Russia Threatens Permanent WhatsApp Ban, Targets 100 Million Meta Users
Russian telecom watchdog attempted to fully block WhatsApp on February 12, cutting service for over 100 million users and alleging the app facilitates terrorist activities and financial fraud. Kremlin demands Meta enter talks and comply with local laws on data storage and content moderation or face a permanent WhatsApp ban.
1. Russia Attempts Full WhatsApp Block
On February 12 Russia’s telecom watchdog attempted to fully block WhatsApp, cutting service for over 100 million users and accusing the messaging app of facilitating terrorist activities and financial fraud.
2. Kremlin Sets Compliance Terms for Meta
Kremlin press secretary Dmitry Peskov stated that WhatsApp could be restored if Meta enters into dialogue and complies with Russian laws governing data storage and content moderation.
3. Broader Regulatory Crackdown on Meta Services
This escalation follows August 2025 restrictions on WhatsApp voice calls, the 2022 bans of Facebook and Instagram, and promotion of the state-backed MAX app, highlighting increasing geopolitical risk to Meta’s services.