Significant delays and technical disruptions have been observed in the operation of the Telegram messenger across Russia. According to Operative Information Center-OMM, users are facing persistent difficulties in uploading and downloading images, videos, and other files, even when their internet connection remains stable.
The restrictions follow a series of regulatory actions by Russian authorities. Since August 2025, the messenger's calling function has been officially blocked based on a decision by Roskomnadzor. Furthermore, since January 2026, a massive decrease in the loading speed of media files has been recorded. Official bodies justify these consecutive restrictions by citing Telegram's failure to comply with Russian legislation.
The current situation unfolds amid the promotion of the domestic "MAX" messenger in Russia, sparking widespread debate over whether Telegram will eventually face a total block. While some officials express hope for a resolution, others predict even more stringent measures. In response, users have appealed to Telegram founder Pavel Durov, urging the establishment of an official representative office in Russia to restore service quality. Telegram remains one of the most widely used communication platforms in the region, making these technical hurdles a significant concern for millions of individual and corporate users who rely on its encrypted messaging services.
