Apple has removed all applications from Russian technology firm VK from its global App Store. The move impacts millions of users across platforms including VKontakte, Odnoklassniki, and various messaging and email services.
Apple cited sanctions compliance as the reason for the removal. This action follows the deletion of the state-backed Max messenger earlier this month.
VK claims the apps were removed without warning and maintains the company is not under U.S. sanctions. However, VK’s CEO currently faces sanctions from the U.S., EU, and United Kingdom.
The Kremlin has demanded a formal explanation from Apple regarding the decision. Apple previously executed a similar removal of VK apps in 2022 following UK sanctions.