WhatsApp has publicly acknowledged service disruptions in Russia after widespread user complaints about slower call connections and unstable performance. The Meta-owned messaging platform said the issues are not the result of technical failures on its side, but are instead linked to restrictions imposed within Russia’s internet infrastructure.
In a statement shared with international media, WhatsApp indicated that limitations placed on internet traffic are directly affecting the quality and reliability of voice and video calls across the country.
🌐 Reported Slowdown Sparks User Complaints
Over recent days, Russian users have taken to social media and tech forums to report delayed call connections, dropped audio, and reduced call quality on WhatsApp. While text messaging reportedly remains functional, real-time communication features appear to be disproportionately impacted.
Industry observers note that such selective degradation often points to traffic throttling rather than a full platform ban, a tactic that can reduce usability without completely blocking access.
🛑 Russia’s Growing Pressure on Foreign Tech Platforms
Russia has increasingly tightened control over foreign digital services, particularly those owned by U.S.-based companies. WhatsApp, despite being widely used in Russia for personal and business communication, has long been under regulatory scrutiny due to Meta’s broader conflicts with Russian authorities.
Meta platforms Facebook and Instagram are already classified as “extremist organizations” in Russia, though WhatsApp has so far avoided an outright ban—likely due to its deep penetration among everyday users.
📡 Experts Suggest Intentional Network Throttling
Cybersecurity and network experts suggest the reported slowdown is consistent with deliberate bandwidth restriction or traffic interference. Such measures allow authorities to pressure platforms while avoiding public backlash that could follow a complete shutdown of a popular service.
Similar techniques have previously been used against platforms like Twitter, YouTube, and Telegram during periods of heightened political or regulatory tension.
📊 WhatsApp’s Position and Broader Implications
WhatsApp emphasized that it remains committed to providing secure and private communication globally, but warned that government-imposed restrictions undermine reliable access. The company did not confirm whether it plans to pursue legal or diplomatic remedies.