Story perspectives

FSB Calls for Tougher Telegram Controls Amid Public Backlash

4/15/2026

Center

FSB Tightens Telegram Controls

The Federal Security Service (FSB) has pushed for tougher Telegram controls amid public backlash over internet restrictions.
Officials warn tougher controls could have political and economic repercussions, and the crackdown may slow.
Trust in President Putin has dropped to 67.8%, its lowest since the Ukraine war began, threatening the Kremlin ahead of September's elections.
Telegram's founder, Pavel Durov, advocates a 'Digital Resistance' and urges users to prepare against censorship.

Right

Kremlin Enforces Internet Censorship

In March 2026, Russian authorities shut down mobile internet in Moscow for nearly three weeks, citing concerns over Ukrainian drone attacks.
They also intensified efforts to block messenger apps such as Telegram and VPNs used to circumvent censorship.
Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov defended these actions, stating that security needs necessitate such measures, despite the inconvenience caused to citizens.
He assured that internet access would be restored once the situation allows.

1 of 2

FSB Tightens Telegram Controls

The Federal Security Service (FSB) has pushed for tougher Telegram controls amid public backlash over internet restrictions.
Officials warn tougher controls could have political and economic repercussions, and the crackdown may slow.
Trust in President Putin has dropped to 67.8%, its lowest since the Ukraine war began, threatening the Kremlin ahead of September's elections.
Telegram's founder, Pavel Durov, advocates a 'Digital Resistance' and urges users to prepare against censorship.

1 / 2