Russian President Vladimir Putin made it clear that McDonald’s won’t receive any special welcome if it returns to Russia. The state-run TASS news agency reported his comments during a conversation with a top Russian fast-food executive.
McDonald’s Pulled Out in 2022
In 2022, McDonald’s left Russia. This happened after Western countries imposed sanctions over the Ukraine war. As a result, the fast-food giant sold its business to a local investor, Alexander Govor. He had been a McDonald’s franchise partner since 2015 and operated 25 outlets in Siberia.
Putin Criticizes McDonald’s Exit
While speaking to Oleg Paroyev, CEO of “Vkusno i Tochka” (which means “Tasty and That’s It”), Putin criticized the U.S. company’s exit.
“They (McDonald’s) put everyone in a difficult position, ran away, and now, if they want to come back, are we supposed to roll out the red carpet for them? Of course not,” he said.
Return Must Follow Russian Terms
Next, Putin explained that he already discussed the matter with other officials. “I have talked with colleagues, and I have already tasked the government with working out a framework for the possible return of companies wishing to re-enter the Russian market – calmly and without any hostility, taking into account that the most important thing is to protect the interests of our businesses.”
Putin Mocks Possible Buyback
Then, he made a sarcastic remark about the idea of McDonald’s buying its business back. He asked Paroyev if those “not-so-conscientious partners” had the right to return.
When Paroyev said they did, Putin responded, “Remember that old joke? Only chumps settle up. It’s the same thing here.”
Local Entrepreneurs Will Get Full Support
Moreover, Putin assured Paroyev that Russian entrepreneurs will get full government support. “There can’t even be any doubts about this. Together with you, we will work through everything, think it through, and go down to the last detail. But only to our advantage,” he said.
Western Firms Seek Return
Meanwhile, Putin said several Russian businesses have informed him that their foreign partners want to return. He replied firmly. “I replied – let them come back but make sure it’s on your terms. If it is advantageous for you, let them return. If it works for you, go ahead, if not, we’ll make it so it does. That’s it.”
Putin Targets U.S. Tech Companies
Earlier on Monday, Putin also targeted U.S. tech firms still operating in Russia. He was responding to a Russian businessman who said companies like Zoom and Microsoft continue limited operations.
Putin replied, “We need to throttle them. I completely agree, and I say this without hesitation.”
Many Western Brands Left After Sanctions
Since Russia launched its military campaign in Ukraine, many Western companies have left the country. Others have scaled back their operations. This followed tough economic sanctions by Ukraine’s allies.
However, Putin said Russia did not push anyone out. “We have provided the most favourable conditions for them to work in our market, and they are trying to throttle us,” he said.
U.S. Firms Show Interest in Returning
Finally, in April, Kirill Dmitriev, who heads Russia’s sovereign wealth fund and acts as Putin’s economic envoy, said many U.S. companies have asked to return to the Russian market.
