Putin Is Disrupting 'Everyday Communications' For Ordinary Russians In Fresh Crackdown, UK Says

Source: HUFFPOST

Vladimir Putin is cracking down on WhatsApp in Russia in a wider attempt to quell criticism towards the Ukraine war, according to the UK.

In its latest social media update, the Ministry of Defence (MoD) said Moscow already had a tight grip over foreign digital platforms and the domestic information environment even before it invaded its European neighbour, but has cranked up its efforts over the last year.

Russian courts designated WhatsApp owner Meta an extremist organisation in October 2022, claiming such measures were justified “particularly in an election year”.

And, as the MoD update pointed out, Russian authorities have been increasing pressure on WhatsApp since January 2025.

Read more: https://www.huffingtonpost.co.uk/entry/putins-new-crackdown-affects-ordinary-russian-communications_uk_6975cfefe4b031f3fa689c77

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Putin Is Disrupting 'Everyday Communications' For Ordinary Russians In Fresh Crackdown, UK Says
By
Kate Nicholson
25/01/2026 11:23am GMT

The Kremlin continues to isolate its own citizens from the outside world.