In a new step to promote what it calls “digital sovereignty,” Russia has begun imposing partial restrictions on calls made via Telegram and WhatsApp. This move comes amid accusations directed at these foreign-owned platforms for failing to share vital information with law enforcement authorities in cases involving fraud and terrorism.
Article contents:
- Background of the ongoing digital conflict
- Official justification and details of the new restrictions
- The push for digital sovereignty and local alternatives
- Platform reactions and impact on users
- Security concerns and human rights criticism
- Frequently asked questions
Background of the ongoing digital conflict
Russia’s technological landscape has seen escalating tension for years between the government and foreign tech platforms. Disagreements primarily revolve around content moderation and data storage policies. This conflict intensified significantly following the Russian invasion of Ukraine in February 2022. Analysts and critics believe the Kremlin is actively seeking to expand its control over the country’s internet space and restrict the flow of information that does not align with the official narrative.
Historically, Russia has tried to deal firmly with these platforms. Meta (owner of WhatsApp, Facebook, and Instagram) was designated as an “extremist organization” in 2022, and Facebook and Instagram were blocked. However, WhatsApp was allowed to continue operating due to its widespread popularity and role as an essential communication tool rather than a platform for spreading information, despite facing some penalties for failing to remove content banned by Russia.
Official justification and details of the new restrictions
The Russian Ministry of Digital Development and the communications regulator (Roskomnadzor) announced that these restrictions are necessary to combat criminal activity. Interfax quoted Roskomnadzor as saying: “In order to counter criminals… measures are being taken to partially restrict calls on these foreign messaging apps.” The agency confirmed that current restrictions are limited to calls, with no other limitations placed on other app features such as text messaging.
The ministry stated that Telegram and WhatsApp ignored repeated requests to take action to stop the use of their platforms for illegal activities. It clarified that blocking measures will be lifted if the platforms fully comply with Russian law.
The push for digital sovereignty and local alternatives
These restrictions come as part of a broader strategy through which Moscow seeks to achieve what it calls “digital sovereignty.” This strategy aims to promote locally developed services and apps while reducing reliance on foreign technology. In a move supporting this direction, President Vladimir Putin authorized the development of a state-backed messaging app integrated with government services.
Russian officials are setting strict conditions for foreign platforms to remain. Anton Gorelkin, deputy head of the State Duma’s Committee on Information Technology, explained that compliance includes opening legal entities in Russia, unconditional compliance with all Russian laws, and full cooperation with authorities. Gorelkin recently stated that WhatsApp should prepare to leave the Russian market, while another lawmaker described WhatsApp’s presence as a “national security breach.”
Platform reactions and impact on users
Meta and Telegram did not immediately respond to official requests for comment on these restrictions. However, Telegram responded to the Russian newspaper RBC, asserting that it resists calls for violence and fraud on its platform, and that moderators use artificial intelligence tools to monitor public parts of the platform and remove millions of harmful messages daily.
On the ground, users have begun to clearly feel the impact of these restrictions. Reuters reporters confirmed that voice calls on Telegram have barely worked since August 11, 2025, and that WhatsApp calls have become nearly impossible due to choppy audio and annoying metallic humming. This indicates that authorities are using jamming techniques or connection throttling rather than a direct ban.
Security concerns and human rights criticism
The move toward the new state-backed messaging app raises serious concerns among critics and privacy advocates, who warn that the app could be used as a tool to track user activity and monitor their communications. Some point out that Russia is deliberately slowing down WhatsApp and Telegram speeds to force users to switch to the new government-controlled platform.
Human Rights Watch confirmed in a recent report that the Russian government is steadily increasing its technological capabilities and control over the country’s internet infrastructure, enabling broader censorship and more effective combat against anti-censorship tools.
Frequently asked questions
Have WhatsApp and Telegram been completely blocked in Russia?
No, current restrictions are limited to voice and video calls. Text messaging functions continue to work.
Why is Russia specifically targeting these apps?
Russian authorities claim these platforms do not cooperate sufficiently on security issues related to fraud and terrorism, and they seek to enforce local laws and push users toward censored alternatives.
What is “digital sovereignty”?
It is a strategy aimed at reducing dependence on foreign technology and building a national digital infrastructure that allows the government to have full control over the internet space within its borders.
