According to President Vladimir Putin, Western companies that abruptly left Russia amid the conflict with Ukraine will not be allowed to return and purchase back the businesses they abandoned or occupy spaces that have been taken over by local businesses. Putin emphasized during a business forum in Moscow that he has instructed the government to closely monitor any Western companies attempting buy-back deals to ensure each case is thoroughly evaluated. He highlighted that firms that exited hastily due to domestic pressures and sold their assets for low prices will not be allowed to repurchase them for the same amount. Putin also warned Russian businesses that Western sanctions are not temporary and that obstacles to conducting business will persist. Despite gestures to ease sanctions, Putin stated that competitors will always aim to hinder Russia.