Russia has imposed an unprecedented fine of $20 decillion (which is $20 followed by 36 zeros) on Google after the tech giant removed state-run and pro-government accounts from YouTube. This includes accounts belonging to at least 17 Russian TV channels. The amount of the fine surpasses the entire world’s estimated GDP of approximately $110 trillion, according to the International Monetary Fund (IMF).
In response to the escalating conflict and sanctions, Google, which owns YouTube and has a market value of about $2.16 trillion, has taken significant steps affecting Russian users. In October 2024, Google restricted the creation of new accounts for users in Russia and deactivated AdSense accounts in the country back in August. Additionally, online ads have not been served to Russian users since March 2022, as part of broader sanctions against Russia.
The fine’s magnitude makes it virtually impossible for Google to pay. Russian authorities have stated that the fine will continue to increase due to non-payment, with the potential to double every day if it remains unpaid for more than nine months. The court ruling stipulating this fine also indicates that Google may only return to the Russian market if it complies with the court’s decision.
The legal case originated in 2020, initially filed privately after the blocking of accounts belonging to the Tsargrad TV channel and RIA FAN due to U.S. sanctions. However, it escalated following the onset of the Ukraine war, particularly after YouTube blocked accounts of Russian media outlets like Sputnik and RT, leading to Russian authorities’ involvement.
