation of the Metro hypermarket in Zaporizhzhia was temporarily suspended due to a complex security situation and regular air raids.
Significance of the Event and Future Prospects
The financing of Russian funds by structures of foreign companies continuing to operate in the Russian Federation increases pressure on international businesses to fully exit the market. Such precedents demonstrate the integration of remaining foreign assets into state economic and military programs. The further development of the situation may lead to intensified sanctions pressure on parent corporations from European regulators and Ukraine's partners.
