Russia bans WhatsApp, pushes state-backed alternative
Russia has blocked messaging service WhatsApp, citing alleged legal breaches, and is urging users to switch to a state-backed alternative called MAX. The move was announced by Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov on Thursday. WhatsApp's reluctance to comply with Russian law led to the blockage, according to Peskov.
The story so far
- Feb 12
How outlets cover it
3 outletsNot rated on the left–right scale. It describes Western party politics and doesn’t fit state media or outlets outside that system, so we show ownership and country instead.
Open questions and key claims
There was a possibility of reaching an agreement if Meta entered into dialogue with Russian authorities.
Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov attributed the ban to WhatsApp’s “reluctance to comply with the norms and letter of Russian law”.
The move is a ‘backwards step’.
Rights campaigners say restrictions on messaging apps are a transparent attempt to ramp up control and surveillance.
Russia attempted to “fully block” WhatsApp.
WhatsApp accuses Russia of trying to fully block its service.
Russia previously restricted video and voice calls on WhatsApp in August.
Russia has blocked messaging service WhatsApp over alleged legal breaches.
Who and where
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