Wargaming ceases operations in Russia and Belarus
World of Tanks developer Wargaming announced its decision to leave Russia and Belarus on Monday. Effective March 31, Wargaming transferred its live games business in Russia and Belarus to local management company Lesta Studio. Wargaming will not profit from the transfer and will no longer be affiliated with Lesta studio.
Earlier in March, Wargaming announced the safety and security of their 550+ employees was their top priority. The company provided employees and their families with travel and accommodation in neighboring countries. Wargaming Kyiv also donated $1 million USD to the Ukrainian Red Cross.
Joining other companies exiting Russia
Wargaming joined other companies such as WePlay Holding, Samsung, Microsoft, Amazon, Apple, Uber, eBay, Netflix, TikTok and many others who have halted their operations in Russia. According to Yale School of Management, more than 600 companies have withdrawn from Russia.
Companies aren’t the only entities impacted by the Russian invasion of Ukraine. Fnatic suspended VALORANT player Andrey “BraveAF” Gorchakov due to his leaked text messages supporting the invasion. EA banned players from Russia and Belarus from entering the Apex Legends Global Series and the FIFA 22 season. ESL also banned Russian-based teams from entering the Pro League Season 15 under their team’s name. Streamers in Russia have also stopped receiving payouts.
Wargaming closes their studio
Wargaming stated it did not decide to exit Russia lightly. The company will “expect to suffer substantial losses as a direct result of this decision.” Wargaming said it is transitioning away from their operations in Russia as quickly as possible in full compliance with all laws and regulations.
Along with ceasing operations in Russia, the company also announced it is closing its studio in Minsk, Belarus. Wargaming has committed to providing ongoing safety and support for all their employees in both Russia and Belarus. Despite this decision, Wargaming stated it is “confident in the future of [their] business and are committed to delivering quality games to [their] players.”
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