Putin Says Microsoft and Zoom Should Be “Throttled” in Russia
Russian President Vladimir Putin stated on Monday that foreign technology services such as Microsoft and Zoom should be “throttled” if they act against Russia’s national interests.
The remarks come amid growing tensions between Russia and Western tech providers, many of which have imposed restrictions or withdrawn services following geopolitical events.
Call for Russian Alternatives to Foreign Tech
Putin emphasized the need to develop homegrown software solutions to reduce reliance on foreign tech companies. He stated that Russia must prioritize domestic digital infrastructure to safeguard its cybersecurity and sovereignty.
“If they [foreign providers] behave inappropriately or act against our interests, we must throttle them,” said Putin during a government meeting focused on technology and national security.
Rising Tech Nationalism in Russia
This statement reflects a broader trend of digital nationalism in Russia, where the government has been
- Promoting Russian-made software
- Supporting alternative communication tools
- Expanding its “sovereign internet” framework
Microsoft and Zoom have previously limited or suspended services in Russia due to sanctions and compliance with international regulations.
Implications for Business and Communication
Putin’s comments may signal tighter restrictions on Western technology firms operating in Russia, posing challenges for
- Businesses relying on Microsoft Office or Teams
- Educational institutions using Zoom for remote learning
- Developers integrating foreign cloud infrastructure
The move is likely to accelerate the adoption of Russian-developed platforms, especially in government and military sectors.
