Russia is tightening its control over the internet ahead of upcoming elections, limiting spaces for political activism and free speech. The authorities are cracking down on digital tools, throttling access to communication apps during protests, and expanding website and online service cutoffs. Russia is adopting techniques from China and Iran to reshape its domestic internet, signaling a shift towards a more authoritarian model. The strengthened controls come at a critical time for President Putin, as the government aims to prevent potential unrest around the election. The measures include targeting VPNs, blocking access to messaging apps, and increasing surveillance of internet traffic. These efforts mirror China's Great Firewall and represent a significant escalation in Russia's internet censorship.