Russia Attempts to 'Fully Block' WhatsApp in Push for State Control
Russia has made an effort to "fully block" WhatsApp, the popular messaging service owned by Meta, in a strategic move to drive users towards its own state-sponsored communications app, Max. A spokesperson for WhatsApp confirmed this attempt, highlighting it as part of the Kremlin's broader agenda to establish a "sovereign internet"—an online environment isolated from Western technology and more susceptible to government oversight.
Backlash and Broader Crackdown on Messaging Apps
The WhatsApp spokesperson, in a statement to the Guardian, criticized the action, stating: "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. We continue to do everything we can to keep users connected." This development occurs amidst a wider suppression of social media platforms in Russia, most notably targeting Telegram, another widely used messaging app with over 60 million daily Russian users.
Telegram's founder, Pavel Durov, based in Dubai, recently condemned Russian authorities after users reported slowdowns and delays. He emphasized, "Restricting citizens' freedom is never the right answer," and reaffirmed Telegram's commitment to freedom of speech and privacy. The crackdown has sparked rare criticism from various groups, including frontline Russian troops, pro-war bloggers, and exiled opposition figures.
Rise of State-Sponsored App Max and Regulatory Actions
Max, the Russian state-sponsored app, is designed similarly to China's WeChat and boasts approximately 55 million users across the country. In August of last year, Russia mandated that Max be pre-installed on new phones, a move that has raised concerns among critics who argue the app could facilitate user surveillance—a claim dismissed by state media as false.
According to the Financial Times, WhatsApp has at least 100 million users in Russia, making it the nation's most prevalent messaging service. Russian authorities have reportedly removed WhatsApp, along with Facebook and Instagram—also Meta-owned platforms—from an online directory operated by Roskomnadzor, Russia's media monitoring agency. Additionally, in December last year, Russia blocked access to Snapchat and imposed restrictions on Apple's FaceTime service.
Kremlin's Stance and Future Implications
When questioned about the potential return of WhatsApp in Russia, Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov told Tass news agency: "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 that if Meta maintains an uncompromising position and refuses to align with Russian laws, there is no chance for reinstatement.
This situation underscores the escalating tensions between global tech companies and the Russian government, as the latter intensifies efforts to control digital communication channels and promote domestic alternatives like Max.
