Internet Outages in Moscow Raise Security Concerns Ahead of Victory Day Celebrations

Mobile internet services in Moscow encountered significant disruptions on Monday, as officials alerted residents about potential outages throughout the week due to increased security measures in anticipation of Victory Day festivities.

Russia’s emergency alert system issued notifications regarding mobile internet limitations from May 5 to May 9, stating it was done «to ensure safety in relation to the preparations and celebrations for the Victory Day parade.»

On Monday morning, reports indicated outages across the country’s major telecommunications providers and various online services, coinciding with the rehearsal for a military aircraft flyover over Moscow.

Victory Day, which marks the Soviet triumph over Nazi Germany during World War II, stands as one of Russia’s most significant national holidays. President Vladimir Putin is anticipated to participate in the military parade at Red Square, alongside approximately 20 foreign leaders.

Internet restrictions have become a regular occurrence during significant events involving Putin, especially amid rising anxieties regarding potential drone attacks and sabotage actions related to the ongoing conflict in Ukraine.

These disruptions surfaced just days after Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky dismissed a ceasefire offer from Putin timed with the commemorations. Zelensky stated that it was the responsibility of Moscow to guarantee the safety of visiting delegations, some of whom allegedly sought security assurances.

Maria Zakharova, spokesperson for Russia’s Foreign Ministry, accused Zelensky of making direct threats to the events planned for May 9, while former President Dmitry Medvedev cautioned that «May 10 may not come for Kyiv» in the event of «real provocations on Victory Day.»