Russian communications regulator Roskomnadzor has implemented speed restrictions on Telegram (commonly known as the “little airplane”) starting Tuesday, with over 13,000 Telegram users already reporting service disruptions. Telegram has approximately 100 million users in Russia and serves as the core gateway to the TON blockchain ecosystem. This move could trigger chain reactions within the crypto ecosystem.
(Background: Trump announced tariffs on India to cut to 18%! India agrees to halt Russian oil purchases and to buy $500 billion worth of U.S. goods.)
(Additional context: Global memory chip shortages may only ease by 2031! Russian expert recycles laptop memory chips and successfully hand-makes 32GB DDR5 modules.)
According to Bloomberg, citing three informed sources, Roskomnadzor has been implementing speed restrictions and blocking certain functions on the instant messaging platform Telegram since February 10, which has already taken effect.
Russian State Duma deputy Andrei Svintsov stated that Telegram might face restrictions because the platform “has not fully complied” with Russian legal requirements. Roskomnadzor’s reason is that Telegram’s progress in “blocking anonymous channels” is too slow, with the Russian authorities aiming to eliminate online anonymity entirely.
Currently, over 13,000 Russian users have complained about extremely slow Telegram performance, including noticeable delays in loading images and videos. Roskomnadzor has also filed eight administrative violations against Telegram, resulting in fines totaling 64 million rubles.
Not a Complete Block, but Possible Full Ban
It is worth noting that Russian officials have stated there are no plans for a complete ban on Telegram at this time, provided the platform meets all legal requirements. An official statement said, “If the violations are resolved, the restrictions will be lifted.”
This is not Roskomnadzor’s first action against Telegram. In August 2025, the agency blocked Telegram and WhatsApp voice and video calls, citing widespread use for scams, extortion, and recruiting citizens for disruptive activities. In January 2026, Roskomnadzor further restricted video and large file uploads. The current speed restrictions are the latest step in an escalation.
Impact on the TON Ecosystem
Telegram is Russia’s most popular instant messaging platform, with about 100 million users. At the same time, Telegram is deeply integrated with the TON (The Open Network) blockchain ecosystem, with TON wallets, Mini Apps, and payment features relying on Telegram as an entry point.
If Telegram’s user experience in Russia continues to deteriorate, DeFi protocols, mini-games, and payment scenarios within the TON ecosystem are likely to be affected. As of press time, Toncoin (TON) is trading at approximately $1.33.
Russian officials are currently promoting an official-backed messaging platform called MAX.
Disclaimer: The information on this page may come from third parties and does not represent the views or opinions of Gate. The content displayed on this page is for reference only and does not constitute any financial, investment, or legal advice. Gate does not guarantee the accuracy or completeness of the information and shall not be liable for any losses arising from the use of this information. Virtual asset investments carry high risks and are subject to significant price volatility. You may lose all of your invested principal. Please fully understand the relevant risks and make prudent decisions based on your own financial situation and risk tolerance. For details, please refer to
Disclaimer.
Related Articles
Iran Launches Fifth Missile Strike Against Israel Using Cluster Warhead Weapons
Gate News reports that on March 19, the Israel Defense Forces issued the latest statement indicating that Iran launched its fifth ballistic missile attack against Israel since midnight on March 19. The IDF stated that the missile was equipped with a cluster bomb warhead and hit an open area, with no reports of casualties or other effects so far.
GateNews27m ago
SEC Proposes to End Cryptocurrency Regulatory Gray Area! Chairman Paul Atkins Pushes "Safe Harbor" and New Fundraising Exemption Rules
US Securities and Exchange Commission Chair Paul Atkins proposed a new cryptocurrency asset regulatory framework that clarifies which tokens are not securities and simplifies compliance pathways through measures such as "startup exemptions" and "investment contract safe harbors," aimed at providing crypto enterprises with clearer fundraising guidance and signaling a policy shift in SEC oversight.
区块客47m ago
Nomura Securities: Middle East Tensions Increase Possibility of Bank of Japan Rate Hike in April
Wilcox stated that despite the impact of the Iran conflict on economic outlook, the Bank of Japan is expected to raise rates next month. He believes the Middle East conflict has increased the likelihood of a rate hike in April, while emphasizing that policy normalization has become a trend, but he remains cautious about the sustainability of rate hikes beyond April.
GateNews50m ago
Bitcoin dips back below $75,000 on the eve of the Federal Reserve decision
Bitcoin recently touched $75,000 but failed to sustain the level, pulling back to $74,000, reflecting cautious sentiment among investors ahead of the upcoming Federal Reserve interest rate decision. Geopolitical risks and elevated energy prices have driven inflation higher, affecting market expectations for rate cuts and pushing the timeline for cuts to year-end. Technical analysis shows Bitcoin remains strong but has not confirmed a decisive breakout above the $75,000 level, with limited upside potential in the near term.
区块客51m ago
US-Iran Conflict Impacts Energy Market, WTI Crude Oil Rises 4.5% to $96.65, Certain Whale Short Position Down $2.3 Million
Due to the escalation of the US-Iran conflict, oil facilities in three Middle Eastern countries have become targets of Iranian strikes, causing international crude oil prices to rise. WTI crude reached a high of $98, while Brent crude approached $107. Meanwhile, a certain whale's short position losses on the Hyperliquid platform have expanded to $2.3 million.
GateNews1h ago
Nikola Founder Trevor Milton Enters AI Aviation After Pardon, Plans to Raise $1 Billion
Nikola founder Trevor Milton plans to enter the AI aviation sector by acquiring SyberJet Aircraft. He aims to raise $1 billion dollars for a new AI-focused light jet and has recruited former Nikola employees while seeking investors, stating that building aircraft is significantly more challenging than his previous ventures.
GateNews1h ago
