Apple announced Tuesday that it will halt the sale of all of its products in Russia, while global users will no longer be able to download state-backed media outlets RT News and Sputnik News from its app stores in the wake of Moscow’s invasion of Ukraine.
While Apple doesn’t have any physical stores present in Russia, it does operate online. However, the tech giant has now halted the sales of all of its products, including Macs, iPhones, iPads, and other Apple devices, from its Russian website.
Customers attempting to purchase any product from the website are instead told that “delivery is unavailable” when they attempt to put the item in their online shopping cart.
Apple said in a statement on Tuesday that it has paused the sale of its goods in the country as a sign of solidarity with the people of Ukraine after Russia invaded on Feb. 24.
“We are supporting humanitarian efforts, providing aid for the unfolding refugee crisis, and doing all we can to support our teams in the region,” Apple added.
As well as RT News and Sputnik News no longer available for download from the App Store outside of Russia, Apple said it has also disabled both traffic and live incidents in its Maps in Ukraine as a safety and precautionary measure for Ukrainian citizens.
“We will continue to evaluate the situation and are in communication with the relevant governments on the actions we are taking. We join all those around the world who are calling for peace.”
announcement from Apple comes shortly after Ukraine’s digital minister Mykhailo Fedorov, called on the company’s CEO Tim Cook to stop supplying Apple services and products to the Russian Federation and block access to the Apple store.
“In 2022, modern technology is perhaps the best answer to the tanks, multiple rocket launchers and missiles,” Fedorov wrote in a letter to Cook.
“I appeal to you and I am sure you will not only hear, but also do everything possible to protect Ukraine, Europe, and finally, the entire democratic world from bloody authoritarian aggression,” Fedorov said. “We are sure that such actions will motivate youth and active population of Russia to proactively stop the disgraceful military aggression.”
Elsewhere on Tuesday, American automobile manufacturer Ford said it has suspended operations in Russia, effective immediately, until further notice.
“Ford is deeply concerned about the invasion of Ukraine and the resultant threats to peace and stability. situation has compelled us to reassess our operations in Russia,” Ford said,
A string of companies—including Harley-Davidson, Nike, Dell, Exxon Mobil, and more— have in recent weeks announced similar moves in the wake of President Vladimir Putin’s invasion of the former Soviet nation, leaving the country facing increasing isolation.
Earlier this week Google, Twitter, and TikTok also imposed various restrictions on Russia and moved to block content from RT and Sputnik across Europe.
Pezou : Apple Halts Sale of All Products in Russia, Ford Suspends Operations