According to an internal memo, IBM is laying off all of its staff in Russia. Krishna said that IBM is leaving the country because of the war between Russia and Ukraine. A number of people in Russia are expected to lose their jobs.
We decided to suspend operations so that we could look at longer-term options while still paying and providing for our employees in Russia. As the consequences of the war continue to mount and uncertainty about its long-term ramifications grows, we have decided to wind down IBM's business in Russia. Krishna said in the memo that the move was necessary and a natural next step after the business was suspended.
The memo was sent to staff on May 30. Krishna was quick to point out that the workforce in the country did nothing wrong, even though the CEO used awkwardly euphemistic language to describe the lay offs.
The separation of our local workforce will take place today. Our colleagues in Russia have been through a lot. Krishna wrote "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 give support and make their transition as orderly as possible."
According to the UN, 3,381 people have been killed and 3,680 injured in the war in Ukraine. According to the latest figures from the United Nations, over four million people have fled the conflict in Ukraine. IBM's employees have donated over two million dollars to the Red Cross in response to the crisis.
I would like to extend my gratitude to IBMers all over the world for their help in navigating this crisis. Krishna said, "Your spirit and generosity have made a difference, and you need look no further for proof than the nearly $2 million in donations that have been made to the International Red Cross thanks to your individual gifts."
We are all hoping for an end to this war and the restoration of peace.
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