Amid escalating tensions with the United States and the ongoing war with Ukraine, Russia has reportedly attempted to completely block WhatsApp, triggering concerns over digital freedom and user privacy. The move is being described as a major “digital strike”, aimed at shifting nearly 100 million users to a state-owned messaging platform controlled by the government.

This is not the first time WhatsApp has faced restrictions in Russia. Similar concerns surfaced last year when Meta accused Russian authorities of trying to undermine private communication and expand state surveillance over digital platforms.

WhatsApp Responds Strongly

Reacting to the development, WhatsApp issued a public statement on social media platform X, accusing the Russian government of attempting to force citizens onto surveillance-based apps.

According to WhatsApp, cutting off millions of people from secure and private communication is a “backward step” that could seriously compromise user safety. The company emphasized that it is doing everything possible to keep Russian users connected despite government pressure.

In a statement to Reuters, a WhatsApp spokesperson added that Russia is actively promoting domestically developed platforms in an effort to gain tighter control over its internet ecosystem.

Push Toward Government-Controlled Platforms

Russian authorities have been encouraging citizens to move away from foreign tech platforms and adopt state-backed digital services, citing national security concerns. Critics, however, argue that such moves are less about security and more about monitoring communication and restricting free expression.

If implemented fully, the WhatsApp block could mark one of the most significant digital clampdowns in Russia to date, impacting everyday communication for millions and raising fresh questions about privacy, censorship, and digital rights in the country.