Lesta LLC, the Russian publisher known for World of Tanks and World of Warships, has been taken over by Rosimushchestvo, the Russian Federal Agency for State Property Management. This transfer of control was officially recorded in the Unified State Register of Legal Entities on June 11.

The move follows a ruling by the Tagansky District Court of Moscow in early June, which sided with the Prosecutor General’s Office in its claim against Lesta Games. The court’s decision mandates the transfer of shares from all three legal entities associated with the publisher – Lesta LLC, Lesta Games Moscow LLC, and Lesta Games Agency LLC – to state revenue.

The court also prohibited the activities of an alleged “association” between Wargaming founder Viktor Kisly and Lesta owner Malik Khatazhaev, citing concerns about extremist activities. According to an RBC source, their income was allegedly used to finance foundations that purchased equipment for the Armed Forces of Ukraine.

Lesta’s press service has maintained that the company itself has not been designated as extremist and is continuing its operations. However, the company has stated that it disagrees with the court’s decision and is preparing to appeal.

Prior to this, on April 24, a court order led to the seizure of assets belonging to Lesta Games, and the Federal Bailiff Service (FSSP) gained access to the company’s software and servers. These actions were based on accusations of “hostile actions against the Russian Federation.”

Malik Khatazhaev has refuted the accusations of involvement in an extremist community with Viktor Kisly, stating that he considers the accusations unfair. In mid-May, a closed-door hearing was held in the Khatazhaev case, where he reiterated his innocence and affirmed his patriotism.

State Duma deputy Anton Gorelkin has assured users of World of Tanks and World of Warships that they should not fear accusations of supporting the Armed Forces of Ukraine.

In 2024, the combined revenue of Lesta, Lesta Games Agency, and Lesta Games Moscow exceeded 35 billion rubles, with a net profit of 16 billion rubles. The total number of registered users for World of Tanks and World of Warships is over 60 million, with more than 6.5 million active monthly players.