West Goes on a Russian Culling Spree – Boeing, Apple, Ford and More Say “Bye, Bye”
Boeing has pulled the plug on any maintenance or tech support for Russian airlines, and Exxon Mobil has given Russia the cold shoulder, saying it will exit the market altogether. These moves are part of a growing line of Western companies that are ditching Moscow over its Ukraine offensive.
Apple & Ford Join the Trend
Apple has stopped selling iPhones, iPads and all the other Apple goodies in Russia, while Ford and other carmakers have frozen all motor‑mobility operations in the country.
Sanctions Tighten – Russians Lose Their Wallets and Their Repayment Speed
- Western governments have been cranking up sanctions on Russia since the invasion began.
- Russian banks have been pushed out of the huge SWIFT network.
- The rouble has taken a nosedive, forcing the central bank to raise interest rates.
- Moscow, feeling an exodus of foreign capital, has temporarily shut down Russian asset sales to foreigners.
Fierce Ice‑Cold Effects on Russian Firms
Russia’s biggest lender, Sberbank, announced it’s leaving the European market because its subsidiaries are pulling out huge amounts of cash. The bank also said it’s serious about protecting its employees and assets.
President Biden Keeps the Pressure On
In his State of the Union address, President Biden reminded the world that Vladimir Putin has no clue what the West is up to. He compared Russia’s head with European states and Canada, which have also closed US airspace to Russian planes.
Shipping Companies Go On the “No‑Russia” List
Major global shippers like Maersk, Hapag‑Lloyd and MSC have halted bookings to and from Russia, effectively putting the country back in the “shut‑out” camp.
Boeing’s Final Word: “We’re Done”
After a flurry of European and US restrictions, Boeing stepped in and said it’s suspending all operations. The airline giant’s posts highlight that it can’t lease planes, sell new aircraft or even provide parts to Russian clients anymore.
In short, if you’re a Russian-based business or a Russian citizen looking to buy or sell something from or to the West, or if you’re a tech fan who loves iPhones or a car enthusiast, it looks like the world’s going to keep turning its back on Moscow for the foreseeable future.
Chorus of condemnation
Oil Titans Set Sail Away From Russian Waters
Big names in the energy world are finally saying “bye-bye” to Russian projects. Exxon is pulling out of the Sakhalin‑1 oil and gas venture, following the footsteps of Britain’s BP, Russia’s top foreign investor, and the ever‑canny Shell Plc.
Who’s Cutting Their Ties?
- Exxon – Stops new investment in Russia and exits Sakhalin‑1.
- BP – Tosses out assets in Russia.
- Shell – Same play, parting ways.
- TotalEnergies – Will not put fresh cash into Russian projects, but stays open‑handed about a full exit.
- Harley‑Davidson – Suspended bike shipments to Russia.
- Ford – “The situation has forced us to rethink our Russian operations.”
Apple’s New MapMission to Protect Ukrainians
Even while halting sales in Russia, Apple is tweaking its Maps application to help guide civilians safely across Ukraine’s war zones. The company has loudly voiced its support for those suffering from the conflict, saying:
“We are deeply concerned about the Russian invasion of Ukraine and stand with all of the people who are suffering as a result of the violence.”
Tech Giants Tighten the Net
In a wave of corporate conscience, tech heavyweights are blocking state‑backed Russian media from reaching consumers worldwide.
- Google (Alphabet) – Banned mobile apps tied to RT and cut off ads for Russian state‑funded channels on its platforms.
- Microsoft – Dropped RT’s mobile apps from its Windows Store and stopped ads on Russian state media.
- Facebook – Mirrors Google’s moves by halting marketing for RT and similar outlets.
ESG Pressure: It’s Not Just About Dollars
Environmental, social, and governance concerns are pushing many companies to accelerate divestment. TJ Kistner, VP at Segal Marco Advisors, emphasizes that for many, the only viable path is to sell off Russian ties altogether.
Bottom Line
From oil fields to microchips, these giants are stepping back, all while keeping their eyes on both financial prudence and the bigger picture of global responsibility.
