Google's Big Trouble: A $129 Million Freeze in France

A Bold Move Against a Western Giant

Russia is making a bold move against Google. They've frozen approximately $129 million of Google's assets in France. This is an unusual tactic, as Russia is using legal means to target a major Western company's funds abroad. The dispute is part of a larger conflict over frozen Russian assets in Europe.

Google Russia Takes Action

Google Russia is behind this move. They're using a court-appointed manager to pursue shares owned by Google International in France. The French authorities have placed a temporary hold on these shares. The freeze is based on Russian court rulings from 2024 and 2025, which claim that Google made an illegal payment in 2021.

A History of Tensions

This isn't the first time Google has faced trouble in Russia. The company has been fined multiple times. In 2022, Google Russia even filed for bankruptcy after the government seized their bank account. This occurred around the time of Russia's invasion of Ukraine.

Google's Next Steps

Google has the option to challenge the freeze in court. If the freeze becomes permanent, the funds could be used to pay off fines imposed by Russian courts. The entire process could take up to a year and a half.

A Broader Conflict

This situation highlights the complex dynamics between global corporations and governments. It also reflects the escalating tensions over money and power between Russia and the West.