Russian President Vladimir Putin on Monday called for a harsh crackdown on foreign services like Microsoft and Zoom that have announced plans to leave Russia but continue to operate and profit within the country.
Speaking at a business meeting in Moscow, Putin said these companies should be “strangled,” adding, “I say this without embarrassment because they are trying to strangle us.”
Putin also urged Russian citizens to stop using Western services he described as promoting “bad habits.” While he criticized European firms for halting medical equipment deliveries to Russia, he noted that some U.S. companies continue to supply medical gear.
Regarding McDonald’s, which pulled out of Russia following the invasion of Ukraine, Putin was firm: “They put everyone in a difficult position, ran away, and now if they want to come back, should we pave the way for them? Of course not.”
This hardline stance comes amid a wider trend of international companies leaving Russia after its 2022 full-scale invasion of Ukraine. Nearly 500 global firms—including major brands like FedEx, Unilever, and IKEA—have fully exited the Russian market due to sanctions, ethical concerns, and reputational risks. Despite this, over 2,200 companies continue to operate in Russia, generating significant revenue and tax income that support the government. Many firms face difficulties in fully divesting their assets, while Western companies remain cautious about returning amid ongoing legal and political uncertainties.
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The United Kingdom has summoned the Russian envoy over its latest attack on Kyiv which killed civilians and damaged buildings including the EU delegation and the British Council.
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