Russians face massive mobile internet restrictions ahead of Victory Day parade
Russian authorities are tightening mobile internet access in Moscow and its surrounding areas as the country gears up for its Victory Day celebrations, with security being cited as the main reason for these measures.
Summary
Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov announced that the mobile internet restrictions are set to last until May 10, coinciding with the visit of foreign dignitaries, including Chinese President Xi Jinping. Victory Day, celebrated on May 9, marks the Soviet Union’s triumph over Nazi Germany in World War Two. Peskov pointed to the presence of a “dangerous neighbour,” referring to Ukraine, as a justification for increased security measures. The anticipated risk from potential drone strikes has led to throttled internet speeds, particularly during nighttime.
Reports indicate that mobile internet disruptions have already impacted over 30 cities following a recent Ukrainian strike. Local telecom providers are alerting users to expect service interruptions during the holiday. Furthermore, essential services like state bank transactions, express deliveries, and ride-sharing have faced disruptions due to the limitations imposed on mobile internet use.
Key Insights
- The Kremlin has implemented mobile internet restrictions in Moscow ahead of Victory Day celebrations.
- Peskov attributes the measures to safety concerns regarding potential drone strikes from Ukraine.
- Mobile internet speeds are being throttled particularly during the night and have already disrupted services in over 30 cities.
- State-owned entities have warned customers about potential service interruptions during the holiday period.
- This represents a continuation of Russia’s trend to limit internet access during significant events for security reasons.
Why should I read this?
This article provides crucial insights into the current state of internet access in Russia, highlighting how state measures can dramatically affect daily life and communications, especially during significant national events. If you’re interested in the intersection of technology and political manoeuvring, this piece goes a long way in illustrating how these restrictions play out in real-time.