Russian social media company VK has accused Apple of removing its applications from the App Store without prior notice, prompting the Kremlin to demand an explanation from the U.S. technology giant.
The St. Petersburg-based company said on Thursday that the removal would prevent users from receiving notifications about messages and other important updates. It added that applications already installed on Apple devices would continue to function, while all VK apps remain available on Android.
VK said it has never been subject to international sanctions and described Apple's decision as "unmotivated and unacceptable." The company said it continues to work in the interests of users and is taking steps to ensure uninterrupted access to its services.
Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov said the move raises questions about the reliability of Apple's services and that Russian authorities would seek clarification from the company.
"Before drawing any conclusions, we need to contact this service, and our relevant agency will do so," Peskov told reporters. He added that if Apple failed to provide an explanation, Russia would have to reconsider future interaction with the company.
Peskov also said the removal affects not only users in Russia but Russian-speaking users around the world. He suggested VK users switch from Apple devices to Android.
Apple has not commented on the removal of the applications or responded to the Kremlin's remarks.
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