Coca-Cola suspends its operations in Russia following Ukraine invasion

Coca-Cola has followed in the footsteps of McDonald's and suspended its operations in Russia.

It's in response to the country's ongoing invasion of Ukraine, with a statement from the company saying Coca-Cola 'hearts are with the people' at the centre of the conflict.

It will continue to 'monitor and assess' the developing 'situation'.

READ MORE: Martin Lewis' message to every household earning less than £30,000 per year

"The Coca-Cola Company announced today that it is suspending its business in Russia," a press release from the firm said.

"Our hearts are with the people who are enduring unconscionable effects from these tragic events in Ukraine.

"We will continue to monitor and assess the situation as circumstances evolve."

The decision to withdraw from the world's largest nation follows McDonald's lead earlier today.

In an email to staff today, McDonald's chief executive Chris Kempczinski wrote: "The conflict in Ukraine and the humanitarian crisis in Europe has caused unspeakable suffering to innocent people. As a System, we join the world in condemning aggression and violence and praying for peace."

His message continued: "In recent days, I have spoken with and heard from many in our System about our operations in Russia. The situation is extraordinarily challenging for a global brand like ours, and there are many considerations.

"For 66 years, we have operated with the belief that communities are made better when there’s a McDonald’s nearby.

"In Russia, we employ 62,000 people who have poured their heart and soul into our McDonald’s brand to serve their communities.

"We work with hundreds of local, Russian suppliers and partners who produce the food for our menu and support our brand. And we serve millions of