Raiffeisen Bank Profits Amid Russian Military Links

Raiffeisen Bank International (RBI), a Vienna-based institution, is under scrutiny for its financial ties to companies supporting Russia's military efforts in Ukraine. The bank's Russian unit received significant fees from Unichim, a chemical firm linked to Rawenstvo, a sanctioned entity involved in military system production. Despite pressure from the U.S. and European authorities, RBI remains operational in Russia due to strict capital controls and the challenging regulatory environment. The bank has generated substantial profits from its Russian operations but faces difficulties in transferring these funds out of Russia. European officials have raised concerns about RBI's compliance with international sanctions, as it continues to serve clients potentially linked to the Russian defense sector. This controversy has led to a notable decline in RBI's stock value.