Apple Halts All Product Sales in Russia Over Ukraine Invasion
Apple stops all product sales and limits services in Russia as a response to the ongoing invasion of Ukraine. The company also removes Russian state-funded news apps from the App Store outside the country.
Apple halts all product sales in Russia as a direct response to the ongoing invasion of Ukraine. The technology giant confirms that it paused all exports into its Russian sales channel last week and completely stops offering devices in the country today. This major escalation follows a direct public appeal from Ukrainian Vice Prime Minister Mykhailo Fedorov, who urged CEO Tim Cook to cut off Apple products and services to the Russian Federation.
Beyond stopping hardware sales, Apple limits several key digital services within Russian borders. The company restricts the functionality of Apple Pay and removes the Russian state-funded news applications RT News and Sputnik from the App Store in all regions outside of Russia. Additionally, Apple disables live traffic and incident data in Apple Maps specifically in Ukraine as a safety precaution for citizens navigating the conflict zone.
Apple issues a strong verbal condemnation of the invasion, stating that it stands with those suffering from the violence. The company expresses deep concern over the situation, noting that it supports humanitarian efforts and provides aid for the growing refugee crisis. Apple promises to continuously evaluate the unfolding conflict and maintains active communication with relevant governments regarding its imposed restrictions.