Following Russia’s invasion of Ukraine, Apple Inc. ceased product sales in the country, stating that the business stands “with all of the people who are suffering as a result of the violence.”
The iPhone manufacturer announced on Tuesday that it has halted exporting devices into the country’s sales channel last week in preparation for a sales halt. It is also withdrawing the RT News and Sputnik News apps from App Stores outside Russia. It has blocked traffic and live-incident services in Ukraine as a “safety and precautionary measure” for its citizens.
Vice Prime Minister Mykhailo Fedorov said the measure might help convert Russian youth against the invasion. However, he also demanded that the corporation close its local App Store. For multiple decades, Apple has maintained a Russian-specific online shop and a Russian-specific App Store.
This isn’t the first time Apple has severed ties with a country. Last year, Apple temporarily halted sales in Turkey because of economic upheaval and currency fluctuations. Recently, the business has also curtailed its Apple Pay service and other online products in Russia. In addition, Nike Inc. has also announced a sales suspension in Russia.
Following the latest Russian move, Apple shares dropped to session lows before recovering some of their losses. On Tuesday, the stock fell 1.2 percent to $163.20.
“We are deeply concerned about the Russian invasion of Ukraine,” Apple said in its 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 Cupertino, California-based corporation also stated that it would continue to assess the situation and that it is in dialogue with governments about the steps it is taking.
“We join all those calling for peace around the world.”
Last week, Apple CEO Tim Cook voiced concerns about the “situation in Ukraine,” without identifying Russia.
“I am thinking of the people who are right now in harm’s way and joining all those calling for peace,” he tweeted.