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Apple boss Tim Cook has sent an internal email to employees outlining Apple's steps so far. Cook also promises further help.
Apple has joined the global effort to end the violence in Ukraine, most notably by halting all online sales in Russia. Now Tim Cook has addressed his employees and explained that Apple will match employee donations to humanitarian aid funds at a ratio of two to one. In the email (via The Verge) also states that the Cupertino-based company will retroactively double all donations received since February 25. Cook mentions that Apple is currently working with partners to explore ways to help those affected.
I wanted to take a moment to address the ongoing crisis in Ukraine. I know I speak for everyone at Apple when I express our concern for all those affected by the violence. With each new image of families fleeing their homes and brave citizens fighting for their lives, we see how important it is for people around the world to come together to advance the cause of peace. Apple is donating to humanitarian relief efforts and providing assistance to the evolving refugee crisis. We are also working with our partners to see what else we can do. I know many of you are also looking for ways to help, and we want to amplify the impact of your donations.
Apple stops Russia business
It continues:
Starting today, Apple will match your donations 2:1 to eligible organizations, retroactively for donations made to those organizations since February 25. Please visit the Employee Giving Portal to learn more. We're working to support our teams in Ukraine and across the region. In Ukraine, we're in touch with all employees and supporting them and their families in any way we can. If our Ukrainian team members need support outside of the country, please contact [email redacted]. Any employees needing support can visit the People website to learn about available resources. As a company, we're also taking additional actions.
Regarding the measures, Cook explains:
We have halted all product sales in Russia. Last week, we halted all exports to our distribution channel in the country. Apple Pay and other services have been restricted. RT News and Sputnik News are no longer available for download on the App Store outside Russia. And we have disabled both traffic and live events in Apple Maps in Ukraine as a safety and precautionary measure for Ukrainian citizens. We will continue to assess the situation and are in discussions with relevant governments about the actions we are taking. This moment requires unity and courage, and reminds us that we must never lose sight of the humanity we all share. In these difficult times, I take comfort in knowing that we are united in our commitment to each other, to our users, and to being a force for good in the world.
Cook recently tweeted that Apple wants to support humanitarian efforts in the region and joins others calling for a peaceful solution to the conflict. (Photo by Unsplash / Carles Rabada)
