April 1 Blackout? Telegram Faces Possible Full Block in Russia as Rumors Swirl

The widely used messaging platform Telegram, whose operations already face official restrictions in Russia, may encounter a complete nationwide block on April 1, according to reports circulating in Russian media. The Telegram channel Baza cited sources claiming that the application could become inaccessible through both mobile networks and fixed internet connections. The publication stated that contacts across several agencies confirmed the possibility of a shutdown. Observers suggested that authorities could restrict access to Telegram in a manner similar to Instagram* and Facebook*, platforms banned in Russia due to their affiliation with Meta*, which the Russian authorities designated as an extremist organization. Regulator Declines to Confirm Reports Roskomnadzor did not verify the claims of a full block. The agency's press service said it had nothing to add beyond previously published statements regarding Telegram's status.