Russia Begins Rolling Mobile Internet Shutdowns in Moscow and Other Cities

Russian authorities have initiated rolling mobile internet shutdowns in Moscow and other cities. Officials said the move is designed to counter drone threats ahead of the May 9 Victory Day parade. The restrictions began on Wednesday and are being applied intermittently across affected areas.

The shutdowns have disrupted mobile data services for many users in the capital and beyond. Residents reported sudden loss of internet connectivity on their phones while other communication channels remained operational in some locations. Al Jazeera’s Dmitry Medvedenko, reporting from Moscow, documented the initial rollout of the measures.

The authorities have not specified exactly which other cities are included in the shutdowns or how long the restrictions will last. The steps appear aimed at limiting potential coordination or real-time information sharing that could be used in drone operations.

Mobile internet has been turned off and on in a pattern that has varied by neighborhood and time of day. Officials described the action as a precautionary step tied directly to parade security. No specific drone incidents were detailed in connection with the current measures.

The May 9 parade is an annual event that typically draws large crowds and official participation in central Moscow. The current measures come as Ukrainian forces have increasingly employed long-range drones against targets inside Russia. Authorities have not released technical details on how the shutdowns are being carried out or what systems are being targeted.