Russia shut down mobile internet in Kamchatka amid drone threats from Ukraine Despite vast distance

Kamchatka Krai, located in the far east of Russia, has been placed under restrictive measures due to Ukrainian drone threats against military and infrastructure targets.

Governor Vladimir Solodov wrote on his Telegram channel that the measures were taken in response to current threats, even though the Krai is located at a distance of some 9,000 kilometres away from the Ukrainian border, per Caliber.Az. 

He emphasised Kamchatka’s strategic importance and the need to be prepared for all challenges, including those involving drones. Restrictions will be lifted once the “strategic and tactical situation” allows.

Earlier, authorities had warned residents about temporary internet limitations during the New Year holidays, though at that time drone attack threats were not mentioned. Mobile internet was also restricted in July 2025, citing a “sabotage war” and highlighting the presence of strategically important sites, including the Pacific Fleet base with nuclear submarines.

The recent measures form part of a broader pattern of “internet shutdowns” that also affected Primorsky Krai. Both regions, despite their distance from Ukraine, have experienced such restrictions following incidents like the May 2025 event in Desantnaya Bay and reports in Western media suggesting a potential Ukrainian operation against the Pacific Fleet.

The Washington Post reported that Ukraine had considered using naval drones to target Russian ships in the Far East, similar to how Ukrainian forces compelled the Black Sea Fleet to leave its Crimean base using drones.

By Khagan Isayev