Throughout history, technology has been put to both devastating and supportive uses. In fact, it always plays an important role in virtually everything. This post considers the role of technology in the Russian Ukraine conflict.
Cyber war
Granted, even before the recent conflict, Ukraine and Russia are known as active locations for cyber activities. Recently, such cyber activities have morphed into a cyber war. Both sides keep attacking government websites and financial platforms of the opposite countries. On the other hand, there is a cyber war between other ‘hacktivists’.
Social Media
Similarly, various developments have occurred on social media due to the conflict. First, the Russian government has largely censored many mass media outlets. In turn, several social media giants have placed different degrees of restrictions on social media.
Cryptocurrency
Meanwhile, some financial institutions have placed restrictions on Russia’s use of their services. While Russia has been using other financial alternatives that make their currency more independent, a lot seems to be going on in the cryptocurrency scene.
For example, people – individuals and organizations – have donated a cumulative sum worth millions of dollars in cryptocurrency transactions to the Ukrainian government.
Moreover, the interest in Russia in cryptocurrency has increased.
Big Tech organizations
Furthermore, those in Russia may not be able to make use of the services of some big tech platforms. Such platforms include Google, Tiktok, Meta, Twitter, and Microsoft. In response to the conflict, the European Union, and other bands, these platforms have placed various degrees of restrictions on the use of their services by Russian-related outfits.
Export controls on technology products
In addition, Russia may not be able to get access to technology parts and technology upgrades. Over time, they may begin to feel the impact in their technology sector. This is because of the economic sanctions and export controls many countries have announced targeting Russia.
Shortage of chips
Moreover, another role of technology in the Russian Ukraine conflict is chip shortage. Indeed, this could affect many digital economies. After all, Russia and Ukraine account for a large percentage of exported raw materials used in manufacturing semiconductors. Such materials include platinum, nickel, and gas neon. Already, such shortages seem to be causing financial losses in several sectors.
Humanitarian aid
Finally, many people use different technology channels to offer humanitarian aid in this conflict. For example, social media platforms have been used to inform and assist those affected. Also, online networks have been used to support refugees and raise funds.
Summing it up
Surely, the role of technology in the Russian Ukraine conflict is immense. Aside from its direct uses as weapons and in attack systems, it has many other uses. Fundamentally, digital technology still plays a vital role in war and peace. However, it is up to humanity to decide to focus on positive uses of technology. After all, technology is a tool. We can determine its uses.
