Zelensky says Russia aims to cut off Ukrainians' internet and communications

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky said in an evening video address that Russia's aim is to cut Ukrainians off from the internet, communication networks, and other essential digital services.

Zelensky framed the effort as a deliberate strategy by Russian forces to isolate the Ukrainian population from information and connectivity, describing it as part of a broader pattern of attacks targeting infrastructure that Ukrainians rely on in daily life.

Attacks on communications and digital infrastructure have been a recurring feature of the conflict, with strikes on energy and telecommunications systems affecting both civilian access to services and the broader functioning of affected regions during the ongoing war.

The Ukrainian leader's remarks come as part of his regular addresses to the public, which have served throughout the conflict as a channel for updating citizens on the security situation and the government's assessment of Russian military intentions.

Loss of internet and communications access can have wide-ranging effects beyond the immediate disruption, including on emergency response coordination, access to information about ongoing attacks, and contact between separated family members during the conflict.

Zelensky's address underscored the government's continued framing of infrastructure attacks as intentional efforts to weaken civilian resilience, a characterization that has featured prominently in Ukrainian statements throughout the war.