Putin bans the use of foreign software for government agencies in Russia

Russian President Vladimir Putin has signed a decree that bans the use of foreign software on critical infrastructure facilities by government agencies. In addition to that, it is also banning the use for government customers. The Decree is available on the official website of legal information. This seems to be Russia’s move against foreign tech companies after they applied a number of sanctions against the country. Furthermore, Russia’s president is not happy with the “foreign talks” about his action in the conflict with Ukraine.

Starting from March 31, buyers will not be able to acquire foreign software without approval. The ban on foreign software will start on January 1, 2025. As you can see, this isn’t something working from day zero There is a big move happening on March 31, which prevents buyers from acquiring foreign software without approval. However, the drop in the use of foreign software will be a requirement only by 2025. There are still two entire years before that happens. So the government infrastructure will have plenty of time to adapt. Until then, we expect the country to develop its own software solutions.

Russia is quickly becoming an isolated nation

The move is just another step to keep Russia an isolated nation and counter the sanctions applied by Western companies. After the conflict, we saw many technology companies complying with the sanctions against Russia. In response to this, the government has been banning big techs there such as Facebook, Instagram, among others. Google is also applying sanctions against the country such as preventing Russians from purchasing apps or signing into services with their Google accounts. In addition, the company is no longer allowing Russian manufacturers to certify Android smartphones. Now, these manufacturers will move to HarmonyOS. There are even rumors suggesting that Russia may even ban Google from the country. The country is considering piracy and a third-party store for Android apps.

The war against Ukraine is slowly turning Russia into a very isolated country without foreign technology. Companies like Samsung have suspended shipments to the country. Furthermore, we expect the list to only grow. In fact, there are negotiations going on while the way advances. In recent days, a ray of hope has surfaced with Russia reducing its efforts against Kyiv and moving to the regions with separatist troops.

Going back to the point, Putin is also instructing the government to approve requirements for software that will be used on critical infrastructure. He is also instructing the government to elaborate strict rules for foreign software at facilities that are not considered critical infrastructure.