YouTube becomes inaccessible on computers in Russia
The YouTube website has become inaccessible on computers in Russia, with over 5,000 users reporting issues accessing the platform, according to the RIA Novosti propaganda agency on Aug. 8.
When trying to access the site, users in Russia are met with a message indicating a lack of connection.
Kursk Oblast is also experiencing problems with various online services. Local authorities claim the region's internet resources have been subjected to a massive DDoS attack, as reported by the media.
Blocking of YouTube in Russia
Russian State Duma member Alexander Khinstein announced on July 25 that Russian authorities would begin slowing down YouTube in the coming days. Specifically, by the beginning of August, the download speed of the service on computers would decrease by 70%. This measure would not affect the mobile version of the site.
Khinstein cited "the video hosting service's disregard for Russian law" as the reason for these measures.
The U.S.-based Institute for the Study of War noted that Russian authorities are increasingly announcing plans to block YouTube in the country and are likely to realize their intention by forcing Russians to use only social media platforms under the Kremlin's influence.
YouTube already experienced malfunctions in Russia on Aug. 1.
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