Russia has moved to fully block WhatsApp, a Meta-owned messaging service, in an effort to push users towards a state-backed alternative called MAX. This development, reported by sources such as Daily Times and Al Jazeera, affects over 100 million users in Russia and is part of a broader strategy to control the digital space within the country. WhatsApp has accused Russian authorities of attempting to isolate users from 'private and secure communication,' labeling the move as a 'backwards step' that could lead to 'less safety for people in Russia.' The Kremlin, as reported by Tribune Latest, has suggested that WhatsApp could resume operations if Meta complies with Russian laws, which include storing data on Russian users within the country.