Russian authorities have partially restricted voice calls on Telegram and WhatsApp, accusing both platforms of failing to cooperate with security investigations involving alleged fraud and terrorism. The measures, confirmed by the country’s Digital Development Ministry on Wednesday, took effect on August 11, significantly disrupting voice services while allowing text messaging to continue unimpeded. Users report Telegram calls now rarely connect, while WhatsApp calls exhibit distorted audio or silence.
Officials stated the restrictions will remain until the platforms comply with Russian laws demanding local corporate offices, collaboration with regulators, and direct data access for law enforcement. Failure to meet these requirements, which are part of broader legislation passed in recent years, could lead to prolonged limitations. Foreign tech firms have faced mounting pressure in Russia since its 2022 invasion of Ukraine, with critics arguing the latest moves align with efforts to assert “digital sovereignty” and reduce reliance on Western platforms.
A government-backed messaging app, promoted by President Vladimir Putin and tied to state services, is positioned as an alternative. While details about its rollout remain scarce, analysts suggest it could centralize control over digital communication and deepen state surveillance capabilities. Meta, WhatsApp’s parent company, was labeled an “extremist organization” by Moscow in 2022 over its temporary relaxation of hate speech rules during the Ukraine invasion. Despite the designation, WhatsApp has remained operational, though some lawmakers now advocate for its complete expulsion from the market.
Digital rights advocates warn the new state app may enable user tracking, with fears Russia could degrade WhatsApp’s performance to steer citizens toward the domestic service. Organizations like Roskomsvoboda, a Russian internet freedom group, argue the government is escalating censorship by blocking VPNs and circumvention tools while expanding its arsenal of surveillance technologies. Activists link these measures to a years-long trend of tightening online controls, including the 2019 “sovereign internet” law granting authorities unilateral power to isolate Russia’s digital infrastructure.
The ongoing clash reflects wider tensions between global tech giants and governments seeking regulatory control. Moscow insists its policies aim to combat crime and protect national security, but critics view them as part of a strategy to suppress dissent and monitor civilian activity. While messaging remains accessible, the disruption to calls highlights the fragility of digital services in politically charged environments—and the growing risks for platforms caught between state mandates and user privacy expectations.
