The Russian government is planning to impose a complete ban on the popular messaging app Telegram, citing its use as a platform for criminals and as a tool for hybrid warfare by foreign intelligence agencies. Reports indicate that the decision has been finalized, and authorities have started informing major internet and mobile operators about this impending action. The media regulator, Roskomnadzor, has neither confirmed nor denied these plans, reflecting the uncertainty surrounding the timing and execution of the ban.

Telegram, which boasts around 90 million users in Russia, has become a crucial platform for free speech in an environment where media is heavily controlled. The move to block Telegram comes alongside an investigation against its founder, Pavel Durov, on charges of supporting terrorism. This suggests a broader crackdown on digital platforms that challenge state narratives and control, particularly in the wake of increasing tensions both domestically and internationally.

This decision has significant implications for communication in Russia, especially considering the role of Telegram in allowing dissenting voices and facilitating organized protests against the government. The authorities’ attempt to restrict access to such platforms could further isolate the Russian population from diverse information sources, exacerbating censorship and limiting the public's ability to engage in free discourse.