Debevoise & Plimpton’s London and Moscow offices have picked up a lead advisory mandate on the merger of Russian potash companies Uralkali and Silvinit, in a deal that will create a combined business worth $23.9bn (£15.4bn).

Debevoise has advised Uralkali on the merger, which will see Uralkali acquire 20% of Silvinit for $1.4bn (£903,300m) and complete the tie-up through a share swap.