Digital Sovereignty Push: Kremlin Blocks Foreign Platforms

Kremlin intensifies internet controls, Russians use VPNs/second phones to bypass monitoring.
FSB orders periodic mobile internet shutdowns, citing Ukrainian drones using networks for navigation.
FSB blocks foreign platforms to promote digital sovereignty.
36% of Russians use VPNs this year, per Levada Center.
March saw 9.2 million downloads of popular services.
Wildberries reported 10% traffic drop after blocking VPN users.
Kremlin softens rhetoric about internet shutdowns as Putin's approval falls.
Users doubt the temporary nature of restrictions, with data charges postponed until after the election.
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