Russian authorities have acknowledged that they are intentionally reducing the loading speeds of YouTube in Russia as a response to Google’s refusal to comply with Russian technical regulations. The slowdown is expected to escalate over the next few weeks, with desktop download speeds potentially dropping by 40% by the end of this week and up to 70% by the end of next week, according to Alexander Khinshtein, a Russian lawmaker overseeing information policy. However, mobile phone users will not be affected by these changes for the time being.
This decision comes after complaints from Russian users and experts regarding disruptions to the popular video-sharing platform. Speculations arose that Russia might be considering banning YouTube within the country. The Kremlin previously dismissed these speculations in June, attributing the disruptions to technical issues with Google’s equipment. Russian authorities pointed out that Google had not updated its equipment in the past two years, causing some servers to deteriorate. Reports suggested that Google stopped supporting its servers in Russia due to sanctions imposed after the conflict in Ukraine.
Recently, Russian authorities admitted that the measures against YouTube are deliberate and could potentially impact the platform’s future in the country. Khinshtein remarked that YouTube’s fate in Russia depends on its willingness to comply with local laws and regulations. He criticized YouTube for its alleged anti-Russian policy, accusing the platform of censoring content from public figures with differing viewpoints and disregarding Russian legislation.
In response to YouTube’s perceived noncompliance, Russia is reportedly exploring the development of its own alternative platforms, such as Rutube and VK Video. The decision to slow down YouTube speeds is seen as a response to the platform’s actions, with Khinshtein mentioning that the quality of videos on YouTube has already diminished for some users.
Furthermore, this move is part of Russia’s broader efforts to separate its internet from the global network. Earlier this month, the Russian telecom regulator requested Apple to remove several VPN services from the Russian App Store due to noncompliance with local legal requirements. Russia has long aimed to establish its own internet ecosystem, known as the Runet, to operate independently and adhere to Russian laws.
The recent actions against YouTube and VPN services are indicative of Russia’s ambition to control its digital landscape and reduce dependence on foreign tech companies. Western tech giants like Apple, Microsoft, and Google have faced challenges in Russia, prompting a shift towards domestic alternatives. As Russia continues to assert its sovereignty over the digital domain, the future of internet freedom and access within the country remains uncertain.