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Russia to Ban Telegram, Critics Warn on Free Speech

2/17/2026

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Story summary
  • Russia plans to fully block the Telegram messaging app starting April 1 after earlier restrictions on social media.
  • Roskomnadzor says Telegram violates Russian law by failing to protect personal data and combat fraud.
  • Telegram founder Pavel Durov argues the ban aims to push users to MAX, a state-controlled app similar to China's WeChat.
  • Critics, including Amnesty International, warn that the actions undermine free communication.