Apple (AAPL, Financial) has removed the Russian-language news app of Radio Free Europe/Radio Liberty (RFE/RL) from the Russian App Store following a request from Russia's state communications regulator, Roskomnadzor. This move is part of Russia's ongoing crackdown on independent media, particularly outlets critical of the government amid the ongoing conflict with Ukraine.
The app featured content from RFE/RL's Siberia.Realities and North.Realities projects and its removal is part of Russia's broader effort to restrict access to foreign media outlets. Apple has not issued a public statement regarding the removal, and Roskomnadzor has yet to comment. However, some users in Russia have found ways to continue accessing the app via alternative methods, such as downloading it from the internet.
This action highlights the growing tensions between global tech companies and state authorities in countries like Russia, which is known for its strict control over online content. Last year, Apple also removed 25 virtual private network (VPN) apps from its store at Roskomnadzor's request as part of Russia's broader effort to suppress citizens' ability to bypass censorship.
The timing of the app's removal is significant, as it comes amid increasing pressure on outlets like RFE/RL, whose journalists face severe restrictions. In August, an RFE/RL reporter was released in a prisoner swap after being convicted in Russia for spreading "fake news" about the Russian military.
