Russian authorities have seized Google’s bank account, making it impossible for them to continue operating in the country. According to a recent report in The Wall Street Journal, Google has filed a notice of intent to declare the company bankruptcy in Russia.
According to a Google spokesman:
“The Russian authorities’ seizure of Google Russia’s bank account has made it untenable for our Russia office to function, including employing and paying Russia-based employees, paying suppliers and vendors, and meeting other financial obligations.”
Even if Google has declared an end to operations in Russia, Google’s free services will continue to function. This includes Android, Gmail, Maps, Search, Youtube, and, most importantly, the Google Play Store. However, Russian customers are unable to purchase any applications that require payment because Google has banned all payment services in Russia.
Previously, Russia has blacklisted many Google websites and fined the company for failing to remove unlawful content. Google’s response to Russia has been to halt most of its services in the country as part of the sanctions because of the ongoing invasion of Russia in Ukraine.
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