Russia Blocks Telegram, WhatsApp Calls as ‘Digital Sovereignty’ Push Gains Pace

- Moscow partially restricts voice and video call functionalities on Telegram and WhatsApp. - The move is part of Russia’s broader strategy to assert control over digital platforms and promote domestic alternatives. On August 14, 2025, Russia's communications regulator, Roskomnadzor, confirmed it had partially restricted voice and video calls on Telegram and WhatsApp. The agency cited concerns over criminal activities, including fraud, extortion, and terrorist recruitment, as key reasons for the decision. This announcement followed widespread reports from users, starting August 11, that Telegram calls had become barely functional and WhatsApp calls were experiencing severe audio disruptions. Roskomnadzor stated it will lift the restrictions only if both platforms comply with Russian laws, which includes establishing local offices and cooperating with law enforcement agencies. The initiative aligns with the Kremlin’s long-standing pursuit of "digital sovereignty," a strategy to reduce reliance on foreign technology and promote state-controlled alternatives. In response, WhatsApp reiterated its commitment to user privacy, emphasizing that its services are end-to-end encrypted and rejecting any government interference. Meanwhile, Telegram highlighted its use of advanced AI and machine learning to moderate harmful activities, stressing its dedication to user safety. The restriction marks a broader shift in Russia’s internet policy as the government seeks to replace foreign platforms with domestic solutions. President Vladimir Putin recently signed legislation to develop a state-backed messaging app that will integrate with government services. Critics warn that these measures may increase state surveillance and stifle free expression, and reports also suggest that the government has deliberately slowed foreign apps to encourage users to switch to Russian-controlled platforms. This latest action builds on years of escalating internet controls in Russia. In 2022, for example, Russian authorities blocked major platforms like Facebook and Instagram and declared the parent company, Meta, an "extremist organization." By asserting greater control over the digital landscape, Russia intensifies its efforts to shape a tightly regulated, domestic-focused internet ecosystem.