Thus, on January 1, 2025, new rules for the purchase of SIM cards for foreigners and stateless persons came into force in Russia, which significantly complicate access to communication. These measures are a logical continuation of the policy of tightening control over the population, which began with the completion of passportization in the occupied territories of Ukraine in early 2025, as previously reported by the National Resistance Center: https://sprotyv.mod.gov.ua/okupanty-zayavlyayut-pro-zavershennya-pasportyzatsiyi-tot/
Therefore, foreigners can apply for no more than ten numbers only in person at the service centers by presenting biometric data and the device’s “IMEI”. For those who already have SIM cards, by July 1, 2025, they will need to confirm their identity according to the same requirements with a Russian passport. In case of exceeding the limit of ten numbers, the connection will be disconnected, and then the mobile devices will be seized for additional checks. Mobile phones will be checked for the presence of correspondence and social networks. After that, the occupiers can take measures in their usual style – basement, interrogation and physical pressure.
These new rules are part of the strategy of the Russian occupation administration to isolate and total control the population in the TOT of Ukraine, as the occupation forces and collaborators are very afraid of the work of the Ukrainian underground. Therefore, we urge citizens in the occupied territories to be careful and look for alternative ways to communicate outside the enemy’s control.
You can stop the policy of the Russian invaders and their collaborators by publicizing their crimes and demanding their international prosecution. You can also participate in rallies in support of Ukraine or donate to the Armed Forces of Ukraine.
