Russian Courts to Rule on Google

The Tagansky District Court of Moscow will convene today for judgment on the case concerning the penalization of Google for refusing to remove Russian prohibited content.

The Federal Antimonopoly Service of Russia—the body which regulates anti-trust law— accuses Google of violating safety regulations by refusing to remove sensitive content deemed illegal in Russia. Today’s court session may rule for the implementation of fines against the American company in addition to the previous fines for purposes of violation.

The court will most likely rule against Google, with the technology firm expected to in turn, appeal the decision. This development will consequently have a negative impact on Russia’s foreign affairs with the West as the court decision will face major backlash and condemnation. In this context, expect the tense relations of Moscow and Washington to further deteriorate during the short-to medium term as this could hinder the likelihood of the two countries to reconcile their disputes— specifically in Ukraine— through diplomacy. Washington will likely decry the Russian court ruling, perceiving it as a move against private American firms. Therefore, Washington could refrain from providing any concessions that could alleviate Russian aggression during the long-term.