How to Unblock YouTube in Russia 2025

December 8, 2025 By Nancy William No Comments 4 minutes

YouTube was never completely blocked in Russia towards the beginning of 2024. However, towards the end of the year and now, the platform is completely shut down. There are many reasons around it, which we’ll get to later on. Other than that, this guide is mainly for the viewers asking ways to unblock YouTube in Russia, so that they can use their accounts for music, streaming, and more.

Warning!

This guide is only for informational guidance. Ensure that you proceed to access YouTube at your own will and discretion, even while using our service. We, at FastestVPN, are not to be held accountable in any way possible. Other than that, our only urge is to use our VPN to enhance your online privacy and protection.

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How to Unblock YouTube in Russia

So, what is the best way to unblock YouTube in Russia? Even though users sometimes consider using the TOR browser, it comes with some complications, but it also depends on how you use it. Other than that, the best way right now to get past the Russian YouTube block is by using a VPN. Here is how to get started:

Subscribe to the best VPN for YouTube. FastestVPN is the best and most affordable option.
Create your account.
Download and install the VPN app on a YouTube-supported device.
Once installed, launch the VPN app and sign in to your account.
Connect to a US VPN server or any short-distance server that allows YouTube.
Configure the VPN and change protocols according to what works best. We recommend the WireGuard protocol.
Go to the YouTube website or use the app if it’s already downloaded.
Start browsing securely.

Why is YouTube Not Working in Russia?

YouTube seemed to be working fine in Russia, until one day it wasn’t. So what’s happening? Why isn’t YouTube working in Russia?

Access to YouTube in Russia has become increasingly difficult, or rather, made to look like it’s caused by other factors. The government has significantly slowed YT’s speed and appears to be moving toward a full block. This is all part of a much significant effort to control what and how information reaches their citizens.

Officially, authorities try and curb the actual reason for the platform’s poor performance, calling it a “technical issue.” However, many observers believe these are deliberate steps to silence independent news and voices. This follows the state’s previous bans on other major social networks.

Despite these harsh restrictions, a large number of Russians continue to use YouTube by using VPN services. Here are a few points showing you why Russia is blocking YouTube:

Speed Throttling

Starting in August 2024, Russian officials deliberately slowed the platform’s performance, claiming it was just slow or virtually inaccessible. This left many users struggling to connect, mainly on desktop computers. The government justifies this by pointing to the platform’s alleged failure to comply with national regulations.

Information Management

This kind of throttling was not just a single incident, but a key tactic in something far broader: managing public discourse and reducing access to viewpoints that challenge or criticize the state.

Russia is Throttling YouTube

So, why is Russia blocking YouTube? Their main reasons were that the platform was promoting violent and hate speech regarding the RU government and the State at large. It blocked YouTube because the platform refused to air any kind of pro-Kremlin information on the invasion of Ukraine. Ultimately, Russia tried to draw the blame on the lack of Google’s and YouTube’s ability to maintain their servers in Russia, resulting in slow speeds, etc.

Verdict – Public Workarounds and YouTube’s Response

To get around these government-imposed slowdowns and blocks, a significant number of Russian citizens have turned to VPN services, which allow them to restore full access and continue using the platform. In response to this tactic, YouTube has officially clarified that the service disruptions are not a result of any technical faults on its part. They have acknowledged the connectivity problems affecting their user base within Russia.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the YouTube ban threat Russia?

Over time, Russia has consistently threatened to ban YouTube since 2021. This was mainly because YouTube refused to comply with its terms on the removal of information against RU-related media channels.

Is it possible to do a YouTube censorship bypass in Russia?

In general, it’s extremely difficult to bypass YouTube’s censorship in Russia. However, despite that, you can still try by using a VPN. With the best VPN for YouTube, you can connect to a US VPN server to change your IP address. This helps mask your physical location, preventing detection. Once you connect to a US VPN server, you can attempt to access YouTube.

How do you watch YouTube in Russia without a VPN?

Watching YouTube and other international media in Russia comes with challenges. However, there are still some workaround methods to bypass the countries’ restrictions. You can’t use all methods, considering Russia’s blocking techniques are extremely strong. This is why a VPN is your best option.

Are VPNs illegal in Russia?

Using a VPN in Russia is not deemed illegal. The technology itself isn't outlawed, but you can be fined for using one to access banned websites or material the state deems "extremist." In short, continue at your own risk.

Does YouTube still work in Russia?

Although YouTube is working in Russia, it’s as good as not using it. There is little to access, while most of the YouTube content are blocked within the country.

Are there alternatives to YouTube in Russia?

Right now, the main alternatives to YouTube in Russia are VK Video and RuTube.

To Conclude

YouTube, among other social media platforms, is constantly blocked in Russia, and many are still looking for workarounds.

To unblock YouTube in Russia, the best way is by using a VPN. When you connect to a VPN server, your physical IP address is masked. This makes it easier to access the platform undetected.

Other than that, please ensure you understand the risks of trying to circumvent online restrictions in Russia. If you use our software to unblock it, ensure that you do it at your own risk.

This guide is only for informational purposes and to show you a way you secure your connection online.

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