The Russian government has officially ordered a block on the Meta-owned messaging service WhatsApp, affecting over 100 million users. The move, alongside new restrictions on Telegram, marks a significant escalation in the Kremlin’s effort to control domestic digital communication and transition the population toward state-controlled platforms.
The Reasoning: Compliance and “National Security”
Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov confirmed the decision, stating it was necessitated by Meta’s “unwillingness to comply with the norms and the letter of Russian law.” Specifically, Russian authorities allege that both WhatsApp and Telegram have refused to store the data of Russian users on domestic servers, a requirement under existing legislation.
Furthermore, the internet regulator Roskomnadzor has begun curbing access to Telegram, citing a “lack of security.” This is particularly notable as Telegram has been a primary tool for Russian military forces and pro-war bloggers to coordinate and share information during the ongoing conflict in Ukraine.
The Rise of “Max”
In place of these global platforms, the Russian government is heavily promoting a domestic alternative called Max.
- State Promotion: Max is currently being marketed through a nationwide campaign involving TV advertisements, billboards, and endorsements from local officials.
- The “Safety” Narrative: Authorities claim that WhatsApp is a primary tool for fraud and extortion, framing the migration to Max as a protective measure for citizens.
- Surveillance Concerns: Meta and independent critics argue that the move is designed to funnel 100 million users into a “state-owned surveillance app.” While state media denies these allegations, critics maintain that the domestic architecture of Max allows for total oversight by Russian authorities.
Impact on the Ground in Ukraine
The decision to restrict Telegram has met with unexpected resistance from within the pro-war community. Military bloggers have complained that the curbs are “hampering communications on the ground,” potentially disrupting the flow of information between frontline units and their supporters.
Official Statements
Meta (WhatsApp):
“Trying to isolate over 100 million users from private and secure communication is a backwards step and can only lead to less safety for people in Russia.”
The Kremlin (Dmitry Peskov):
“The national messenger [Max] is an available alternative. Meta could resume operations if it complies with the law and enters into dialogue.”
Context: The “Sovereign Internet”
This crackdown is the latest step in a multi-year project to create a “sovereign internet” within Russia. Since 2022, the pace of these moves has accelerated, as the Kremlin seeks to insulate its information space from Western influence and ensure that all digital footprints remain within the reach of domestic regulators.
Source: BBC
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