Russian authorities have fully blocked Meta Platforms' WhatsApp messaging service, according to reports from Reuters and the Financial Times. The national internet regulator, Roskomnadzor, removed the application from its official online directory to enforce the ban.
The messaging service maintained an estimated 100 million users in Russia prior to the restriction.
A WhatsApp spokesperson characterized the move as an attempt to migrate the population to state-owned surveillance applications. This escalation follows previous restrictions placed on specific WhatsApp and Telegram features last year. The Kremlin continues to seek greater control over the domestic internet landscape, citing non-cooperation with law enforcement by foreign platforms.