Telegram CEO Calls Out Apple Over VPN App Ban in Russia

Telegram CEO Pavel Durov has accused Apple after reports disclosed the removal of several VPN and proxy tools from the Russian App Store. The move follows ongoing disruptions to Telegram access in Russia.

Reports show Apple removed several applications that support custom proxy connections. These include Streisand, V2Box, v2RayTun, and Happ Proxy Utility. Data from AppleCensorship confirms these apps are no longer available in Russia and China. The removals came days after Telegram users reported widespread connectivity issues. 

Pavel Durov Responds to Apple VPN Removals

Pavel Durov criticized the situation in a public statement. He stated that the prohibitions are intended to push users toward state-controlled platforms. He also stated that these actions increase pressure on independent communication channels.

Apple just banned several VPN apps from the Russian App Store — targeting those that helped users bypass Russia’s DPI-based censorship. That’s not cool, Apple. https://t.co/Pw9LDQmRSA

— Pavel Durov (@durov) March 31, 2026

Russia’s communications regulator, Roskomnadzor, confirmed it introduced consistent restrictions on Telegram. In addition, officials claimed that the measures ensure compliance with national laws and protect citizens. The agency also accused Telegram of failing to safeguard personal data and address criminal activity.

Telegram CEO denied such allegations. He explained the restrictions as an effort to impose surveillance through other platforms. He mentioned the MAX messaging app, which is supported by the Kremlin, and expressed concerns about its surveillance features.

Meanwhile, Russian officials stated they can now restrict VPN traffic more effectively. Lawmaker Andrey Svintsov warned that bypass tools may no longer work against Telegram restrictions.

Apple VPN App Ban Aligns With Broader Enforcement Measures

The removal of VPN tools follows earlier actions taken in 2024. In the same year, Apple is said to have removed at least 60 VPN apps. These services included NordVPN, ExpressVPN, and Proton VPN.

In 2024, the lawmakers introduced a law regulating the supply of means to bypass internet restrictions. This legal system aids in a broader crackdown of VPN services. Following this, developers affected by the latest removals shared Apple’s notices. These notices cited compliance with local laws. As a result, delisted apps will no longer receive updates or security patches.

Telegram CEO Focus Extends as Global Policy Tightens

Telegram users in Russia have faced major connectivity issues over the past two weeks. These disruptions followed announcements of improved monitoring systems. As access declined, demand for VPN services increased.

Amnezia VPN founder Mazay Banzaev confirmed a rise in new users as Telegram disruptions intensified. He said detection systems have become more precise, while some services still bypass restrictions. As a result, he explained that enforcement tactics have shifted toward broader and more aggressive blocking methods.

Meanwhile, there are emerging policy adjustments in other jurisdictions, as a sign of increased regulation of the digital system. Canada has introduced Bill C-25 to prohibit crypto donations during political campaigns. The proposal includes parties, candidates, and third-party advertisers. It also categorizes crypto and payment methods deemed hard to trace.

Similarly, the UK has banned crypto donations. The decision was confirmed by Prime Minister Keir Starmer after an independent review by Philip Rycroft. The report questioned the transparency and ownership of crypto transactions.

Under UK regulations, unlawful donations must be returned by political entities within 30 days. Negligence by organizations to adhere to regulations may result in regulatory action.