Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov mentioned that the enormous fines imposed on Google are more symbolic, intended to encourage the tech giant to lift restrictions on Russian YouTube channels. He pointed out that these legal claims, totaling two undecillion roubles, are ludicrously high, yet serve as a message for Google to reconsider its policies. Peskov emphasized the importance of addressing the situation, stating that Google should not limit the actions of Russian broadcasters.
The context of the fines reflects Russia's aggressive stance towards social media companies since the beginning of its Ukraine offensive. Russian authorities are increasingly using immense financial penalties against platforms that host content critical of the Kremlin or supportive of Ukraine. As threats loom over the continued availability of YouTube in Russia, the Kremlin appears to aim at bringing platforms in line with its demands, using legal repercussions to compel compliance from major Western tech firms.
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