SpotifyAccording to Friday, Russia is withdrawing completely from the EU. recent laws restricting news operationsCould put at-risk the streaming service’s listeners and employees. The streamer expects that operations will be completely suspended before the end of April.

Spotify’s withdrawal from Russia highlights the delicate balance Western media companies must strike if they wish to deliver news to Russians, but also face significant obstacles due to Ukraine’s invasion and its business environment.

Spotify is best-known for its music streaming, but it hosts and distributes an array of other media. podcasts with political content.

Spotify was previously discontinued offering Premium subscriptions in RussiaBut, it was still free. The company stated earlier in the month that they would continue to offer this service for free. close an officein Russia and removed Russian content from state media.

Spotify believes it is crucial to maintain our Russian service in order to deliver reliable, impartial news and information to the country. A recent bill further restricts information access, criminalizes certain news types, and eliminates free expression has put the safety of Spotify’s workers and listeners in danger,” said a Spotify spokesperson.

Some other tech companies include AppleAnd GoogleRussia is now the country that they are withdrawing their products and services. Many banks, retail chains like McDonald’s and Starbucks also have stopped operations in Ukraine following the invaders’ invasion last month. The country’s current challenges include limited payment services and logistical problems, as well as a weak ruble.

Spotify’s decision to ban news media from the Russian country is more based on its recent crackdown.

Many English-language news outlets have investigated how reporters and other employees can be kept safe in Russia following Russia’s new “false news” law. outlaws independent reporting.

BBC announced that they would be resumed reporting after suspending Russian operations earlier in the month. CNN and The New York Times also reduced their operations and staff in Russia. Some newspapers have removed bylines from Russian reporters.