Russians can still get a McDonald's in some cities, despite the American burger giant closing around 850 of its restaurants there, in the wake of the military operation in Ukraine. That's because more than 100 branches are owned by franchisees who are ignoring the shutdown call. One Moscow outlet is as busy as ever, with delighted diners tucking into their favorite American food, as usual. McDonald's says the closure is temporary. It is continuing to pay its 62,000 local Russian staff.