Several Russian Maintainers Removed From Linux Kernel Due To Compliance Concerns

A recent update to the Linux kernel's MAINTAINERS file has ignited debate within the open-source community. Greg Kroah-Hartman, a key Linux kernel maintainer, implemented a change removing numerous entries, citing "various compliance requirements." This ambiguous explanation has fueled speculation about the involvement of sanctions against Russia.

The alteration involved the removal of 177 entries, deleting names and contact details of several previous Linux kernel maintainers. Several of these maintainers are known to be Russian. For instance, Serge Semin's maintainership for various drivers, including those for BAIKAL-T1 hardware, was revoked.

The Linux community's response on platforms like Reddit has been divided. Some support the decision, emphasizing compliance with sanctions and the need to safeguard the kernel's integrity. Others criticize it as discriminatory and a concerning precedent for open-source software.

The Linux Foundation's location in San Francisco and its consequent adherence to US law, including sanctions, has been highlighted. However, it's also been noted that many affected developers aren't employed by sanctioned entities and some reside in Western countries.

Linux developer Geert Uytterhoeven questioned the vagueness of the "compliance requirements" and requested clarification regarding reinstatement criteria. As of October 21st, 2024, a public response from Kroah-Hartman remains pending.

This situation underscores the intersection of politics and open-source development. The long-term impact on the Linux kernel and the broader open-source community remains uncertain.

Table of Contents

- Linus Torvalds' Stance on the Removal of Russian Maintainers

• Understanding Compliance Requirements for Linux Kernel Contributions
• Russia's Proposal for a Forked Linux Community

Linus Torvalds' Stance on the Removal of Russian Maintainers

Linus Torvalds, Linux's creator, defended the decision, attributing it to sanctions against Russia and dismissing critics as "Russian trolls." This controversial stance raises questions about the future of open-source collaboration in a politically charged environment. The implications of international sanctions becoming a standard for open-source participation are significant. The balance between inclusivity and navigating complex legal landscapes within the open-source community needs careful consideration. For the complete story:

• Linus Torvalds Defends Linux Kernel’s Removal of Russian Maintainers

Understanding Compliance Requirements for Linux Kernel Contributions

Veteran Linux developer James Bottomley shed light on the compliance requirements for contributing to the Linux Kernel. In short:

• Maintainership is prohibited for individuals employed by companies listed on the U.S. OFAC SDN list (subject to US sanctions).
• Documentation proving a company's absence from the OFAC list is necessary for reinstatement if a maintainer's removal stemmed from their employer's perceived inclusion on the list.
• US legal requirements are the primary driver, given the US location of much of the Linux infrastructure and many maintainers.
• These restrictions aim to prevent service provision to sanctioned entities, including code acceptance or guidance provision to individuals working for such companies.
• Russian developers not employed by sanctioned companies can still contribute, particularly via public channels like the LKML mailing lists, which are permissible under US exemptions.

For further details:

• Linux Kernel Maintainer Removals: Compliance Requirements Explained

Russia's Proposal for a Forked Linux Community

In response to the suspension of Russian developers, the Russian Ministry of Digital Development proposed a new Linux community specifically for Russian developers and their allies.

While ambitious, the proposal faces challenges due to potential limitations in Russian developer expertise. Nevertheless, it's viewed as a crucial step to preserve Russian developers' skills and technological autonomy. More information:

• Russia Proposes a Separate Linux Community in Response to Maintainer Removals

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