Russia prohibits World of Tanks game publisher
(MENAFN) A Russian court has banned the activities of Lesta Group’s owners, citing their support for Ukraine’s armed forces, according to TASS. This marks the first time a gaming company has faced such a ruling in Russia.
Lesta Group, a St. Petersburg-based developer and regional publisher of popular games like World of Tanks and World of Warships, continued operating independently after the international studio Wargaming exited Russia and Belarus in 2022 due to Western sanctions.
On Tuesday, Moscow’s Tagansky District Court approved a Prosecutor General’s Office request to ban and label as extremist the business activities of Wargaming co-founder Viktor Kisly and Lesta owner Malik Khatazhaev. Judge Mikhail Strogonov ordered that all company shares be transferred to the Russian government, with the ruling effective immediately.
According to sources, the decision was based on allegations that Kisly and Khatazhaev financially supported the Kiev government by funding equipment purchases for Ukraine’s armed forces.
Despite the ruling against its owners, Lesta Group’s operations, partnerships, and user services remain unaffected. The company confirmed on Telegram that it will continue its activities without disruption, now under temporary state administration—a measure that would not be possible if the company itself were banned. Lesta has stated plans to appeal the court’s decision, which it called unjust.
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