WhatsApp has accused the Russian government of attempting to block secure communication for millions of users by restricting calls via its platform and Telegram, amid Russia’s push for state-controlled social media alternatives. WhatsApp argues that its end-to-end encryption is crucial for protecting users’ rights, while Telegram claims to combat harmful content with AI tools. The Russian government is promoting a new app, MAX, which raises concerns about user privacy and surveillance. This situation reflects Russia’s broader efforts to control its internet space and limit access to foreign tech services, further isolating its digital environment while testing the resilience of encrypted communication technologies.