Why Did Russia Attempt to ‘Fully Block’ WhatsApp, Isolating Over 100 Million Users – Kremlin Explains

The reported move comes amid a wider crackdown on foreign social media platforms. The Guardian noted that Telegram, founded by Pavel Durov, has also faced disruptions in Russia, prompting public criticism from Durov. Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov, speaking to Russian state media and cited by The Guardian, said Meta would need to comply with Russian legislation and engage in dialogue with authorities if it hoped to operate in the country. Otherwise, he suggested, there would be little chance of an agreement.