Kremlin says Russia forced to introduce digital restrictions for security reasons

Russia is being forced to impose digital restrictions for security reasons, Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov said Tuesday, stressing that “this is not a way back to the past.”

Speaking at a briefing, Peskov said internet services will be fully restored once such measures are no longer necessary.

He said most Russians understand the need to restrict internet access and certain messaging applications.

“No, this is not a way back to the past. The current situation is one in which security considerations dictate the need to take certain measures,” he said.

Peskov also said restrictions on messaging apps are being introduced due to the need for foreign companies to comply with Russian laws.

“This is also a completely normal practice, which is in place in many countries. And, in fact, these steps are also being received with understanding,” he added.

In Russia, internet restrictions have expanded under laws requiring companies to store user data locally and block content deemed illegal by authorities, including material supporting extremism or unauthorized protests.

The government maintains a centralized system for traffic routing and filtering, often restricting access to foreign platforms such as X and Facebook, both US-based companies.

Commenting on economic contacts with the United States, Peskov said Washington has made no announcement on extending permits to purchase Russian oil loaded onto tankers.

He added that work continues within the Russian-US group on economic cooperation, although the US side, in his words, links it to a resolution of the situation in Ukraine.

Moscow, meanwhile, proposes not to delay bilateral economic cooperation until the Ukraine crisis is resolved, but to continue work on joint projects in parallel, he said.