After Apple on Tuesday confirmed that it ceased product sales in Russia, CEO Tim Cook sent out an email to all employees that promises to match donations made to help Ukraine during the ongoing Russian invasion at a rate of 2:1.
“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,” the email read.
Cook speaks out on Ukraine invasion
It seemed like it was only a matter of time before Apple took action against Russia. Cupertino has historically led the rest of the technology industry in many efforts, including humanitarian endeavors and charitable donations.
It wasn’t too surprising, then, when Apple on Tuesday confirmed that it stopped all product sales in Russia, removed Russian news agencies like RT and Sputnik from the App Store, and limited some services, like Apple Pay.
And that’s not all it is doing. In an email to employees, Cook said Apple will match all employee donations made to help Ukraine at a rate of 2:1. The company is also exploring other ways it can provide support.
Cook’s email to Apple employees
“I wanted to take a moment to address the ongoing crisis in Ukraine,” read the email, obtained by The Verge. “I know I speak for everyone at Apple in expressing our concern for all of those affected by the violence.”
“Apple is donating to humanitarian relief efforts and providing aid for the unfolding refugee crisis. We are also working with partners to assess what more we can do,” Cook continued. “I know that many of you are eager to find ways to support as well, and we want to help amplify the impact of your donations.”
“Starting today, Apple will match your donations at a rate of 2:1 for eligible organizations, and we will make this retroactive for donations to those organizations since February 25.”
Cook added that Apple is working to support its teams in Ukraine and across the region, contacting every employee, assisting them and their families “in any way we can.” He provided contact details Ukrainian team members located outside of the country can contact for support.
‘This moment calls for unity’
Apple will continue to evaluate the situation and is communicating with relevant governments on the action it is taking.
“This moment calls for unity, it calls for courage, and it 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 said.
