Google Faces Fines Over Content About Russian Soldiers
A Russian court has fined Google's Alphabet unit 3.8 million roubles for hosting YouTube videos instructing Russian soldiers on surrendering. Critics say Russia is disrupting YouTube to suppress anti-Putin content, while Russia blames Google for technical issues. Putin accuses Google of being a U.S. government tool.
- Country:
- Russia
A Russian court has imposed a fine of 3.8 million roubles on Alphabet's Google. The penalty relates to YouTube videos that allegedly provided instructions to Russian soldiers on how to surrender. This information emerged from a report by Russia's TASS news agency on Monday.
For years, Russia has compelled foreign tech firms to delete content it deems illegal, including what it terms as 'fakes' regarding the Ukraine conflict. Failure to comply results in small but consistent fines. Google has not yet issued a response to a request for comment sent via email.
The debate continues as critics claim Russian authorities hinder YouTube's download speeds to curb access to content critical of President Vladimir Putin. However, Russian authorities insist the technical issues lie with Google's alleged failure to upgrade its equipment, a claim disputed by Google and tech experts. In December, Putin accused Google of acting as a U.S. government tool.
ALSO READ
-
Free AI Training Opens Doors for African Public Officials to Build Smarter Services
-
WTO Sets Up Panel on EU Carbon Border Rules as Russia Challenges Restrictions
-
Russia’s Reach Beyond Borders Leaves Exiled Critics Living in Fear, UN Expert Warns
-
Ukraine Faces Another Bitter Winter as UN Inquiry Warns of Deepening Civilian Harm
-
Ukraine War: UN Documents 1,004 Sexual Violence Cases and Calls for Justice
Google News