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What happened around 20 July 2023 in Ukraine's orbit?
Summary
A look back at two developments from the days before 20 July 2023: a Russian takeover order and a South Korean aid pledge.
What was shaping Ukraine-related politics as of 20 July 2023? Two reports from the preceding days stand out: one from Moscow, one from Kyiv.
Moscow moves on foreign-owned assets
On 16 July 2023, Russian President Vladimir Putin authorised a temporary state takeover of the shares of French agribusiness Danone and of Baltika, the brewer owned by Carlsberg. As reported at the time, the decision formed part of a wider response to many private companies, these two included, reducing their business operations in Russia during the war in Ukraine.
The move fitted a broader pattern. Many private companies have ceased operations in Russia, or have donated or matched donations to the Ukrainian government or Ukrainian organisations, in response to Russia's seizure of Ukrainian territory in 2014 and 2022. Others have applied various sanctions.
Seoul adds to its aid
On 15 July 2023, South Korean President Yoon Suk-yeol made an unannounced visit to Kyiv and met Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy. He announced that South Korea would pledge US$150 million in additional aid to Ukraine.
Taken together, the two reports show the war's political effects running along separate tracks: Russia asserting control over assets of foreign firms scaling back there, and a partner government in Asia increasing its financial support for Kyiv.
