Putin Ban Hits Cold War Foes as Developing Nations Gain

President Vladimir Putin countered U.S. and European sanctions over Ukraine with a ban on a range of food products, opening the door for developing nations such as Brazil to fill the $9.5 billion hole created by the curbs.

The restrictions include all cheese, fish, beef, pork, fruit, vegetables and dairy products, Prime Minister Dmitry Medvedev told ministers today in Moscow, fulfilling a presidential decree issued yesterday. The curbs hit nations that have penalized or supported measures against Russia, including Canada, Australia and Norway. Russia may also introduce “supportive measures” for the car, shipping and aerospace industries, Medvedev said.