Steve Rosenberg: Kremlin's tightening grip on internet fuels Russian discontent

Having submitted her petition, Yulia returns to her catering business and reflects on adapting to online restrictions and the broader changes in Russian life.

Polls cited in the article indicate Putin's ratings have fallen to their lowest level since the 2022 full-scale invasion, while concerns about the economy and fatigue with the war grow.

Celebrity blogger Victoria Bonya posts an address to the president about Russia's internet crackdown; the video goes viral with millions of views.

Columnist Andrei Kolesnikov argues that a digital divide is being created; others say Russians have become accustomed to the internet but are shocked by restrictions.

In Vladimir, Google searches and independent news sites fail to load while state media and taxi apps function, illustrating selective access on mobile devices.

Yulia and others report that applications for protests in Vladimir and dozens of towns were rejected for various reasons, including 'danger of drone attack' and other logistical excuses.

Former MP Boris Nadezhdin notes concerns that the messenger may be used to monitor messages, reflecting broader skepticism toward the government's digital plans.

The government promotes a state-backed Russian messenger called MAX as part of the sovereign internet project; skeptics worry it could enable message monitoring.

Officials insist that limits on communication serve public safety, claiming mobile internet disorientation of Ukrainian attack drones, despite ongoing drone activity in some areas.

Yulia, owner of a catering company, explains how outages disrupt her business, saying online payments and web access are essential and that restrictions cause revenue loss.

Dmitry Peskov, Putin's spokesman, says 'security considerations dictate the need for certain measures' and that officials understand the need for them, while promising restoration of services when appropriate.

Security officers are filmed filming the petitioners from across the street, with reporters also under observation.

Near the Kremlin, several dozen people queue outside the presidential administration office to submit petitions calling on President Putin to end the internet crackdown.

In a statement on Thursday, President Vladimir Putin said he could not ignore the problems Russians face from internet disruption. He instructed law enforcement to demonstrate ingenuity and professionalism and to accommodate the vital interests of citizens, while signaling that restrictions remain in place.