Microsoft Halts New Sales in Russia Amid Ongoing Conflict
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Chapter 1: Microsoft's Response to the Crisis
In light of Russia's "unjustified, unprovoked, and illegitimate invasion" of Ukraine, Microsoft has announced a complete cessation of new sales of its products and services in Russia. Microsoft President and Vice-Chair Brad Smith stated, "We are announcing today that we will cease all new sales of Microsoft products and services in Russia."
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Section 1.1: Collaborative Efforts with Global Governments
Furthermore, the company is actively coordinating with the governments of the US, European Union, and the UK, complying with various state-sanctioned measures by suspending multiple aspects of its operations in Russia. Since the onset of the conflict, Microsoft has been providing significant support to Ukrainian cybersecurity officials, assisting them in countering Russian cyber threats.
Subsection 1.1.1: Protecting Ukrainian Cybersecurity
Smith noted that security experts from Redmond have played a crucial role in preventing breaches at over 20 Ukrainian governmental, IT, and financial institutions. A recent incident involved thwarting cyberattacks aimed at several civilian websites, including one targeting a prominent Ukrainian broadcaster.
Section 1.2: The Threat Landscape
The Microsoft Threat Intelligence Center (MSTIC) reported that Ukraine's networks were subjected to severe attacks utilizing FoxBlade malware, which was identified by antivirus companies Symantec and ESET just a day prior to the invasion, and later named HermeticWiper by SentinelOne.
Chapter 2: A Commitment to Safety and Support
Smith emphasized the company's dedication to the safety of its employees in Ukraine, stating that Microsoft is in continuous communication with them to provide various forms of assistance, particularly for those who have had to evacuate due to the crisis. "We stand with Ukraine in advocating for peace, respect for Ukraine’s sovereignty, and the protection of its people, as do so many others," he stated.
The first video titled "Microsoft Suspends All New Sales In Russia" provides insights into Microsoft's decision-making process regarding its operations in the region.
The second video, "Microsoft, Amazon, & Google Suspend Cloud Sales in Russia | Sync Up," discusses the broader impact of tech companies halting services in response to the ongoing conflict.
Microsoft's actions align with those of other major technology firms that have similarly suspended their services and support in Russia. For instance, due to sanctions enforced by the US, EU, and other global entities, both Intel and AMD have halted processor sales and will no longer supply products to the country.
On Thursday, Intel remarked, "We will continue to stand with the people of Ukraine and the international community in calling for an early end to this bloodshed and a fast restoration to peace." Notably, Microsoft has not announced any plans to terminate existing support, likely due to concerns that breaching contracts could be deemed a war crime in Russia.
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