Fact Check: Russian government will block all non Russian internet in next years

Fact-Check Article: "Russian government will block all non-Russian internet in next years"

What We Know

Recent developments in Russian legislation indicate a significant tightening of internet controls. On July 17, 2025, Russian lawmakers passed a law that punishes individuals for searching for "extremist materials," which can include a wide range of content defined by the government. This law allows for fines of approximately $65 for individuals who "deliberately searched for knowingly extremist materials" and accessed them via VPNs, which are commonly used to bypass government censorship (Washington Post). The legislation is part of a broader trend that has seen the Russian government increasingly restrict online freedoms, particularly since the full-scale invasion of Ukraine in February 2022 (Freedom House).

In addition to this law, President Vladimir Putin has directed the government to propose new restrictions on software from "unfriendly" countries, aiming to bolster local technology and reduce reliance on foreign platforms (United24 Media). This directive suggests a move towards a more isolated internet environment, potentially leading to the blocking of foreign applications and services.

Moreover, reports indicate that the Russian government has been actively working to create a "sovereign internet," which would allow for greater control over online activity and the ability to disconnect from the global internet if necessary (CyberNews). This includes the use of deep packet inspection technologies and the enforcement of data localization laws that require foreign companies to store user data within Russia (Global Voices).

Analysis

The claim that the Russian government will block all non-Russian internet in the coming years is partially true. While there is no explicit law stating that all non-Russian internet will be blocked, the combination of recent legislative changes and ongoing government directives indicates a clear trajectory towards increased censorship and control over the internet.

1. Legislative Changes: The new law criminalizing searches for extremist content significantly expands the government's ability to monitor and penalize internet users. This law, along with the vague definitions of "extremist materials," raises concerns about potential overreach and misuse of power (Washington Post). The penalties for accessing such content could deter users from seeking information that is deemed controversial or dissenting.

2. Government Directives: Putin's orders to limit reliance on foreign technology and to strengthen local tech capabilities suggest a strategic move towards isolating the Russian internet from global influences. This aligns with the government's historical pattern of restricting access to foreign platforms and promoting domestic alternatives (United24 Media).

3. Technological Infrastructure: The development of a "sovereign internet" infrastructure indicates that the Russian government is preparing for a scenario where it could effectively cut off access to foreign internet services. The implementation of deep packet inspection and other monitoring technologies further supports this claim (CyberNews).

4. Public Sentiment and Response: There is significant public concern and criticism regarding these measures, even from within pro-government circles. Some lawmakers have expressed that the new restrictions could hinder their own operations, indicating a potential backlash against overly restrictive policies (Washington Post).

While the government has not outright stated that it will block all non-Russian internet, the combination of these factors suggests a gradual move towards a more controlled and isolated digital environment.

Conclusion

The claim that the Russian government will block all non-Russian internet in the coming years is partially true. While there is no definitive plan to completely sever access to foreign internet, the legislative and technological developments indicate a clear intention to restrict and control online access significantly. This trajectory could lead to a future where non-Russian internet access is severely limited, aligning with the government's broader goals of digital sovereignty and censorship.

Sources

1. New Russian law criminalizes online searches for ...
2. Putin's New Orders Could Reshape Russian Internet
3. Russia: Freedom on the Net 2024 Country Report
4. Shutting down the net: The growing threat of Russian internet ...
5. Russian Regions Impose Indefinite Mobile Internet ...
6. Russia vanishing from the internet behind an Iron Firewall
7. Why Is Russia Planning to Cut Off the Internet?
8. Internet shutdowns in Russia hit new record