Russia has significantly increased its mobile internet shutdowns, with 655 instances recorded in June alone — more than double the total number of shutdowns worldwide during all of 2024. This surge in internet restrictions comes amid a reported rise in Ukrainian drone attacks against Russian territories, prompting authorities to impose stricter communication controls.
The Russian government has not issued formal statements detailing the exact reasons or scope of the shutdowns, though officials have previously justified such measures as necessary for national security. The move aligns with broader efforts to limit the spread of information that could support Ukrainian military operations or civilian resistance efforts. Critics argue that these measures disproportionately impact ordinary citizens, who rely on mobile internet for essential communication, access to emergency services, and staying informed about the conflict.
International observers have called for greater transparency regarding the scale and impact of these internet shutdowns. While some analysts suggest that the restrictions may be aimed at disrupting coordination among Ukrainian forces, others warn that such actions could erode public trust in the government and hinder the flow of critical information during an ongoing conflict. As the situation develops, the long-term implications of these communication controls remain a subject of debate among policymakers and human rights organizations.