Overnight, millions of Russians found themselves cut off from one of the world’s most popular messaging apps. WhatsApp says this wasn’t a technical glitch; it was an attempt by Moscow to “fully block” the service. Here’s what’s going on, why Russia is tightening the screws on foreign apps, and what it could mean for users. What happened? WhatsApp, owned by Meta Platforms, said on 11 February that the Russian government tried to completely block its services in the country. The company described the move as part of Russia’s effort to push people toward a state-backed alternative.
WhatsApp said: We continue to do everything we can to keep users connected.
According to reports, millions of users were suddenly unable to access the app. Russia is one of WhatsApp’s large markets, with more than 100 million users. Russia’s communications watchdog, Roskomnadzor, has reportedly removed WhatsApp from its official online registry, signalling deeper restrictions. Why is Russia blocking WhatsApp? The tension between Moscow and foreign tech companies has been growing since Russia invaded Ukraine in February 2022. Since then, the government has increased control over the internet and pressured foreign platforms to follow local laws. Russian authorities accuse some foreign apps of refusing to cooperate with law enforcement in cases related to fraud and terrorism. Last year, Russia began limiting certain calls on WhatsApp and Telegram. In December, it also blocked Apple’s FaceTime. At the same time, Moscow is promoting a homegrown messaging platform called Max. WhatsApp claims the blocking attempt is meant to push users toward what it described as a: state-owned surveillance app.
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What is Russia’s ‘Super App’ Max? Max is a state-backed “super app” designed to combine messaging with government and financial services, similar to China’s WeChat. The app reportedly offers: Max was developed by VK (formerly VKontakte), which is now state-owned. Russian authorities have reportedly required smartphone makers to pre-install the app on devices sold in the country.
Critics argue that such a centralised app could allow the government to track users more easily. However, Russian state media have dismissed those concerns as false. What is the Kremlin saying? Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov said WhatsApp’s future in Russia depends on whether Meta complies with Russian laws. Speaking to TASS, he said: This is again a question of fulfilling the legislation. If the Meta corporation fulfils this and enters into dialogue with Russian authorities, then we have the possibility of reaching an agreement. He added: If the corporation (Meta) sticks to an uncompromising position and, I would say, shows itself unready to align with Russian legislation, then there is no chance.
In simple terms, if Meta agrees to Russia’s rules, WhatsApp could return fully. If not, the ban could continue. Also read: Scientists create AI model that reads brain MRIs in seconds, diagnoses patients with 97.5% accuracy
Telegram also under pressure
WhatsApp isn’t the only app facing restrictions. Russia has also announced limits on Telegram, saying the platform failed to remove content authorities labelled “criminal and terrorist.” Telegram is reportedly facing a large fine for not complying with content removal demands. Telegram’s founder, Pavel Durov, has previously said the platform remains committed to protecting free speech and user privacy. What could happen next? If Russia continues restricting foreign messaging apps, users may have fewer options and could be pushed toward state-backed platforms like Max. For users, this could mean: For tech companies, it highlights a bigger issue: whether to comply with local laws that may conflict with their own privacy and free expression policies. The situation remains uncertain.
But one thing is clear: Russia is tightening control over its digital space, and foreign messaging apps are feeling the pressure.
