The landscape for Western companies considering a return to Russia is fraught with uncertainties, making it premature to discuss such a move at this time. Importantly, the path forward on sanctions and export controls must be understood, as many in the U.S. require Congressional action to remove them.
For Western companies, Russia poses challenges beyond simple commercial decisions. Reputational risks are a significant concern for many businesses contemplating a return to the Russian market.
President Vladimir Putin has emphasized that Western companies seeking to return to Russia will not receive special treatment, particularly if their market niches have already been filled. Russian businesses have adapted to working under sanctions and have established alternative cooperation mechanisms with foreign partners.
Despite discussions about the potential lifting of sanctions in the future, no agreements have been reached yet. President Trump has expressed readiness to lift restrictions, but only after the resolution of the conflict in Ukraine.