Stoli Group files for bankruptcy in US following ransomware attack and Russian seizures

Stoli Group's U.S. companies have filed for bankruptcy after a ransomware attack in August disrupted their IT systems. The attack forced manual operations and hindered financial reporting, leading lenders to claim default on a $78 million debt. Additionally, Russian authorities seized the company's last distilleries in July, valued at $100 million, due to the group's designation as "extremists." This designation was linked to their support for Ukrainian refugees amid the ongoing war. The Stoli Group has faced a long legal battle over vodka trademarks against a Russian state enterprise, stemming from a 2000 executive order. Founder Yuri Shefler has lived in exile since 2002 due to politically motivated charges.