Russia has imposed restrictions on voice calls via WhatsApp and Telegram, accusing the foreign-owned messaging platforms of failing to cooperate with law enforcement in fraud and terrorism cases. The move, announced by the communications regulator Roskomnadzor, targets calls only, leaving other functions unaffected.
Critics argue the Kremlin is tightening control over Russia's internet, a trend that has intensified since the full-scale invasion of Ukraine in 2022. President Vladimir Putin has authorised the development of a state-backed messaging app integrated with government services, promoting digital sovereignty and reducing reliance on foreign platforms.
Russia’s digital ministry stated that access to calls on foreign messengers will be restored once they comply with Russian legislation. Anton Gorelkin, deputy head of the lower house’s information technology committee, said platforms must open legal entities in Russia and cooperate with regulators and law enforcement to lift the blocking measures.
Meta, owner of WhatsApp, said the app is end-to-end encrypted and defies government attempts to violate secure communication, adding that Russia is trying to block it from over 100 million users. Telegram stated it actively combats misuse and removes millions of harmful pieces of content daily. Reuters reported that voice calls on both apps have been severely disrupted since 11 August.
Meta was labelled an extremist organisation by Moscow in 2022, but WhatsApp, widely used in Russia, was allowed to remain. Critics have voiced concerns that the new state-backed app may track user activity and that Russia could slow WhatsApp speeds to push users to migrate. Human Rights Watch reported last month that Russia is expanding its technological control over internet infrastructure, enabling widespread blocking and throttling.
