Russian authorities threaten World of Tanks developer for its alleged “extremist activities”

In context: World of Tanks is a freemium tank warfare simulator launched 15 years ago. Wargaming, a Belarusian studio that later relocated to Cyprus, created the game and cut ties with Russia several years ago. Despite this, Moscow authorities are now trying to seize the company’s hypothetically “Russian” assets.

Russian authorities have branded World of Tanks-related operations “extremist” and are threatening to confiscate property held by Wargaming executives. The case involves Lesta Games, a Moscow-based studio that Wargaming divested. After Russia invaded Ukraine, Wargaming cut ties with Russia and Belarus, handing over regional operations to Lesta.

Rock Paper Shotgun reports that Russia has accused companies linked to World of Tanks of engaging in extremist activity after the invasion of Ukraine, though prosecutors have yet to present substantive evidence. Lesta Games, meanwhile, claims it complies fully with Russian and Belarusian law and has nothing to fear from Moscow authorities.

Wargaming’s World of Tanks has gained popularity among Ukrainian soldiers coping with war stress. The studio has been a vocal supporter of Ukraine, donating $1 million to the Ukrainian Red Cross for ambulances. However, Wargaming faced a $250 million loss after exiting the Russian market, equating to 30 percent of its market share.

Wargaming founder and CEO Victor Kislyi now resides in Cyprus, which should buffer him from the Russian regime. However, prosecutors still link him to an extremist organization, citing his support for Ukraine. They point to media headlines about his $1 million donation to the Ukrainian Red Cross as evidence of his alleged involvement in extremist activities.

In response to Russia’s accusation, Wargaming reaffirmed its “strategic exit” from Russia and Belarus three years ago, calling it the right move. The company emphasized that it has no plans to return to these markets.

Wargaming transferred its remaining business interests in Russia and Belarus to local management at no cost, clarifying that it no longer owns any assets in those countries. As a result, the company argues, there is nothing left for Moscow authorities to seize.