Russia’s internet crackdown breeds discontent
A woman checks her phone as she walks through Red Square at sunset, in Moscow, Tuesday, March 31, 2026. (AP Photo/Pavel Bednyakov, File)
Several dozen people lined up outside a presidential administration building on a sunny spring weekend in central Moscow.
They were lodging complaints about the government’s intensifying crackdown on the internet that has seen regular shutdowns of cell phone internet connections, blocked popular messaging apps, and cut access to thousands of other websites and digital services.
It was the latest sign of the growing anger and frustration over the restrictions that have disrupted the daily lives of Russians, hurt businesses, and drawn criticism even from Kremlin supporters.
The clampdown has made it difficult to order taxis and deliveries, pay for goods and services electronically, and stay in touch with friends and family.
