Google Play has removed the Russian messenger app Max and 17 services owned by the VK tech company from its store following the latest EU sanctions. The applications were previously deleted from Apple’s App Store.
The removal follows the introduction of new European Union sanctions on July 13, 2026. The EU sanctioned VK and its subsidiary, Communication Platform LLC, which develops the Max messenger, stating they are under the direct control of Russia’s Federal Security Service (FSB). The European Union considers them spyware services used to suppress critics of Russia’s military aggression against Ukraine and individuals publishing other government-banned content.
EU Sanctions Against Surveillance Infrastructure
In addition to blocking these applications, the EU imposed restrictive measures against three Russian companies (Citadel, VAS Experts, and Norsi-Trans) and their top executives responsible for developing, manufacturing, and selling equipment for internet censorship and surveillance. These companies specialize in creating blocking tools. They are now barred from accessing economic resources in the EU, and their European assets have been frozen.
The EU holds them responsible for serious human rights violations in Russia, specifically the suppression of civil society and the democratic opposition, as well as the undermining of democracy and the rule of law.
ACF Reaction: From Censorship to Predictions
Commenting on the situation, Anti-Corruption Foundation (ACF) representative Leonid Volkov stated that this is the result of a long-standing campaign against the Russian internet censorship system. In his view, the EU’s official recognition of these companies as tools of control is an important strategic step.
Volkov suggests that with state-controlled services like VK and Max unavailable to a wide audience, the Kremlin may have to unblock Telegram or WhatsApp “because without messengers, nothing will work.”
Operation of Services in Russia
Despite their removal from global app stores, VK representatives stated that previously installed services continue to operate in Russia without restrictions.
Google Play Catalog Updates and EU Sanctions
In total, the following services were removed from the Google Play catalog: Mail.ru Mail, Cloud Mail, Dzen, Odnoklassniki, VKontakte, VK Music, VK Messenger, VK Calls, VK Video, VK Video Live, VK Dating, VK Play, VK WorkSpace, VK Mail, Youla, Marusia, and the Max messenger.