Russia announces new restrictions on VPNs, used by millions to bypass censorship. The Minister of Digitalization: "The goal is to reduce the use of VPNs."

Russia will impose new restrictions on the use of virtual private networks (VPNs), essential for millions of Russians who want to bypass internet censorship, according to statements by the Minister of Digitalization, Maksut Shadaev. These measures are part of a broader campaign to control the internet, referred to by diplomats as the "great suppression," which has led to the blocking of mobile internet and the banning of messaging applications. Shadaev mentioned that his ministry will restrict access to certain foreign platforms, without providing further details. Following the 2022 invasion of Ukraine, Russia has implemented draconian laws, increasing the influence of the Federal Security Service (FSB) and severely censoring information online. In recent months, the state has blocked applications like WhatsApp and slowed down Telegram, justifying the actions by the need to counter Ukrainian drone attacks. By January, Russia had blocked over 400 VPNs, but users continue to find solutions, frequently changing their VPNs to access uncensored information.