Overview
- Russia’s Digital Ministry describes the measure as a 24-hour “cooling phase” aimed at stopping SIM-equipped drones from using mobile networks for navigation.
- Arriving travelers have reported internet and SMS being blocked while voice calls still work, disrupting routine tasks such as ordering taxis.
- Mobile operators can re-enable data and messaging before the full day passes once users confirm their identity via a link or a direct call.
- The temporary restriction also covers SIM cards that have not been used for 72 hours, and the ministry says the mechanism is in a testing phase that began Monday.
- In a separate domestic security step, reservists are being deployed to guard critical infrastructure, with the first unit operating near St. Petersburg, according to Kommersant.