This seems more like an empty threat and a bargaining position. If they wanted to shut down they would, not leak to the media incessantly about their intentions

This seems more like an empty threat and a bargaining position. If they wanted to shut down they would, not leak to the media incessantly about their intentions. Why are they pushing amp on publishers if this content doesn't matter to Google? This is extremely self serving and then trying to play innocent is disingenuous and predatory. There are no principles at stake here, only the exploitative business interests of a monopolistic business. The standard PR playbook of misinformation, lobbying, 'think tanks' and and 'helpful' opinion pieces is being rolled out, which is the predictable reaction of any well resourced interest hellbent on getting their their way.