Background: Russia’s Push for a Sovereign Internet

Since 2019, Russia has been building its so-called “sovereign internet”, designed to allow the country to operate independently from the global web. The Kremlin argues this system protects national security, but critics say it enables censorship and mass surveillance.

The war in Ukraine accelerated these efforts, with Western governments and tech companies restricting access to platforms, software, and online services inside Russia.

How Russia Could Be Cut Off From the Internet

Several mechanisms could restrict Russia’s web access:

• Sanctions and Tech Bans: Western firms like Google, Meta, and Microsoft have already suspended services. A full ban could impact everything from cloud hosting to cybersecurity support.
• Domain Name System (DNS) Restrictions: Blocking Russia from global internet root servers would limit access to websites worldwide.
• Disconnection from Undersea Cables: Russia relies on international fiber optic cables for connectivity. Cutting these links would drastically reduce access speeds.

Russia’s Countermeasures: Building a Parallel Web

Moscow has invested in domestic alternatives, including RuNet, state-run app stores, and local replacements for Western platforms. Russian officials claim these measures would soften the impact of global disconnection.

However, experts warn that a fully isolated Russian internet would:

• Restrict freedom of speech and information.
• Limit Russian businesses’ ability to access global markets.
• Increase Moscow’s reliance on China for digital infrastructure.

Global Implications of Cutting Russia Off

While some argue isolating Russia online could weaken its cyber capabilities, others warn it would set a dangerous precedent. The internet was designed as a global, borderless network; fragmenting it could accelerate the rise of “splinternet”, where countries create their own controlled versions of the web.

Analysts caution that such moves would hurt ordinary Russians more than the government, cutting citizens off from independent media, communication tools, and educational resources.

Key Takeaways

• Russia has prepared for internet isolation through its “sovereign internet” project.
• Western restrictions could technically cut Moscow off from key parts of the global web.
• Such a move risks splintering the internet and deepening digital authoritarianism.

FAQs

1. Can Russia really be cut off from the global internet?

Technically, yes — through sanctions, DNS restrictions, or cable disconnections — but it would be complex and politically risky.

2. What is Russia’s “sovereign internet”?

It’s a government-controlled system (RuNet) designed to keep Russia’s online infrastructure independent and under strict state oversight.

3. How would ordinary Russians be affected?

Citizens could lose access to global news, online education, and communication tools, further isolating them from the outside world.

4. Could this strengthen Russia’s ties with China?

Yes. Experts believe Moscow would increasingly depend on Chinese cloud services, telecom equipment, and digital payment systems.

5. What is the risk of a “splinternet”?

The risk is that the global internet fractures into regional networks controlled by governments, undermining its free and open nature.

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