Putin cracks down on Microsoft, Zoom, others over ‘anti-state’ actions
Russian President Vladimir Putin on Monday accused prominent American technology firms, such as Microsoft and Zoom, of taking an “anti-state” stance and called for limitations on their activities in Russia.
During a government meeting centered on technology policy, Putin stated that platforms seen as threatening Russia’s national interests should no longer be permitted to operate freely. “We cannot allow platforms that jeopardize our sovereignty,” he proclaimed. “We need to suppress them. I fully support this and express it without doubt.”
His statements were made in reaction to suggestions from a Russian businessman, who advocated for restricting access to American tech platforms that have reduced or halted services in Russia since the beginning of the Ukraine conflict.
Putin also highlighted the necessity for Russia to invest in its own technology industry. “We must cultivate domestic software solutions,” he stated, reinforcing the Kremlin’s ongoing objective of achieving digital self-sufficiency in light of increasing Western sanctions and diplomatic isolation.
These comments arise as Russia faces heightened criticism due to its persistent military operations in Ukraine. Former U.S. President Donald Trump lambasted Putin’s position, implying he had lost touch due to the war, while French President Emmanuel Macron urged for a timeline and cautioned of “massive retaliation” if Russia continues to dismiss peace talks.
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