Story perspectives

Russia criminalizes extremist searches, widens internet bans.

7/11/2026

Summary

Story summary

Russia's government enacted a law that criminalizes online searches for broadly defined extremist material.
President Vladimir Putin ordered officials to compile a list of “unfriendly” platforms for restriction.
Authorities expanded internet shutdowns, blocked VPNs and threatened WhatsApp, which had over 97 million users in April.
Human Rights Watch says refined technology and sanctions are moving Russia closer to internet isolation, though full isolation is not yet achieved.

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Story summary

Russia's government enacted a law that criminalizes online searches for broadly defined extremist material.
President Vladimir Putin ordered officials to compile a list of “unfriendly” platforms for restriction.
Authorities expanded internet shutdowns, blocked VPNs and threatened WhatsApp, which had over 97 million users in April.
Human Rights Watch says refined technology and sanctions are moving Russia closer to internet isolation, though full isolation is not yet achieved.