Kremlin Reconsiders Internet Crackdown Amid Public Backlash

In March 2026, Russian authorities imposed significant restrictions on mobile internet access in Moscow, lasting nearly three weeks, citing security concerns related to potential Ukrainian drone attacks. The Federal Security Service (FSB), the successor to the Soviet KGB, has been at the forefront of these measures, which include blocking virtual private networks (VPNs) used to circumvent censorship. Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov stated that these restrictions were necessary for "security considerations" but described them as temporary.

The crackdown has sparked considerable discontent among the Russian elite, particularly among business leaders and bankers who have expressed concerns over the economic repercussions of such measures. A source close to the Kremlin indicated that senior officials have lobbied President Vladimir Putin to ease the restrictions, fearing that continued internet shutdowns could harm the ruling United Russia party's support ahead of parliamentary elections scheduled for September 2026. The source noted that there is a growing frustration within the Kremlin regarding the backlash from the business community, suggesting that efforts are underway to resolve the situation.

Public trust in President Putin has declined, with state-run pollster VTsIOM reporting a drop of over eight percentage points since January 2026, bringing his approval rating to 67.8%. This decline is particularly pronounced among affluent urban populations who are more active online and have expressed dissatisfaction with government policies. Denis Volkov, head of the Levada Center, noted that while Putin's overall rating has not sharply declined, the blocking of internet services has notably affected the sentiments of those already critical of the government.

Bloomberg

The crackdown has particularly targeted popular platforms like Telegram, which has faced increased scrutiny. Pavel Durov, the billionaire founder of Telegram, has been vocal against the restrictions, promoting a "Digital Resistance" and encouraging users to prepare for potential censorship by stocking up on VPNs and updating their applications. Durov emphasized the importance of enhancing Telegram's decentralized anti-censorship technology to counteract the government's efforts.

Bloomberg

While the Kremlin has justified the internet restrictions as necessary for national security, the growing public and elite backlash appears to be prompting a reconsideration of these measures. Officials have suggested that once the perceived need for such restrictions diminishes, internet services will be fully restored. The ongoing discussions within the Kremlin reflect a recognition of the political and economic risks associated with a prolonged crackdown on internet access.

Despite the Kremlin's assurances regarding the temporary nature of the restrictions, there remains uncertainty about the extent to which officials will continue to limit online access. The situation is fluid, with varying reports on the effectiveness and public response to the crackdown, highlighting a gap in clarity regarding the future of internet freedom in Russia.

Bloomberg

“Most of the Kremlin is grappling with this issue, holding meetings and drafting documents to argue that blocking is a bad thing,” — Source close to the Kremlin

“Keep it up,” he said on Telegram, advising users to stock up on VPNs and to update their apps. — Pavel Durov, Founder of Telegram

Bloomberg