Wargaming Studio Lesta Seized by Russian Government

Drama

29 April 2025 09:42

The Russian government has reportedly seized control of Lesta Studios, the former Wargaming-owned game developer based in Moscow, citing allegations of extremist activity linked to support for Ukraine.

According to court documents obtained by Russian state media outlet RIA, the seizure took place on April 17, 2025. The documents state that the Deputy Prosecutor General of Russia filed a claim to "prohibit the activities of the association consisting of [Wargaming owner] V.V. Kisly and [Lesta founder] M.A. Khatazhaev and to transfer shares in the authorized capital of the defendants to the state."

The move follows accusations that both Kisly and Khatazhaev are part of an “association that carries out extremist activities.” Prosecutors have pointed to Wargaming's public support for Ukraine during the ongoing war, including its $1 million fundraising efforts, as justification for the state takeover. Russian officials also referenced propaganda images that allegedly depict Ukrainian soldiers playing Wargaming games.

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In response to the seizure, Wargaming issued a statement to VGC clarifying its position: “Wargaming made a strategic exit from the Russian and Belarusian markets three years ago. The company disposed of its business in Russia and Belarus to the local management at zero cost and on a debt-free, cash-free basis, with no consideration to take it back. Wargaming doesn’t have any assets or business interests in Russia and Belarus.”

The decision has already sparked legal backlash, with Lesta Studios filing a formal complaint to challenge the state’s claim. The case continues to develop against the backdrop of the ongoing conflict in Ukraine, which began in 2022 and has since been described as the deadliest war on European soil in over seven decades.

Tags: Wargaming

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