Mobile internet services have been restricted in Russian-controlled Crimea and the Ulyanovsk region until the military conflict in Ukraine concludes. Sergey Aksyonov, the Kremlin-appointed leader of Crimea, has urged residents to "adapt" to the situation and switch to an alternative mode of operation.
The "security" rationale: Drones and the internet
During a recent “direct line” Q&A session, Russian President Vladimir Putin justified these restrictions by citing national security concerns. According to him, foreign internet services might assist Ukrainian drones in identifying targets within Russian territory.
- Geography of restrictions: These measures are being implemented not only in border areas but also within the country’s interior. For instance, in December, residents of Saint Petersburg were without mobile internet for an entire week.
- Permanent restrictions: Ulyanovsk became the first region in November 2025 to be disconnected from mobile internet indefinitely until the war ends.
'White list' and daily life challenges
In regions with restricted internet, only websites approved by Russia’s Ministry of Digital Development (the "white list") are operational. This list includes:
- Government services: "Gosuslugi" and the "Mir" payment system;
- National platforms: "Yandex," "VKontakte," and the MAX messenger;
- State media outlets: TASS and "Izvestia."
However, in practice, even these websites do not always function reliably. As a result, residents face significant difficulties in accessing everyday services, such as booking taxis, making payments, and engaging in remote education.
WhatsApp throttling
Roskomnadzor has intensified its crackdown on the WhatsApp messenger. According to the agency, the app’s functionality has been slowed down by 70–80%. Authorities claim this action is due to the platform being allegedly used "for terrorist purposes." Experts view this as an attempt to push users onto fully controllable national messengers.
Do you believe that such internet restrictions genuinely enhance security, or are they merely a tool to strengthen information control?
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