Major Internet interruptions in Moscow, while military aircraft flushed the city, just before Putin's parade
Russian hunting aircraft flows the red market during the rehearsal for the Victorian Day military parade. Moscow, Russia, May 3, 2025. PHOTO: Alexander Zemlianichenko / AP / Profimedia
Moscow mobile internet services have undergone major interruptions Monday, the authorities warning the inhabitants about possible interruptions that can occur throughout the week due to increased security measures taken before the events dedicated to Victoria, writes the Russian independent publication The Moscow Times.
Russia's emergency alert system sent messages about restrictions on mobile internet during May 5-9, restrictions meant to ensure “Security in relation to the preparation and celebration of the Victorian Day.”
On Monday morning, interruptions of the services of the largest telecommunications providers in Russia and other online services were reported, which coincided with the repetition of a military aircraft flight over Moscow.
Victorian Day, which celebrates the victory of the Soviet Union over Nazi Germany in World War II, is one of the most important political holidays in Russia. President Vladimir Putin is expected to participate in the military parade in the Red Square, in Moscow, along with about 20 foreign leaders.
Internet restrictions have become commonplace during major events Putin participates, especially against the background of increasing concerns about drone attacks and sabotage attempts related to the Ukraine war.
These interruptions came a few days after the Ukrainian president Volodimir Zelenski rejected the proposal to cease the fire made by Putin, a proposal of armistice, for three days, the period of events scheduled in Russia. Zelenski also reported that it is Moscow's responsibility to ensure the safety of the delegations, some of them requesting security guarantees.
The spokesman for the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Russia, Maria Zaharova, accused Zelenski of directly threatened the events of May 9, while the former Russian president Dmitri Medvedev warned that “May 10 may not reach Kiev” if “Real Challenges on Victory Day” will take place.
