The Russian government is reportedly set to implement a complete ban on the Telegram messaging platform in early April 2023. Sources close to the Kremlin indicate that this decision has been finalized.
Officials have cited concerns over alleged instances of recruitment for illegal activities as the primary reason for the ban. However, there are no current plans to restrict the platform’s use in designated combat zones.
In conjunction with this move, Russian authorities have initiated a criminal investigation against Telegram’s founder, Pavel Durov, labeling him as a terrorist. This investigation appears to be part of a broader effort to control online communication within the country.
When approached for comment, representatives from Roskomnadzor, the agency responsible for regulating internet services in Russia, stated that they had no information regarding the impending ban on Telegram.
Experts suggest that the ban is part of Russia’s strategy to create a domestic internet model akin to China’s. Andriy Kovalенко, head of the Center for Counteracting Disinformation at the National Security and Defense Council of Ukraine, noted that Russian intelligence services aim to control a new messenger, referred to as MAX, while using Telegram for cognitive operations targeting Ukraine, Europe, and the United States.
Kovalенко further explained that this situation mirrors the ongoing efforts on platforms like YouTube, where Russian operatives continue to disseminate narratives favorable to the Kremlin while facing restrictions within Russia itself.
The Russian government is preparing to block Telegram in early April, citing recruitment for illegal activities as the reason. This move aligns with broader efforts to establish a controlled internet environment and manage information dissemination.