Apple removed 190 apps from its Russian App Store between 2022 and 2024 after requests from Russia’s media regulator, Roskomnadzor. The numbers come from Apple’s own transparency reports, and they tell a clear story: the pace of removals picked up dramatically last year.
In 2022, Apple removed just seven apps. That number edged up to 12 in 2023. Then came 2024, when removals jumped to 171 apps in a single year. The surge pushed Russia to second place globally for government-requested removals, behind only China.
The spike reflects a broader shift. Over the past year, Russian authorities have moved more aggressively to control online content, particularly around politics, independent media, and tools that help users bypass restrictions.
Most Requests Used the Same Law
In the majority of cases, Roskomnadzor relied on a single piece of legislation that allows authorities to block websites and digital platforms. Out of 190 apps, 182 were removed under this law.
The rules cover a wide range of content, including material linked to organisations labelled “undesirable,” content authorities say could incite terrorism, and other forms of restricted information.
Another seven apps were removed for breaching financial regulations. These included services linked to illegal securities trading, online scams, and misuse of personal data.
Apple does not list every app it removes in its reports, but several examples from 2024 have emerged.
Political, Media, and VPN Apps Targeted
One of the most notable removals was the Foton-2024 app, developed by the Anti-Corruption Foundation associated with opposition figure Alexey Navalny. Released ahead of Russia’s presidential election, the app allowed users to randomly select one of President Vladimir Putin’s three opponents to vote for.
Authorities also requested the removal of apps linked to US-funded broadcasters such as Radio Liberty and Current Time TV.
VPN services were hit particularly hard. Apple removed 98 VPN apps in 2024 alone. These tools are commonly used to access blocked websites, making them a frequent target in countries tightening control over internet access.
For many users, VPNs are one of the few ways to reach content that would otherwise be unavailable. Their removal signals a tougher approach to digital access.
Apple Says It Must Follow Local Laws
Apple has said it complies with local laws to continue operating in Russia. In late 2024, the company stated that refusing to follow government requests could result in Apple losing the ability to run its App Store or distribute content in the country.
At the same time, Apple said the US government had encouraged it to continue operating in Russia. According to the company, maintaining access to digital services can help support democratic values and provide users with alternative sources of information.
Data for years before 2022 has not been published, and figures for 2025 are not yet available. But the sharp rise in 2024 suggests that tech companies operating in tightly regulated markets may continue to face difficult choices.
As governments push for more control, companies like Apple are increasingly walking a fine line between staying in the market and limiting what users can access.
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