The proposals, published by Ministry of Digital Development of Russia, are part of a broader effort by Moscow to build what it describes as a “sovereign internet”—a tightly controlled digital ecosystem designed to limit foreign influence and align with national values.
According to the ministry, the draft regulations are intended to protect citizens from “covert manipulation” and biased algorithms, while also giving authorities greater control over how AI systems operate within the country. The measures are expected to undergo further review before potentially coming into force next year.
Central to the proposal is the classification of “cross-border AI technologies,” a category that includes foreign-developed models whose usage involves transferring user data outside Russia. Under the new rules, such systems could face restrictions or outright bans if they do not meet local compliance requirements.
The initiative is likely to benefit domestic players such as Sberbank and Yandex, both of which are investing heavily in home-grown AI solutions. It also aligns with a broader trend of increasing state control over Russia’s internet infrastructure and digital services.
State media reports indicate that platforms used by more than 500,000 daily users may be required to store Russian user data within the country for up to three years. This condition has historically been a point of contention, with several Western technology firms declining to comply with similar mandates.
Legal experts cited by RIA Novosti note that while U.S.-based systems may face restrictions, some foreign AI models could still be deployed in Russia if adapted to operate entirely within domestic infrastructure, ensuring that data does not leave the country.
The move highlights a growing global divide in how governments regulate artificial intelligence, with Russia prioritizing data sovereignty and state oversight as it seeks to shape the future of the technology within its borders.