August M
Russian authorities have imposed sweeping internet restrictions in Moscow and St. Petersburg ahead of Victory Day celebrations, leaving residents unable to access many online services and, in some cases, even send SMS messages.
The disruptions come as security measures intensify before the May 9 commemorations and amid continued Ukrainian drone attacks targeting Russian territory, reports Digi24.ro.
Major disruptions
According to Downdetector data cited by Digi24.ro, complaints about mobile internet outages surged in both cities after 7:00 a.m.
Users reported being unable to open websites or mobile applications, while electronic payments and transport services also experienced problems.
In Moscow, residents said even some services expected to remain operational during outages were inaccessible.
Authorities had previously warned transport operators that SMS services in the capital could stop functioning during the restrictions.
Mobile provider MTS blamed the problems on “external radio interference,” describing the outages as a force majeure situation beyond the company’s control.
Security measures
Telecom operator T2 said the restrictions were linked to security arrangements connected to upcoming holiday events.
In St. Petersburg, access reportedly remained limited to websites and applications included on official “white lists.”
The city had already experienced temporary internet shutdowns overnight during what officials described as a Ukrainian drone attack.
Over a 24-hour period, Downdetector reportedly received around 3,200 complaints from Moscow and 3,800 from St. Petersburg related to communication failures.
Services affected
Russia’s largest bank, Sberbank, warned customers that digital banking services and electronic payments could face interruptions between May 5 and May 9.
The company said users could encounter difficulties accessing banking platforms, receiving SMS notifications and using payment terminals.
Technology giant Yandex also reported disruptions affecting its taxi service.
“The service may work incorrectly. Not all drivers will be able to enter the service and accept orders,” company representatives said.
Planned outages
According to The Moscow Times, mobile operators including Beeline, MTS, Megafon and T2 alerted residents in advance about possible communication restrictions surrounding Victory Day events.
A source cited by the newspaper claimed authorities planned to disable mobile internet and SMS services on May 5, 8 and 9 between 7:00 a.m. and noon Moscow time.
The source said standard phone calls would remain available during the shutdown periods.
Sources: Digi24.ro, Downdetector, The Moscow Times, Reuters
