Russia blocks WhatsApp, affecting over 100 million users

The Kremlin has officially confirmed the blocking of Meta’s WhatsApp messaging service in Russia, urging citizens to switch to a new state-backed messenger called Max.

Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov described Max as “an accessible alternative, a developing national messenger,” available for public use. The move comes amid Russia’s broader effort to steer users toward domestic platforms that authorities can more easily monitor.

WhatsApp responded, stating that the Russian government attempted to “fully block” the service to drive people toward Max, which it described as a “state-owned surveillance app.” The messaging platform emphasized that the action affects over 100 million users in Russia, warning that restricting access to secure communication undermines user safety.

Legal and Regulatory Justifications on WhatsApp

The Russian telecoms watchdog, Roskomnadzor, has repeatedly targeted messaging platforms like WhatsApp and Telegram, citing violations of Russian laws requiring data storage within the country and measures to prevent illicit activity.

Since last year, these platforms have faced operational restrictions, including slowed performance and partial blocking of calls.

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Roskomnadzor stated that the successive restrictions are intended to ensure compliance with Russian legislation and protect citizens. Telegram, founded by Russian developers but headquartered in Dubai, has been particularly affected, with users reporting degraded performance since early 2026.

Peskov defended the restrictions, noting that the government is enforcing legal requirements and that companies must comply with national laws to operate in Russia.

Critics, however, argue that the measures are primarily aimed at curbing freedom of expression, controlling the narrative on the war in Ukraine, and increasing government surveillance over citizens.