Russia invaded Ukraine in February 2022, and the world hasn’t been the same since. The games industry has also been affected and that includes World Of Warships and World Of Tanks developer and publisher Wargaming. Last month, they revealed that they fired creative director Sergey Burkatovskiy due to his public support of Russia’s invasion of Ukraine, and the company also donated a million dollars to the Ukrainian Red Cross.

Now, Wargaming has announced that they will be leaving the Russia and Belarus markets by stopping operations in both countries. This became effective starting from 31 March 2022. However, World Of Tanks will still be sold in Russia and Belarus, but not by Wargaming. In those two countries, the game will now be managed by Lesta Studio.

The official statement by Wargaming reads:

“Over the past weeks, Wargaming has been conducting a strategic review of business operations worldwide. The company has decided it will not own or operate any businesses in Russia and Belarus and will leave both countries.

Effective March 31 the company transferred its live games business in Russia and Belarus to local management of Lesta Studio that is no longer affiliated with Wargaming. The company will not profit from this process either today or going forward. Much to the contrary we expect to suffer substantial losses as a direct result of this decision.

We will be completing the operational transition with all due speed while remaining in full compliance with all laws and ensuring the ongoing safety and support of our employees. During the transition period the live products will remain available in Russia and Belarus and will be operated by the new owner.

Wargaming has also started the process of closing its studio in Minsk, Belarus.

We will be providing as much severance and support as possible to our employees affected by the change.

Despite the magnitude of this decision, we as a company are confident in the future of our business and are committed to delivering quality games to our players.”