In a perplexing legal ruling, a Russian court has fined Google a staggering $20 decillion — an amount that eclipses the company’s $2 trillion valuation and far exceeds the global GDP of about $100 trillion. This astronomical fine comes from Google’s decision to block Russian media content, specifically channels on YouTube associated with pro-Kremlin networks like Tsargrad TV and RIA FAN.

Why was the fine imposed?

The situation began in 2020, shortly after the U.S. imposed sanctions on certain Russian individuals and entities. In response, Google restricted access to several Kremlin-backed YouTube channels, which the Russian court later ruled as an infringement on free speech.

The court initially fined Google 100,000 rubles, equivalent to around $1,025. However, the amount doubles each week due to Google’s refusal to pay, bringing the total to the current mind-boggling figure.

Google’s response

Despite the court’s orders, Google has stood firm, explaining that it won’t face significant financial impact from the fine. “We have ongoing legal matters relating to Russia, including civil judgments with compounding penalties,” Google representatives explained. “We do not believe these matters will have a material adverse effect,” the company stated in a recent earnings call.

In 2022, Google shut down its Russian operations and filed for bankruptcy after the Russian authorities seized over $100 million of its assets, making it “untenable” to continue business within the country. Russian users can still access Google’s services, but the tech giant has scaled back, including blocking new accounts from Russia and restricting monetization options for Russian users on YouTube.

An unpayable debt

With the fine now reaching $20 decillion — surpassing any conceivable amount of wealth on Earth — it appears Google has no plans to pay even a fraction.