Russia Slows Internet Curbs, Letting Telegram Operate as Putin’s Rating Suffers in 2026
Updated
Updated · Bloomberg · Jun 8
Russia Slows Internet Curbs, Letting Telegram Operate as Putin’s Rating Suffers in 2026
2 articles · Updated · Bloomberg · Jun 8
Summary
Telegram is likely to keep operating in Russia after the Kremlin eased plans for tighter internet restrictions, according to people familiar with internal discussions.
Public anger over the crackdown — especially any move against the widely used messaging service — has raised concern inside the Kremlin that the policy is damaging Vladimir Putin’s support.
The FSB had pushed for tougher controls, but senior officials warned that broader internet limits could carry political and economic costs.
The retreat signals unusual sensitivity to domestic backlash as Moscow balances security demands against the risks of alienating voters and disrupting online activity.