It's fun to be attacked, it's Russia's turn to counter attack. '
Alphabet Inc (Google) and Meta Platforms Inc (Facebook) are among the internet and technology giants to be fined by Russia after they failed to open local offices under the country’s communications laws.
According to a communications law passed by Vladimir Putin in July 2021, foreign social media companies with more than 500,000 daily users are required to open local offices or they will be blocked directly by the government.
Under the legislation, Russian communications regulator Roskomnadzor has listed 13 companies that need to formally set up offices on Russian soil before March.
However, in the wake of Russia's attack on Ukraine, triggering a series of sanctions by other countries, most internet and technology giants enshrined under Russian law could be penalized for failing to comply with the rules.
These are some of the companies that have already set up official offices and that have yet to do so.
Already Opened Local Office in Russia
Apple Inc
Spotify Technology
Rakuten Group Inc (Viper apps)
Has Not Opened a Local Office in Russia
Alphabet Inc (Google)
Meta Platforms Inc (Facebook)
Twitter Inc.
ByteDance (TikTok)
Zoom Video Communication Inc.
JOYY Inc (Likee apps)
Discord
Amazon.com Inc (Twitch)
Telegram
Pinterest Inc.
According to Meta's head of global affairs, Nick Clegg, they were still in talks with Russian regulators until the war between Ukraine broke out.
Meanwhile, the Russian Foreign Minister said Facebook and Google were responsible for 'inciting war' between them and Ukraine.
Roskomnadzor noted that external internet services discriminate against the Russian media.
