WhatsApp rejected the launch of channels in Russia.
In the near future, the product will not be available to users within Russia.
Representative of Meta (recognized as an extremist organization, its activities are prohibited in Russia)
WhatsApp probably did not launch channels to avoid blocking in Russia. Previously, Roskomnadzor allowed the messenger to be blocked due to the possibility of distributing prohibited information through channels. State Duma deputies voiced a similar position.
WhatsApp channels launched globally on September 13th. At first they were supposed to work, the company issued an official press release in English about this. [Forbes]
Source: Iphones RU
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