Putin Pushes for Domestic Messaging Platform to Deliver Government Services

Russia is developing a national digital platform, modeled on services like WeChat, to integrate government services with a locally built messenger.

During a government meeting, Russian President Vladimir Putin emphasized the importance of strengthening internet infrastructure to support the country’s digital sovereignty. Specifically, he directed Deputy Prime Minister Dmitry Grigorenko to prioritize internet development and the migration of public services to a Russian-made messenger platform.

Minister of Digital Development Maksut Shadayev outlined the launch of MAX, a new messenger app created by VK. Built with machine learning at its core, MAX is designed to rival Western platforms and serve as a foundation for delivering government and municipal services. The app includes a messenger, chatbot builder, and support for mini-apps—all essential tools for integrating citizen services into daily digital routines.

A bill submitted to the State Duma in late May outlines plans to establish a national platform uniting messenger capabilities with government service functions. This move aims to phase out paper-based processes, allowing citizens to verify identity using a digital ID.

A key requirement for the platform’s rollout is that it be developed domestically and registered as official Russian software.