Google logoMOSCOW, Feb 27Google is suspending monetization for government-funded Russian media on its platforms and apps, including YouTube, Reuters writes. YouTube representatives, citing «extraordinary circumstances,» said the video hosting service is «suspending the ability to monetize a number of YouTube channels.» Google later added that it also banned Russian state media from using its advertising technology to generate income on websites and apps. In addition, Russian media will not be able to buy ads through Google Tools or advertise on Google services such as search. and Gmail. «We are actively monitoring new developments and will take further steps if necessary,» company spokesman Michael Aciman said. Previously, Meta, which owns Facebook, announced a ban on advertising and monetization of Russian state-owned media.
On February 21, Russian President Vladimir Putin signed decrees recognizing the sovereignty of the Donetsk and Luhansk People's Republics, and on February 24 announced the start of a special military operation to demilitarize Ukraine. In response, Western countries began a new round of the sanctions spiral, which has been unwinding since 2014. Several of the largest Russian banks, including Sberbank and VTB, fell under the new restrictions. A number of state-owned companies found it difficult to attract foreign capital. Sanctions have been imposed on the supply of high-tech products to Russia. Germany has stopped certification of the Nord Stream 2 gas pipeline. The United Kingdom has closed flights for Aeroflot. Also in the US and the EU, statements are periodically made about the possibility of disconnecting Russia from the SWIFT international system of interbank transfers, but there is no unity on this issue in the West. There were no restrictions on Russian energy exports either. The Russian authorities said they had prepared a contingency plan in advance in case of a new wave of sanctions and would provide any necessary support to businesses affected by the restrictions, ensuring the smooth operation of the economy. The government is also developing response measures, but the details are not yet known.
