Russia blocks WhatsApp messaging service and promotes a state-backed alternative

Russia has moved to fully block the WhatsApp messaging service. The Kremlin says the block is because WhatsApp's owner, Meta, has not complied with Russian laws.

WhatsApp criticized the block, saying Russia is trying to force over 100 million users to switch to a government-supported app called Max. Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov said WhatsApp could be unblocked if Meta follows Russian regulations.