As Moscow prepares for the grand Victory Parade on May 9, 2025, authorities are set to implement unprecedented measures that will disrupt mobile communications across the city. Reports indicate that not only mobile internet services but all mobile communications may be completely jammed during the parade, leaving residents and visitors without connectivity for several hours.
According to sources from major mobile operators, the shutdown is expected to occur from 9 a.m. to approximately 12 p.m. or 1 p.m. on the day of the event. This move is seen as a security precaution, echoing similar tactics used in Belarus during the mass protests of 2020. "Moscow has never experienced such extensive shutdowns; these measures have primarily been tested in regions," one source stated.
The looming communication blackout has sparked concern among residents, especially given that it is anticipated that neither purchasing a new SIM card nor using VPNs will restore normal connectivity. The authorities are advising that the public prepare for these disruptions, which could severely impact daily activities, including the use of banking applications and fast payment systems, which have already shown signs of instability since May 5 due to parade rehearsals.
In addition to the communication disruptions, the city is bracing for a series of restrictions aimed at enhancing security during the celebrations. Traffic will be tightly controlled, with significant roadblocks on major thoroughfares such as Tverskaya, Novy Arbat, and Sadovoye Koltso from 5 a.m. until 1 p.m. on May 9. The metro system will also see closures, with only select stations remaining open for entry and transfer.
While Moscow is preparing for extensive shutdowns, other cities are also bracing for disruptions. Reports suggest that many regions across Russia could experience internet and communication problems, particularly in the European part of the country. In fact, unnamed sources claim that as much as 60% of the country could face connectivity issues, which could hinder the operation of essential services such as delivery, taxis, and banking.
In St. Petersburg, officials have stated that while the internet will not be completely turned off, there may still be interruptions in mobile communications and navigation systems, particularly in the city center. The city plans to close off major roads leading to key locations, including Palace Square, starting from May 8.
As the parade approaches, businesses in Moscow are already feeling the effects of the communication restrictions. Local shops and restaurants along the parade route will be closed, and online retailers have begun to limit their delivery services, advising customers to use cash rather than cards due to anticipated payment processing issues.
One notable incident involved the Russian brand Monochrome, which faced backlash for criticizing the impact of the parade on local businesses. Their social media post lamenting the situation was quickly met with accusations of disrespect towards the Victory Day celebrations, leading to an official apology from the brand's CEO.
At the same time, airports in Moscow have been struggling with operational disruptions as well. Four major airports—Vnukovo, Domodedovo, Sheremetyevo, and Zhukovsky—suspended operations on May 7 and 8, resulting in passengers experiencing lengthy delays and flight cancellations. The Ministry of Transport has promised that normal schedules will resume by the evening of May 8, but many travelers remain skeptical.
As people prepare for the holiday, officials are urging residents to utilize landlines and other means of communication, as mobile connectivity will be severely limited. They have also advised against relying on taxis or ride-sharing services during the parade, as the lack of communication could complicate travel plans significantly.
In light of the anticipated disruptions, experts recommend that residents and visitors take proactive steps to mitigate the impact of the communication blackout. This includes downloading necessary maps and information ahead of time, securing cash for purchases, and planning travel routes that avoid areas likely to be affected by roadblocks.
Overall, the situation surrounding the Victory Parade and its impact on communication in Moscow has raised significant concerns about the balance between security measures and the daily lives of citizens. As the city gears up for one of its most important national celebrations, many are left wondering how these measures will affect their plans and the overall atmosphere of the event.
