Apple Pauses All Product Sales in Russia

Citing “deep concerns” following the invasion of Ukraine, Apple has said it has suspended sales of its products in Russia.

Suspending Product Sales 

Apple has paused the sales of its products in Russia, a measure triggered by its sustained military activities in Ukraine. The tech giant made the announcement on Tuesday in a statement. This step is Apple’s most recent after it limited the functionality of the Apple Pay service.

“We are deeply concerned about the Russian invasion of Ukraine and stand with all of the people who are suffering as a result of the violence,” the statement read. “We are supporting humanitarian efforts, providing aid for the unfolding refugee crisis, and doing all we can to support our teams in the region.”

The company went on to highlight the measures it has taken in light of the invasion. 

“We have paused all product sales in Russia. Last week, we stopped all exports into our sales channels in the country. Apple Pay and other services have been limited. RT News and Sputnik News are no longer available for download from the App Store outside Russia.”

Ukraine’s vice prime minister Mykhailo Federov urged Apple CEO Tim Cook to “finish the job” by blocking Russian access to the Apple App Store.

No more @Apple product sales in Russia!

Now @tim_cook let's finish the job and block @AppStore access in Russia. They kill our children, now kill their access!

— Mykhailo Fedorov (@FedorovMykhailo) March 1, 2022

Tech Company “Sanctions”

Apple’s decision adds it to the line of major tech companies that have taken similar steps in blocking sales in Russia.

Sportswear giant Nike made the purchase of merchandise on its website and app unavailable in the country. According to an update on its website, the action was necessary as it could no longer guarantee delivery of goods to customers.

Google, its video-sharing platform YouTube, and Facebook parent company Meta recently took steps to block the reach of Russian state media while limiting monetization.