WhatsApp says the Russian government tried to isolate over 100 million users from private communication.
Russian President Vladimir Putin during a public address. WhatsApp has alleged that the Russian government attempted to fully block the platform. | ANI
Russia on Thursday attempted to fully block WhatsApp, the messaging platform said, alleging the move was intended to steer users towards a state-owned surveillance application.
In a post on X at 6:22 am on February 12, 2026, WhatsApp said: “Today the Russian government attempted to fully block WhatsApp in an effort to drive people to a state-owned surveillance app. Trying to isolate over 100 million users from private and secure communication is a backwards step and can only lead to less safety for people in Russia. We continue to do everything we can to keep users connected.”
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The platform did not immediately provide further operational details on the extent of the disruption or whether access had been restored. There was no immediate response from Russian authorities.
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WhatsApp has over 100 million users in Russia, according to the company’s statement.
This is a developing story and will be updated.
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