Russia’s censorship agency ‘slows’ Telegram service nationwide

Russian authorities have decided to begin “slowing down” the messaging app Telegram in the country, the Russian news agency RBC reported, citing sources in the telecommunications industry and government agencies.

According to those sources, Roskomnadzor, Russia’s federal censorship agency, plans to partially restrict Telegram’s operation starting on February 10. One source told the outlet that “slowdown measures” are already being put in place.

For two days now, users in Russia have reported disruptions to Telegram’s service.

Roskomnadzor later announced it would continue rolling out restrictions against Telegram, arguing that the measures were aimed at ensuring “compliance with Russian law and the protection of citizens.” The agency said that Telegram and other messaging services were not addressing violations. “Personal data is not protected, and there are no effective measures to counter fraud or the use of the messaging service for criminal and terrorist purposes,” Roskomnadzor said.

Since August 2025, Roskomnadzor has blocked voice calls made through WhatsApp and Telegram, arguing that the services are used to organize terrorist attacks, recruit militants, and carry out fraud and other crimes against Russian citizens.

In late December, media reports said WhatsApp’s operating speed in Russia had fallen by 70 to 80 percent. At the time, Roskomnadzor said it was “continuing to consistently introduce restrictive measures” against the service. In January, reports also emerged that the regulator had begun imposing restrictions on Telegram, though the agency officially denied those claims. State Duma lawmakers said Telegram was being slowed down for failing to cooperate fully with Russian authorities.