Russia has attempted to block access to WhatsApp, the Meta-owned encrypted smartphone messaging application said, accusing the Kremlin of trying to force its citizens to use a state-owned service.

If the company continues ignoring Russia’s demands, there will be no chance for the service’s return, Russian presidential press ecretary Dmitry Peskov said

WhatsApp says the move aims to push its 90 million users in Russia to a "state-owned surveillance app".