Russia has officially blocked messaging app WhatsApp, saying the company did not follow the country’s laws. Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov confirmed the decision on Thursday, stating that the app showed “reluctance to comply with Russian law.”

WhatsApp Says Access Was Restricted

WhatsApp, which is owned by Meta, said Russian authorities tried to fully block the app. In a post on X, the company claimed the move was an attempt to push people toward a state-owned messaging app.

The company said blocking WhatsApp would isolate more than 100 million users from secure and private communication. It added that it is working to keep people in Russia connected.

Government Says Ban Could Be Lifted

According to Russian news agency TASS, the country’s telecom watchdog has started slowing down WhatsApp because of alleged violations of national law.

Peskov said the ban could be removed if Meta agrees to follow Russian regulations and starts talks with authorities. However, he warned that if the company refuses to cooperate, the restrictions will remain.

Security Concerns Raised by Authorities

Russian officials claimed that WhatsApp has been used to organize terrorist activities and is one of the main platforms for fraud and extortion targeting Russian citizens.

State-Backed Alternative Promoted

Reports say the Russian government is promoting a state-supported messaging app called Max. The app is now required to be pre-installed on all new smartphones and tablets sold in Russia.

Max allows users to send messages, transfer money, and make audio and video calls.