Feb 12 • 15:19 UTC 🇩🇰 Denmark Politiken

Moscow shuts down service: "Blocking Telegram is like shooting yourself in the foot"

Russian authorities are reportedly closing down a messaging service that is critically used by soldiers on the front lines.

Recent reports indicate that Russian authorities are planning to block access to Telegram, a messaging service that is deemed essential for soldiers fighting on the front lines. The closure of this communication channel is likened to a scenario where Danes suddenly lose access to popular messaging platforms such as Messenger, WhatsApp, or Instagram. This comparison highlights the significant impact such a shut-down would have on personal and possibly military communications, threatening the functional lines of communication that troops heavily rely on.

Telegram has been widely used by the Russian military and other entities as a secure means of communication, making this move potentially detrimental to operational effectiveness. The referenced quote, 'Blocking Telegram is like shooting yourself in the foot,' suggests serious concerns regarding the adverse consequences of limiting this critical communication tool. Experts argue that such actions may hinder military coordination and lead to broader implications for Russian operations in conflict zones.

The implications of this decision extend beyond military communications to potentially affect public sentiment and engagement within Russia, challenging the government's control over information. By disrupting a platform that allows for faster and more private messaging, authorities may be setting a precedent that could backfire, as it disrupts not just military but civilian interactions as well. Overall, this development raises questions about the sustainability of such a communication block and its long-term impact on both military strategy and civil liberties in Russia.

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