Russia Blocks WhatsApp, Promotes State-Backed App | 20 Feb 2026

Why in News?

The Russian government has blocked access to the Meta-owned messaging app WhatsApp and imposed restrictions on Telegram, Russia’s two most widely used foreign messaging platforms. 

Key Points:

• WhatsApp Ban: Russia has fully blocked WhatsApp, citing the platform’s alleged refusal to comply with Russian laws and regulatory requirements. 
  • The ban was implemented because WhatsApp did not meet local legal and security obligations. 
• Regulator: The restrictions are enforced by Roskomnadzor, Russia’s state communications regulator.
• Shift to State App: The Russian government is actively promoting Max, a state-supported messaging and super-app, as a replacement for foreign-owned services. 
• Restriction on Telegram: Telegram has not been fully banned. 
  • Authorities have introduced restrictions on the platform’s functionality and accused it of failing to remove extremist or prohibited content. 
• National Security Narrative: Russian authorities argue that restricting foreign messaging apps is necessary for national security.
  • These platforms allegedly facilitate criminal activity, fraud, and foreign intelligence access. 
• Public Reactions: Digital rights groups criticised the WhatsApp ban and Telegram restrictions, saying they undermine privacy and free communication while promoting state-controlled platforms as part of Russia’s push for digital sovereignty.