Google/Alphabet faces extraordinary fines in Russia, surpassing 2 sextillion roubles (approximately 2.3 quintillion euros) due to daily penalties imposed by Russian courts since 2020 for blocking local YouTube channels. The fines, doubled weekly, stem from legal actions by state-linked channels affected by US sanctions. Google has yet to pay, having already declared its Russian subsidiary bankrupt, while YouTube remains operational in Russia but with restrictions. The situation continues to escalate as fines may soon reach a “googol.”
According to reports from the Moscow Times, Google/Alphabet has amassed fines nearing 2 sextillion roubles in Russia, which translates to about 2.3 quintillion euros—a staggering amount significantly exceeding global monetary totals. Even if Google were to agree to pay these fines, accumulating such a sum would be impossible.
This situation stems from a 2020 ruling by Russian courts mandating that Google pay daily fines of 100,000 roubles, which double weekly if left unpaid. This compounding has resulted in exponential growth over four years, attributed to the blocking of particular Russian YouTube channels.
Legal Action by Russian News Channels Against Google
Multiple Russian channels, associated with individuals subject to US sanctions, have seen their YouTube channels blocked. This process began with the annexation of Crimea in 2020 and intensified following Russia’s invasion of Ukraine in 2022, affecting key state media outlets like RT, Sputnik, and RIA.
Operators of these channels brought their grievances to Russian courts and achieved favorable rulings. Nevertheless, Google continues to enforce the blocks and has not acquiesced to the fines. Following the seizure of Google Russia’s bank accounts in the summer of 2022, the subsidiary declared bankruptcy. The corporate parent in the US has remained silent on the matter. While YouTube remains available in Russia, users face significant restrictions and reduced speeds since August 2024.
It appears unlikely that Google intends to settle these fines. The company justified its actions by adhering to US sanctions and thus believes it stands on solid ground. Google has initiated counterclaims in both the USA and the UK. Should the fines persist in their doubling trend, they may eventually reach an astronomical figure known as ‘googol’, representing 1 followed by 100 zeros; this term inspired the company’s name.
Overview of Google Pixel Phones
Here’s a look at some of the best Google Pixel phones based on extensive testing:
Test Winner:
Price Tip:
Top Alternative:
Another Alternative:
Google’s Best Foldable Phone:
Saving Alternative:
Another Option from Google:
Good (1.7)
Good (2.2)
Good (1.7)
Good (1.7)
Good (1.6)
Good (2.3)
Good (1.8)
Prices start from €1,049 (Amazon)
From €225 (Amazon marketplace: CarbonPhone)
From €1,303 (Amazon)
From €955 (Amazon)
From €1,899 (Amazon)
From €214 (Amazon marketplace: Lombardo Shop)
From €412 (Amazon)
These evaluations are derived from thorough laboratory testing, with results assessed by our editorial team, ensuring transparency and independence in all tests.