Moscow city officials announced on May 13, 2026, a ban on the publication of photos, videos, and texts documenting the aftermath of drone strikes and other terrorist attacks within the city limits [1, 2]. The restrictions apply to media outlets, individuals, emergency services, government officials, and organizations, limiting publication rights exclusively to Russia's Defence Ministry and official city government channels managed by Mayor Sergei Sobyanin [1, 2].
The city’s Anti-Terrorism Commission said the measure aims to prevent the spread of unreliable or false information about these attacks, stating that "the capital's Anti-Terrorism Commission adopted this regulation in order to prevent the dissemination of false information" [2].
These restrictions were introduced amid a recent rise in drone attacks on Moscow by Ukrainian forces in early May 2026 [2]. The strikes included attacks near the Kremlin and caused disruptions around Russia's Victory Day celebrations on May 9 [2]. The ban follows similar measures adopted in other areas, including the United Arab Emirates, which implemented comparable bans on publishing drone strike damage in March 2026 [2].
Individuals who violate the ban face fines ranging from $67 to $680, while government officials risk significantly higher penalties, potentially up to 50,000 rubles (approximately $670) [1, 2]. Legal entities caught breaking the order may be fined up to 200,000 rubles (around $2,700) [2].
The order was published on the Moscow city official website, formalizing the publishing prohibitions for all except designated official sources [1, 2]. Enforcement details and monitoring mechanisms have not been publicly disclosed.
The ban comes at a sensitive time as Moscow continues to face increased drone strike activity and aims to control information dissemination related to national security incidents.
Officials have yet to announce a review date or an expiration for the restrictions, which remain in effect as of today.
