Moscow Internet Shutdown
Moscow
Russia on Tuesday cut off mobile internet services across large parts of Moscow ahead of the annual Victory Day Parade, citing heightened security concerns over potential drone attacks linked to the ongoing conflict with Ukraine.
The move comes as authorities prepare for the May 9 celebrations marking the Soviet Union’s victory over Nazi Germany in World War II. This year’s parade has reportedly been scaled back amid fears of Ukrainian drone strikes, reflecting the evolving security environment as the conflict enters its fourth year since Russia’s invasion of Ukraine in 2022.
Officials stated that the restrictions on mobile internet services were necessary to ensure public safety and protect critical infrastructure. However, the disruptions have significantly affected daily life in Moscow, with many residents facing difficulties in making digital payments, accessing navigation services, and communicating via messaging platforms.
Journalists in various parts of the capital reported widespread outages of mobile internet, although traditional voice calls remained functional in many areas. Mobile operators acknowledged that connectivity issues could persist in the coming days as security measures remain in place.
Major institutions also warned of disruptions. Sberbank, the country’s largest bank, cautioned customers about potential issues with mobile-based transactions and messaging services. Similarly, the ride-hailing division of Yandex indicated that users might face problems booking taxis online due to connectivity limitations.
Internet monitoring platforms reported similar outages across several regions in European Russia, including Saint Petersburg, suggesting that the restrictions were not limited to the capital alone.
The measures come against the backdrop of intensified drone warfare between Russia and Ukraine, with both sides targeting infrastructure and strategic assets far from the front lines. On Tuesday, Ukrainian forces reportedly struck a major oil refinery in Kirishi, sparking a fire, while Russia claimed it had intercepted hundreds of drones overnight.
Critics of President Vladimir Putin argue that such internet restrictions are part of broader efforts to tighten domestic control during wartime. The Kremlin, however, maintains that the steps are purely precautionary, aimed at safeguarding citizens and ensuring the smooth conduct of national events.
As tensions persist, the situation highlights the growing intersection of security concerns and digital connectivity in modern conflict zones.
