Ukraine announced on Friday that it has restricted the use of Telegram for government, military, and security officials, citing national security concerns linked to the app, which was founded by Russian-born Pavel Durov.

Kyiv warned that Russia might have access to personal data and messages exchanged on Telegram, a key communication tool in both Ukraine and Russia. “The National Security and Defence Council has decided to limit the use of Telegram within government agencies, military units, and critical infrastructure,” the council said in a statement posted on Facebook, describing the move as a “national security issue.”

The council clarified that officials who rely on Telegram for their duties would not be impacted, as the app remains a vital communication channel for the military and public authorities. Intelligence chief Kyrylo Budanov emphasized that Moscow could potentially access Telegram messages, including “deleted messages and users’ personal data.”

He further noted, “This is not about freedom of speech, but about national security.” Ukrainian security officials also highlighted that Russia uses Telegram for cyberattacks, phishing, malware distribution, geolocation tracking, and coordinating missile strikes.

A senior security official told AFP that the restrictions only apply to official communications, adding, “Telegram is a major source of information leaks because it is easily hacked by Russian operatives.” However, the source reassured that citizens could continue using the app.

Durov, Telegram’s founder, was arrested in France last month and charged with hosting illegal content on the platform. He is currently prohibited from leaving France.