Russia has sharply increased mobile internet shutdowns in response to growing Ukrainian drone attacks, cutting off millions of people from digital services.
Authorities claim the measure hampers drones from navigating and transmitting data, but critics argue it is also being used to tighten state control.
By mid-2025, shutdowns had surged to record levels. In June, over 650 outages were reported, rising to more than 2,000 by July — a number higher than all global shutdowns recorded last year.
More than 70 Russian regions now experience disruptions, often without notice.
Officials defend the blackouts as necessary security measures, insisting that mobile signals can be exploited to guide drones.
However, daily life has been severely affected. People struggle with banking, public transport apps, and emergency services. Businesses report major losses as mobile networks go dark for hours or even days.
Rights groups warn the scale of the restrictions goes far beyond frontline areas, with shutdowns spreading deep inside Russia.
Observers believe the drone threat is being used as a pretext for wider censorship and control of information.
The disruptions come as Russia accelerates its military campaign.
Officials recently confirmed that territorial advances in Ukraine have doubled since early 2025, supported by intensified strikes and new tactical equipment deliveries.