Putin seizes control of Japan Tobacco units as Moscow-Tokyo ties fray

What happened: Vladimir Putin signed a decree placing four Russian subsidiaries of Japan Tobacco under temporary management by a local entity. Why it matters: The move is the latest development in strained Russia-Japan relations, and the report says the cigarette giant was likely caught up in a Moscow pressure campaign over sanctions. Coverage: 3 outlets in 24h

Vladimir Putin signed a decree placing four Russian subsidiaries of Japan Tobacco under temporary management by a local entity.

The move is the latest development in strained Russia-Japan relations, and the report says the cigarette giant was likely caught up in a Moscow pressure campaign over sanctions.