Russians furious as Putin cuts off internet: 'I started to panic'
Throughout modern history, regimes seeking to maintain power have often targeted communication networks, limiting access to news, social media or mobile connectivity during times of political tension or security threats.
Such measures are typically justified as necessary for national security.
Critics, however, argue that restricting communication infrastructure can also make it easier for authorities to control public discourse and reduce the ability of citizens to organize
Kremlin cites security
The Kremlin says recent mobile internet disruptions in Russia were introduced for security reasons.
Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov said the restrictions comply with existing legislation and were necessary to ensure public safety.
or share information.
“All disconnections and restrictions on communication are carried out in strict accordance with current legislation,” Peskov said.
The comments came after residents in Moscow, St. Petersburg and other Russian cities reported widespread mobile internet outages.
Networks disrupted
Users first began reporting problems accessing websites and mobile applications in Moscow on March 5, according to the Russian technology outlet Kod Durova.
In some cases, people said they lost service entirely and were unable to make phone calls.
The disruptions affected Russia’s four largest telecom operators — MTS, Megafon, Beeline and T2 — though the outages appeared inconsistent depending on location.