Story perspectives

Russia's Duma Approves Controversial FSB Telecom Shutdown Bill

2/18/2026

Summary

Story summary

On February 17, 2026, Russia's State Duma passed a bill requiring internet and mobile providers to comply with orders from the FSB security service to shut down telecommunications services.
The bill received support from 393 lawmakers and allows the FSB to mandate shutdowns of internet, mobile services, regular calls, texts, and postal services.
Deputy Communications Minister Igor Lebedev indicated that some language in the bill is intentionally vague.
Thirteen lawmakers opposed the legislation, which now awaits approval from the Federation Council and President Vladimir Putin.

1 of 1

Story summary

On February 17, 2026, Russia's State Duma passed a bill requiring internet and mobile providers to comply with orders from the FSB security service to shut down telecommunications services.
The bill received support from 393 lawmakers and allows the FSB to mandate shutdowns of internet, mobile services, regular calls, texts, and postal services.
Deputy Communications Minister Igor Lebedev indicated that some language in the bill is intentionally vague.
Thirteen lawmakers opposed the legislation, which now awaits approval from the Federation Council and President Vladimir Putin.