Russian authorities have blocked access to WhatsApp and YouTube across the country in the latest move to tighten control over the national internet space.
The restrictions, implemented by the federal communications regulator Roskomnadzor, prevent users from accessing the two platforms through standard internet connections.
The action marks one of the most significant escalations in Russia’s ongoing campaign to regulate foreign technology companies operating within its borders.
According to Russian officials, the services were removed from the country’s national domain name system (DNS).
As a result, users attempting to visit WhatsApp or YouTube are unable to load the platforms without using technical workarounds such as virtual private networks (VPNs).
The DNS system functions as a directory that translates website names into numerical internet addresses. Removing domains from this system effectively cuts off access for most users.
The move affects millions of people who previously relied on WhatsApp for messaging and YouTube for video content, news, entertainment and business communication.
Russian authorities have said the block was necessary because the companies behind the platforms failed to comply with domestic laws.
Officials argue that foreign technology firms are required to store Russian users’ data within the country and provide information to authorities when legally requested.
They say WhatsApp’s parent company, Meta, and Google, which owns YouTube, did not fully meet those requirements.
Kremlin spokespersons have framed the decision as a matter of enforcing national legislation and protecting digital sovereignty. They have also encouraged citizens to migrate to domestic alternatives.
For messaging, authorities are pushing a state-backed application known as MAX.
The app is being presented as a national messenger that offers text messaging, voice calls and additional services, including access to certain government functions.
Officials have urged citizens to adopt MAX as their primary communication tool.
In some cases, domestic apps have been preinstalled on smartphones sold within the country as part of broader efforts to reduce reliance on foreign platforms.
For video streaming and hosting, Russian users are being directed to domestic platforms, including services operated by VK, one of the country’s largest social media companies. These platforms are positioned as alternatives to YouTube for content creators and viewers.
The WhatsApp and YouTube blocks are part of a wider pattern of restrictions that has unfolded over the past several years.
Russia has previously restricted or blocked platforms such as Facebook, Instagram and Twitter. Several foreign news websites and independent media outlets have also been limited or rendered inaccessible within the country.
The government has introduced laws aimed at strengthening control over online infrastructure, including requirements for data localization and mechanisms that allow authorities to manage internet traffic during what they describe as security threats.
These measures are part of a policy often described by officials as “digital sovereignty,” which seeks to ensure that Russia’s internet can operate independently of foreign systems and influence.
While some users may continue to access the services through VPNs, authorities have previously moved to restrict VPN usage as well, complicating access further.
Technology companies have previously expressed concern over regulatory pressures in Russia. Human rights organizations have also raised alarms about the implications for freedom of expression and access to information.
Russian officials, however, maintain that the measures are lawful and necessary for national security and regulatory compliance.
