McDonald’s announces exit from Russia after more than 30 years

McDonald’s became the symbol of glasnost in action 30 years ago when it opened its first restaurant in Moscow.

But after temporarily shutting down more than 800 restaurants following the invasion of Ukraine, McDonald’s has decided to leave Russia altogether. 

“The humanitarian crisis caused by the war in Ukraine, and the precipitating unpredictable operating environment, have led McDonald’s to conclude that continued ownership of the business in Russia is no longer tenable, nor is it consistent with McDonald’s values,” the company said in a news release. 

Russian forces, directed by President Vladimir Putin, have been accused of an array of war crimes during their assault on Ukraine. McDonald’s exit from Russia is a bitter end to an era that once promised hope. 

McDonald’s had 847 restaurants in Russia at the close of last year, according to an investor document.