Update on IBM Business Operations in Russia

By Arvind Krishna | Chairman and CEO, IBM

June 07, 2022

The following message was shared with IBMers around the world by our Chairman and CEO, Arvind Krishna, on May 30.

On March 7, I informed you of our decision to suspend IBM business operations in Russia due to the war in Ukraine. For months, our focus has been on protecting and keeping IBMers and their families safe and secure in affected regions.

We have chosen to suspend our operations so that we can evaluate longer-term options while continuing to pay and support our employees in Russia. As the consequences of the war continue to worsen and uncertainty about its long-term ramifications grows, we have now made the decision to proceed with an orderly liquidation of IBM’s business in Russia. We consider this decision both right and necessary, and a natural next step after the suspension of our activities.

This process will begin today and will result in the separation of our local workforce. Our colleagues in Russia have, through no fault of their own, endured months of stress and uncertainty. We recognize this is difficult news, and I want to assure them that IBM will continue to support them and will take all reasonable steps to provide assistance and make their transition as orderly as possible.

I would also like to thank IBMers around the world again for all you have done to help our business, our customers and our communities through this crisis. Your spirit and generosity have made a difference, and you need look no further for proof than the donations of almost $2 million that have been made to the International Red Cross through your individual donations.

We remain united in our hope to see an end to this war and the restoration of peace.

Thanks,
Arvind