Gemini AI Chatbot Blocked in Russia
If users from Russia systematically connect through a certain VPN server, over time Google's algorithms begin to associate this address with Russian jurisdiction, despite the server being physically located in another country,
Consensus
- Gemini became inaccessible to Russian users.
- The issue occurred even when using VPNs.
- The problem coincided with the release of Gemini 3.7 Flash.
- Gemini was never available from Russian IP addresses.
- Experts believe Google's geolocation methods are responsible.
- Many VPNs exclude Google services from the tunnel, sending traffic directly from the user's real IP.
- Google increasingly uses behavioral signals, including Google Maps geolocation, to determine user location.
- Google has not operated in Russia since 2022 and closed its official representation in 2023.
Points of divergence
- The technical restrictions were introduced directly by the corporation. — vm
- The service was briefly available via browser and mobile app before the restriction. — vm
- The final block coincided with the release of Gemini 3.6 Flash (note: source says 3.7 Flash, but this is a discrepancy in version number). — vm
- Users reported issues with KakaoTalk and BiP messaging apps. — vm
- The restriction was likely imposed by Google. — tg_mosguru
Coverage (4 sources)
- Users of Gemini reported access problems from Russia — Дождь
- Some Russian users can no longer use the Gemini neural network — even with a VPN — Meduza
- Gemini does not work on August 14, 2026 — Вечерняя Москва
- Gemini has stopped working in Russia — you can't connect to the chatbot even through a VPN. — Первый Московский