Russia has confirmed it has blocked messaging platform WhatsApp, directing citizens to migrate to the state-backed Max app instead. The move comes just days after authorities began restricting access to Telegram, another widely used messaging service in the country. Telegram is popular among millions of Russians, including military personnel, senior officials, state media outlets, and government institutions such as the Kremlin and communications regulator Roskomnadzor. Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov said on Thursday, February 12, that WhatsApp was blocked over alleged legal violations by its parent company, though he did not provide specific details. “Max is an affordable alternative on the market for citizens, a developing national messenger,” Peskov said. “Regarding the blocking ...