Russia announced on Wednesday that it is partially restricting voice calls on WhatsApp and Telegram, citing efforts to combat crime and safeguard national security, according to state media.
The country’s communications regulator, Roskomnadzor, said the restrictions are aimed at curbing the use of foreign messaging apps for illegal activities. “Measures are being taken to partially restrict calls on these foreign messaging apps to fight criminality,” the agency said, as quoted by RIA and TASS.
Roskomnadzor claimed that WhatsApp and Telegram have become the primary platforms used for fraud, extortion, and even recruitment into subversive and terrorist activities. Russian authorities have repeatedly accused Ukraine of using Telegram to coordinate sabotage efforts within Russia.
Officials stated that the restrictions would remain in place until the platforms comply with Russian law—specifically, requirements to grant law enforcement access to user data when requested, including in cases involving terrorism and fraud.
“Access to calls on foreign messengers will be restored once they begin to comply with Russian legislation,” the Ministry of Digital Development added.
Telegram responded in a statement to AFP, saying it actively combats abuse on its platform, including calls for violence and sabotage, and removes “millions of pieces of harmful content every day.”
WhatsApp, owned by Meta, defended its stance on user privacy. “WhatsApp is private, end-to-end encrypted, and resists government attempts to violate secure communication,” a spokesperson told AFP, adding that Russia appears to be targeting the platform’s over 100 million users to push them toward services more susceptible to government surveillance.
Since the beginning of its war in Ukraine, Russia has tightened control over the media and online spaces, cracking down on press freedom and digital privacy.