In a fresh escalation of Russia’s tech nationalism, President Vladimir Putin on Monday accused U.S. technology firms like Microsoft and Zoom of taking an “anti-state” stance and said such services should be “throttled” in Russia.
Speaking during a government meeting on technology policy, Putin asserted that platforms seen as hostile to Russian interests could no longer be tolerated. “We must not tolerate platforms that undermine our sovereignty,” he declared. “We need to throttle them. I completely agree, and I say this without hesitation.”
The Russian leader was responding to a businessman’s suggestion to curb access to major Western tech platforms that have restricted or partially suspended operations in Russia following its invasion of Ukraine.
Putin doubled down on the need to build homegrown tech alternatives, stressing that Russia must focus on “developing domestic software solutions” to avoid dependence on Western companies.
The remarks came amid growing international isolation of Russia, fueled by its intensified military campaign in Ukraine. US President Donald Trump condemned Putin’s aggressive stance, saying he had gone “crazy” over the war, while French President Emmanuel Macron called for a deadline and “massive retaliation” if Moscow continues to disregard peace efforts.
Meanwhile, Russia launched its largest drone attack on Ukraine overnight, according to a top Ukrainian official, further raising tensions as Western allies weigh new sanctions. EU foreign policy chief Kaja Kallas labeled the latest strikes “totally appalling” and announced plans for new punitive measures. Trump has threatened massive sanctions, too, but so far hasn’t taken action. But he made it clear Sunday night that he is losing patience with Putin.
(With inputs from agencies)
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