The following message was shared with IBMers worldwide from our Chairman and CEO, Arvind Krishna, on May 30th.
On March 7th, I shared with you our decision to suspend IBM’s business operations in Russia due to the war in Ukraine. Our focus for months has been on looking after the safety and security of IBMers and their families in impacted regions.
We chose to suspend operations so that we could evaluate longer-term options while continuing to pay and provide for our employees in Russia. As the consequences of the war continue to mount and uncertainty about its long-term ramifications grows, we have now made the decision to carry out an orderly wind-down of IBM’s business in Russia. We see this move as both right and necessary, and a natural next step following our business suspension.
This process will commence today and 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 that this news is difficult, and I want to assure them that IBM will continue to stand by them and take all reasonable steps to provide support and make their transition as orderly as possible.
I would also like to again thank IBMers everywhere for all you have done to help our company, clients and communities navigate this crisis. Your spirit and generosity have made a difference, and you need look no further for evidence than the nearly $2 million in donations that have been made to the International Red Cross thanks to your individual gifts.
We remain united in our hope for an end to this war and the restoration of peace.
Thank you,
Arvind
