The Russian subsidiary of American giant Google, whose bank account was seized by Russian authorities, has announced their intention to file for bankruptcy, but will continue to provide its free services to the country.
A spokesman confirmed the news in a message to the AFP on Thursday.
The Russian authorities ’seizure of Google Russia’s bank account prevents our office in Russia from operating, employing and paying our employees there, paying suppliers and vendors, and meeting other financial obligationshe explained.
However, the spokesperson clarified that free services including Search, YouTube, Gmail and Maps will continue to be offered in Russia due to the high number of people who use them every day.
A history of conflict since the beginning of the invasion
Google has been under pressure since Russia’s offensive in Ukraine began. On April 21, a Russian court fined the group 11 million rubles (approximately C $ 226,000) for failing to remove content. forbidden on the offensive.
Russia also vowed in early April of retaliation after closing the YouTube account of the lower house of the Russian parliament. Many pro-Kremlin media channels and Russian officials were also blocked.
In March, the Russian federal telecommunications agency, Roskomnadzor, accused Google and YouTube of activities terroristssuggesting possible blocking of the site in Russia, such as Twitter, Instagram and many independent media since the troops arrived in Ukraine.
Russian authorities have strongly strengthened the legal arsenal to control communications in combat, threatening up to 15 years in prison to those who broadcast wrong information about the Russian army.
Source: Radio-Canada
