Story perspectives

Russia Blocks WhatsApp, Promotes State-Controlled Max for Users

2/12/2026

Summary

Story summary

Russia is blocking WhatsApp and steering users to the state-backed Max to establish a sovereign internet.
WhatsApp criticized the move, saying it harms user safety for over 100 million Russians.
Telegram's founder condemned the restrictions, highlighting the importance of freedom of speech.
Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov warned that WhatsApp's return depends on compliance with Russian laws.
Mobile internet shutdowns disrupted regional services, affecting daily activities and essential access.

History

Historical Context

In 2017, Russia implemented the Internet Sovereignty Law, enhancing government control over internet traffic and user data, impacting over 100 million users. This move followed the 2013 NSA surveillance revelations, which fueled global concerns about data privacy. The Kremlin's ongoing tensions with tech companies over compliance reflect a historical trend of state control over communication, threatening freedom of speech and essential services.

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Story summary

Russia is blocking WhatsApp and steering users to the state-backed Max to establish a sovereign internet.
WhatsApp criticized the move, saying it harms user safety for over 100 million Russians.
Telegram's founder condemned the restrictions, highlighting the importance of freedom of speech.
Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov warned that WhatsApp's return depends on compliance with Russian laws.
Mobile internet shutdowns disrupted regional services, affecting daily activities and essential access.

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