A Russian court has fined Google an unprecedented 2 undecillion rubles (about $2.5 decillion) for refusing to restore access to accounts belonging to several pro-Kremlin and state-run media outlets. This astronomical fine, representing a number followed by 36 zeros, marks the largest penalty ever imposed.
Why Google is Facing These Fines
The conflict began in 2020 when YouTube, owned by Google, started blocking Russian state media channels like Channel One and military broadcaster Zvezda. The block was due to the channels’ support for Russia’s invasion of Ukraine. In response, 17 Russian TV channels filed legal claims against Google.
YouTube’s Initial Block on Russian Channels
YouTube initially blocked Tsargrad TV and RIA FAN, citing violations of sanctions and trade rules. Tsargrad then filed a lawsuit, leading to a court order requiring Google to restore access. If Google did not comply, it faced escalating daily fines. After the invasion of Ukraine in February 2022, YouTube blocked more state channels, including Sputnik and RT, intensifying tensions.
Accusations of Competition Law Violations
In response, Russia’s Federal Antimonopoly Service (FAS) accused Google of breaking competition laws, initially fining the company 2 billion rubles. This penalty increased to 4 billion rubles due to non-payment. The court later ruled that Google would face a fine of 100,000 rubles per day for non-compliance, doubling weekly. By September, the total fine reached nearly 13 decillion rubles.
The Latest Fine: $2.5 Decillion
At a recent hearing, a judge hinted at a fine with “many, many zeros.” Russian media reported that the final penalty now stands at 2 undecillion rubles, or around $2.5 decillion.
Google’s Response to the Situation
Google and its parent company, Alphabet, have not publicly commented on the case but have stated that these legal issues will not significantly affect their overall business. Alphabet acknowledged that the disputes involve account closures and fines related to accounts of sanctioned individuals.
Google’s Russia Operations Declared Bankrupt
In the summer of 2022, Google’s Russian subsidiary filed for bankruptcy, and by November 2023, it was officially declared bankrupt. Alphabet noted that its debts exceeded 19 billion rubles, while assets totaled just 3.5 billion rubles. As a result, Google has since stopped advertising operations in Russia to comply with Western sanctions.
