Coke and McDonald’s pull out of Russia

Coca-Cola is suspending its operations in Russia, the latest major global corporate the leave the country over its invasion of Ukraine

It is the latest in a string of well-known Western brands to halt their work in the country – after similar announcements today from McDonald’s and Starbucks.

“Our hearts are with the people who are enduring unconscionable effects from these tragic events in Ukraine.”

coca cola company statement

The fizzy drinks company had been facing growing pressure to pull out of Russia, with #BoycottCocaCola trending on Twitter in recent days.

McDonald’s, Coca-Cola, Pepsi and Starbucks are the latest companies to announce their exit from Russia.

McDonalds and Starbucks say they will temporarily close all restaurants and pause all operations in Russia.

The fast-food chain is hugely popular in Russia, with around 850 stores and 62-thousand employees.

All branches will shut but staff will continue to get paid in Russia .

The fast food chain said the halt was a response to the “needless human suffering unfolding in Ukraine”.

Impossible to predict

The company, which has had a presence in Russia for more than 30 years, says it was “impossible to predict” when it would reopen… as its also experiencing supply chain issues.

McDonald’s had been facing growing criticism for not following many other food and drinks brands by pulling out of the country after the invasion of Ukraine.

In a statement, its CEO says the conflict has “caused unspeakable suffering to innocent people” 

Some remain in Russia and are facing backlash, including Uniqlo who claim that clothes are a “necessity of life” with Russian people having the same right to live as we do.

The company says they will continue to monitor the situation.