Moscow Court Decision Connects Mir Tankov Publisher to Extremism
Taking Over "Lesta Games": A Controversial Move
The buzz surrounding the potential nationalization of "Lesta Games" group and the seizure of their assets for the state's benefit is intense. This high-profile case involves one of Russia's largest companies in computer game development and publishing.
Lesta Games: Under Fire
The General Prosecutor's Office of Russia has filed a lawsuit demanding a 100% takeover of "Lesta Games" shares in favor of the state and a halt to the activities of the company's owner, Malik Khatazhayev, and his former partner, Viktor Kislyi. This move has stirred up the Russian IT community. Ex-Wargaming top manager Sergei Burkatovsky, in an unhappy VKontakte post, referred to this takeover as a "risky move" likely to pose significant reputational and management challenges for any new leader.
Company's Response
Representatives of "Lesta Games" have voiced their shock at these accusations, which they view as unjustified. They assure complete transparency in their financial activities, as demonstrated in their available:
- Tax payment reports
- Documents confirming the legality of their operations
- Information showing profits are reinvested within Russia and Belarus, rather than withdrawn abroad
As of now, "Lesta Games" employs around 2,200 people, with a strong focus on young talent, offering free educational programs for students through their own projects.
The Real Charges
Despite the company's claims of neutrality, the Prosecutor General insists that "Lesta Games" has been fueling extremist activities. The lawsuit from the agency fabricates that structures within the group, such as LLC "Lesta" and LLC "Lesta Games Agency," supplied support to the Armed Forces of Ukraine, through various publications and media messages.
Alleged examples include headlines and messages about charity initiatives aimed at supporting Ukraine. The prosecutor's office believes that such actions portray anti-Russian positions.
[1] Extremism allegationsIn this context, the Russian government's accusations against Lesta Games stem from a broader history with Wargaming, which had distanced itself from Russia and openly supported Ukraine following the invasion. Despite Lesta Games' claims of being an independent entity, the company was dragged into the controversy due to its historical ties with Wargaming, hinting at a broader crackdown on entities perceived as supporting Ukraine during the conflict.
[2] Allegations of Ukraine SupportWargaming, known for hits like World of Tanks, had organized fundraising campaigns for Ukraine. However, Lesta Games maintains that it was separated from Wargaming and had no involvement in these fundraising efforts. Nonetheless, the Russian authorities seem to perceive Lesta as complicit due to these historical connections.
[3] Claims of Funding the Ukrainian Armed ForcesFurther accusations against Lesta concern alleged pressure over claims of providing direct financial support to the Ukrainian Armed Forces, although these are not explicitly stated in the formal charges. These allegations likely contribute to the overall perception of the company by Russian authorities.
What is the stance of Lesta Games on the allegations of funding extremist activities and supporting Ukraine through various publications and media messages, as claimed by the Prosecutor General?
In response to the claims of providing direct financial support to the Ukrainian Armed Forces, what has Lesta Games stated regarding their involvement in fundraising campaigns organized by Wargaming?
