World · 12 February 2026
Russia attempts to block WhatsApp amid sovereign internet push
Meta has revealed that Russia has made a recent attempt to shut down WhatsApp nationwide, a move the company says would cut off secure messaging for more than 100 million people. The firm criticised the action as regressive, arguing it pushes users towards the government-backed Max platform. The development fits with Moscow’s wider strategy to tighten control over online services and reduce reliance on Western technology. Russian authorities insist the issue can only be settled if Meta adheres to domestic laws.
Reported by Guardian · How we write briefs