VPN suppression causes massive internet slowdown in Russia
James
2026-07-25
Read time
3 minutes
New measures aimed at restricting bypass tools are being introduced in Russia, which could significantly affect the speed of access to foreign resources. Around twenty major telecom operators have agreed to limit the expansion of data transmission channels between Russia and European countries. This initiative is designed to artificially suppress the growth of foreign traffic.
Essence of the restrictions and participating parties
The decision to halt the expansion of communication channels was made at a meeting involving the head of the Ministry of Digital Development, Maxut Shadayev. Participating companies include large telecom providers such as MTS, VimpelCom, T2, Transtelecom, Rascom, Ufanet, and MSK-IX. Under the agreement, operators commit not to increase the capacity of transborder communication lines, which will inevitably lead to capacity shortages amid growing demand.
To legitimize these measures, additional approval from the Ministry of Digital Development for expanding channels is planned, alongside existing control by Roskomnadzor. These changes must be legally formalized. The duration of this agreement remains unspecified for the operators.
Impact on general internet speed and Apple services
The limitation on communication channel capacity will affect not only users of bypass tools but all international internet traffic. Cloud platforms, foreign websites, and content delivery networks will be impacted. For Apple device owners, this could mean slow downloads from the App Store, disruptions in iCloud synchronization, and sluggish performance of Apple Music and Apple TV+.
Additional financial measures and blocks
This step is part of a broader regulatory strategy initiated in the spring of 2026. Previously, discussions were held regarding a potential fee for exceeding a monthly limit of 15 gigabytes of mobile internet traffic for foreign resources. The proposed fee for exceeding the limit was set at 150 rubles per gigabyte, with implementation targeted for May 2026.
Concurrently, major Russian marketplaces and online platforms will be required to independently identify users using IP-masking tools and restrict their access. Given that 469 such services were already blocked by late February 2026, the new measures aim to create economic obstacles for bypassing restrictions at the infrastructure level.
Difficulties with proxy servers and app removals
The situation also affects popular messaging apps. For instance, in April 2026, restrictions on Telegram reached critical levels. Users frequently employ proxy servers to bypass blocks, but modern deep packet inspection systems used by providers have learned to effectively recognize and block such connections. Due to the general slowdown of European channels, the speed of any foreign proxy servers will also decrease.
An additional challenge for iPhone owners has been the regular removal of specialized bypass applications from the Russian App Store, including clients like Streisand, V2Box, and v2RayTun. Due to the closed nature of the iOS operating system, it is becoming increasingly difficult for Apple mobile device users to find working alternatives.
Consequently, although the moratorium on channel expansion is currently a voluntary agreement, combined with other initiatives, it creates serious technological and economic barriers to free access to the global network.
Amid growing restrictions and traffic slowdowns, Hirovpn service will help you maintain a stable and fast connection to your favorite foreign resources without unnecessary hassle.
