More Signs Russia’s Internet Crackdown Is Backfiring
Russia's internet crackdown appears to be backfiring as President Putin's approval ratings decline. Despite significant investment in propaganda, public support for Putin has dropped to its lowest levels since the start of the Ukraine war. Factors contributing to this decline include ongoing military struggles, economic challenges, and public dissatisfaction with living conditions.
- ▪Putin's approval rating fell from 74% in February to 65.6% in April 2026.
- ▪The proportion of Russians with relatives involved in the military operation has increased to almost one-third.
- ▪Inflation and rising prices are contributing to public discontent, with supermarket prices rising 2.3% at the start of 2026.
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| Original publisher | Forbes — Business |
| Canonical URL | https://www.forbes.com/sites/natashalindstaedt/2026/05/24/more-signs-russias-internet-crackdown-is-backfiring/ |
| Publication time | Sun, 24 May 2026 11:38:13 -0400 |
| Retrieval time | 2026-05-24T16:27:33.372Z |
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BusinessAerospace & DefenseMore Signs Russia’s Internet Crackdown Is BackfiringByNatasha Lindstaedt,Contributor.Forbes contributors publish independent expert analyses and insights. Natasha Lindstaedt is a professor at the University of EssexFollow AuthorMay 24, 2026, 11:38am EDT--:-- / --:--This voice experience is generated by AI. Learn more.This voice experience is generated by AI. Learn more.YAROSLAVL, RUSSIA - SEPTEMBER,1 (RUSSIA OUT) Russian President Vladimir Putin (R) and Presidential Adminitsration's First Deputy Chief of Staff Sergey Kiriyenko (L) observe an exhibition prior to the All-Russia's Open Lesson in Yaroslavl, 260 km. north of Moscow, Russia, September,1,2017.
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