Russia orders WhatsApp block

Russia has ordered a block on WhatsApp, as the Kremlin continues to tighten restrictions on messaging apps.

WhatsApp, owned by Meta, said the move was aimed at pushing its more than 100 million users of its app in Russia towards a "state-owned surveillance app."

Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov told the BBC that the decision was made “due to [Meta’s] unwillingness to adhere to the norms and the letter of Russian law.” He said Meta could resume operations if he “complies with [the law] and enters into dialogue.”

Asked whether authorities were trying to force Russians to use the state-developed Max app, Peskov said that "the national messenger is an available alternative" for Russians.