Thirteen million residents of Moscow are facing unprecedented mobile internet and service outages since early March, with complaints about difficulties in navigation and app usage. While Wi-Fi remains available, many are resorting to buying walkie-talkies and paper maps. The disruptions have also affected other major cities like St. Petersburg and coincide with ongoing regional outages, particularly in areas bordering Ukraine. Russian officials attribute these blackouts to security measures against potential Ukrainian attacks, raising speculation about a government strategy to suppress dissent amid fears of unrest over military mobilization. Additionally, the Kremlin has intensified its control over communications by restricting access to major social media platforms and promoting state-approved messaging applications.
Why It Matters
The current internet outages in Moscow and St. Petersburg reflect a broader trend of tightening state control over digital communications in Russia. Historically, the Kremlin has employed internet blackouts and restrictions during crises to manage public perception and stave off protests. In recent months, the Russian government has escalated its efforts to regulate online discourse, including the introduction of a “sovereign internet” that isolates the national network from global access. These actions align with the Kremlin’s efforts to maintain stability amid ongoing military conflicts and geopolitical tensions, particularly with Ukraine and its Western allies.
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