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Authorities in Moscow have imposed widespread mobile internet restrictions ahead of Russia’s World War II Victory Day commemorations, as security concerns mount over potential Ukrainian drone strikes.
The disruption, which began on Tuesday morning, has affected large parts of the capital, with journalists reporting a near-total loss of mobile internet access in central districts. Network providers have warned that the restrictions could remain in place until May 9, when Russia will stage its annual military parade at Red Square.
“During the preparations for and the running of the festive events from May 5 to 9, there may be temporary restrictions on mobile internet and text messaging in Moscow and the Moscow region,” mobile operator MTS said in a notice to subscribers.
The blackout has already disrupted daily life across the city. Several businesses have reported difficulty processing card payments, while services reliant on connectivity, including ATMs, taxi-hailing platforms, and digital maps, have also been affected.
Russian authorities say the intermittent shutdowns are part of broader efforts to counter Ukrainian drone activity, which often relies on local communication networks for navigation. Internet restrictions have become increasingly common in regions close to the conflict zone in recent months.
The heightened security measures come as Kyiv intensifies long-range drone operations targeting Russian infrastructure. Recent strikes have hit oil facilities and even a high-end residential building in Moscow, underscoring the expanding reach of the conflict. Ukrainian officials describe the attacks as a response to Russia’s sustained aerial campaigns involving large-scale drone deployments against Ukrainian cities.
In anticipation of possible disruptions, the Kremlin has announced a scaled-down Victory Day parade this year, omitting certain military displays and cadet participation. The annual event commemorates the Soviet Union’s victory over Nazi Germany in World War II and remains a key symbolic fixture for Russian leadership.
Last year’s celebrations were similarly affected, with waves of Ukrainian drone activity triggering widespread travel disruptions and forcing the cancellation or delay of thousands of flights.
President Vladimir Putin continues to frame the historical significance of World War II as central to Russia’s current military posture, frequently invoking it to justify the ongoing offensive in Ukraine.
