In a significant step toward technological self-reliance, Russia is rolling out its state-backed MAX messaging app, designed to replace foreign platforms such as WhatsApp and Telegram. The initiative is part of broader efforts by the Kremlin to limit foreign tech influence, as it throttles access to these services. This development underscores Russia’s strategy to create a restricted internet ecosystem, reducing dependence on Western technology. For years, President Vladimir V. Putin of Russia has railed against foreign tech companies for their unwillingness to bend fully to Kremlin rules. The move to restrict access to WhatsApp and Telegram marks an escalation in Russia’s efforts to create a self-sufficient digital infrastructure, often referred to to as the ‘Great Firewall of Russia.’ Critics argue that this approach may hinder innovation and limit access to global communication networks. However, supporters of the initiative emphasize the importance of national sovereignty in the digital age, highlighting the need for control over critical infrastructure. As the Kremlin tightens its grip on the internet, the rollout of MAX is expected to have both economic and political implications, reshaping the technological landscape within Russia.