Russia Takes Control of Lesta Studio, Formerly Owned by Wargaming, Over Alleged Support for Ukraine

According to recent reports, the Russian government has taken possession of Lesta Studios, a former subsidiary of Wargaming. The seizure, which occurred on April 17, 2025, was allegedly due to Wargaming's support for Ukraine following Russia's invasion in 2022. This move marks a significant escalation in the ongoing conflict between Russia and Ukraine. Court documents reveal that the Deputy Prosecutor General of Russia filed a claim to prohibit the activities of the association comprising Wargaming's owner, V.V. Kisly, and Lesta's founder, M.A. Khatazhaev, and to transfer shares to the state. In response, Wargaming stated that it had exited the Russian and Belarusian markets three years ago, disposing of its business in these regions at no cost. The company emphasized that it no longer has any assets or interests in Russia and Belarus. However, the Russian prosecutor general's office claims that Khatazhaev and Kisly are part of an association involved in 'extremist activities.' This accusation is reportedly linked to Wargaming's fundraising efforts, which included a $1 million donation, as well as propaganda allegedly showing Ukrainian soldiers playing Wargaming games. Lesta Studios has since filed a complaint challenging the decision. Notably, Wargaming, the developer of World of Tanks, had previously fired its creative director, Sergey Burkatovskiy, in 2022 for publicly supporting Russia's invasion of Ukraine. The company clarified that Burkatovskiy's views did not reflect its position, and it has since relocated its operations from Russia and Belarus.