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Ukraine Bans Official Use of Telegram Over Russian Spying Concerns

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Ukraine has banned the use of the Telegram messaging app on official devices belonging to government officials, military personnel, and critical workers, citing fears that Russia could be using the platform to spy on messages and users. This decision was announced by Ukraine’s National Security and Defence Council on Friday, following a presentation by Kyrylo Budanov, head of Ukraine’s military intelligence agency, GUR, who provided evidence of Russian special services’ ability to intercept communications via the app.

Andriy Kovalenko, the head of the security council’s disinformation center, clarified that the restrictions only apply to official devices and do not extend to personal phones. Despite Telegram’s widespread use in both Ukraine and Russia, security officials have repeatedly raised concerns over its safety during the ongoing war.

Telegram, founded by Russian-born Pavel Durov, has been a significant communication tool since the start of the Russian invasion in February 2022. However, Ukraine’s security authorities believe that Russia’s special services can access Telegram messages, including deleted ones, as well as users’ personal data.

In response, Telegram issued a statement denying any cooperation with Russia or any other country, asserting that it had never provided access to any user data or messages. Telegram also reiterated that deleted messages are permanently erased and cannot be retrieved. They attributed any leaked messages to compromised devices, such as those infected with malware or seized by authorities.

While the Ukrainian government is restricting Telegram on official devices, the platform remains highly popular among Ukrainians. A survey found that 75% of Ukrainians use Telegram for communication, with 72% regarding it as a key source of information.

 

Iran Transfers Ballistic Missiles to Russia Amid Intensified Conflict

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Recent reports indicate that Iran has transferred short-range ballistic missiles to Russia for use in the ongoing war against Ukraine, according to two sources familiar with the intelligence. This delivery, which was anticipated by US and Western officials for nearly a year, marks a significant escalation in Iran’s support for Russia’s military efforts.

The exact timing of the missile delivery remains unclear, but it coincides with a surge in Russia’s missile and drone attacks on Ukrainian cities. As Ukraine prepares for large-scale Russian assaults on its energy infrastructure this winter, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has called for more air defense systems from allies.

National Security Council spokesperson Sean Savett condemned the transfer, stating that it represents a dramatic escalation in Iran’s support for Russia. Savett emphasized that the US and its partners are prepared to impose significant consequences, as highlighted in recent G7 and NATO summits.

Iran’s Permanent Mission to the United Nations has denied the transfer, maintaining that Iran opposes any military assistance that exacerbates the conflict and hinders ceasefire negotiations.

Negotiations for the ballistic missiles began as early as September, when Russian Defense Minister Sergei Shoigu visited Iran to inspect ballistic missile systems. In response to warnings from the G7, Iran displayed ballistic missiles to Russian officials in December, indicating their intent to sell the systems.

In addition to Iranian support, Russia has also received missile components from North Korea and significant military aid from China, which includes machine tools, drone and turbojet engines, and technology for cruise missiles.