Russian court fines Google $20 decillion for blocking media on YouTube
A Russian court has fined Google $20 decillion for blocking Russian media on YouTube. This amount is symbolic, exceeding both Google’s market value and the global economy's size. The fine reflects demands from 17 Russian media outlets.
The case began in 2020 and expanded after Russia's invasion of Ukraine in 2022. The court ordered Google to restore blocked accounts within nine months, with daily fines for non-compliance. The fine doubles weekly without a cap.
Some Russian media outlets are seeking enforcement of the fine in other countries, including South Africa, where a court has allowed asset seizures. Google shares fell slightly after the news.