MTS says it will fight Tele2 sale

Russian multi-play service provider MTS has said it will fight the acquisition of mobile telco Tele2’s Russian subsidiary by is state-owned  lender VTB.

MTS and VimpelCom last week expressed an interest in acquiring the Russian assets of Tele2. The pair said they were willing to make a joint bid for control of Tele2 Russia for US$4-US$4.25 billion (€3.1-€3.3 billion), including US$1.15 billion in debt, representing a 30% premium on VTB’s offer. VTB has however said its deal to acquire Tele2 is legally binding.