Russian internet at risk of blackout during upcoming presidential elections

Independent Russian media have warned that Russians might be cut off from the internet. The Meduza website reports that specific restrictions on network access could happen on March 17, the day of the so-called presidential elections in the Russian Federation.

Journalists from the website believe that severing Russians from the network aims to hinder the organization of anti-Putin protests. The presidential elections in Russia are scheduled for March 15-17, and on Sunday, the Russian opposition has planned an action "at noon against Putin," demonstrating the opposition towards the Kremlin's policies.

"The authorities can disconnect the internet to isolate you from each other and the world. Current information is vital for preserving freedom and life," wrote the Meduza journalists.

The site recalled that the authorities have experimented with new ways to limit citizens' access to the internet for months. Connections were notably disrupted during the funeral of Alexei Navalny. On March 1, during the funeral ceremonies near Borisovsky cemetery, mobile networks and internet connectivity experienced interference.

Among those urging participation in the "noon against Putin" action is Alexei Navalny's close associate, Leonid Volkov. Volkov is currently in Vilnius, where he was attacked on Tuesday evening.

An unidentified assailant shattered the window of his car and assaulted Volkov with a meat tenderizer, leaving the opposition figure with a broken arm. Volkov described the attack as a gangster "greeting from Putin."

Source: Polish Radio 24