Russian state-owned companies spent 118 million roubles on landline phones between January and August 2026. This was more than three times the amount spent during the same period in 2025. Mobile internet shutdowns, which affect nearly 80% of the country, have encouraged government ministries and businesses to find alternatives. Purchases are mainly concentrated in major business and infrastructure centres.
Russia began regularly shutting down mobile internet in May 2025. Services initially went offline in more than 40 regions before Victory Day celebrations, but the interruptions soon became routine. Banking, taxis, food delivery and navigation have all suffered, especially in rural areas. Officials say the restrictions help defend against Ukrainian drones that use mobile internet signals. Experts challenge this explanation because drones can follow planned routes without a connection. Shutdowns have also affected regions far from the fighting.
Other reasons for buying fixed-line systems include demand for secure communication and a move towards Russian-made telephone software. Western suppliers left Russia after the 2022 invasion of Ukraine. Despite the increased spending, the government expects the number of landlines per 100 residents to fall by 2029.
