Russian streaming platforms Rutube and VK Video will likely host pirated digital copies of major upcoming Hollywood films including Avengers: Doomsday, according to Alexei Byrdin.
Byrdin, the head of Russia's Internet Video Association, told news agency National News Service that new releases such as Avengers: Doomsday and Dune: Part Three will almost certainly be available on domestic platforms as soon as quality digital copies exist.
The prediction comes as theatrical access to foreign titles continues to narrow. Alexei Voronkov, chairman of the Association of Cinema Owners, previously stated that showing unauthorized foreign movies under the guise of pre-show service will end by the New Year. Voronkov added that Russian cinema audiences will not see Avengers: Doomsday or Dune: Part Three in theaters before April 1, 2027.
Rutube and VK Video are major Russian video hosting services that stream user-generated content alongside professional media. The Internet Video Association represents legitimate streaming platforms in Russia, while the Association of Cinema Owners represents movie theater operators.
Regulation and monetization of digital copies
Byrdin explained that foreign copyright holders have the technical ability to restrict pirated copies online, but have neglected to do so in recent years. He noted that communications watchdog Roskomnadzor can only block content if it discredits traditional spiritual and moral values.
While expected Hollywood novelties will likely miss Russian theaters, Byrdin said domestic platforms are already monetizing pirated media. Copyrighted films uploaded to these sites are categorized as user-generated video, allowing platforms to collect ad revenue under standard tariff rates during playback.
Legislative scrutiny and enforcement
The National News Service submitted inquiries to the press offices of Rutube and VK Video regarding content monetization, but neither platform responded before publication.
The practice has drawn concern from lawmakers. Elena Drapeko, deputy chairman of the State Duma Committee on Culture, previously warned that screening foreign movies without an official distribution certificate violates law, calling for stricter state policy.
Roskomnadzor oversees mass media and internet communications in Russia, while the State Duma is the lower house of Russia's parliament responsible for federal legislation.
