Apple Halts Sale Of Products In Russia, Limits App Store Access From World

Apple has officially announced it will be halting the sale of its products in Russia, in response to the country’s invasion of Ukraine.

According to NBC News, while the brand does not have any physical stores in the nation, it has been selling its devices through the online store, as well as several third-party retailers.

“We are deeply concerned about the Russian invasion of Ukraine and stand with all of the people who are suffering as a result of violence,” Apple said in a statement.

“We are supporting humanitarian efforts, providing aid for the unfolding refugee crisis, and doing all we can to support our teams in the region,” the company added.

It remains unclear how long these restrictions will remain in place, with Apple saying it will “continue to evaluate the situation” and “are in communication with relevant governments.”

“We join all those around the world who are calling for peace,” it said.

Additionally, it will pull RT News and Sputnik News from the App Store outside of Russia, just shy of completely stopping Russian access to the app—a request made by a Ukrainian minister last week. 

David Kaye, a UC Irvine Law Professor and former UN Special Rapporteur for Free Speech, told CNET that despite the minister’s request, disallowing Russian citizens from accessing the App Store altogether may not be the right move.

“I’d be really worried that if they cut off the App Store, it’s going to make it much more difficult for individuals to ensure that their devices are updating and specific apps are secure,” Kaye explained.

“It would discourage people from using Apple products, which are among the most secure devices that people have in Russia. It would be a problem for activists and journalists,” he added.

The current solution, Kaye pointed out, allows for Apple to adhere to US sanctions by restricting the sale of its products in Russia, while still allowing iPhone users to stay connected in the country.

I am deeply concerned with the situation in Ukraine. We’re doing all we can for our teams there and will be supporting local humanitarian efforts. I am thinking of the people who are right now in harm’s way and joining all those calling for peace.

— Tim Cook (@tim_cook) February 25, 2022

[via NBC News and CNET, cover image via Vividrange / Shutterstock.com]