WhatsApp has accused Russia of trying to cut off more than 100 million people from secure messaging, after authorities restricted calls on the Meta-owned app and rival Telegram.

The move comes as Moscow pushes state-backed alternatives and tightens control over the country’s internet space.

Russia’s communications watchdog said on Wednesday it had begun limiting some WhatsApp and Telegram calls, alleging the platforms refused to share information in fraud and terrorism investigations. Text messaging and voice notes remain unaffected.

The restrictions deepen a long-running standoff with Western tech companies that escalated after Russia’s 2022 invasion of Ukraine. Moscow has already blocked Facebook and Instagram, slowed YouTube, and fined foreign platforms for failing to comply with local content and data laws.

“WhatsApp is private, end-to-end encrypted, and defies government attempts to violate people’s right to secure communication,” the company said, vowing to keep encrypted services available in Russia.

Telegram said it uses AI moderation tools to remove millions of harmful messages daily, including calls for violence and fraud.

According to Mediascope, WhatsApp reached 97.3 million monthly users in Russia as of July 2025, compared with Telegram’s 90.8 million and VK Messenger’s 17.9 million. VK Messenger is operated by state-controlled tech giant VK.

The government is now promoting “MAX,” a new state-controlled messaging app integrated with government services. Critics fear it could be used for surveillance. Senior lawmakers have begun migrating to MAX, encouraging followers to join.

Analysts warn the “steady degradation” of WhatsApp and Telegram mirrors tactics used against YouTube, where slower speeds have hindered access.

Human Rights Watch said last month that Russia is building an isolated, tightly controlled online space, aided by new censorship laws that penalize users for seeking “extremist” content — even when using VPNs to bypass restrictions.