Microsoft has announced that it will suspend access to its cloud services for companies based in Russia, effective March 20. This move comes as a direct response to the European Union's 12th package of sanctions against Russia, specifically EU regulation 833/2014. The suspension includes a wide range of cloud-based products, significantly impacting Russian businesses that rely on these services for their operations. As reported by Windows Report, the decision underscores the escalating tech cold war between major global technology firms and Russia, following the country's full-scale invasion of Ukraine.
The Response from Russian IT Sector
In light of Microsoft's announcement, Elena Volotovskaya, Vice President for Investments at the Russian IT company Softline, has confirmed the suspension and alerted the company's clientele to brace for restrictions on additional services offered by Microsoft. Softline, acting proactively, has established a dedicated Telegram channel to support its clients during this transition. This channel aims to provide timely updates, guidance, and potential workarounds to mitigate the impact of the suspension on Russian businesses. Furthermore, Softline has communicated that other tech giants, namely Amazon and Google, are also shutting down access to their cloud products and services in Russia, advising users to promptly back up their data.
Looking Ahead: Implications and Adaptations
The general director of Basalt SPO, the developer behind Viola OS, has commented on the situation, noting the foresight required in such volatile times. Companies that heavily invested in subscriptions for data storage with foreign service providers are now facing significant challenges due to these sudden access restrictions. This development serves as a stark reminder of the inherent risks associated with relying on international tech giants for critical business infrastructure.
The move by Microsoft, followed by Amazon and Google, not only disrupts the current technological landscape in Russia but also prompts a broader discussion about the importance of diversifying service providers and potentially turning to domestic alternatives to ensure continuity and resilience in the face of geopolitical tensions. As the situation evolves, the tech community and businesses alike will be closely watching how Russian companies navigate these challenges and adapt to an increasingly isolated digital environment.
Reacting to the Russian invasion of Ukraine in March 2022, Microsoft committed over $35 million to support humanitarian assistance and relief efforts for Ukraine. The company pulled its services from Russia and has been helping Ukraine with anti-cyber solutions to thwart Russian cyberattacks and cyberespionage. Following the invasion of Ukraine, major brands ranging from Microsoft to Coca-Cola have stopped sales in Russia
