Communicating with relatives or friends in Russia has become increasingly challenging for many Russian speakers, primarily due to restricted access to messaging applications and instances of interference during phone calls. Disturbances during calls, such as strange noises or responses from unknown individuals, frequently lead callers to suspect their conversations are being surveilled. This atmosphere of uncertainty is compounded by reports that a significant number of people have been recruited for the purpose of intercepting private communications in Russia, as highlighted in a previous article by Yle from last November.

In response to these alarming developments, Yle's Russian-language editorial team, Yle Novosti, reached out to their readership for personal experiences regarding communication problems with Russia. Out of 209 respondents, most were hesitant to disclose their full names due to concerns about repercussions. However, numerous accounts shared similar issues, which points to a broader pattern of communication difficulties faced by individuals trying to maintain connections across borders in the context of the current geopolitical climate surrounding Russia.

This situation not only underscores the ongoing struggles for those trying to reach loved ones in Russia but also opens up discussions about privacy and security in an increasingly digital world. With the potential for phone calls to be monitored and the pervasive climate of fear surrounding communication with Russia, individuals are left grappling with uncertainty about both their safety and the integrity of their private conversations. These factors further complicate the delicate relationship many have with their homeland as they seek to communicate with family and friends amidst growing threats of surveillance.