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Telegram Under Fire: Russia's Soldiers Exposed, Privacy Advocates Rally

2/18/2026

Summary

Story summary

Foreign intelligence services can access Telegram messages from Russian soldiers, according to Maksut Shadayev, Russia's digital development minister.
Authorities will not block Telegram for military use, citing the need to transition to alternative communication methods.
Telegram founder Pavel Durov reaffirmed the app's commitment to user privacy amid government pressure.
The Yabloko opposition party plans a March 1 rally to defend Telegram, following past blocking protests.

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Story summary

Foreign intelligence services can access Telegram messages from Russian soldiers, according to Maksut Shadayev, Russia's digital development minister.
Authorities will not block Telegram for military use, citing the need to transition to alternative communication methods.
Telegram founder Pavel Durov reaffirmed the app's commitment to user privacy amid government pressure.
The Yabloko opposition party plans a March 1 rally to defend Telegram, following past blocking protests.