Finance
Kremlin says Moscow mobile internet outages are done for sake of security
Published by Global Banking & Finance Review®
Posted on March 10, 2026
2 min readLast updated: March 10, 2026
Quick Summary
The Kremlin on March 10 declared mobile internet outages in Moscow and major cities were lawful, security-driven, and legislatively justified; business disruptions are under review, and alternative messaging via state-backed MAX is being encouraged amid broader restrictions.
Kremlin Confirms Moscow Mobile Internet Outages for Security Compliance
Mobile Internet Restrictions and Security Measures in Moscow
MOSCOW, March 10 (Reuters) - The Kremlin on Tuesday said that recent instances of mobile internet being turned off in Moscow and other major cities were aimed at ensuring security and were in accordance with the law.
Kremlin's Official Statement
In a call with reporters, Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov said: "All disconnections and communication restrictions are carried out in strict compliance with current legislation."
Security Justifications
"This is all related to the need to ensure security," he added.
Impact on Businesses and Proposed Solutions
Peskov said that the impact of the move on businesses needed additional analysis, and that solutions to their problems would be proposed.
Communication Issues During Official Calls
Disruptions During High-Level Calls
On a call with reporters on Monday after Russian President Vladimir Putin spoke to U.S. President Donald Trump, Kremlin foreign policy aide Yury Ushakov's connection cut out at least three times, Reuters reporters on the call said.
Government Actions Against Messaging Apps
Blocking of Telegram and WhatsApp
In recent weeks, the Kremlin has moved to block messenger apps Telegram and WhatsApp, promoting the state-backed service MAX, which critics say is not secure.
Criticism of State-Backed Services
(Reporting by Dmitry Antonov, Writing by Felix Light; Editing by Mark Trevelyan/Guy Faulconbridge)
Key Takeaways
- •Russian authorities justify mobile internet shutdowns as anti-drone security safeguards and say they act within legal frameworks, though critics point to broader surveillance aims and business disruption risks (forbes.com)
- •Estimates suggest that mobile data shutdowns cost Moscow’s economy upwards of $115 million per day and push citizens and businesses back to cash usage ()
References
Frequently Asked Questions about Kremlin says Moscow mobile internet outages are done for sake of security
1Why were mobile internet outages implemented in Moscow?
According to the Kremlin, the outages were carried out to ensure security and complied with current legislation.
2Who confirmed the purpose of the Moscow mobile internet outages?
Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov confirmed the outages were for security reasons during a call with reporters.
