Russia's government has demanded an explanation from Apple after several Russian mobile apps related to VK were deleted from the App Store without warning or explanation. The Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov stated that if such explanations are not provided, Russia may draw conclusions about continuing any cooperation with Apple.

Background and Context

The removal of VK's apps from the App Store is not an isolated incident. According to Apple's 2025 App Store Transparency Report, Russia has been a leading country in demanding that Apple remove apps from its store. In 2025, Russia asked that Apple remove 1,213 apps, many of which were VPN apps designed to thwart the country's Internet censorship. This move is part of Russia's efforts to build a closed, spy-friendly domestic version of the Internet.

.VK Group, the developers of VKontakte and related services, has stated that their apps were removed "without warning or explanation" from the App Store. The company emphasized that it has never been subject to sanctions nor included on sanctions lists, confirmed by international and US counsel. Apple has long been in possession of these official legal opinions and all relevant information.

Why It Matters to the Industry

The removal of VK's apps from the App Store highlights the challenges that adult-industry platforms and operators face when dealing with global technology companies like Apple. The industry relies heavily on streaming and webcam infrastructure, servers, and platforms that are often subject to the whims of these tech giants.

Apple's decision to remove VK's apps without explanation raises concerns about the reliability of its services as a commercial provider. This move may prompt Russia to explore alternative operating systems, such as Android, which still offer VK's apps. The Kremlin has urged Russians to switch to Android and "national systems" after the VK app was removed from the App Store.

The situation also underscores the importance of age-gating and moderation in the adult industry. As technology companies like Apple continue to navigate complex geopolitical issues, platforms and operators must remain vigilant in ensuring that their services comply with local regulations and laws.

What Comes Next

The Kremlin has warned that if Apple does not provide explanations for removing VK's apps, Russia may draw conclusions about continuing any cooperation with the company. This could lead to a potential rupture in relations between Russia and Apple.

Russia has been encouraging its citizens to use MAX, a state-approved messaging platform developed by VK. The app comes preinstalled on all smartphones and tablets sold inside Russian borders. However, Apple has not officially sold iPhones in Russia since March 2022 due to the country's clampdown on foreign technology.

Key Facts

  • Russia demanded that Apple remove 1,213 apps from its App Store in 2025, many of which were VPN apps designed to thwart Internet censorship.
  • Apple removed VK's apps from the App Store without warning or explanation, citing sanctions as the reason.
  • .VK Group stated that it has never been subject to sanctions nor included on sanctions lists, confirmed by international and US counsel.
  • The Kremlin urged Russians to switch to Android and "national systems" after the VK app was removed from the App Store.
  • Russia has been encouraging its citizens to use MAX, a state-approved messaging platform developed by VK.
  • Apple has not officially sold iPhones in Russia since March 2022 due to the country's clampdown on foreign technology.

The situation highlights the complex geopolitical issues that technology companies like Apple face when operating in countries with strict regulations and laws. As the industry continues to evolve, platforms and operators must remain adaptable and vigilant in ensuring compliance with local regulations and laws.