Running from the turbine

"Siemens" runs away from Russia. We can say, stroke. After the use of the German turbines in the annexed Crimea became obvious, the company decided to withdraw from joint ventures with Russian partners and stop the supply of equipment to state enterprises. This is only the beginning of the outcome - in order to protect yourself from possible legal persecution, Siemens will sooner or later have to abandon the presence in Russia. And not only to him.

It is worth recalling that we are talking about a company that was more interested in Russian profits and categorically opposed the sanctions. The head of Siemens, Joe Camer met with Vladimir Putin immediately after the annexation of Crimea - then this date in the Kremlin was regarded as open support of ties with the Russian regime. The interest of Siemens in such connections is also understandable: in a country where it is easier to increase income in the course of competition, but through well -established contacts with the state mafia, I would like to stay longer. When Western businessmen with the light hand of Sergei Brin call Putin's Russia “Nigeria in the snow”, they imply this particular amount of money that can be mastered by agreeing with the ruler. So Keser’s photograph with Putin after the annexation of Crimea was not just a photograph. It was a bill.

Nevertheless, Siemens, like any Western corporation with a reputation, is obliged to comply with the laws of the civilized world. The supply of turbines to Crimea violated these laws. We are unlikely to find out whether Siemens was deceived by his partners or was glad to be deceived. But the essence of the problem of the German concern does not change from this: he needs to make excuses and run.

For the management of Siemens and other Western corporations, this will serve as a good lesson. No need to count on the honest word Putin - they will deceive. It is not necessary to hope that they can hide the plans from others, on which you prefer to close your eyes. This is not Germany: the indestructible Russian "maybe" will work - and the secret will become obvious.

Russia is a toxic territory for a civilized business. Easy money at any moment can turn into severe trials - criminal charges, spots on reputation, doubts about your honesty. And ultimately - losses that no Putin’s well -being will be compensated, no photo with a vampire.

From Russia you can only run.