Why is Russia shutting off the internet?

About this episode

The episode discusses the impact of Russia's internet restrictions on communication and access to information.

In recent months, the Russian government has been restricting access to messaging apps such as Instagram, Facebook and Snapchat, and at points, even shutting down internet access completely. Russian officials insist that curbs on communication are in the interests of public safety. They claim that mobile internet blackouts disorient Ukrainian attack drones, although such attacks have continued even in areas where the internet has been switched off. How have these blackouts been affecting peoples’ ability to access news, communicate, even find their way around? And how are people reacting to the restrictions on their freedoms? BBC Russia editor Steve Rosenberg joins Asma to discuss. Producers: Chris Benderev and Hannah Moore Executive producer: Bridget Harney Mix: Travis Evans Senior news editor: China Collins Photo: Passengers use mobile phones aboard a themed metro train honouring the Russian National Guard in Moscow, Russia, March 31, 2026. Credit: Reuters/Ramil Sitdikov

People in this episode

Host: Asma

Guest: Steve Rosenberg

Topics covered

• internet restrictions
• Russia
• communication blackouts
• public safety
• freedom of speech

Keywords

• Russia
• internet shutdown
• communication
• freedom
• Ukrainian drones

Mentioned in this episode

Organizations: BBC, Instagram, Facebook, Snapchat

Places: Russia, Ukraine, Moscow

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