Apple Pulls Russian Apps, Kremlin Threatens Response

On Thursday, the Kremlin sharply demanded an explanation from Apple after the tech giant removed several popular Russian mobile apps linked to the internet conglomerate VK from the App Store.

The state-controlled company VK said the affected services, including social networks, messaging apps, email and video platforms, were blocked without warning. It described Apple's actions as an unjustified restriction on tens of millions of Russian users.

Apple responded by saying it strictly complies with the laws of the countries in which it operates and removed the VK apps in accordance with applicable international sanctions.

Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov warned that if Apple does not provide an adequate explanation, Moscow will take measures affecting future cooperation. He recommended that citizens switch to Android devices, where VK apps remain available.

Since the outbreak of the conflict in Ukraine in 2022, Russia has been systematically restricting foreign platforms and tightening control over its domestic online space. The government is currently promoting, on a massive scale, the state-backed MAX messenger developed by VK, which all devices sold in the country are required to have pre-installed.

Although VK itself is not directly on any sanctions lists, its CEO, Vladimir Kiriyenko, the son of the first deputy head of Putin's office, faces sanctions from the US, the EU and the UK.

(Reuters, MAX)