Russia Threatens Google with Fines for not Removing Banned Content

JUL 21 2022·Updated FEB 15 2024

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Image credit: Unsplash

The Facts

Roskomnadzor, Russia's communications regulator, said on Tues. that it had drawn up two administrative cases against Google for failing to remove banned content from YouTube.
Al Jazeera
The body stated that Youtube was circulating false information regarding the war in Ukraine and allowed far-right Ukrainian groups to remain on the platform.
The Hill
Google could be fined up to 8M rubles (roughly $90k, or as much as 20% of the company's annual revenue in Russia) for repeat offenses.
One America
The fines come under a 2020 law that had already been used to fine big tech companies a total of $120M before the war.
Al Jazeera
Access to Twitter, Facebook, and Instagram has been restricted in Russia since the beginning of its invasion of Ukraine.
Al Jazeera

Sources Split

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RIGHT

ESTAB
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PRO
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The Spin

Anti-Russia narrative

YouTube represents one of the last Western social media voices in Russia; they must stand their ground against Putin's campaign of intimidation and censorship at all costs. If they're expelled for it, at least they'll have gone down serving the people rather than helping delude them.

wapo

Pro-Russia narrative

Google has consistently allowed far-right and anti-Russian propaganda to flourish on its platforms, allowing the spread of dangerous misinformation that threatens national security. If they wish to remain in Russia, they must respect Russian law.

TASS