Russia has blocked the popular messaging service WhatsApp, citing alleged violations of Russian law, and encouraged users to adopt a state-backed alternative, MAX, in a move widely interpreted as part of the Kremlin’s efforts to tighten control over online communication amid the war in Ukraine.
Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov announced the decision on Thursday, claiming WhatsApp has shown “reluctance to comply with the norms and letter of Russian law.”
He urged Russian citizens to transition to MAX, a government-sponsored platform designed as an all-in-one service for messaging, online government transactions, and payments.
Experts warn that MAX lacks the end-to-end encryption that protects messages on platforms like WhatsApp, meaning user communications could be accessed by state authorities upon request, raising serious privacy concerns.
This latest measure follows a gradual tightening of restrictions on foreign messaging services. Last year, Russia limited some WhatsApp and Telegram calls, accusing the companies of failing to cooperate with law enforcement in fraud and “terrorism”-related investigations.
Rights organizations, including Amnesty International, have criticized these actions, calling them a transparent attempt to expand surveillance and restrict free speech. “As usual, Russian authorities are resorting to the bluntest instrument in their digital repression toolbox: censorship and obstruction under the guise of protecting people’s rights and interests,” Amnesty said in a statement on Tuesday.
WhatsApp said on Wednesday that it was doing “everything we can” to keep its users connected in Russia.
Since December, many Russian users have reportedly relied on virtual private networks (VPNs) to access the platform, according to Reuters.
The clampdown extends beyond WhatsApp. Earlier this week, Russian communications regulator Roskomnadzor announced new restrictions on Telegram — widely used by Russian troops in Ukraine — citing the platform’s alleged failure to comply with Russian law.
The government has also previously blocked major social media platforms, including Twitter, Facebook, and Instagram, and restricted services like YouTube and Apple’s FaceTime.
Observers say the move signals Moscow’s continued push to consolidate digital control, limit independent communication, and channel users toward government-monitored platforms.
