President Vladimir Putin has signed a new law greenlighting the development of a state-controlled messaging app integrated with government services, signaling Russia’s growing push to cut reliance on global platforms like WhatsApp and Telegram. The move is part of Moscow’s drive for “digital sovereignty” following Western tech exits after the 2022 Ukraine invasion.
Also Read: WhatsApp Banned from U.S. House Devices Over Security Concerns
Russian officials claim the app will offer features not present in Telegram or WhatsApp. However, critics warn it could seriously compromise personal privacy and expand state surveillance. Some fear it’s a step toward deeper digital control.
Mikhail Klimarev from the Internet Protection Society suggested Russia may intentionally slow down WhatsApp and Telegram to push citizens toward the state-backed alternative.
Coincidentally, WhatsApp also faced a setback in the U.S., where the House of Representatives banned its use on official devices citing security concerns and lack of data transparency.
