In an effort to lessen its reliance on apps like Telegram and WhatsApp, Russian President Vladimir Putin signed a law on Tuesday that permits the creation of a state-sponsored messaging app that is integrated with government services.
Russia has long promoted domestic services in an effort to achieve what it refers to as digital sovereignty. After Moscow invaded Ukraine in February 2022, numerous Western corporations left the Russian market, making its drive to replace international tech platforms even more pressing.
According to Russian MPs, the state app will include features not found in apps like WhatsApp from Meta Platforms and Telegram. Critics say the fact that Russia will exercise state control over it poses risks to privacy and personal freedoms.