McDonald’s will temporarily close 850 restaurants in Russia, nearly 2 weeks after Putin invaded Ukraine

McDonald's will temporarily close 850 locations in Russia after Russian forces invaded Ukraine.

Chris Kempczinski wrote in a letter that the chain will stop operations in Russia. Ronald McDonald House Charities will continue to operate, and it will continue to pay its 62,000 Russian employees.

The fast-food giant has drawn criticism for not speaking out about the war. McDonald's restaurants in Russia and Ukraine make up 2% of the company's sales and 3% of its operating income.

McDonald's has a symbolic role in Russia. The first location of the chain in the Soviet Union opened in Moscow in 1982.

The majority of McDonald's Russian locations are owned by the company. It is possible for the company to make more money by owning more of its restaurants, but it is also possible for the company to be at greater risk during times of turmoil or economic downturn.

McDonald's announcement came after Yum Brands said it would suspend restaurant development and investment in Russia.

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