Watch: Kremlin internet crackdown is frustrating Russians
Russian authorities are tightening control of cyberspace, blocking access to global messaging apps such as WhatsApp and Telegram and restricting mobile internet in some areas. Officials say these measures are for public safety, while critics and business owners say they disrupt daily life and livelihoods. The article also weaves in a series of other global stories reported on the same day.
Why It Matters
The crackdown highlights tensions between security measures and digital rights in Russia, with potential impacts on business, information flow, and everyday life.
Timeline
18 Events
Portugal-bound crustaceans worth €60,000
The crustaceans, which were worth about €60,000, were bound for shops and restaurants in Portugal.
Trains described as morale-boosting during a bitter winter
The trains are designed to boost public morale and provide some comfort, as a bitter winter coincides with intensifying Russian attacks.
Limited deployment by several European nations
The limited deployment involves Germany, France, Sweden, Norway, Finland, the Netherlands and the UK.
Avalanche déclared on Mount Elbrus to release snow
Authorities deliberately triggered the avalanche on Mount Elbrus to release a build up of snow.
People fish on Kyiv River Dnipro to cope with war
On the frozen surface of Kyiv's River Dnipro, men are fishing to take their minds off the war with Russia.
Passengers recount Málaga–Madrid train collision
Passengers recount the moment two trains collided between Málaga and Madrid on Sunday evening.
Kamchatka snowstorm noted as heaviest in 60 years
Parts of Kamchatka Peninsula have been buried under its heaviest snowfall in 60 years, with scientists suggesting climate-change links to the winter blast.
Funeral crowds in Rome for designer Valentino
Crowds have gathered in Rome for the funeral of Italian fashion designer Valentino, who has died at the age of 93.
Rome imposes €2 viewing fee for famous fountain
Italy's capital introduces a €2 fee to access the viewing area of its iconic fountain, which had previously been free to visit.
Storms Marta and Leonardo trigger flooding in Spain
Storms Marta and Leonardo have caused widespread flooding in Spain, displacing thousands.
Ms Pelicot questions a loved one’s horrors
Ms Pelicot says it is 'inconceivable' that the man she shared her life with could have committed these horrors.
Northern Italy town starts Carnival Battle of the Oranges
A town in northern Italy begins its carnival with the annual Battle of the Oranges, where people hurl the fruit at each other for fun.
Dubai to Dublin flight after attacks on Iran
A commercial flight from Dubai arrived in Dublin, reportedly the first in a number of days after the United States-Israeli attacks on Iran.
Norway's Crown Princess speaks about Epstein
Norway's Crown Princess Mette-Marit says she wishes she had never met late US sex offender Jeffrey Epstein.
Mother of 16-year-old victim describes life as 'living nightmare'
The mother of a 16-year-old girl who was killed by a scrambler says life has been a 'living nightmare' since the incident.
Reporter notes from outside Hungary's parliament on crowds reacting to concession
Rajini Vaidyanathan broadcasts from outside Hungary's parliament as crowds hear about the prime minister's concession.
Business owner says internet blockages hurt revenue
Yulia, owner of a catering company, says she is 'losing money every time there is a blockage of internet'.
Russian authorities tighten cyber controls by blocking WhatsApp and Telegram and restricting mobile internet
Russian authorities block access to global messaging apps including WhatsApp and Telegram and restrict mobile internet in some areas; officials say the measures are for public safety, while a local business owner says blockages hurt revenue.