Core Insights - The Russian government has fully blocked WhatsApp to promote a state-sponsored "super app" called Max, which aims to replace foreign messaging services [1][4] - Max is modeled after China's WeChat and integrates various services including government functions, document storage, banking, and messaging [2][3] - The Kremlin has indicated that WhatsApp's return to Russia is contingent upon compliance with local regulations by Meta Platforms [6][7] Group 1: WhatsApp and Russian Government Actions - The Russian government has moved to "fully block" WhatsApp, impacting over 100 million users [1] - Access to other foreign messaging apps, including Telegram, has also been restricted, with accusations against Telegram for not blocking certain content [4] - Telegram faces a fine of 64 million rubles (approximately $828,000) for allegedly failing to remove restricted content [5] Group 2: The "Super App" Max - Max is designed to host government services and provide functionalities similar to WhatsApp, including messaging and financial transactions [2] - The app was developed by VKontakte, which is now state-owned, and has raised concerns about user tracking [3] - The Russian government has mandated that smartphone manufacturers pre-install Max on devices sold in the country [3]