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WhatsApp Defies Kremlin Call Restrictions

WhatsApp continues to operate in Russia as regulators move to partially restrict calls on foreign messaging apps.

August 14, 2025 at 12:46 PM
blur WhatsApp to Putin: Back off!

WhatsApp defies Kremlin moves to curb voice calls on the app in Russia.

WhatsApp Defies Kremlin Call Restrictions

Roskomnadzor is pursuing measures to block voice calls on WhatsApp and Telegram in Russia, according to TASS. The action follows Russia’s 2022 ban on Facebook after it blocked access to state-backed media. WhatsApp says it will keep its services available in Russia.

The move shows a clash between global tech platforms and Russian authorities over how online communications should work inside the country. Observers say the actions could affect everyday talk, business needs, and trust in digital tools.

Key Takeaways

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Regulators push to restrict calls on foreign messaging apps in Russia
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WhatsApp vows to remain accessible in Russia
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Russia previously banned Facebook in 2022 after blocking state media
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TASS reports measures to partially restrict calls on WhatsApp and Telegram
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Public trust in cross-border communication could be affected
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Regulatory risk for global platforms operating in Russia grows
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Users may seek alternatives or workarounds

"Open messaging must stay free from politics."

editorial reflection on regulation and openness

"Digital life cannot be erased by regulators."

comment on regulatory reach

"Regulators chase control, users chase connection."

analysis of user behavior

"If calls disappear, trust falters."

public sentiment and trust

The clash shows how even popular apps can become political battlegrounds. Regulators frame their actions as crime prevention, but the result is tighter control over what people can say and how they connect.

For users, any new restriction means more friction and less choice. For companies, the situation highlights regulatory risk in Russia and the challenge of balancing openness with state demands.

Highlights

  • Open messaging must stay free from politics.
  • Digital life cannot be erased by regulators.
  • Regulators chase control, users chase connection.
  • If calls disappear, trust falters.

Regulatory and political risk for messaging apps in Russia

The moves reflect ongoing state pressure on cross-border platforms and could affect service availability, user trust, and investor sentiment. The outcome may influence future regulatory actions and cross-border digital policy.

The outcome will test how global platforms balance openness with state limits.

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