Internal dissent has emerged within segments of the Russian military regarding a mandated switch to the government-controlled messaging platform “MAX.” This directive has prompted personnel to seek alternative means of communication.
In various units of the 2nd Combined Arms Army located in the Donetsk region, dissatisfaction has grown over the requirement to fully adopt the state messaging application by February 18, abandoning other communication services. This order has sparked open frustration among both enlisted soldiers and some officers.
Concerns regarding the “MAX” platform stem from perceptions that it is under the complete control of security services, leading to fears about potential repercussions from its use. Recent disruptions in communication and the shutdown of Starlink services have exacerbated challenges in management and coordination.
Reports indicate that these issues have resulted in personnel losses and the abandonment of previously held positions, particularly in the direction of Hulyaipole. In informal discussions, soldiers have mentioned purchasing separate phones to comply with the installation of “MAX,” while continuing to utilize other messaging applications for primary communication.
Some commanders are reportedly turning a blind eye to this workaround. Military personnel are apprehensive that the use of the government messaging app could lead to disciplinary or criminal consequences, as they believe that conducting combat operations in strict adherence to current regulations is practically unfeasible.
Additionally, representatives from the “ATESH” movement have reported widespread malfunctions of Starlink terminals within Russian military units, causing disruptions in command and coordination systems. These communication problems have led to disorganization in certain areas and instances of friendly fire.
Furthermore, the Ukrainian underground movement “ATESH” has reported the discovery of new military infrastructure belonging to Russian forces in the Zaporizhzhia region. According to their information, construction of a base is underway in the village of Myrne, located near Melitopol, in the temporarily occupied territory of the region.
The Russian military is experiencing internal resistance to a mandated transition to the government messaging app 'MAX.' Concerns over security and recent communication disruptions have led personnel to seek alternative solutions, raising issues of coordination and operational effectiveness.