Russia levies $20 Decillion fine against Google over YouTube channel restrictions

In an unprecedented move, Russia has fined Google an astounding $20 decillion—a figure with 34 zeros—over restrictions on Russian state-aligned channels on YouTube. This staggering amount far exceeds the combined gross domestic product (GDP) of every country in the world.

The case was brought forth by 17 Russian television networks, each filing legal claims against Google in Russian courts, which subsequently imposed compounded fines. This amount has ballooned exponentially as the fines double each week that Google fails to comply.

For perspective, the International Monetary Fund estimates the entire world’s GDP at around $110 trillion. In comparison, Google’s parent company, Alphabet, currently holds a market valuation near $2 trillion. The magnitude of Russia’s $20 decillion fine not only defies comprehension but is also more than 180 quadrillion times the worth of Alphabet.

Dmitry Peskov, Kremlin spokesperson, acknowledged the mind-boggling nature of the figure, admitting to reporters on Thursday that he “can’t even pronounce this figure right.” He further explained that the astronomical fine carries symbolic weight, emphasizing Russia’s stance against perceived censorship. “Google should not restrict the activities of our broadcasters, and Google is doing this,” Peskov remarked.

The Russian state news agency Tass reported that a Russian court had previously ordered Google to restore these blocked YouTube channels or face rising charges. The fine has since spiraled due to the compound penalties.

Earlier in August, Russian users experienced a widespread YouTube outage, drawing attention to the platform’s role as a last bastion for accessible, independent information within Russia. With most independent news sites blocked by Moscow, YouTube remains one of the few platforms where audiences can still access non-state-controlled news and information.

When reached for comment, Google had not yet responded.

Some information for this report was sourced from Reuters. [VOA News]