Firm adjusts its Russian unit with new operation scale-down

Jun 8, 2022 19:08 GMT  ·  By

Microsoft is one of the companies that have quickly responded to Russia’s military invasion in Ukraine, and just like the rest of the world, the software giant also announced a series of changes supposed to align with the sanctions announced by governments.

In March, the company stopped selling its products in Russia, including here super-popular releases like Windows and Xbox.

But as it turns out, Microsoft is now ready to continue the adjustment of Russian operations, this time with a scale-down that will impact some 400 employees.

In a statement for Bloomberg, Microsoft confirmed that all contractual obligations will be fulfilled.

“As a result of the changes to the economic outlook and the impact on our business in Russia, we have made the decision to significantly scale down our operations in Russia. We will continue to fulfill our existing contractual obligations with Russian customers while the suspension of new sales remains in effect. We are working closely with impacted employees to ensure they are treated with respect and have our full support during this difficult time,” Microsoft explained.

Helping Ukraine block cyberattacks

Microsoft has also worked with the Ukrainian cybersecurity officials to help the country block cyberattacks launched by Russia.

“Since the war began, we have acted against Russian positioning, destructive or disruptive measures against more than 20 Ukrainian government, IT and financial sector organizations. We have also acted against cyberattacks targeting several additional civilian sites. We have publicly raised our concerns that these attacks against civilians violate the Geneva Convention,” Microsoft revealed earlier this year when it announced the first set of sanctions.

In addition, the company has also contributed with $35 million to humanitarian assistance, while also matching employee donations by 2:1, with all funds going to NGOs to help people in Ukraine affected by the military invasion.