Starbucks to pull out of Russia over Ukraine invasion and close all 130 cafes following McDonald’s

STARBUCKS has become the latest company to quit Russia over the brutal and barbaric war in Ukraine. The American coffee giant today announced it will close all 130 cafes across the Vladimir Putin’s country amid the conflict which has raged for three months. Starbucks is one of the world’s most recognisable brands and has 32,000 stores in 80 countries. The firm is latest high profile Western business to walk around from the increasingly isolated pariah nation. Bosses pledged they would support the firm’s 2,000 employees and give them pay for six months. It comes as fast food chain McDonald’s also announced it would permanently leave Russia – selling its 850 locations. READ MORE ON RUSSIA THREAT TO WEST Russia to 'deploy nearly 50 Satan-2 nukes' after terrifying test launch OPTED OUT Putin 'cancer' condition 'WORSENED after surgery & hidden with recorded footage' Starbucks first opened in Russia in 2007 and quickly expanded, having 100 stores in the country by 2015. The company suspended all business operations and shut down all cafes in early much. But now it confirmed the coffeeshops will never open again. It is estimated less than one per cent of Starbucks $29billion global revenue comes from Russia. Most read in News 'WE'LL MISS YOU' Aussie TV host dies 'suddenly' at 42 as heartbroken colleagues pay tribute THREAT TO WEST Russia to 'deploy nearly 50 Satan-2 nukes' after terrifying test launch POISON PROBE Kids' hospital nurse arrested after death of child 'she poisoned' OFF HIS TROLLEY Ryanair steward arrested and sacked after 'downing booze on flight' 'B******T' I'm no homewrecker, it's Lorna's fault we are together, says Ukrainian refugee 'SNATCH' BID Woman & teen arrested for 'trying to abduct toddler, 2, at car boot fair' In a statement, Starbucks said: “As we mentioned on March 8, we have suspended all business activity in Russia, including shipment of all Starbucks products. “Starbucks has made the decision to exit and no longer have a brand presence in the market.  “We will continue to support the nearly 2,000 green apron partners in Russia, including pay for six months and assistance for partners to transition to new opportunities outside of Starbucks.” The Kuwait-based Alshaya Group operates all Starbucks stores in Russia as its sole licensee. Russia has found itself increasingly isolated on the world stage as global powers have condemned Putin’s invasion. Starbucks first announced a pause of its business interest in Russia back on March 8. At the time, top boss Kevin Johnson said: “We condemn the horrific attacks on Ukraine by Russia and our hearts go out to all those affected.  “We continue to watch the tragic events unfold and, today, we have decided to suspend all business activity in Russia, including shipment of all Starbucks products. “ “Through this dynamic situation, we will continue to make decisions that are true to our mission and values and communicate with transparency. “Thank you for the care and concern you are sharing with me and your leaders.”