The Kremlin is tightening its grip on digital communication within Russia, sparking rare public criticism, even from pro-war factions and soldiers who rely on the messaging app Telegram for critical updates and coordination. The move, framed by Russian authorities as a measure to combat fraud and protect user data, is widely seen as an attempt to steer citizens towards a domestically controlled alternative and further isolate the country’s information space.
Roskomnadzor, Russia’s state media regulator, has been increasing restrictions on Telegram, leading to widespread service slowdowns. This action follows a pattern of escalating control over foreign messaging platforms, including previous attempts to block WhatsApp and the blocking of audio and video calls on both platforms in August. Despite these efforts, Telegram remains immensely popular, boasting 93.6 million users in Russia – over 60% of the population.
The crackdown isn’t simply about controlling information flow to the general public. Telegram has become a vital, often indispensable, tool for the Russian military. Units on the front lines in Ukraine reportedly use the platform to share targeting information, track drone activity, and coordinate logistics. The app’s widespread adoption within the military is a key reason why the restrictions have drawn criticism from unexpected corners.
Rare Dissent from Pro-War Bloggers and Soldiers
The restrictions have triggered a wave of public criticism, notably from pro-war bloggers and military correspondents who have been vocal in their opposition. These “milbloggers,” as they are often called, have cultivated a significant following by providing alternative narratives to state-controlled media and often serve as a direct link between the front lines and the Russian public. They’ve become a crucial channel for fundraising for military equipment and supplies.
Alexander Sladkow, a prominent military correspondent, expressed frustration, stating, “The West has already knocked us out for two days with the Starlink outage, and now we are burying this command channel and this communication opportunity. So how exactly are we supposed to win, with what tools? With Soviet-era TA-57 field phones?” This sentiment highlights the dependence of Russian forces on Telegram for real-time communication and coordination.
Other milbloggers echoed these concerns. Archangel Spetsnaza, a channel with 1.1 million followers, warned that “thousands of soldiers will be left without communication, which, given the ongoing offensive, will lead to fatal consequences.” The criticism underscores the practical implications of disrupting a communication network deeply embedded within the military structure.
A Push for Domestic Control: Introducing ‘Max’
The Kremlin’s actions align with its long-term goal of establishing a “sovereign internet” – a closed digital ecosystem less vulnerable to external influence. This push for control is also evident in the promotion of Max, a state-backed “super-app” modeled after China’s WeChat. The intention is clear: to replace foreign messaging platforms with a domestically controlled alternative that allows for greater surveillance and censorship.
Telegram CEO Pavel Durov, based in Dubai, publicly criticized the restrictions, accusing Moscow of attempting to force citizens onto a “state-controlled app created for surveillance and political censorship.” This marks a rare instance of direct condemnation from a platform founder facing pressure from the Russian government.
Communication Challenges and the Starlink Factor
The Telegram restrictions come on the heels of another disruption to Russian military communications: the curtailment of access to Starlink satellite internet. A new “whitelist” implemented by the Ukrainian Defense Ministry in early February effectively cut off access for approximately 90% of Russian units. This, combined with the Telegram slowdowns, has created a challenging communication environment for Russian forces.
The reliance on Telegram highlights a broader issue: the lack of a secure, domestically produced communication system for the Russian military. Despite years of investment, Russia remains dependent on privately operated platforms for critical battlefield communications. Telegram has effectively become an improvised logistical hub, enabling units to coordinate supply requests and procure essential equipment.
Some reports suggest that Telegram is also used for establishing ad-hoc “reconnaissance networks,” allowing military intelligence to transmit target coordinates directly to artillery and aviation units, bypassing official command channels. Concerns have been raised that Russia’s air defense systems could be compromised if access to real-time drone tracking information via Telegram is disrupted.
Implications for Independent Media and Information Access
The restrictions on Telegram also pose a threat to independent media outlets operating within Russia. With many websites blocked, Telegram channels have become a crucial platform for disseminating news and information. Outlets like Meduza, TV Rain, and the BBC’s Russian service rely heavily on Telegram to reach their audiences, with Meduza boasting 1.1 million followers and TV Rain and the BBC’s Russian service having 442,000 and 387,000 followers respectively.
Galina Timtschenko, co-founder of Meduza, explained the importance of the platform, stating, “For our readers, it means they have to make a difficult choice… If the choice is between freedom and news, they will definitely choose freedom.” The crackdown on Telegram could effectively silence independent voices and further restrict access to information for Russian citizens.
The situation underscores the Kremlin’s increasing efforts to control the flow of information and shape the narrative surrounding the conflict in Ukraine. While the long-term impact of the Telegram restrictions remains to be seen, the initial response suggests that the move is likely to face continued resistance from both within and outside the Russian military establishment.
