How to Connect Gemini Code Assist in VS Code in Russia

Successfully Setting Up Gemini Code Assist in VS Code in Russia

To successfully connect Gemini Code Assist in VS Code in Russia, you will need to perform additional configuration due to Google’s restrictions in your region. The main issues are related to blocking Google services and API restrictions, but there are working solutions through VPN, proxy, or alternative access methods.

Table of Contents

• Basic Installation of Gemini Code Assist
• Access Issues in Russia and Their Causes
• Solutions for Successful Setup in Russia
• Alternative Access Methods
• Testing and Troubleshooting
• Safe Usage Practices

Basic Installation of Gemini Code Assist

First, let’s review the standard procedure for installing Gemini Code Assist in VS Code, which serves as the foundation for subsequent configuration in Russian conditions:

1. Install Visual Studio Code - If you don’t have VS Code installed yet, download it from the official website

2. Search for Gemini Code Assist extension:

   • Open VS Code
   • Go to the Extensions section via the icon in the sidebar or press Ctrl+Shift+X
   • In the search, type “Gemini Code Assist”

3. Install the extension:

   • Find the “Google.geminicodeassist” extension in the Visual Studio Marketplace
   • Click “Install” to install it

4. Authentication:

   • After installing the extension, a prompt to sign in to your Google account will appear
   • Follow the instructions to connect to your Google account

As noted by Google for Developers, this process is standard for users in most countries. However, in Russia, additional complications arise due to geographical restrictions.

Access Issues in Russia and Their Causes

The main obstacles to using Gemini Code Assist in Russia include:

Geographical Restrictions

Google Gemini, formerly known as Bard, is currently unavailable in many countries, including Russia, Belarus, and China[^1]. These restrictions are related to Google’s political decisions and policies regarding certain regions.

Technical Barriers

Even when using third-party DNS or proxy, VS Code may display restriction messages for the following reasons:

1. API-level blocking - Google blocks access to its services from IP addresses associated with Russia
2. Authentication restrictions - Google’s security system may reject requests from certain regions
3. Proxy network issues - Some types of proxies are not supported by the VS Code extension

[^1]: Comparitech - How to unblock Google Gemini from anywhere with a VPN

Solutions for Successful Setup in Russia

Using VPN Services

Step 1: Choose a Suitable VPN
Select a VPN service that reliably works with Google services. Some popular options:

• Private Internet Access[^2]
• NordVPN
• ExpressVPN

Step 2: Configure the VPN

1. Install the chosen VPN application
2. Connect to a server in the US or another country where Gemini is available
3. Ensure the VPN is working stably before launching VS Code

Step 3: Verify Connection
Open a browser and go to the Gemini website to confirm that the VPN is working correctly.

Configuring Proxy for VS Code

If VPN is not suitable, you can configure a proxy specifically for VS Code:

1. System Proxy Configuration:

   • Open system settings
   • Go to network settings
   • Specify proxy server data

2. VS Code Configuration:

   • Open VS Code settings (Ctrl+,)
   • Add to settings.json:
   json

   "http.proxy": "http://your_proxy:port",
   "https.proxy": "https://your_proxy:port"
   

3. Restart VS Code - Completely close and reopen the editor after configuring the proxy

[^2]: Private Internet Access - How to Access Google Gemini from Anywhere

Alternative Access Methods

Access Through Cloud Code

According to the BytePlus guide, you can use Gemini Code Assist through Google Cloud Code in VS Code:

1. Install the “Google Cloud Code” extension
2. Configure connection to Google Cloud
3. Use Gemini through the cloud environment

Using Psiphon

Psiphon is a censorship circumvention application that works like a VPN:

• Offers servers for changing location, including regions that support Gemini
• Uses 256-bit traffic encryption[^3]
• Can be a free alternative to commercial VPNs

Creating an American Profile

As noted by Reddit users[^4], you can create a new Google account with an American profile and use it without constant VPN:

1. Create a new account specifying the US as the country
2. Don’t change the region in the app after setup
3. Use this account to sign in to Gemini Code Assist

[^3]: VPNCentral - Google Gemini Not Available in Your Country
[^4]: Reddit - How to use Google Gemini app in any country

Testing and Troubleshooting

Testing Connection

After configuration, verify that Gemini Code Assist is working:

1. Network Check - Ensure that VPN or proxy is working
2. Test Connection - Try creating simple code and requesting help from Gemini
3. Status Check - The extension should display “Connected” or similar status

Common Errors and Solutions

Additional Settings

For stable operation, you can add to VS Code’s settings.json:

{
  "http.proxyStrictSSL": false,
  "extensions.autoUpdate": false,
  "telemetry.enableTelemetry": false
}

Safe Usage Practices

Data Protection

When using VPN and proxy to access Google services, it’s important to remember:

1. Choose reliable services - Avoid free VPNs with questionable reputations
2. Regularly update software - Use the latest versions of VS Code and extensions
3. Don’t store sensitive data - Be cautious with confidential information in code when using AI assistants

Compliance with Terms of Use

Using VPN to access Google services may violate their terms[^5]. However, this is not illegal but rather contradicts the company’s policy.

Backup Solutions

Prepare alternative tools in case Gemini Code Assist stops working:

• GitHub Copilot
• Amazon CodeWhisperer
• Locally hosted AI models

[^5]: Comparitech - VPN and Google Gemini terms

Sources

1. Google for Developers - Set up Gemini Code Assist for individuals
2. DataCamp - Gemini Code Assist: A Guide With Examples
3. Habr - Get Started with Gemini Code Assist in VS Code
4. BytePlus - Install Gemini Google Cloud Code in VS Code | 2025 Guide
5. Visual Studio Marketplace - Gemini Code Assist
6. DEV Community - Supercharge Your Coding: Using Google Gemini as an AI Coding Assistant in Visual Studio Code
7. Google for Developers - Gemini Code Assist overview
8. AdsPower - Gemini Unblocked: How to Access Google Gemini Anywhere
9. Google Cloud - Control Network Access to Gemini Code Assist
10. Private Internet Access - How to Access Google Gemini from Anywhere
11. Reddit - How to use Google Gemini app in any country
12. Comparitech - How to unblock Google Gemini from anywhere with a VPN
13. VPNCentral - Google Gemini Not Available in Your Country
14. VPNoverview - How to Access Google Gemini in China

Conclusion

Setting up Gemini Code Assist in VS Code in Russia requires additional effort due to Google’s geographical restrictions, but it is completely solvable. Key points:

1. Use reliable VPN services with servers in the US or other supported countries
2. Configure proxy specifically for VS Code if VPN is not suitable
3. Create an American profile for your Google account for more stable operation
4. Test connection after each configuration and resolve errors using the table
5. Pay attention to security and choose trusted services for bypassing restrictions

If none of the methods work, consider alternative AI assistants or cloud solutions through Google Cloud Code. Technology is constantly evolving, and methods for accessing Google services may change, so follow updates to these guides.