Google Play will stop processing payments to app developers in Russia starting December 26, 2024, according to the Kyiv Independent.
This move is part of ongoing restrictions that Google has placed in response to Russia's invasion of Ukraine.
According to a message shared by Habr, a Russian IT portal, Google notified Russian developers about the suspension.
In the message, Google Play said it would block all user attempts to buy paid apps and disable in-app purchases and subscription renewals in apps made by Russian developers.
Google will also settle any outstanding payments to Russian developers for purchases made by users before the suspension. These payments are expected to be completed by January 15, 2025.
This decision comes as tensions between Google and Russian authorities continue to grow.
In late October, a Russian court imposed a fine of $2.5 decillion on Google for allegedly blocking pro-Kremlin content on YouTube.
This fine originally started as 100,000 rubles (around $960), but under Russian law, it has been increasing every week since 2020.
This latest move by Google is part of a broader trend of companies and countries imposing economic and digital restrictions due to the ongoing conflict in Ukraine.
As the situation develops, it remains to be seen how both tech companies and governments will continue to adjust their policies.
