Linklaters and Norton Rose Fulbright have become the latest law firms to take action in response to Russia’s unprovoked attack on Ukraine, joining other big names such as Allen & Overy.
On Friday, Linklaters, which opened its office in the Russian capital in 1992, announced that “after careful consideration” it has decided to shut its offices in Moscow and wind down its operations across the country.
Linklaters said it will not act for any individuals or entities that are controlled or influenced by the Russian state or connected with the Russian regime. The firm also said that it plans to wind down its existing work in Russia.
“Russia’s invasion of Ukraine is reprehensible and it is right that we stand together in condemning it,” Linklaters said in a statement. “As the appalling war in Ukraine continues, our immediate thoughts remain with the Ukrainian people. We continue working to ensure that our colleagues and their families who are impacted are safe and have all the support they need.”
Meanwhile, Norton Rose Fulbright announced the closure of its office in Moscow. The firm said it “stands unequivocally with the people of Ukraine who are suffering as a result of the increasingly brutal invasion by Russia.”
“We are working with our charitable partners in every region to raise funds to help the people of Ukraine as well as providing pro bono support to those Ukrainians and others who are being forced to relocate,” Norton Rose Fulbright said.