Putin Directs PM, FSB to Maintain Key Services During Mobile Internet Blackouts
Ensuring Access to Essential Services Amid Internet Restrictions
Putin's Directive to Government and Security Services
MOSCOW, June 1 (Reuters) - Russian President Vladimir Putin has ordered the prime minister and the director of the Federal Security Service (FSB) to ensure access to key medical, information and payment services during periods when mobile internet service is limited.
Background: Internet Restrictions in Russia
Russia has this year sometimes shut down mobile internet services and cracked down on foreign messenger apps, forcing millions to turn to VPNs as part of what Putin's opponents say is an attempt to shore up domestic control after four years of war.
Kremlin Orders for Service Continuity
In a list of orders published on Sunday by the Kremlin, Putin ordered the government and the FSB to "ensure the uninterrupted operation of the most important services" during periods of "limited operation of the Internet".
Reporting and Accountability
The order said that Prime Minister Mikhail Mishustin and FSB Director Alexander Bortnikov were to report back by July 1 on their progress.
Security Concerns and Public Access
Balancing Security and Civilian Needs
Putin has cast disruption to Internet and communications networks as a painful, but sometimes essential security measure needed to to prevent terrorist and Ukrainian drone attacks. But he has said that citizens should be allowed access to vital online services during such periods.
Reporting Credits
(Reporting by Guy FaulconbridgeEditing by Andrew Osborn)
