In the past decade, the Russian government has blocked 261 websites. In 2013 that number topped 70,000, Internet freedom activists say more than 5,400 websites have been blocked since Russia began its massive invasion of Ukraine in February.
In response, an increasing number of Russians are using VPNs – virtual private networks that hide the location of Internet users and allow them to access blocked websites. According to The Times of London, 24 million Russians — about a quarter of all adult Internet users — used a VPN in May, up from 1.6 million.
Market research service AppMagic found that Russians downloaded VPNs more than 12 million times in the first three weeks of July alone.
In the past, President Vladimir Putin has stated that simple bans are not the best way to limit internet use. He said the state should be more sophisticated, more subtle, and his government was reluctant to ban VPNs entirely, fearing it would alienate the many Russians who use them for entertainment.
The 2017 law prohibited VPNs from allowing access to blocked sites, however, it placed an obligation on VPN services to comply that they largely ignored. However, the government has blocked more than 20 VPNs.
Now, activists say, a soft-power initiative has been launched to scare Russians away from VPNs and turn them toward government-controlled information resources.
“If you like me, you removed your VPN after all the hype, congratulations on screwing up,” blogger Batya-Goda, with around 46,000 followers, wrote on July 6 in a social media post that was later published. deleted. “I was happy for about 20 minutes, using all my favorite apps. Then everything started to fall apart. Other apps stopped working, my battery died and my internet access slowed down. My IT friend told me that VPN … especially the free ones — sell user data.”
Batya-Goda called VPNs “the problem of 2022”.
Dozens of similar posts condemning VPNs have been posted on the popular social network VKontakte and elsewhere, including posts by local government officials.
Numerous pro-Kremlin media outlets quote Nikita Danjuk, an academic who is an advisory member of the government’s Public Chamber. She warned of the dangers of data theft and called VPNs the “gray cardinals” of the criminal world.
“The Russians need to understand that the VPN information store does not stay in Russia and can be transferred to various hands, including fraud call centers, as well as spy agencies and other similar organizations,” Danyuk said.
On July 20, Kremlin-friendly Gazeta.ru reported Artyom Geller, a technical adviser to the Federation Council and chief designer of the president’s Kremlin.ru website, as claiming that the United States was funding free VPN services to gain “access to users’ personal data from other countries” and exercise “ideological influence” on internet users abroad.
Geller appeared to be referring to the Open Technology Fund (OTF), which is an American non-profit organization that is a grantee under the US Global Media Agency. This agency oversees RFE/RL and other American international broadcasters. OTF is an advocate for expanded Internet access, according to its website.
According to a Reuters report in June, the OTF provided several million dollars to three VPN companies after the February 24 invasion of Ukraine.
Laura Cunningham, president of the OTF, is quoted as saying the support is needed because “the Russian government is trying to censor what their citizens read and post online to obscure the truth or silence the opposition.”
Russian freedom of information activists are skeptical about the motives behind what they say is an organized campaign of intimidation against the VPN.
Roskomsvoboda’s Stanislav Shakirov, director of Internet monitoring group Roskomsvoboda, said it was likely that authorities were aware of the data theft in a hurry and decided to use such campaigns to protect people. “They most likely saw that more and more people were using VPNs and decided to use that to influence their core constituency, people who are not tech savvy and can’t tell what’s real and what’s not.”
Regardless, Shakirov warned, there are free VPNs that extract user data.
“VPN services cost money,” he said. “If clients don’t pay, that means they have to find money elsewhere.”
Some companies also say they are slowing down their free VPNs to push users towards paid services.
Will Ukraine run out of ammo?
Ukraine has almost run out of ammunition for the Soviet-era weapons systems that were the mainstay of its arsenal, and Eastern European countries that maintained similar systems have also run out of surplus supplies to donate, Danylyuk said.
Will Ukraine get more weapons? We will announce more than $800 million in the coming days, including more advanced Western air defense systems for Ukraine and anti-battery radar. In addition, we will also announce additional ammunition for the HIMARS multi-barrel missile systems, which we have already given…
How many MLRS does Ukraine need?
300 MLRS is a good number for Ukraine: Ukrainian military expert to achieve parity of arms with Russia. French 155mm CAESAR SPG in Ukraine and frontline combat use
How many MLRS will Ukraine get?
The Biden administration announced on Wednesday that it would give Ukraine $700 million in military aid. This includes medium-range missile systems as well as high-tech medium-range missile systems. This is a key weapon that Ukrainian leaders have been begging to acquire as they try to halt Russian advances in the Donbass.
Did Ukraine get MLRS?
KYIV, July 15 (Xinhua), — Ukraine has received M270 multiple rocket systems (MLRS) from its international partners, Oleksiy Reznikov, Ukraine’s defense minister, said.
What ammunition does Ukraine use?
| Name | Country of origin | Caliber |
|---|---|---|
| Malyuk | Ukraine | 7.62x39mm 5.45x39mm 5.56x45mm NATO |
| Fort-221 | Israel Ukraine | 5.45x39mm 5.56x45mm NATO |
| Fort-224 | ||
| Fort-227 | 5.56x45mm NATO |
How many HIMARS does the Ukraine have?
Included in the latest package of presidential withdrawal authorizations are four additional HIMARS systems, which will provide Ukraine with a total of 16 command vehicles; further anti-tank weapons, spare parts and other equipment; and 36,000 rounds of 105 mm ammunition.
What artillery is Russia using in Ukraine?
This has been made possible in Ukraine through the use of Western-supplied HIMARS and M270 rocket-propelled artillery systems that can accurately engage targets nearly 50 miles away using GPS-guided missiles.
How much artillery does Ukraine need?
A senior adviser to the president presented his assessment of Ukraine’s needs in mid-June: 1,000 155mm howitzers; 300 multiple missile systems; 500 tanks; 2000 armored vehicles and 1000 drones.
How many artillery to Ukraine?
NATO allies have delivered more than 200 pieces of heavy artillery from the USA to Ukraine. These include the American M777 and the French CAESAR, as well as the German PzH 2000 and other long-range self-propelled and towed artillery systems.
What weapons does Ukraine have now?
These weapons include anti-aircraft and anti-tank weapons, as well as armored vehicles, reconnaissance drones, attack drones, helicopters and small arms, ammunition and body armor. Artillery howitzers are supplied by nations such as Estonia and Norway.
Why did Russia lose so many tanks?
How many tanks has Russia lost to date? While Ukrainian losses should not be underestimated, the Russian contribution in terms of vehicles lost, either captured or destroyed, is huge and has reached levels not seen since World War II, with more than 800 lost tanks visually confirmed through open source data and around 3,500 other armored vehicles. vehicles.
How many tanks did Russia lost in Ukraine?
Ukraine plans to start the exhibition in Warsaw before moving to Berlin, Paris, Madrid and Lisbon. Ukraine claims that Russia has lost around 1,477 tanks since the February invasion.
How many Russian tanks have been destroyed in Ukraine Oryx?
Russia has lost 237 T-72B3 tanks and hundreds of T-72 variants, and at least 170 T-80 tanks since the offensive against Ukraine began in February, according to Oryx, an intelligence blog that tracks Russian military losses.
How many tanks and planes has Russia lost?
Russia lost an estimated 38,140 soldiers, 1,677 tanks and 220 aircraft during its massive military invasion of Ukraine.
Is Russia still losing tanks?
Russia still lacks many tanks and APCs and has been using older equipment, including decades-old T-62 tanks from the Eastern Military District.
How many tanks and planes have Russia lost in Ukraine?
Share this: The General Staff of Ukraine reported that Russia also lost 1,430 tanks, 3,484 armored fighting vehicles, fuel tanks, 2,455 vehicles and 715 artillery systems, 226 missile systems, 97 anti-aircraft systems and 178 helicopters.
How many Russian tanks have been lost in Ukraine?
More than 1,500 Russian tanks were destroyed in Ukraine.
Why is Russia losing many tanks?
Russia has reported losing more than 650 tanks and more than 3,000 armored vehicles and heavy equipment during its incursion into Ukraine. Experts estimate losses due to modern anti-tank weapons given to Ukraine by Western countries, poor strategy, low morale and important design flaws.
How many tanks has Ukraine destroyed?
Russia lost 38,750 soldiers, 1,700 tanks, 3,905 armored fighting vehicles and 703 drones in its military invasion of Ukraine.
Do Ukrainian volunteers get paid?
Each volunteer would receive a salary of about $3,000 a month, the same as a soldier, said Yaroslav, a Ukrainian military officer and head of the International Legion in western Ukraine who could not give his last name for security reasons.
Are foreign volunteers paid in Ukraine? World law defines a mercenary as someone who works solely to earn money and is paid much more than local armed forces. Members of the International Legion pay the same amount as their Ukrainian military counterparts.
Can American volunteer to fight in Ukraine?
Jozefowicz, a former Chicago police officer, claims that thousands of American and other volunteers are currently in Ukraine. Several organizations operate in the country. Jozefowicz said his group alone has placed hundreds of volunteers in positions across the country, 40 of them in combat positions.
Can anyone become a UN Volunteer?
Basic requirements include a university degree or higher technical degree (a master’s degree is sometimes required depending on the nature and scope of the job), two years of relevant work experience, and understanding of at least one UNV working language – English French Spanish.
Is UN online volunteer paid?
Volunteering for the United Nations requires you to be enthusiastic and committed. UNV will pay for your health and expenses. You will receive various benefits and allowances. These benefits and allowances are not compensation or salary. These are not compensations.
How much do you get to fight in Ukraine?
The Ukrainian government has announced that its soldiers will be paid UAH 100,000 per month (about Rs 2.5 lakh) to fight against Russian forces. In accordance with the presidential decree, the Cabinet of Ministers of Ukraine made a decision. “The Cabinet of Ministers implemented the decision.
How much are foreign fighters getting paid in Ukraine?
The International Legion pays those who join the same amount as their Ukrainian military counterparts. They are paid a base salary of $630 per month, with bonuses that can reach thousands of dollars per month.
How much does a Russian soldier earn?
About 70% of the Russian army is made up of contract soldiers, while conscripts make up the rest of the army. According to the Washington Post, soldiers typically sign up for three years and receive $1,100 a month.
Can anyone volunteer to fight in Ukraine?
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy urged in a February letter that “anyone who wants to be part of the defense of Ukraine, Europe and the whole world can join together and fight side by side with Ukrainians against Russian war crimes.”
Can I fight for Ukraine as an American?
There are currently no US military personnel in Ukraine. The Biden administration has tried to dissuade Americans from joining the fight themselves, despite the fact that it is legal.
Can I volunteer to go fight for Ukraine?
Anyone who wants to support the defense of Ukraine, Europe and the world can do so. A few days later, Ukraine’s foreign minister extended the original appeal and Ukraine created an online platform that allows foreign volunteers to apply.
How to join Ukraine Legion?
Apply to the Embassy of Ukraine in your country to be able to join the International Defense Legion of Ukraine (ask the attaché of the Ministry of Defense or the consul. For more information, visit the embassy’s website). Please indicate what documents and clothing (equipment) you need or would recommend.
Is the Ukrainian Foreign Legion paid? Members of the International Legion are paid the same as their Ukrainian military counterparts. They are paid a base salary of about $630 a month, with bonuses that can reach several thousand dollars a month.
How can I go to fight in Ukraine?
Official applicants must contact the Ukrainian embassy in their country and show up for an interview, provide documents proving they have previous police or military experience, and bring their own military equipment such as helmets and body armor, before setting off to join the International Legion. ..
Can I join the Ukraine army?
The decree of President Volodymyr Zelenskyi on March 1, 2022 established visa-free entry to Ukraine for citizens of other countries who wish to join the International Defense Legion of Ukraine in exchange for visa-free entry to the aggressor state.
Can I volunteer to fight in the Ukraine?
Anyone who wants to help defend Ukraine, Europe and the whole world can do so. A few days later, Ukraine’s foreign minister extended the initial request and Ukraine launched a website allowing foreign volunteers to register.
Can I join Ukrainian foreign Legion?
Effective February 28, 2022, Ukrainian President Zelensky announced a temporary visa-free program for foreigners who wish to join the International Legion. The new regime will enter into force from March 1, 2022 until the end of the state of emergency.
Can anyone join the Ukraine Foreign Legion?
Join the Legion and help us defend Ukraine, Europe and the whole world! Anyone who is interested in joining the fight for security in Europe and around the world can join us and stand with Ukrainians against the invading forces of the 21st century.
Can you volunteer to go to the Ukraine?
Applicants must apply to the UNV United Volunteer Platform to become a volunteer. These guides, either online or on the web, will help you understand the process and provide additional resources such as the Unified Terms of Service.
What documents do I need to join the Ukraine foreign Legion?
- Your ID card from your national government
- Foreign/international passport;
- Documents proving your military service (law enforcement);
- Participation in combat
- Other documents requested by consuls or defense attachés
Can anyone join the Ukrainian foreign Legion?
On March 1, 2022, President Volodymyr Zelensky’s decree introduced visa-free entry into Ukraine for citizens of other countries who are willing to join the International Defense Legion of Ukraine, with the exception of citizens of the aggressor state.
Can I fight for Ukraine as an American?
There are no known US military personnel in Ukraine, and the Biden administration has sought to dissuade American citizens from participating in the conflict on their own, even though it is not against the law.
What artillery does Ukraine have?
The M777 has become the primary weapon of Ukrainian heavy artillery. This gave Ukraine a qualitative advantage over Russia’s primary heavy artillery system, the 152 mm gun.
What weapons does Ukraine use? These weapons include artillery and anti-aircraft equipment, as well as anti-tank weapons. They also include armored vehicles, reconnaissance attack drones, and helicopters. They also include small arms, ammunition and body armor.
What artillery is UK sending to Ukraine?
So far, 6,900 NLAW, Javelin, Brimstone and other anti-tank weapons have been sent to Ukraine, along with 16,000 artillery rounds, six Stormer vehicles with Starstreak anti-aircraft missile launchers and hundreds of missiles.
Is Britain sending artillery to Ukraine?
Defense Secretary Ben Wallace announced that Britain will provide M270 launchers, which can attack targets up to 80km away using precision-guided missiles. The Defense Secretary also announced that the UK would provide multiple launch rocket systems (MLRS) to Ukraine to help defend against Russian aggression.
What artillery sent Ukraine?
The US has pledged 1,000 precision 155 mm artillery rounds to be used in howitzers as part of a $400 million security package for Ukraine. At today’s briefing in the Pentagon, an official of the Ministry of Defense said that it is a new type of artillery ammunition of 155 mm caliber.
What is the range of Ukrainian artillery?
Until recently, most Ukrainian artillery could be fired from a distance of 30-40 km. The Tocka U missile complex had a range of up to 120 kilometers. It was the longest range weapon. However, Ukraine only had up to twenty Tochka-U complexes in operation.
What range does Russian artillery have?
Russia also has access to a number of other artillery systems. 9A52-4 aTornadoa MLRS: range up to 90 km. BM-30 aSmercha MLRS range 70-90 km. 2S7 aPiona 203mm heavy gun range 37.5 to 55 km
Is Long range artillery helping Ukraine?
Ukraine says Western long-range weapons could help ‘clean up’ Severodonetsk within days. A Ukrainian official said that Western long-range artillery systems could be used to help Ukraine’s military defeat Russian forces and retake the city of Severodonetsk in just days.
Do Ukraine have rockets?
According to Security Council Secretary Oleksiy Danilov, nine highly mobile artillery rocket systems (HIMARS) and similar systems from the US and its allies are currently deployed in Ukraine. The United States announced on July 8 that it would send four more.
What kind of artillery does Ukraine use?
105mm Ammunition This package contains 36,000 rounds of 105mm artillery ammunition. This is unusual as most of the artillery systems supplied to Ukraine were of the larger 155 mm caliber adopted by NATO standards for most units.
How many HIMARS will Ukraine receive?
The M142 High Mobility Artillery Rocket Systems, or HIMARS, will bring the total number delivered to Ukraine to 16.
How much firepower does America have?
| Category | In total |
|---|---|
| Tankers | 627 |
| Helicopters | 5,463 |
| Attack Helos | 910 |
Which country has the most firepower? The Global Firepower Index 2022 puts the United States at the top of the list, Russia at second and China at third.
Who has more firepower Russia or USA?
The paths to military power of the United States and Russia are different. The US is the most powerful in the sky with fewer fighter planes, bombers and bases than Russia, however Russia is more dominant on the ground with more tanks and artillery.
Who is most powerful US or Russia?
According to the 2020 survey (published in 2021) the United States is the most powerful country in the world ….Top 10 most powerful countries in the world (2021 top countries report):
- Russia.
- Germany.
- UK.
- Japan.
- France.
- North Korea.
- Saudi Arabia.
- United Arab Emirates
Who has better weapons US or Russia?
Russia is estimated to have 5,977 nuclear weapons by 2022. This is the largest stockpile of nuclear weapons in the world. The United States has 5,428 warheads, which is second. Russia’s deployed missiles (those ready for launch) total about 1,588, which is less than the 1,644 in the United States.