Russian mobile Internet Shutdowns Intensify Amid Drone Threat
Table of Contents
Russia as authorities combat Ukrainian drone attacks, impacting daily life and raising concerns.">
Across dozens of Russian regions, mobile internet shutdowns are becoming increasingly frequent as authorities respond to ukrainian drone attacks with temporary restrictions. These shutdowns are impacting daily life, causing disruptions to card payments, ATM services, and online taxi services.
Widespread Disruptions Across Russia
On a Tuesday in June 2025, at least 30 regions experienced mobile internet disruptions related to efforts to combat incoming drones, according to regional news outlet 7×7, which published a map illustrating widespread outages in Russia’s southwest, northwest, and Siberian regions.
Did You know? Russia’s land area is approximately 17.1 million square kilometers, making it the largest contry in the world [Worldometers].
Impact on Daily Life
The mobile internet shutdowns are beginning to substantially impact daily routines. Stores are struggling to process card payments, ATMs are going offline, and taxi services are reverting to conventional phone-based dispatch systems rather of relying on online applications.
In the southern Saratov region, Governor Roman Busargin announced on thursday that mobile internet access was being restricted “to maintain security.” Authorities claim these shutdowns prevent Ukrainian drones from being guided or receiving targeting coordinates through civilian networks.
Record Number of Outages
On a Wednesday in June 2025, the tech monitoring project Na Svyazi reported mobile internet disruptions across 35 regions, marking an apparent record for such incidents.
Pro Tip: Using a VPN (Virtual Private Network) can sometimes bypass internet restrictions, but its effectiveness can vary depending on the specific measures implemented by authorities.
Timeline of Internet Disruptions
| Date | Event | details |
|---|---|---|
| Early May 2025 | Increased Security Measures | Authorities ramped up security ahead of Victory Day, leading to initial internet disruptions. |
| Tuesday, June 2025 | Widespread Outages | at least 30 regions faced disruptions linked to combating incoming drones. |
| Wednesday, June 2025 | Record Disruptions | Na Svyazi reported mobile internet disruptions across 35 regions. |
Escalation of Shutdowns
The growing wave of outages began in early May as authorities increased security measures before Victory Day, Russia’s May 9 holiday commemorating the Soviet defeat of Nazi Germany in World War II.
Evergreen Insights: Background, Context, Historical Trends
The use of internet shutdowns as a security measure has been increasing globally in recent years. Governments frequently enough cite national security concerns to justify these actions, but critics argue that they undermine freedom of expression and access to information [Freedom House]. The economic impact of internet shutdowns can also be significant, affecting businesses and essential services.
FAQ
Why are mobile internet shutdowns becoming more frequent in Russia?
Mobile internet shutdowns are becoming more frequent as Russian authorities attempt to counter the threat of Ukrainian drone attacks by preventing the drones from utilizing civilian networks for navigation and targeting.
What are the primary consequences of these internet shutdowns for Russian citizens?
The primary consequences include disruptions to daily routines, such as difficulties with processing card payments, accessing ATMs, and using online taxi services, which are essential for modern life.
Are there any alternative interaction methods available during these shutdowns?
During these shutdowns, some individuals and businesses are reverting to older methods of communication, such as phone-based dispatch services for taxis, but these alternatives are often less efficient and convenient.
What are your thoughts on the effectiveness of internet shutdowns as a security measure? How do these disruptions impact your daily life?
