Russia's Kremlin asked Apple for an explanation on Thursday. This comes after Apple removed many Russian apps from its App Store. The apps belonged to a Russian internet company called VK.
VK stated that its apps were removed without warning. The company is state-owned. It said this happened even though VK has never faced US sanctions. VK believes Apple is blocking Russian users from popular services.
These services include social networks, messaging apps, and video platforms. VK said Apple's actions are unfair and wrong. Apple responded by saying it follows laws in all countries. Apple stated it removed VK apps to follow sanctions rules.
Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov said Russian authorities will talk to Apple directly. They will demand an explanation. Peskov added that if no explanation is given, Russia will rethink its cooperation with Apple.
Currently, Russians who dislike Apple's decision can switch to Android phones. VK apps are still available on Android. Russia has limited foreign tech apps since the Ukraine conflict began in 2022. This is part of a larger conflict between Moscow and Western platforms.
Moscow wants to promote local internet services. It also wants more control over its online space. The Russian government encourages people to use 'MyMews'. This is a state-backed messaging app made by VK. It now comes pre-installed on new phones and tablets sold in Russia.
VK's messaging app is widely used in Russia. Its social network, 'VKontakte', is similar to Facebook. In January, VK's video service had 42.2 million daily users. This is according to data from 'Media Scope'.
VK itself is not under Western sanctions. However, its CEO, Vladimir Kiriyenko, is. The EU, UK, and US have sanctioned him. His father, Sergey Kiriyenko, is a senior official in the Russian president's office.