Navigating Russia's Internet Clampdown

The Kremlin has implemented internet restrictions for security reasons, causing disruption for many Russians. Tighter controls began with the Ukraine war in February 2022, including blocking apps and VPNs. Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov mentioned some measures might be temporary and contingent on safety and legal compliance.

On Tuesday, the Kremlin defended its internet restrictions, emphasizing their necessity for security, despite the disruption faced by many Russians. These measures, they asserted, are not indicative of a regression to previous eras.

The restrictions began tightening since the start of the Ukraine conflict in February 2022. They include blocking various messenger apps and VPNs, commonly used to navigate around censorship, as well as disabling mobile internet services.

Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov indicated that some measures might be temporary, lifted once deemed safe, while others result from tech companies failing to adhere to Russian law.