A Microsoft logo is pictured on a store in the Manhattan borough of New York City, New York, US, on Jan 25, 2021.Microsoft Corp President Brad Smith wrote to Ukraine's leader this month with a clear message: Despite Kyiv's calls for it to sever all ties with Russia, the US software behemoth would continue doing business in the country with non-sanctioned clients, including schools and hospitals.
The decision by some leading Western business technology makers - including Microsoft, German software multinational SAP and US giant IBM - to maintain operations or staff in Russia despite Ukraine's appeals have angered their workers in several countries. SAP told Reuters it was complying with government actions and even going beyond them, and it would "welcome new sanctions currently under discussion".
The spokesperson noted that companies had legal obligations to employees that must be fulfilled, such as paying wages. Russia's Ministry of Digital Development, Communications and Mass Media did not answer requests for comment on the impact of departures by Western technology companies, nor the extent of SAP's footprint in the country.
SAP confirmed the content of the letter, and said that Fedorov and Klein spoke. It declined to comment further.
All of you, asking your tech companies to withdraw from Russia, note that the people there are not at fault. Instead, ask your companies to give WorkFromHome till the war is over. Put pressure on energy prices. Support Ukraine by hitting Putin where it hurts most. UkraineWar