Russia fines Google for telling its soldiers how to surrender
What's the story
A Russian court has fined Google 3.8 million rubles (around ₹36 lakh). The penalty was levied over the presence of content on YouTube that offered guidance to Russian soldiers on how to surrender, Russia's TASS news agency reported. The move comes as part of Russia's continued efforts to regulate foreign technology platforms and eliminate content it deems illegal.
Content regulation
Russia's stance on content removal and fines
Notably, Russia has a history of ordering foreign tech platforms to remove content it deems illegal. This includes what it calls "fakes" about the war in Ukraine. When these platforms do not comply with its orders, Russia issues fines - small but regular ones. Google has not yet issued any statement on this latest fine imposed by the Russian court.
Disruption claims
Accusations of YouTube disruption and Russia's denial
Critics have accused Russian authorities of deliberately slowing down YouTube's download speeds. They claim this is a ploy to keep Russians from accessing content critical of President Vladimir Putin and his administration. However, Russia denies these allegations, blaming the problems on Google's own failure to upgrade equipment - a claim both the company and tech experts dispute.
Political tool
Putin accuses Google of political manipulation
In December, Putin accused Google of being used as a tool by the US government for political gain. This allegation adds another layer to the ongoing tension between Russia and foreign tech companies like Google.