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EU chief says Kremlin imposing 'digital Iron Curtain' on Russians
European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen told EU lawmakers in Strasbourg that the Kremlin is cutting Russians off from the internet to hide worsening economic conditions as sanctions bite. She linked inflation and rising interest rates to the costs of Russia's war.
Why It Matters
The remark underscores concerns about information controls and the broader impact of international sanctions on ordinary Russians.
Timeline
1 Event
EU chief accuses Kremlin of digital isolation of Russians
April 29, 2026
European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen, speaking to EU lawmakers in Strasbourg, accused the Kremlin of cutting Russians off from the internet to hide worsening economic conditions caused by sanctions related to the Ukraine war. She noted that inflation is rising and interest rates are increasing, and argued that Russians are bearing the costs of Russia's war.