Update on IBM’s business operations in Russia
By Arvind Krishna | President and CEO of IBM
June 7, 2022
The following message was shared with IBMers worldwide by our President and CEO Arvind Krishna on May 30th.
On March 7, I shared with you our decision to suspend IBM’s business operations in Russia due to the war in Ukraine. For months, we have focused on ensuring the safety of IBM users and their families in the affected regions.
We chose to suspend operations in order to evaluate long-term options as we continue to pay and supply our employees in Russia. As the aftermath of the war continues to escalate and uncertainty over its long-term ramifications grows, we have now made the decision to conduct an orderly liquidation of IBM’s business in Russia. We consider this move to be correct and necessary, and a natural step following the suspension of our business.
This process will begin today and will lead to the separation of our local workforce. Our colleagues in Russia have endured months of stress and uncertainty through no fault of their own. We acknowledge that this news is difficult and I want to assure you that IBM will follow suit and take all reasonable steps to support you and make your transition as smooth as possible.
I would also like to thank IBMers around the world for all you have done to help our business, customers, and communities navigate this crisis. Your spirit and generosity have made a difference, and there is no need to look for more evidence than the nearly $ 2 million in donations made to the International Red Cross thanks to your individual gifts.
We remain united in our hope of ending this war and restoring peace.
Thanks, Arvind