Russia has imposed a fine of 35 million roubles (approximately $432,366) on the Telegram messaging app for failing to remove content that authorities deemed illegal, according to a report by the Interfax news agency on Monday. The penalty marks the latest move by Russian regulators targeting the popular messaging platform.
Russian authorities have repeatedly accused Telegram of allowing its platform to host illegal and extremist material. Regulators claim the company has not complied with requests to delete such content, prompting a series of legal actions and financial penalties against the service.
Telegram has rejected the allegations, arguing that Russia is attempting to restrict its services. The company claims the pressure is part of an effort to push users toward a government-backed messaging application known as MAX, which authorities are reportedly promoting as a state-run alternative.
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