WhatsApp Likely to Exit Russian Market Amid Growing Restrictions
A top Russian lawmaker has warned that WhatsApp should prepare to leave the Russian market, signalling a major shift in the country’s approach to foreign digital platforms. Anton Gorelkin, deputy head of Russia’s parliamentary IT committee, stated that WhatsApp is very likely to be added to a list of restricted software as Russia moves to promote its new state-backed messaging service, MAX.
New State-Backed App to Replace WhatsApp
Russia’s President Vladimir Putin recently signed a law supporting the development of MAX, a government-backed messaging platform designed to integrate with public services. This move is part of Moscow’s broader strategy to reduce reliance on foreign platforms such as WhatsApp and Telegram. Gorelkin pointed out that MAX could rapidly gain market share if WhatsApp, currently used daily by 68% of Russians, exits the country.
Since Russia designated WhatsApp’s parent company, Meta Platforms, as an extremist organisation, Gorelkin suggested that WhatsApp’s continued operation in Russia poses a national security risk. Meta’s other platforms, Facebook and Instagram, were already banned in Russia in 2022 following the start of the Ukraine conflict.
Kremlin Pushes Digital Sovereignty
Anton Nemkin, another member of the IT committee, echoed these concerns, calling WhatsApp’s presence a “legal breach of national security.” Russian authorities are keen to enhance what they call “digital sovereignty” by encouraging local alternatives to foreign tech platforms. This push has gained momentum as Western companies have exited the Russian market in response to sanctions.
President Putin has also issued a directive requiring the introduction of new restrictions on software and communication services developed in countries deemed “unfriendly” to Russia. The deadline for these new restrictions is September 1. Gorelkin indicated that WhatsApp would likely fall under these restrictions, potentially forcing its withdrawal from the Russian market.
Telegram Unlikely to Face Ban
Meanwhile, Telegram, founded by Russian-born entrepreneur Pavel Durov, is expected to avoid a ban, provided it complies with Russian law. The messaging app has already begun steps to establish a legal presence in Russia, according to updates from the state communications regulator, Roskomnadzor.
As Russia moves to restrict foreign apps further, WhatsApp’s future in the country appears uncertain. Meta has not commented on the situation.
with inputs from Reuters
