Ukraine Accuses Russia of Deliberately Targeting US Businesses, Citing Significant Losses

Ukrainian Foreign Minister Highlights Intentional Attacks

Ukrainian Foreign Minister Andrii Sybiha announced on February 17, 2026, that the Russian Federation is systematically and deliberately targeting American businesses within Ukraine. Sybiha, who assumed the role of Minister of Foreign Affairs on September 5, 2024, made these assertions via a post on the social media platform X, emphasizing that these attacks are not accidental but intentional.

According to Sybiha, these actions demonstrate Russia's 'complete disregard for peace efforts' and constitute an attack not only on the Ukrainian people but also on the 'American taxpayer' and the 'American economy.'

Significant Damage and Casualties Reported

The Ukrainian Foreign Minister cited data from the American Chamber of Commerce in Ukraine, revealing the extensive impact on US-affiliated enterprises. The figures indicate that 47% of American companies operating in Ukraine have reported damage to or destruction of their facilities due to Russian strikes.

The human cost has also been substantial, with 57% of these companies reporting wounded staff and a tragic 38% having employees killed during the full-scale invasion.

Specific Incidents and Broader Implications

Sybiha provided concrete examples of targeted American interests. These include strikes on Boeing offices in Kyiv, the Flex Electronics plant in Mukachevo (also referred to as a major American-owned electronics manufacturer in Zakarpattia), and Bunge's sunflower processing plant in Dnipro. An attack on Bunge's facility in Dnipro on January 5, 2026, resulted in the spillage of 300 tons of sunflower oil.

The Minister further suggested that Moscow's proposals for economic cooperation with the United States are merely a 'Potemkin village' designed to gain time and undermine American influence in Europe. This perspective underscores the strategic dimension Ukraine attributes to Russia's actions against foreign businesses.

Global Economic Context

The ongoing conflict has had widespread economic repercussions beyond Ukraine, affecting global supply chains, energy prices, and food security. The targeting of businesses, including those involved in agriculture like Bunge, highlights the broader economic warfare tactics employed, impacting international markets for commodities such as sunflower oil.