Mars is scaling back its business in Russia. 

In a statement the company shared on the Mars Corporate site on March 10, the company said it will refocus its efforts in Russia on its essential role in feeding the Russian people and pets. 

Any profits from Mars’ Russian business will be used for humanitarian causes, and the company also has suspended new investments in Russia. In addition, Mars will not import or export its products in or out of Russia. 

Further, Mars’ social media and advertising activity in Russia and Belarus will remain suspended. 

Mars also said it will increase our cash and in-kind donation to humanitarian causes by $10 million in addition to the $2 million committed to affected people and pets last week. 

“We will continue to support them, but business as usual is not an option,” Mars said. “This is a humanitarian crisis, and this guides all our actions.”

Mars has operated in Russia for over 30 years, and it employs almost 6,000 associates who have been a vital part of the company for decades. 

Mars also said it continues to work hard to provide the company’s Ukrainian colleagues with the support they need. 

“Our hearts are broken by this terrible war in Ukraine,” the company said. “Our primary focus and absolute priority is the safety of our associates in the region. Teams of Mars associates are working tirelessly to help associates who are still in Ukraine, as well as those who make it across the borders.”

Mars noted that it was a fast-moving and uncertain situation and that if the company needs to take further action they will not hesitate to do so. 

“We reiterate our support to the innocent victims of this war and call for a peaceful resolution,” the company said. “Our hearts go out to the people of Ukraine and all those impacted by these terrible events.”