YouTube Speeds Set to Decline in Russia Following Google's Tensions

YouTube speeds in Russia are expected to significantly drop due to Google's failure to upgrade its local infrastructure and its refusal to unblock Russian media channels. Alexander Khinshtein, a senior lawmaker, confirmed that this decline is a direct consequence of YouTube's actions and inactions. Google has not commented on these claims.

YouTube's streaming speeds in Russia are on the brink of a substantial decline on desktop computers, a senior lawmaker announced on Friday. The issue stems from Google's failure to update its infrastructure in Russia and its refusal to unblock certain Russian media channels.

Alexander Khinshtein, head of the information policy committee in the lower house of parliament, clarified that the reduced speeds are a retaliatory measure against YouTube for allegedly violating Russian law without repercussions. According to Khinshtein, YouTube download speeds in Russia have already decreased by 40% and could drop by up to 70% in the coming week.

Roskomnadzor, the communications regulator, faulted Google for not upgrading its Google Global Cache servers in Russia, leading to deteriorating YouTube quality. Additionally, Google has not invested in Russian infrastructure and allowed its local entity to go bankrupt, complicating payments for local data services. Google has yet to respond to these allegations.