April 4, 2026

Telegram founder says 65 million Russians use app daily via VPN despite blocking attempts

Telegram founder Pavel Durov broke his silence on Russia’s attempts to block the messaging app, writing in a post on his Telegram channel that Russian authorities had already tried to ban Telegram and spent years trying to ban VPNs.

Telegram founder says 65 million Russians use app daily via VPN despite blocking attempts

TL;DR

  • Russian authorities have attempted to block Telegram and ban VPNs for years.
  • Despite these efforts, 65 million Russians use Telegram daily via VPN.
  • Blocking attempts caused a widespread banking outage.
  • Iran experienced a similar outcome when banning Telegram, leading to increased VPN adoption.
  • Tens of millions of Russians have joined the 'Digital Resistance' to circumvent restrictions.
  • Telegram's team is working to make its traffic harder to detect and block.
  • Reports indicated plans to fully block Telegram by April 1, but this did not happen.
  • The Digital Development Ministry is tasked with reducing VPN use in Russia.
  • Telegram was reported to be the most popular messaging app in Russia in January 2026.

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