Russia Expands Mobile Internet Shutdowns

Since the start of the year, Russia has experienced escalating restrictions on mobile internet connectivity. Initially, these measures were limited to border regions where local officials reduced connection speeds to mitigate risks associated with drone attacks. However, the scope of these disruptions expanded dramatically in the summer.

Following simultaneous attacks on military airfields across different parts of the country, the slowdowns and complete outages of mobile internet began to spread. What started as localized defensive actions has now evolved into a widespread phenomenon affecting dozens of regions. This expansion reflects a broader strategy to secure critical infrastructure and control information flow in response to evolving security threats.

At the beginning of the year, reports emerged regarding connectivity issues in border regions of Russia. Local authorities in these areas made the decision to limit the speed of mobile internet services. These decisions were driven by specific security concerns.

The primary motivation behind these restrictions was the perceived threat of drone attacks. By slowing down internet speeds, officials aimed to disrupt the potential command and control signals used by unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs). This measure was intended to serve as a protective barrier for critical infrastructure and population centers located near the borders.

During this initial phase, the disruptions were:

• Targeted specifically at border zones
• Focused on speed reduction rather than total blackouts
• Implemented by local decision-making bodies

The landscape of internet connectivity changed drastically during the summer months. A significant turning point occurred following simultaneous attacks on military airbases situated in various locations across Russia. These events catalyzed a shift in policy regarding mobile network accessibility.

Post-attack, the limitations on mobile internet were no longer restricted to the immediate border vicinities. Instead, the practice of slowing down and cutting off mobile internet services began to proliferate. The geographic scope of these disruptions widened significantly, moving inland and affecting a much larger population.

Currently, the restrictions have been reported in:

• Dozens of distinct regions
• Areas far removed from the initial border zones
• Various administrative districts throughout the country

This widespread implementation suggests a centralized response to the heightened security environment following the summer incidents.

As of late 2025, the mobile internet situation in Russia remains volatile. The measures initially designed to counter drone threats in border areas have become a standard response mechanism across the nation. The expansion to dozens of regions highlights the scale of the current restrictions.

Residents in these affected areas face intermittent access to mobile data services. The transition from localized speed throttling to widespread outages marks a significant development in how connectivity is managed during times of perceived military threat. The persistence of these measures indicates that the underlying security concerns regarding drone activities remain a top priority for authorities.