MOSCOW, July 18, 2025 — Russian citizens should brace for the possibility that WhatsApp may soon exit the country, a senior lawmaker has warned, amid growing pressure on digital platforms from so-called “unfriendly” nations.
Speaking to RIA Novosti, State Duma deputy Anton Gorelkin said the popular messaging app could be blocked in the near future, citing recent moves by the Kremlin to tighten controls on foreign software operating in Russia.
His comments follow a directive issued by President Vladimir Putin, ordering officials to draft new restrictions targeting applications developed in countries deemed hostile to Moscow. Although details of the proposed measures remain under wraps, the announcement has sparked immediate concerns that platforms like WhatsApp could soon be targeted.
“Given the current political climate and the President’s instruction, such fears are justified,” Gorelkin said. “People should be ready for the possibility that WhatsApp will no longer be available.”
WhatsApp, owned by U.S. tech giant Meta Platforms, has remained one of the few Western apps still widely used in Russia, despite previous blocks on platforms like Instagram and Facebook. Analysts say a ban would significantly affect both personal communication and small businesses, many of which rely on the app for day-to-day operations.
The potential move is seen as part of a broader push by Russian authorities to reduce dependency on foreign digital infrastructure, amid ongoing geopolitical tensions and efforts to promote homegrown alternatives.
