WEB DESK: Google is reportedly facing an astronomical fine of over two undecillion rubles after removing state-affiliated and pro-government Russian accounts from YouTube. The fine amount is a figure with 36 zeros.
The fine, according to Russia’s RBC News, stems from Google’s refusal to restore YouTube channels belonging to 17 Russian TV stations. The channels include Tsargrad TV and RIA FAN, which were blocked due to US sanctions. Later, channels like Sputnik and RT were also blocked amid the Ukraine war.
To make the fine amount a little more understandable, one undecillion is a trillion times a trillion times a trillion, a number far beyond comprehension.
For those unaware, the world’s total GDP is estimated at around $110 trillion. Google, the owner of YouTube, has a current market value of $2.16 trillion.
So, it’s unlikely that the tech giant will be paying up any time soon. In fact, the fine is still accumulating, and according to the state news agency Tass, if it isn’t settled within nine months, it could start doubling daily.
In a hearing on 28 October, a judge remarked that this was a case involving “many, many zeros,” underscoring the staggering size of the penalty. The situation began privately in 2020 but escalated after the Ukraine conflict when Russian authorities intervened.
If Google wants to return to the Russian market, complying with this court ruling might be its only option.
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