The Russian government is intensifying its efforts to block WhatsApp, marking a significant escalation in its crackdown on communication platforms outside its control. WhatsApp criticized the move on X, labeling it “a backwards step” that compromises safety for users in Russia. The country’s internet watchdog, Roskomnadzor, has excluded WhatsApp domains from the National Domain Name System, effectively making the service accessible only through VPNs. Recent reports indicate that more aggressive measures are now underway to fully block the platform, following a history of restrictions that began in August 2025 with throttled voice and video calls. Meta, WhatsApp's parent company, has been classified as an “extremist” entity in Russia since 2022, complicating its operations. Dmitry Peskov, the presidential press secretary, mentioned that WhatsApp could potentially resume operations if Meta complies with local laws. This crackdown coincided with similar actions against Telegram, which has faced significant throttling recently. Telegram's founder, Pavel Durov, accused the government of pushing citizens to adopt the Kremlin-controlled MAX messenger app, developed by VK. MAX is mandatory on all electronic devices sold in Russia since September 2025, but it faces scrutiny over its encryption and data collection practices. For the time being, Russian users can still access WhatsApp and Telegram through VPNs, although these tools are also at risk of government restrictions. The overall situation highlights Russia's increasing control over digital communication and its implications for user privacy and security.