Apple removes Russian Facebook competitor VK from the App store. The company says British sanctions compel it to make the decision. The social media site has been removed from stores globally.
The company said in a statement that the app would continue to work on smartphones that had installed it before the takedown. However, it also issued a warning to users that ‘’there may be difficulties with notifications and payments’’ as a result.
The statement adds, “In recent months, key updates have been implemented on our main products. Which will allow the apps to remain relevant for a long time. Our experts are doing their best to maintain and continue to improve the user experience.”
Apple confirmed the removal of VK
Apple confirmed the removal in a statement. “These apps are being distributed by developers majority-owned or majority-controlled by one or more parties sanctioned by the UK government.
“In order to comply with these sanctions, Apple terminated the developer accounts associated with these apps. And users can not download apps from any App Store, regardless of location. Users who have already downloaded these apps may continue to use them.”
Russian Ministry of Digital Affairs response
Responding to the company statement, the Russian Ministry of digital affairs said that it had pushed Apple for the reason for the deletion, ‘’underlining the social significance and scale of use of the services provided by the Russian company’’ and also said, ‘’a plan of action’’ would follow Apple’s response.
Following the latest attacks on Ukraine in February, Apple also voluntarily scaled back its operations. The company had recently stopped its products in the country. Meanwhile, UK sanctions were issued on Monday targeting the sham referendums held by Russian Authorities.
UK foreign secretary, James Cleverly“Today’s sanctions will target those behind these sham votes. As well as the individuals that continue to prop up the Russian regime’s war of aggression. We stand with the Ukrainian people and our support will continue as long as it takes to restore their sovereignty.”
