WhatsApp on Notice: Russia Demands Exit as Kremlin Pushes for Digital Sovereignty

State Duma Deputy Alexander Gorelkin has declared that the messaging platform WhatsApp should “begin preparing to exit the Russian market.” According to him, the service—owned by Meta, a company designated as extremist within Russia—is highly likely to be included in a forthcoming list of software originating from unfriendly nations, which may be subjected to regulatory restrictions.

Gorelkin noted that WhatsApp remains the most widely used messenger in Russia, with 68% of citizens relying on it daily. Telegram holds second place with a 55% user base. However, he argued that Telegram’s situation is markedly different: while the Russian media regulator’s registry lists the British Virgin Islands as the official jurisdiction, the company’s headquarters are located in the United Arab Emirates. Gorelkin expressed confidence that Telegram would avoid inclusion in the restricted list, provided it complies with Russian law and demonstrates a commitment to remaining active in the market.

Commenting on the potential consequences of WhatsApp’s withdrawal, the deputy identified a national messenger as the primary contender to fill the ensuing gap in user engagement. He emphasized the features expected of such a platform: verification via the “Gosuslugi” portal, integration with government services, and support for digital identity cards and electronic signatures.

The statement was made in the context of an emerging government initiative to curtail the use of foreign software. This directive was outlined in a list of measures approved by President Vladimir Putin following a May meeting with business leaders. According to the document, the government must, by September 1, submit proposals for “introducing additional restrictions on the use in Russia of software (including communication services) developed in unfriendly foreign states.”