Russia has restricted some mobile internet services ahead of Victory Day on Saturday (9 May), citing security concerns. The annual celebrations, marking victory over Nazi Germany in the Second World War, have been scaled back amid fears of attacks from Ukraine.
Residents in the capital, Moscow, reported difficulties making payments, ordering taxis and accessing online services, with some businesses switching to cash transactions.
Mobile network operators warned of potential internet disruptions in the coming days due to heightened security requirements. Sberbank also cautioned customers that services could be affected.
Russian authorities said the restrictions were intended to prevent possible drone attacks, with disruptions expected to continue in the days ahead.
The measures follow recent drone incidents near Moscow that have raised security concerns. Russia has announced a temporary ceasefire between 8 and 9 May, warning of a strong response against Ukraine if commemorative events are disrupted.
Natalya Novoseltseva said she had experienced difficulties accessing the internet.
“In the morning we had difficulties with internet access. It made things more difficult, as most customers use bank cards. If we don’t have internet at all, we will have to switch to cash only,” she said.
A Moscow resident, Marina, said the outage had caused travel disruption.
“There was no internet. It was impossible to buy tickets by card or QR code, and even cash terminals were not working. People were missing their trains.”
Another Muscovite, a 30-year-old who gave his name only as Svyatoslav, described the situation as challenging.
“Regarding payments - cards do work at some spots as well as payment terminals, but all in all it is pretty tough and I don’t know where it will all go,” he added.
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