St. Petersburg is experiencing disruptions in mobile internet service due to heightened security measures implemented during the St. Petersburg International Economic Forum (SPIEF). The forum is taking place from June 18 to 21.

Deputy Prime Minister Marat Khusnullin acknowledged the inconvenience but emphasized the necessity of these measures to ensure the safety of the numerous leaders and international delegations attending the event. Khusnullin stated that these restrictions are a direct response to security concerns.

Residents of St. Petersburg began reporting issues with mobile internet connectivity on the morning of June 18. The majority of complaints originated from the southwestern areas of the city, including Krasnoselsky and Strelna. Some residents reported that mobile internet outages had been ongoing since the previous evening.

The lack of mobile internet access has also impacted the ability to order taxis through ride-sharing applications and utilize other online services in the affected areas.

In addition to the mobile internet disruptions, the St. Petersburg administration has urged residents to limit their use of private vehicles during the forum. Increased traffic is anticipated on the Western High-Speed Diameter (WHSD) from June 17 to 23 due to the transportation of forum participants and guests. Temporary traffic restrictions may be imposed on certain sections of the WHSD and other highways, including temporary bans on truck traffic. Pulkovo Airport has advised travelers to allow extra time for their journeys to the airport.