On March 1, 2025, the Federal Service for Supervision of Communications, Information Technology, and Mass Media (Roskomnazdor) confirmed reports stating YouTube remains blocked across Russia. This announcement came following claims from subscribers of major telecommunications companies, including Rostelecom, MTS, and Beeline, who reported normal access to the video platform.
The information about the server availability caused confusion among users who believed they were able to access YouTube without any restrictions. Responding to the growing uncertainty, Roskomnazdor carried out checks and released their findings. "The monitoring center verified the availability of YouTube. The service is not accessible in Russia," the agency stated.
Discussions surrounding YouTube's potential blockages began to intensify back in early 2022, coinciding with the start of Russia's military operations in Ukraine. While the platform operated relatively seamlessly for over two years, issues began to arise around August 2024, when connectivity to YouTube started deteriorati
ng, leading to service slowdowns experienced by users across different Internet Service Providers (ISPs).
Recent reports suggested fluctuations, whereby some users found themselves with varying degrees of access to YouTube, with services returning to normal for some after connectivity checks were performed. Such inconsistencies raised eyebrows about the nature of the restriction and whether it was simply limited to specific ISPs or if it stemmed from broader regulatory measures imposed by the government.
The Roskomnazdor's involvement is not entirely new. The agency has proactively monitored online platforms, especially after discrepancies emerged concerning what content was permissible following the initiation of military actions. Although YouTube had agreed to keep peaceful operations, issues intensified when the platform started urging Russian users to remove videos showcasing methods to circumvent access restrictions.
While the service had temporarily increased its traffic with reports and complaints about regained access, data showed it had dramatically dropped to 80% since July 2024. This move transformed YouTube from one of the most popular applications to one where users struggled to utilize its resources effectively, placing local alternatives like Rutube at the forefront of content consumption efforts.
Interestingly, Rutube, which is Russia's equivalent video-sharing service, has seen its audience grow as more users seek alternatives amid the constraints imposed on Western platforms. Meanwhile, initiatives like MTS's Nuum video service have not gained traction, leading to its subsequent pause for development.
While the situation remains tumultuous, there have been systemic conversations surrounding the continuing blockade, regulatory oversight, and the digital gap growing within the country. Legal experts have cautioned against the long-term impacts of such barriers, noting how hampering access not only affects information dissemination but also impairs freedom of expression and ideological diversity.
Judicial entities have also become involved, as evidenced by cases where Russian citizens lodge complaints against Roskomnazdor claiming via petitions to the courts about the severe impacts of service slowdowns. One user argued such restrictions impede citizen rights and undermine civil liberties to engage with global communities critically. The court, though, dismissed these cases pointing out limitations within Roskomnazdor's authority concerning service conduct.
Going forward, many are left wondering about the future of internet freedom within Russia and how the government will continue to regulate digital platforms. The predicament becomes especially significant considering the global nature of content sharing and the rising tension between state control and independent information access. For the time being, Roskomnazdor's declaration solidifies the stand against unrestricted access to YouTube, highlighting their commitment to stringent oversight of digital communications.