Russian users of “World of Tanks,” “World of Warships,” and other Lesta Games products do not need to fear accusations of supporting the Armed Forces of Ukraine or extremism, according to State Duma deputy Anton Gorelkin. This statement comes despite the fact that Lesta Games, the company owner, has been recognized as extremist on Russian territory.

Gorelkin, who is also the deputy head of the Duma IT committee, addressed concerns on his Telegram channel, assuring users that they cannot be accused of extremism for making in-game purchases.

He further drew a parallel with Instagram, which remains used by ordinary citizens despite the ban on Meta in the Russian Federation, without repercussions.

According to Gorelkin, the assets of Lesta Games are expected to be transferred under state control soon, potentially leading to their transfer to a specialized Russian company.

These assurances follow a ruling by the Tagansky Court of Moscow, which recognized Lesta Games’ activities as extremist. Malik Khatazhaev, the lawyer for the company’s founder, has stated that the decision will be appealed.

Earlier, in April, a court order led to the seizure of assets belonging to Lesta Games, the Russian publisher of “World of Tanks,” with bailiffs gaining access to the company’s software and servers based on accusations of “hostile actions against the Russian Federation.”

Khatazhaev has refuted accusations of involvement in creating an extremist community with Viktor Kislyi, the owner of Wargaming.net (World of Tanks), emphasizing that he has had no contact with Kislyi since August 2023. He maintains his innocence and considers himself a patriot of Russia.