Google, Apple, Ford, Other Big US Brands Join Corporate Wave Shunning Russia
U.S. companies Apple, Google, Ford, Harley-Davidson, Boeing and Exxon Mobil rebuked and rejected Russia for its invasion of Ukraine, under steady pressure from investors and consumers decrying the violence.
Apple Inc late on Tuesday said it had stopped sales of iPhones and other products in Russia, adding that it was making changes to its Maps app to protect civilians in Ukraine.
Tech firms including Alphabet Inc’s Google dropped Russian state publishers from their news, and Ford Motor – with three joint venture factories in Russia – told its Russian manufacturing partner it was suspending operations in the country.
Motor cycle maker Harley-Davidson Inc suspended shipments of its bikes.
Exxon Mobil Corp said it would discontinue operations in Russia and was taking steps to exit the Sakhalin-1 venture, following in the steps of British energy giants Shell Plc and BP , Russia’s biggest foreign investor.
Many corporations have been unusually clear in their condemnation of Russia.
“We are deeply concerned about the Russian invasion of Ukraine and stand with all of the people who are suffering as a result of the violence,” Apple said in a statement.
The steady drum beat of companies taking a stance increased later in the day as rockets struck major cities in Ukraine
“Ford is deeply concerned about the invasion of Ukraine and the resultant threats to peace and stability. The situation has compelled us to reassess our operations in Russia,” Ford said, adding to several days of announcements by global car companies.
“We deplore Russia’s military action that violates the territorial integrity of Ukraine and endangers its people,” said Exxon, adding it will not invest in new developments in Russia.
Boeing (BA.N) suspended parts, maintenance and technical support services for Russian airlines, a Politico reporter tweeted.
The U.S. plane maker suspended major operations in Moscow and will also temporarily close office in Kyiv, the tweet said.
Boeing did not immediately respond to a request for comment.
Restrictions from the West have hit the Russian economy hard, with the rouble currency falling as much as a third to a record low.
Financial isolation is rising as shipping companies say they will not serve Russian ports.
The U.S. government is expected to ban Russian flights from American airspace as soon as Wednesday, Reuters reported, quoting government and industry officials.
