Russia plans to restrict foreign films during the May bank holiday period

Katerina Melnychenko
Katerina Melnychenko Deputy Editor-in-Chief
Russia plans to restrict foreign films during the May bank holiday period
Russia may temporarily restrict the screening of foreign films during the May holidays in 2026
Russia has introduced a temporary ban on the screening of foreign films in cinemas during the May bank holiday period in 2026. This applies to films without an official rights holder or a distribution licence.

This has been reported by UA NEWS.

In Russia, there is a proposal to temporarily restrict the screening of foreign films in cinemas during the May bank holidays. The restrictions could be in place from 30 April to 11 May 2026.

The initiative concerns films shown without an official rights holder or distribution certificate. In effect, the restrictions could apply to films currently being screened as pre-show entertainment without legal status in the Russian Federation.

The proposal was put forward by the Association of Cinema Owners. It suggested refraining from showing such films during the May holidays.

The initiative was supported by the film company “Atmosfera Kino”. It sent a memorandum to Russian cinemas regarding the release of the film “Lithuanian”.

In the memorandum, the company called for support for the Russian project about the Soviet female pilot and for a refusal to screen new illegal releases of foreign origin.

Meanwhile, concerns are mounting in the Russian capital regarding the safety of the 9 May parade. Despite official statements from the Kremlin that preparations are proceeding “according to plan”, reports are circulating in military circles and among bloggers about the cancellation of rehearsals and possible restrictions on the event due to the risk of drone attacks.

The article also notes that in 2025, Russia cancelled the Navy Day parade, which was due to take place on 27 July, for the first time. This occurred against the backdrop of an attack by Ukrainian drones.

As reported by ThePublic, Putin has effectively confirmed new internet blackouts in Russia.

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