A senior Russian lawmaker has warned that WhatsApp may soon halt operations in the country. Anton Gorelkin, deputy head of the State Duma’s IT committee, stated that the messaging platform could be classified as restricted software.
Furthermore, this step appears likely under new regulations targeting foreign technology firms, Reuters reported.
Putin Orders Stricter Control Over Foreign Software
WhatsApp, which is part of Meta, is feeling the heat as Russia ramps up its crackdown on foreign tech firms. Meta has already been branded an “extremist organisation,” resulting in bans on Facebook and Instagram back in 2022.
To make matters worse, President Vladimir Putin has recently signed a directive that calls for stricter control over foreign software from “unfriendly countries.” Authorities are expected to enforce these new rules by September 1, and this includes communication apps like WhatsApp.
Push for State-Controlled Alternatives
In June, Putin approved a law promoting a state-managed messaging service integrated with government platforms. Consequently, this move aligns with Russia’s long-standing objective of achieving technological independence.
Officials argue that removing WhatsApp could accelerate the adoption of the domestic platform. After the 2022 invasion of Ukraine, many Western tech firms exited Russia, reinforcing the Kremlin’s push for self-reliance in digital infrastructure.
Stay tuned to Brandsynario for latest news and updates
