Anonymous Issues Warning To 40 Companies Still Operating In Russia

Anonymous has issued a stark warning to the remaining Western companies that operate in Russia to 'pull out'.

Today (22 March), the 'hactivists' threatened 40+ companies by saying they have '48 hours to reflect.'

They tweeted: "We call on all companies that continue to operate in Russia by paying taxes to the budget of the Kremlin's criminal regime: Pull out of Russia!

"We give you 48 hours to reflect and withdraw from Russia or else you will be under our target!"

The post was accompanied by a photo of the logos of 40+ companies believed to still be in operation amid Russia's invasion of Ukraine.

They added: "We expect other companies to act like you," while tagging an article highlighting some of the big companies that have stopped operating in Russia in the coming days.

Prior to the group's issued threat, three of the world's largest oilfield service companies - Halliburton, Schlumberger, and Baker Hughes - have suspended operations in Russia, Business Insider has reported.

Olivier Le Peuch, the chief executive officer for Schlumberger, said: "Safety and security are at the core of who we are as a company, and we urge a cessation of the conflict and a restoration of safety and security in the region."

CEO of Halliburton, Jeff Miller, added: "The war in Ukraine deeply saddens us.

"We have employees in both Ukraine and Russia, and the conflict greatly impacts our people, their families, and loved ones throughout the region.

"Since the start of this conflict, we prioritized employee safety and compliance with all relevant sanctions."

Baker Hughes CEO Lorenzo Simonelli also said in a statement that the company is pulling all new investments in Russia and is 'continuing to comply with applicable laws and sanctions as it fulfils current contractual obligations'.

Adding: "The crisis in Ukraine is of grave concern and we strongly support a diplomatic solution.

"We condemn violence and our hearts go out to the people and families of those impacted.

"The health and safety of our employees, customers, partners, and their families always remain our top priority."

If you would like to donate to the Red Cross Emergency Appeal, which will help provide food, medicines and basic medical supplies, shelter and water to those in Ukraine, click here for more information.