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Universal Music suspends all operations in Russia
By Chris Cooke | Published on Wednesday 9 March 2022
Universal Music is the latest music company to confirm it is cutting its ties with Russia in protest at the ongoing war in Ukraine. The major is suspending its operations and closing its offices in Russia – which has been a key growth market for the record industry in recent years.
In a short statement, Universal Music said: “Effective immediately, we are suspending all operations in Russia and closing our offices there. We urge an end to the violence in Ukraine as soon as possible. We are adhering to international sanctions and, along with our employees and artists, have been working with groups from a range of countries to support humanitarian relief efforts to bring urgent aid to refugees in the region”.
An increasing number of artists and music companies have confirmed they are officially boycotting Russia in protest at the country’s invasion of Ukraine, including by cancelling shows that were due to take place in Russia, by closing offices in the country, and by cutting ties with former business partners in the market.
On the live side of the business, Live Nation and Oak View Group have both confirmed they are no longer doing business in Russia or with Russian companies, while Spotify has closed its Russian office.
