Two of the biggest payment processing firms in the world on March 5 announced they were suspending operations in Russia. Mastercard and Visa said Russian banks would be cut off from their networks and their cards would not work at Russian merchants or ATMs. “We don’t take this decision lightly. Mastercard has operated in Russia for more than 25 years. We have nearly 200 colleagues there who make this company so critical to many stakeholders. As we take these steps, we will continue to focus on their safety and well-being, including continuing to provide pay and benefits,” Mastercard said in an unsigned statement. “When it is appropriate, and if it is permissible under the law, we will use their passion and creativity to work to restore operations.” Mastercard said it heard from employees, consumers, and shareholders before deciding on the course of action. Al Kelly, chairman and chief executive officer …