McDonald’s to permanently leave Russia and will sell all 850 stores after 30 years in response to Ukraine war

MCDONALD’S has announced it is selling all of its Russian branches in response to the ongoing war in Ukraine. The fast-food giant, which first opened in Russia 30 years ago as the Soviet Union crumbled, has 847 stores in the country, employing some 62,000 people. ReutersMcDonald’s is selling its restaurants in Russia[/caption] AFPThe company has 847 branches in Russia, employing 62,000 people[/caption] McDonald’s first closed its stores in March following international outcry at Vladimir Putin‘s invasion of Ukraine. In a statement, the company said: “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.” The company said it was looking to sell the restaurants to a local buyer, but will continue to retain the trademark. Most read in News BOLT FROM THE BLUE Lightning storms sweep the south ahead of 26C heatwave later this week TODDLER TRAGEDY Boy, 3, 'mauled to death' at home where cops rushed to 'previous incidents' LIFE LINE I have proof I'm the world's oldest woman & there are 2 things I eat every day KNIFE HORROR Two men and woman arrested over 'stab murder' of man, 30, in 'sleepy' suburb POIGNANT FAREWELL Eurovision winner kisses girlfriend as he heads to join Ukrainian army CRASH TRAGEDY Man killed in crash between Bugatti & ambulance as cops appeal for witnesses