They were completely justified, but C&Ds usually go way over the top in their threats, because that's their purpose -- to threaten.
They couldn't have possibly suffered any damages
They possibly could have, which is why they would sue for damages.
there is no chance any of the Russian hackers could have been criminally charged
You haven't proven the proper conditions exist according to the information in the article.
Obviuosly as am I then. Apple refers to the actions of the hackers as likely criminal and so do I. You can oppose Apple and I on this issue if you want, as we already know you're willing to lie for months on end in defense of the Russian hackers, but don'y try to claim I'm not justified in cqlling them criminal when Apple has officially threatened them with criminal liabilty as well. Take it up with Apple's legal counsel if change your mind that we are not justified, which you probably will LOL.