Russia moves to fully block WhatsApp, pushes users toward state-backed messaging app

whatsapp

• Russia to block WhatsApp, urges users to switch to state-backed MAX app
• WhatsApp claims MAX enables surveillance; Russian media denies it
• WhatsApp's future in Russia hinges on Meta complying with local laws.

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Russia moves to fully block WhatsApp, pushes users toward state-backed messaging app

Russia has tried to completely block WhatsApp in the country, according to its parent company Meta Platforms. The move is part of a larger effort by Moscow to promote local apps and gain tighter control over the internet inside Russia.

In a statement to Reuters, WhatsApp said Russia is trying to push people toward a state-backed messaging app called MAX. The company claimed this new app could be used for surveillance. Russian state media have denied these claims and said the accusations are not true.

Tensions between Russia and foreign tech companies have been rising since February 2022, when Moscow invaded Ukraine. Since then, Russian authorities have increased pressure on Western platforms, asking them to follow local laws more strictly. Companies that refuse to comply have faced restrictions, fines, or outright bans.

When asked whether WhatsApp could return to Russia, Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov said it depends on whether Meta is willing to follow Russian law. He said that if the company enters into talks with Russian officials and agrees to meet legal requirements, an agreement could be possible. But if Meta refuses to adjust its position, then there would be “no chance” of restoring access.

Reports suggest that WhatsApp, which has around 100 million users in Russia, has already been removed from an official online directory run by Roskomnadzor, the country’s communications watchdog. This signals that authorities are serious about limiting the app’s presence.

This is not the first time Russia has taken action against foreign messaging platforms. Last year, it limited some calling features on WhatsApp and Telegram, saying these companies were not sharing information with law enforcement in fraud and terrorism cases. In December, Russia also blocked Apple’s FaceTime service.

For now, WhatsApp says it is doing everything it can to keep people connected. But its future in Russia remains uncertain. Much will depend on whether Meta decides to follow Russia’s rules or continue to resist the government’s demands.