Moscow Cuts Internet Ahead of Victory Day amid Drone Fears

Russian authorities have restricted mobile internet access for many users in Moscow ahead of the traditional Victory Day military parade on 9 May, which commemorates the Soviet victory over Nazi Germany. The event is scaled back this year due to the risk of drone attacks from Ukraine.

The Kremlin said the measures were necessary to guarantee security amid heightened threat. The restrictions are disrupting daily life for residents, affecting payments, navigation and communication. Journalists reported mobile internet outages across various parts of the capital, while voice calls continued to function in several areas.

Mobile operators have warned of further disruptions in the coming days. Similar warnings were issued by Sberbank, Russia's largest bank, and the technology company Yandex, which cautioned users about difficulties in ordering taxis.

According to monitoring services, internet outages have also been recorded in other regions of European Russia, including St Petersburg. The restrictions come as both sides in the ongoing war make heavy use of drones to strike deep behind enemy lines.

Ukrainian sources on Tuesday reported a strike on a major oil refinery in the Leningrad region. Russia's Defense Ministry, for its part, claimed to have destroyed hundreds of Ukrainian drones overnight.

(reuters, bak)