Russia has imposed a fine of 35 million roubles (around $432,366) on the messaging platform Telegram for failing to remove content deemed illegal by the authorities, according to the Interfax news agency.
Russian regulators said the company had not complied with orders to delete material prohibited under national law. The ruling marks the latest step in a long-running dispute between Moscow and the popular messaging service.
The Russian government has repeatedly accused Telegram of allowing its platform to host illegal and extremist content. Officials say the app has been used to spread banned information, including material linked to extremist organisations and other unlawful activities.
Regulators have issued numerous warnings and penalties to the company over the past several years, arguing that digital platforms must comply with domestic content regulations. Russian courts have previously fined several global technology firms under similar rules requiring the removal of prohibited material.
Telegram has rejected the accusations and says it actively moderates harmful content. The company has also accused Russian authorities of attempting to pressure the platform.
According to Telegram, Moscow is seeking to restrict the app’s services in order to push users towards alternative platforms backed by the state.
Telegram has specifically alleged that the authorities are encouraging people to migrate to a state-run messaging application known as MAX. Critics say such efforts are part of a broader push by the Russian government to strengthen control over the country’s digital infrastructure and online communications.
Despite the dispute, Telegram remains one of the most widely used messaging apps in Russia, with millions of users relying on the service for news, communication and social networking.
The latest fine highlights the continuing friction between global technology platforms and governments seeking greater oversight of online content.
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