In an unprecedented move, Russia has fined Google an astronomical sum exceeding two undecillion rubles—a figure represented by a two followed by 36 zeros—after YouTube removed state-run and pro-government accounts from its platform. To put this staggering amount into perspective, an undecillion is a trillion times a trillion times a trillion, dwarfing the estimated $110 trillion global GDP.
Despite Google’s current market valuation of $2.16 trillion, meeting the fine is effectively impossible. Furthermore, Russia's state news agency Tass reports that the fine will continue to accumulate as long as Google refuses to restore the accounts. If the fine remains unpaid beyond nine months, it will begin doubling daily.
The dispute began when YouTube, owned by Google, blocked 17 Russian state-aligned accounts, including Tsargrad TV and RIA FAN, citing compliance with U.S. sanctions. The case escalated following the start of the Ukraine conflict, when YouTube also blocked channels such as Sputnik and RT. In response, Russian authorities intervened, ultimately leading to this extreme financial penalty.
According to RBC News, the case’s presiding judge humorously remarked he was dealing with “many, many zeros.” Reports suggest that Google would only be allowed to resume operations in Russia if it complies with the court's ruling and reinstates the blocked accounts.
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