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Russia Levies Symbolic $20 Decillion Fine on Google for Blocking State Media

Oct 31, 2024, 05:30 PM

A Russian court has fined Google two undecillion rubles—approximately $20 decillion—for blocking Russian state media channels on YouTube following the invasion of Ukraine in February 2022. The fine, which doubles periodically, is now an unpayable sum exceeding the world's total wealth. Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov described the penalty as 'imbued with symbolism' and aimed at drawing attention to Google's censorship of Russian broadcasters. Google had ceased operations in Russia amid escalating tensions. The unprecedented fine underscores ongoing disputes between Russia and international tech companies over content restrictions and censorship.