Mobile Internet Speed Reduced in Minsk at Authorities' Request

Belarusian mobile operator A1 has reduced the capacity of its 3G network in certain areas of Minsk at the request of state authorities. This has been reported by A1's press service.

"We regret to inform that at the request of state authorities and for the purpose of ensuring national security, the capacity of the A1 3G network has been significantly reduced in certain areas of Minsk. This compliance leads to a deterioration in the quality of data transfer services," the statement said.

Local media outlets reported significant disruptions to the Internet around 18:35 local time on Sunday, coinciding with a large number of protesters approaching Independence Square.

It is worth mentioning that tens of thousands of protesters gathered in Minsk yesterday at Independence Square and then marched towards the 'Planeta' hotel, located near the 'Minsk - Hero City' monument. Hundreds of military personnel surrounded the area of the 'Minsk - Hero City' monument.

The protests in Minsk have been ongoing for 14 days, with citizens expressing their dissatisfaction with the results of the presidential elections held on August 9, where the incumbent president was declared the winner with 80 percent of the vote. In the initial days of the protests, thousands of people were detained, hundreds were injured, and three protesters have died.