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Apple removes VK apps in Russia, faces Kremlin, China lawsuit

6/26/2026

50 6 Full Breakdown

Summary

Story summary

Apple removed VK’s suite of apps from the App Store in Russia on June 25, 2026.
The Kremlin demanded an explanation from Apple, saying it may reconsider cooperation.
Apple said the deletions were made to comply with sanctions that apply in the jurisdictions where it operates.
Forty-eight Chinese iOS developers filed a complaint with the State Administration for Market Regulation alleging Apple’s App Store commission rates violate antitrust rules.

History

Historical Context

After the United States and European Union imposed wide-range sanctions on Russia in 2014—freezing about $1 trillion of assets—Apple removed Russian social-media apps from its App Store to comply, citing the sanctions and its 30 % commission. A 2018 Russian ministry request for data disclosure resurfaced in a 2026 Kremlin demand for explanation, echoing growing antitrust pressure, including a suit by China’s SAMR.

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Story summary

Apple removed VK’s suite of apps from the App Store in Russia on June 25, 2026.
The Kremlin demanded an explanation from Apple, saying it may reconsider cooperation.
Apple said the deletions were made to comply with sanctions that apply in the jurisdictions where it operates.
Forty-eight Chinese iOS developers filed a complaint with the State Administration for Market Regulation alleging Apple’s App Store commission rates violate antitrust rules.

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