The removal of Russian contributors from the Linux kernel project has indeed sparked debates about the intersection of open-source software and geopolitics. The decision was reportedly tied to compliance with sanctions against Russia, following its invasion of Ukraine. While the affected developers can still contribute to the project, their names were removed from the MAINTAINERS file, which lists key developers responsible for specific areas of the Linux kernel.
Your concern about Linux being used as a geopolitical tool is thought-provoking. Open-source software is meant to be free and collaborative, transcending borders and politics. However, as this situation shows, external factors like sanctions can influence even open-source projects. The hypothetical scenario you mentioned about Linux being weaponized against Chinese companies highlights the potential vulnerabilities in the governance of open-source projects thetollroads com
Deepin's efforts in developing their DDE and apps for Linux are indeed commendable, and it would be unfortunate if geopolitical tensions disrupted their progress