## Russia slaps Google record fine of $20.5 decillion - more than double the worldwide gross domestic product **Moscow, Russia** - A Russian court has fined Google a historic $20.5 decillion for allegedly blocking Kremlin propaganda. The fine, which is more than double the entire world's annual gross domestic product, has shocked the tech industry and raised concerns about the growing crackdown on free speech in Russia. The Russian government has accused Google of suppressing pro-Kremlin content on its search engine and YouTube platform. Google has denied the allegations, saying that it has always complied with Russian law. However, the Russian government has been increasingly critical of Google in recent years, accusing the company of being biased against Russia. The fine is the latest in a series of actions taken by the Russian government against Google. In March, the government blocked access to Google News for several days. In April, the government fined Google $300 million for allegedly violating Russian competition law. The fine has sent shockwaves through the tech industry. Many experts believe that the fine is excessive and that it could set a dangerous precedent for other countries to follow. The fine could also make it more difficult for Google to operate in Russia, which is one of the company's largest markets. The fine has also raised concerns about the growing crackdown on free speech in Russia. In recent years, the Russian government has passed a number of laws that restrict freedom of speech. The government has also been accused of harassing and imprisoning journalists and activists who criticize the government. The fine against Google is a clear signal that the Russian government is determined to control the flow of information in the country. It is a worrying development for free speech in Russia and could have a chilling effect on the tech industry. **Key facts:** **-** The fine against Google is the largest ever imposed on a tech company. **-** The fine is more than double the entire world's annual gross domestic product. **-** The Russian government has accused Google of suppressing pro-Kremlin content on its search engine and YouTube platform. **-** Google has denied the allegations, saying that it has always complied with Russian law. **-** The fine has sent shockwaves through the tech industry and raised concerns about the growing crackdown on free speech in Russia.
