The halt to the chain's operations comes amid Russia's ongoing war against Ukraine, which CEO Chris Kempczinski said in an email to employees "has caused unspeakable suffering to innocent people."
"Our values mean we cannot ignore the needless human suffering unfolding in Ukraine," he wrote. "Our number one priority from the start of this crisis has been – and will remain – our people."
McDonald's employs 62,000 people in Russia and works with "hundreds" of local suppliers, Kempczinski said, noting employees will continue to be paid during the closure.
Ronald McDonald House Charities will continue its activities in Russia as its Ukrainian counterpart works "with local hospitals and providing humanitarian aid throughout the country," he added.
