Russia Spares Google From Blockade Amid Android Dependency Concerns
Russia has no immediate plans to block Google, according to Anton Gorelkin, a senior lawmaker in the State Duma. The decision comes as regulators weigh the potential fallout for Android-powered devices, which account for 60% of smartphones in the country.
The reprieve follows recent restrictions on Meta’s WhatsApp and throttling attempts against Telegram, both widely used by Russian citizens. Gorelkin emphasized that a Google ban would trigger systemic disruptions, particularly for Android users, without guaranteeing compliance with court-ordered fines against the tech giant.
Legal battles between Russian firms and Google remain unresolved across multiple jurisdictions, leaving room for negotiated settlements. The standoff reflects Moscow’s balancing act between asserting digital sovereignty and preserving access to global tech infrastructure.
