Russia has made a significant move by taking control of Lesta Games, the company behind the local version of World of Tanks (known as Mir Tankov in Russian). This action follows allegations that Lesta was funneling funds to the Ukrainian military after Wargaming, its original developer, abandoned operations in Russia and Belarus following the 2022 invasion of Ukraine.

Wargaming, which operates out of Kyiv, has since had a prominent role in aiding Ukraine, including raising over a million dollars for medical supplies. Current sentiments within Russia towards Lesta Games’ players indicate a reassurance from officials that they will not face prosecution for in-game purchases. Anton Gorelkin, deputy chairman of the Duma’s IT Committee, stated that users engaging with Lesta’s products should not fear being accused of supporting the Ukrainian military or any form of extremism.

Despite Lesta’s attempts to dissociate from Wargaming, the Moscow court’s recent ruling allows government seizure of the studio, citing officials’ claims that both Malik Khatazhaev and Viktor Kisly are involved in extremist activities. This tumultuous event is rooted in a broader atmosphere of repression of anti-war sentiments in Russia.

In his response to the accusations, Khatazhaev expressed disbelief over being labeled an extremist for his long-standing support of Russian values, declaring, “I’ve lived to an old age and suddenly being a patriot makes me an extremist.” The assets of Lesta Games are expected to fall under state control, with expectations that they will eventually be handed to a major Russian tech firm with close government ties.