Google's presence in Russia is significantly diminished but still exists in certain capacities. Here's a nuanced perspective:
- Google Services Availability: Despite Google's efforts to scale back operations and declare its Russian subsidiary bankrupt, some services remain accessible to Russians. Google's search engine and YouTube continue to function in Russia, albeit with restrictions and under close scrutiny from the Russian authorities12.
- Limited Functionality: Google has blocked the creation of new accounts from Russia and restricted Russian nationals' ability to earn ad revenue on YouTube. This limits the functionality of Google services for Russian users, who may face challenges in using certain features1.
- Legal and Operational Challenges: Google has faced significant legal challenges in Russia, including the imposition of large fines and the seizure of assets. The company has also had to navigate around sanctions and operational restrictions imposed by the Russian government12.
- Adaptation and Compliance: Google has adapted to the challenging environment by deactivating certain services, such as AdSense in Russia, to comply with local regulations and avoid further legal action4.
In summary, while Google's presence in Russia is attenuated due to legal, operational, and strategic decisions, some core services still operate in the country, subject to strictures and oversight.