‘Sorry Spotify opened the office early, now it has to close. The last Russian can't listen to the song Gatal-Janna Nick. '
Spotify followed in the footsteps of Apple Inc. by closing its Russia -based office in response to Western calls to block Moscow’s actions in attacking Ukraine.
In a statement released by Spotify, they stated that the safety of its employees is a priority and they will continue to strive to be an important source of global as well as regional news.
Plus, they have reviewed thousands of content since the war began and blocked the accessibility of channels owned or operated by the combined Russian media, RT and Sputnik.
It is common knowledge that the Russian government obliges foreign social media companies to set up offices in Russia or they are not allowed to operate in that country.
Previously, Spotify had already completed the establishment of its office in Russia, but now acted to close it on the basis of supporting ‘humanity’ and opposing ‘non -provocative attacks on Ukraine’.
Spotify’s action is seen following Apple’s closure of its stores in Russia in protest of Russia’s brutal actions.
In the meantime, Spotify said it will match employee donations based on ratio, to support local humanitarian efforts.
In a separate news, the world's 2nd largest retailer, H&M also stopped selling its products in Russia.
H&M’s official statement confirmed its actions in support of ‘those who are innocent and oppressed’, referring to Ukraine being ‘violently attacked’ by Russia.
According to data, Russia is H&M’s 6th largest market, with over 150 store branches in Russia and accounting for 4% of group sales for the 4th quarter of 2021.
In addition, some of its stores in Ukraine also had to close due to security factors.
