Key Facts
• July 18: Independent media Meduza reports WhatsApp ban is “almost certain.”
• 68% of Russians use WhatsApp daily, making it a widely popular app.
• Russian lawmaker Anton Gorelkin warns WhatsApp to prepare for market exit.
• Ban aims to promote state-approved domestic apps for “digital sovereignty.”
• Facebook and Instagram, also by Meta, already restricted in Russia.
• VPNs required to access Meta platforms in Russia.
• Kremlin expects public dissatisfaction but no significant protests.
Summary
The Putin administration is set to ban WhatsApp, used daily by 68% of Russians, as part of its push for “digital sovereignty.” The government plans to replace foreign-made apps with state-approved domestic alternatives to strengthen information control. Russian lawmaker Anton Gorelkin has urged WhatsApp to prepare for its exit from the Russian market. Similar restrictions already apply to other Meta platforms like Facebook and Instagram, which require VPNs for access. While the ban may increase public dissatisfaction, Kremlin officials believe it will not lead to significant protests.
