Russia restricts internet, throttles VPN traffic

Twenty major Russian telecommunications operators have agreed to a moratorium, halting the expansion of internet channels to Europe and banning the launch of new lines for foreign traffic. This move forces internet service providers within Russia to either block VPN traffic themselves or introduce exorbitant prices for access to foreign online resources. The coordinated action represents a significant escalation in Russia's efforts to control and throttle internet access, particularly targeting VPNs which are used to circumvent state censorship. The development coincides with the promotion of domestic, state-controlled messaging platforms as alternatives to foreign services.