In a recent development impacting internet users across Russia, YouTube’s accessibility and speed have been significantly affected due to what state-owned telecom giant Rostelecom describes as “technical problems.”
According to Rostelecom, a surge in traffic has overwhelmed the infrastructure responsible for accelerating the loading and playback of YouTube videos and other Google services.
“This may affect the download speed and playback quality of YouTube videos for users of all Russian operators,” Rostelecom stated in a press release on Friday.
The issues appear to stem from Google’s decision to disconnect its Google Global Cache (GGC) service from Russian servers earlier this year, a move reportedly made in response to regulatory pressures.
GGC typically allows local internet service providers to offer Google’s content with reduced latency, enhancing user experience.
Sources within the Russian telecom industry, speaking anonymously to independent news outlet Meduza, allege that the Russian government has deliberately slowed down YouTube since Thursday.
They suggest that authorities are attempting to deflect responsibility onto Google amidst mounting frustrations over content control.
YouTube, a subsidiary of Google, has been at the center of geopolitical tensions following Russia’s invasion of Ukraine in early 2022. In response to international sanctions and pressures, YouTube suspended monetization and halted payment-based services within Russia.
Despite these restrictions, the platform remains crucial for independent journalists and opposition figures, serving as a vital medium amid widespread censorship of other social media platforms and independent media outlets.
The Russian government has accused YouTube of disseminating “terrorist” anti-war content, fueling speculations of a potential ban on the platform. This comes amidst broader efforts to restrict access to information deemed critical of state policies.
The impact of these developments is palpable among Russian internet users, who increasingly rely on YouTube for accessing diverse viewpoints and independent reporting.
As debates over internet freedom and state control intensify, the future accessibility of YouTube in Russia remains uncertain.
While technical issues disrupt YouTube’s service in Russia, the underlying tensions between regulatory authorities and global tech giants like Google underscore broader challenges to internet freedom and digital rights in the country.
This article was created using automation technology and was thoroughly edited and fact-checked by one of our editorial staff members