It is reported that the NSDI, created by Roskomnadzor to ensure the stable operation of the internet in the country in accordance with the law on the "sovereign Runet," now does not include the domains whatsapp.com and web.whatsapp.com. However, the technical domain whatsapp.net and the domain for short links wa.me remain in the system. On February 10, the domain YouTube was also excluded. Now users in Russia can access WhatsApp and YouTube only through VPN.
According to an expert quoted by RBC, Roskomnadzor may have imposed restrictions on YouTube and WhatsApp with the aim of slowing down Telegram's operation. "The main reason for this is technical: the equipment of the TSPU (technical means of countering threats, installed by Roskomnadzor) is operating at the limit of its capabilities. It cannot simultaneously 'squeeze' several major platforms, such as YouTube, Telegram, and WhatsApp, without losing effectiveness," noted Jamali Avalishvili, managing director of the infrastructure integrator "Ultimatek."
Dmitry Peskov, the press secretary of the President of Russia, stated in an interview with TASS that WhatsApp could resume its operation if Meta agrees to dialogue with the Russian authorities and complies with local legislation. "If Meta agrees to comply with the legislation and begins discussions with the authorities, then there is a possibility of reaching an agreement," he added.
Peskov also emphasized that if the company maintains its "uncompromising position" and does not respond to demands, the chances of restoring the messenger's operation will be absent.
On February 10, Roskomnadzor announced that Telegram does not comply with Russian laws and does not take measures to protect citizens' data. In this regard, new restrictions are expected to be introduced. In August 2025, calls via Telegram and WhatsApp were restricted in Russia. WhatsApp accused the Russian authorities of attempting to conduct surveillance, and at the end of the year, Roskomnadzor threatened a complete block of the messenger if legal requirements were not met.
