WhatsApp has announced that the Russian authorities are attempting to limit the functionality of the messaging service by demanding access to encrypted messages. The company emphasizes that its end-to-end encryption protects users' rights to private communication, which has drawn opposition from the Russian government.

It should be noted that Russia has started to restrict calls on Telegram and WhatsApp, accusing these platforms of refusing to cooperate with law enforcement in matters related to fraud and terrorism.

WhatsApp stated that it will continue to work on maintaining access to encrypted communication for users worldwide, including those in Russia. According to Reuters, Telegram responded by claiming that its moderators use AI to delete millions of harmful messages daily and are actively combating fraud and calls for violence.

Conflicts between Russia and foreign tech companies have persisted for several years, and following the invasion of Ukraine in 2022, the country's authorities have intensified their control over the internet space.